Also called Pom-Chi, Chi-Pom, Pomahuahua, Chimeranian
CrossbreedShort profile
From United States, late 20th century (sources place it from the 1980s to the late 1990s or early 2000s), as a designer cross of the Pomeranian and Chihuahua.12
single or double coat, smooth and short to long and fluffy
A tiny, fine-boned dog whose coat can go either way: short and sleek like a Chihuahua, or long and fluffy like a Pomeranian. Either way it tends to be soft, glossy and full.21
Coloursorangecreamblackbrownsableblue and tanblack and tanparti-colourmerle21
Personality what they are like
A lively, confident companion with a much bigger personality than its size suggests. Pomchis are smart, playful and devoted to their people, and they keep a keen eye on everything around them. They can be a bit headstrong, so patient, reward-based training and good manners from puppyhood go a long way.21
Daily activity how busy a day looks
Moderate: at least 30 minutes a day, ideally split into a morning and an afternoon walk, plus play and brain games. A safe, fenced garden is a bonus.12
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Short-coated Pomchis need only weekly brushing, while fluffier ones do best with daily brushing and may need a professional tidy-up, especially in shedding seasons. Regular tooth brushing is recommended.21
Home where they are happiest
Very adaptable, equally happy in an apartment or in the countryside. Prefers moderate temperatures, so keep it cosy in the cold and cool in the heat. Handle gently given its small size.12
Food basics what goes in the bowl
A high-quality small-breed food in carefully measured portions. Puppies eat three to four small meals a day until about nine months; adults need only a small daily amount based on weight.12
Company who they like around
Loves human company and prefers not to be left alone for long. Best with calm households and older children; can live happily with cats and other dogs when socialised early.12
The story where it all began
Breeders in the United States started crossing Pomeranians with Chihuahuas in the late 20th century to create a pocket-sized companion. The Pomchi reached the UK around the 1980s and has grown steadily in popularity there ever since, loved for its compact size and affectionate nature.12
Fun facts for the dinner table
1
Its Pomeranian parent is named after the Pomerania region on the Baltic coast of today's Poland and Germany.3
2
Queen Victoria adopted a small red Pomeranian in 1888, making that colour fashionable, and the breed's size halved during her lifetime.3
3
Two Pomeranians were among only three dogs to survive the sinking of the Titanic in 1912.3
4
Pomchis can live a long time for a dog, with lifespans of up to around 18 years given.1
Where the name comes from the story behind it
The Pomchi is a designer breed created by crossing a Pomeranian with a Chihuahua, and is also known as the Chi-Pom, Chiranian, Chimeranian, Pomahuahua, and Pomachi.4
I woke up and jumped off the bed, ready to start my day. I followed my human to the kitchen, standing on my hind legs to see what was on the counter. After a morning walk, I played fetch with my favorite squeaky ball. I ran around the living room, barking with joy. Later, I sat by the window, watching squirrels and birds. When a friend came over, I gave a confident yip to say hello. In the evening, I cuddled on my human's lap, feeling proud and loved.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Recognised by the official bits
The Kennel Club (UK) and other major kennel clubs
A designer crossbreed, not officially recognised by the UK Kennel Club or other major canine organisations.1
These simple, three-ingredient biscuits are full of fibre and antioxidants from blueberries, and are easy to make in small sizes for toy and small dogs.
You need
100g oats
1 banana (mashed)
40g fresh blueberries (chopped)
a little water (as needed)
How
Preheat your oven to 175°C.
Mix the mashed banana, oats and chopped blueberries together in a bowl.
Add splashes of water a little at a time, stirring until the mixture comes together in one large ball.
Roll the mixture out on a lightly floured surface to about 1–2 cm thick.
Use a small cookie cutter or a knife to cut out shapes suitable for a small dog.
Place the shapes on a lined baking tray and bake for 15–20 minutes until slightly browned.
Leave to cool completely before serving.
How much: Give one small biscuit per day for a toy or small dog, and reduce their main meal accordingly.
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Pomchi, and at what times?
Puppies need three to four small meals a day until about nine months, while adults do well with two meals a day. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests feeding at consistent times each day, and you can check the food label or ask your vet for exact portions.125Pet Wiki plan
What should a Pomchi eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Feed a high-quality small-breed food in carefully measured portions. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts, as these can be toxic to dogs.126
How often should I bathe a Pomchi?
Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every eight weeks, but you can bathe more often if your Pomchi gets dirty. Always use a gentle dog shampoo and avoid over-bathing to keep their coat healthy.7Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Pomchi need brushing?
Short-coated Pomchis need weekly brushing, while fluffier ones do best with daily brushing, especially during shedding seasons. Furry Diary's starting plan recommends brushing once a week, but adjust based on your dog's coat type.217Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Pomchi's nails, and how often?
Furry Diary's starting plan suggests trimming nails every four weeks, or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Trim a little at a time, stopping before the quick, and ask your vet or a groomer to show you how if you're unsure.7Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a Pomchi need?
Your Pomchi needs at least 30 minutes of exercise daily, ideally split into a morning and afternoon walk, plus play and brain games. A safe, fenced garden is a bonus, and Furry Diary's plan includes daily walks and play.12Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Pomchi's teeth and ears?
Brush your Pomchi's teeth daily with dog-safe toothpaste, and check ears every two weeks for redness or dirt, never pushing anything into the ear canal. Furry Diary's starting plan includes daily tooth brushing and regular ear checks.217Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Pomchi live?
A Pomchi typically lives between 12 and 18 years, so you can look forward to many happy years together with proper care.12
Is a Pomchi good with children and other pets?
Pomchis are best with calm households and older children, and they can live happily with cats and other dogs when socialised early. Their small size means gentle handling is important.12
Can a Pomchi be left alone?
Pomchis love human company and prefer not to be left alone for long periods. If you must leave them, start with short absences and provide toys, but it's best to avoid long hours alone.12
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
Pomeranian
Chihuahua
Chiweenie
Chorkie