Taco Terrier

Canis lupus

Last updated: March 26, 2023
Verified by: AZ Animals Staff
© Gorodenkoff/Shutterstock.com

Taco terriers are known by a variety of names, including the Chitoxy Toy and the Chiwoxy.


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Taco Terrier Scientific Classification

Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Chordata
Class
Mammalia
Order
Carnivora
Family
Canidae
Genus
Canis
Scientific Name
Canis lupus

Read our Complete Guide to Classification of Animals.

Taco Terrier Conservation Status

Taco Terrier Locations

Taco Terrier Locations

Taco Terrier Facts

Fun Fact
Taco terriers are known by a variety of names, including the Chitoxy Toy and the Chiwoxy.
Temperament
Loyal, watchful, and playful
Diet
Omnivore

Taco Terrier Physical Characteristics

Color
  • Red
  • Blue
  • Black
  • White
  • Tan
  • Chocolate
Skin Type
Hair
Lifespan
12-15 years
Weight
8 lbs

Taco Terrier as a Pet:

General Health
Energy Level
Shedability
Trainability
Intelligence
Tendency to Chew
Size
Family and kid friendliness
Yappiness / Barking
High
Separation Anxiety
High
Preferred Temperature
Average climate
Exercise Needs
Moderate
Friendly With Other Dogs
Moderate
Pure bred cost to own
$1,000
Dog group
Terrier
Male weight
3-8 lbs
Female weight
3-6 lbs

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Despite their small size, taco terriers have incredibly sharp teeth and are great at chewing things to pieces. Be careful leaving loose shoes and other soft items out where your terrier can get to them.

The popular taco terrier is a designer Terrier breed created by crossing a toy fox terrier with a chihuahua. The result is an adorable lap-sized dog that will quickly become your new best friend. Taco terrier owners usually fall in love with their dog’s big ears, sweet eyes, and incredibly attached personality.

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Taco terriers are vibrant and fun dogs that make great companion animals. Although they’re not a good choice for large families, these dogs are loving animals that are perfect for active adults.

Owning A Taco Terrier: 3 Pros And Cons

Pros!Cons!
Loves to cuddle! Taco terriers are perfect lap dogs and will sit with you for hours at a time.Separation anxiety. Taco terriers don’t like to be left alone and need to accompany their owners to most locations.
Great guard dog! Although they’re small, you can count on your taco terrier to alert you whenever a stranger is at your door.Stranger aggression. Most taco terriers do not like strangers and will growl or bark if approached without warning.
Friendly and intelligent! Owners of taco terriers praise their pups for having bright and vibrant personalities.Extra shedding. Taco terriers are far from hypoallergenic; in fact, they’re known for shedding more than you would expect for a dog their size.

History Of The Breed

The Taco Terrier, like many designer mixed breeds, has not been around for that long, beginning around the late 1990s or early 2000s. Also known as the Chihuahua Fox Terrier mix, the toy Chitoxy and the toy Chiwoxy, it has become a very popular dog, with its name being a referral to the Chihuahua on the Taco Bell commercials.

Its parent breeds are the Chihuahua and the Toy Fox Terrier, two breeds that have a long history. The chihuahua is believed to have come from Mexico and has been around since the 9th century. Thought to have been derived from the Techichi dog, an ancient Mesoamerican breed that was kept by the Mexican Toltec people. The toy fox terrier originates from the United States, dating back to the early 1900s. Intended to be a dog that would chase rodents and foxes, this small dog became popular in circuses and dog shows.

Size And Weight

Taco terriers are very small dogs that usually only weigh between three and eight pounds. Even when fully grown, these dogs don’t stand any taller than 11 inches at maximum. Female taco terriers are usually smaller than their male counterparts, although this can vary greatly based on the genetics of the parents. Taco terriers usually have black, white, or tan fur; the length is determined by whether their chihuahua parent had long or short hair. Other distinguishing features include large ears, pointed faces, and small but intelligent eyes.

