Toxirn

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Breed Rating

Breed Details

General

The Toxirn is a cross between the Chihuahua and the Cairn Terrier. The Chihuahua is touted to be the world's smallest dog breed, and is prized as a lap dog and companion. It is named for the Chihuahua state of Mexico, where it is believed to have originated. The Cairn Terrier is a popular Scottish hunting terrier, so-named because they were small enough to go after prey in cairns, or small rocky piles. Both small dogs with big personalities, the Chihuahua and the Cairn Terrier are confident and highly people-oriented, and yet with enough loyalty to and protectiveness of their owners that strangers are not greeted with welcome.

Color

The Toxirn can be a variety of colors and patterns, as the Chihuahua, or be in the Cairn Terrier's solid colors or brindled pattern. One distinctive characteristic from the Cairn Terrier parent would be a brindle coat that changes as the dog ages (e.g. grey to black or vice-verse).

Coat

The Toxirn's coat is short-to-medium in length, with either a smooth, hard texture, a longer, softer feel, or a shaggier top coat over a downy undercoat.

Personality

The Toxirn is an ideal mix of an affectionate, loving lap dog with a sturdy, active, working dog. A small dog, the Toxirn is not advisable for young children, as it might get injured, and will not tolerate any abuse, however unintentional. It is perfect, though, for adults looking for a devoted, lively and playful companion. The Toxirn is loyal and courageous as well, and will not back down if it thinks it is defending its territory or owner. Unfortunately, this fearlessness sometimes gets it in trouble, as it will challenge much bigger dogs, or get into disputes with other male dogs in the house. Also, its natural hunting instincts can have it peg other animals, especially smaller ones, as prey, and might harass or hurt them.

Care

Hand stripping is best for a shaggy double coat, as this gets rid of dead hair and keeps the skin healthy as well. A straight single coat will do well with just a weekly brushing. Bathing once a month will maintain cleanliness and keep the coat shiny, whereas frequent bathing might strip the coat of its natural oils. Nail grooming and clipping can be carried out weekly, while dental care should be as regular as possible.

Training

The Toxirn needs to be socialized as soon as possible, especially if it will share a household with other dogs or animals. Training might not be smooth for this independent, occasionally stubborn dog, but an experienced and consistent trainer will know to exercise patience and use consistent commands to achieve training objectives. Training outdoors should be within a secure place, or with a leash. The Toxirn's prey drive can have it take off after anything that appears as quarry.

Activity

An extensive exercise regimen is unnecessary for the Toxirn, as it can take care of its daily activity needs with its propensity for play and its curious nature. However, daily walks are still best to keep the Toxirn stimulated. If wide open spaces for exploring and running are not available, a big yard and a round of vigorous play or tricks will do.