Bochi (Boston Terrier & Chihuahua Mix)

Introduction

The Bochi is a designer dog breed that results from crossing a Boston Terrier with a Chihuahua. This small, energetic mix combines the compact build of the Boston Terrier with the spirited personality of the Chihuahua. Bochis are known for their affectionate nature and loyalty to their owners, making them popular companion dogs. Their size and adaptability make them suitable for various living situations, from apartments to houses with yards.

Key Facts

Size: Small, typically 9-15 inches tall
Weight: 10-25 pounds
Lifespan: 12-15 years
Coat: Short to medium length, can be smooth or slightly rough
Colors: Various, including black, white, brown, and combinations
Temperament: Affectionate, loyal, energetic, and sometimes stubborn
Good with children: Yes, but supervision is recommended due to their small size
Good with other pets: Generally yes, but early socialization is important
Barking tendency: Moderate to high
Exercise needs: Moderate

Character Traits

Bochis inherit a blend of characteristics from their parent breeds, resulting in a unique and charming personality. They are typically affectionate and loyal to their owners, often forming strong bonds with one or two family members. These dogs are known for their energetic and playful nature, enjoying interactive games and activities with their human companions.

Due to their Chihuahua lineage, Bochis can be protective and may bark at strangers or unfamiliar sounds, making them good watchdogs despite their small size. They often display a confident and fearless attitude, sometimes not realizing their diminutive stature. This trait can lead to them being bold or even bossy at times.

Bochis are generally intelligent and eager to please, which can make them relatively easy to train. However, they may also inherit a stubborn streak from both parent breeds, requiring patience and consistency in training. Their social nature means they typically get along well with other pets and children, though supervision is recommended due to their small size.

These mixed breed dogs often have a humorous and entertaining personality, providing their owners with constant amusement through their antics and expressions. They thrive on attention and companionship, making them excellent lap dogs and constant companions for those who can give them the time and affection they crave.

History & Origins

The Bochi is a relatively new designer dog breed, likely originating in the late 20th or early 21st century when mixed breed dogs became increasingly popular. While the exact origins of the Bochi are not well-documented, we can understand more about this mix by looking at the history of its parent breeds.

The Boston Terrier, one of the Bochi’s parent breeds, was developed in the late 19th century in Boston, Massachusetts. Originally bred for pit-fighting, the Boston Terrier eventually became a popular companion dog. They were recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1893 and are known as “The American Gentleman” due to their tuxedo-like markings.

The Chihuahua, the other parent breed, has a much longer history. Named after the Mexican state of Chihuahua, these tiny dogs are believed to descend from the Techichi, a companion dog favored by the Toltec civilization in Mexico as far back as the 9th century AD. Chihuahuas were recognized by the AKC in 1904 and have since become one of the most popular small dog breeds worldwide.

The Bochi was likely created to combine the compact size and friendly nature of the Boston Terrier with the spirited personality and portability of the Chihuahua. As with many designer dog breeds, the goal was to create a small companion dog with a unique blend of traits from both parent breeds. While not recognized by major kennel clubs, Bochis have gained popularity among dog enthusiasts looking for a small, affectionate, and adaptable pet.

Health Concerns

The Bochi, being a mix of Boston Terrier and Chihuahua, can inherit health issues from both parent breeds. Common concerns include:

Brachycephalic Syndrome: Due to their Boston Terrier heritage, Bochis may have a shortened snout, leading to breathing difficulties.
Patellar Luxation: This condition, common in small breeds, affects the kneecap and can cause lameness.
Eye Problems: Bochis may be prone to various eye issues, including corneal ulcers and cataracts.
Dental Issues: Their small mouths can lead to overcrowding of teeth, increasing the risk of dental problems.

Regular veterinary check-ups and proper dental care are crucial for maintaining a Bochi’s health. Owners should also be aware of potential signs of breathing difficulties, especially in hot weather or during exercise.

Exercise Needs

Despite their small size, Bochis are generally energetic dogs that require regular exercise to maintain their physical and mental well-being. Their exercise needs typically include:

Daily Walks: A 20-30 minute walk once or twice a day is usually sufficient.
Playtime: Interactive play sessions, such as fetch or tug-of-war, can help meet their exercise needs.
Mental Stimulation: Puzzle toys and training exercises can provide necessary mental stimulation.

It’s important to note that Bochis may have reduced exercise tolerance in hot weather due to their potential brachycephalic traits. Always monitor your Bochi during exercise and provide plenty of water and rest breaks.

Space Requirements

Bochis are well-suited to various living situations due to their small size. Their space requirements include:

Apartment Living: Bochis can adapt well to apartment living, provided they receive adequate exercise and mental stimulation.
Small Yard: While not necessary, a small, securely fenced yard can provide a safe space for play and exploration.
Indoor Space: A comfortable bed, toys, and a designated feeding area are essential.

Despite their adaptability to small spaces, Bochis should not be left alone for extended periods. They thrive on human companionship and may develop separation anxiety if isolated for too long.

Nutrition & Feeding

Proper nutrition is crucial for maintaining the health and well-being of a Bochi. Consider the following guidelines:

High-Quality Dog Food: Choose a premium dog food formulated for small breeds with high energy levels.
Portion Control: Due to their small size, Bochis can easily become overweight. Measure food carefully and avoid overfeeding.
Feeding Schedule: Two to three small meals per day are typically recommended for adult Bochis.
Special Considerations: Some Bochis may have dental issues or sensitive stomachs, requiring specialized diets or kibble sizes.

Always consult with a veterinarian to determine the best diet plan for your individual Bochi, taking into account their age, weight, activity level, and any health concerns. Fresh water should be available at all times.

Grooming Tips

Bochis typically have short, smooth coats that are relatively low-maintenance. However, regular grooming is still important for their overall health and appearance. Brush your Bochi’s coat once or twice a week using a soft-bristled brush or a grooming mitt to remove loose hair and distribute natural oils. This breed may shed moderately, so more frequent brushing during shedding seasons can help control loose hair.

Bathe your Bochi as needed, usually every 4-6 weeks, using a mild dog shampoo. Pay special attention to the facial wrinkles if present, keeping them clean and dry to prevent skin infections. Trim their nails regularly, ideally every 2-3 weeks, and brush their teeth several times a week to maintain good oral hygiene. Check and clean their ears weekly to prevent infections, especially if they have erect ears like a Chihuahua.

During grooming sessions, take the opportunity to inspect your Bochi’s skin, paws, and overall body condition for any abnormalities or signs of health issues. This regular inspection can help catch potential problems early.

Training Approach

Training a Bochi requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement techniques. These small dogs can inherit the stubborn streak of both parent breeds, so it’s crucial to establish yourself as the pack leader early on. Start socialization and obedience training early to ensure your Bochi grows into a well-mannered adult dog.

Use reward-based training methods, offering treats, praise, and playtime as incentives for good behavior. Keep training sessions short (5-10 minutes) but frequent to maintain their interest and prevent boredom. Focus on basic commands like sit, stay, come, and leash training. Address any signs of small dog syndrome promptly by not allowing your Bochi to get away with behaviors you wouldn’t tolerate in a larger dog.

Bochis can be sensitive, so avoid harsh corrections or punishment-based training methods. Instead, redirect unwanted behaviors and consistently reward desired ones. Potty training may require extra patience, as small breeds can be challenging to house train. Establish a routine and be diligent with positive reinforcement. Consider crate training to aid in house training and provide a safe space for your Bochi when unsupervised.