Height (male)8-11 inches
Height (female)6-9 inches
Weight (male)5-8 lbs
Weight (female)3-6 lbs

Common Health Issues

Although hybrid dogs are usually healthier than their purebred ancestors, both of the taco terrier’s purebred breeds have a handful of health concerns that need to be addressed. Your taco terrier may be susceptible to heart problems, patellar luxation in the knees, eye problems, and a variety of other issues. Make sure to take your taco terrier puppy to the vet as soon as you bring them home. While you’re there, ask the doctor to check for:

Health and Entertainment for your Taco Terrier

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  • Eye conditions
  • Heart murmurs
  • Pulmonic stenosis
  • Patellar luxation
  • Hydrocephalus
  • Hypoglycemia
  • Skin allergies
  • Tracheal collapse

Temperament

Animal, Animal Body Part, Animal Eye, Animal Head, Beauty

Taco terriers make perfect lap dogs and will sit with you for hours.

©iStock.com/Amber White

Taco terriers are incredibly loyal dogs that like to keep watch over their household. Expect your little guard dog to watch the windows and bark at strangers whenever they walk past. These dogs have energetic and attentive personalities; they love to watch television, listen in on family conversations, and generally make themselves part of their owner’s business. Because they’re so small, it’s common for pet owners to bring their taco terrier with them everywhere they go. These little dogs make great lap pets and love to be held for extended periods of time.

When relaxed, taco terriers love to play and will either chew on toys or roll around on the floor. Expect your terrier to display possessive behavior traits, especially if another dog is visiting. Because they experience high levels of separation anxiety, it’s not a good idea to let your taco terrier out of your sight. However, if they know that their owner is in the room, these dogs become incredibly playful companions that the entire family will love.

How To Take Care Of A Taco Terrier

Taco terriers are vibrant and attentive dogs that always seem to be involved in the conversation. Keep your taco terrier close by your side, and make sure to keep an eye on them when other pets are around. These dogs love to sit on their owner’s lap and will always have an opinion about strangers. As long as you spend time with them and give them plenty of exercise, your taco terrier will be your best friend for many years to come.

The Best Dog Food For Taco Terriers

Taco terriers are small dogs that do not need very much food. Look for high-quality kibble that is intended for small dogs. Then, feed about 1/2 cup portion twice a day; remember to consult your vet to make sure that this amount is correct for your terrier’s size and weight. Alternatively, you can make homemade dog food with lean meat and vegetables. Again, ensure that the portions are small, and reduce the amount that you are feeding if your dog starts gaining weight or seems to have too much energy to burn. Dogs who get hypoglycemia should get a solid meal ninety minutes plus before exercising so their blood sugar doesn’t dip too low.

With dogs like Taco Terriers that are prone to hard conditions, it’s probably safer to opt for legume-free food due to the link between heart failure and legumes in dog food.

So, at A-Z Animals, our recommendation for feeding a Taco Terrier is NUTRO ULTRA Small & Toy Breed Adult Dry Dog Food.

Instead of unnecessary peas, chickpeas, etc., artificial colors, dyes, and flavors, corn, soy, wheat, and chicken by-product meal, this nutritious food delivers high-quality protein and goodness from superfoods. The amino acids, vitamin B12, thiamine, riboflavin, and vitamins A and E will speak for themselves by keeping your Taco Terrier bright-eyed and active.

Try out NUTRO ULTRA for Small and Toy Breeds, available on amazon.

Best with Superfoods for Small Breeds
Nutro Ultra Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
  • Chicken recipe for small dog breeds
  • 15 superfoods to support heart and immune health, healthy coat and skin
  • No corn, soy, wheat, artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives


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Maintenance And Grooming

Taco terriers are known for shedding and need to be brushed regularly to keep their fur from matting, especially if they are descended from a long-haired chihuahua. If they take more after their toy fox parent, this shedding may be reduced to a minimum, but you’re still likely to find black and white hair all over your couch. To solve this problem, brush your terrier at least twice a week, and give them a bath on a monthly basis. You should also inspect and clean your terrier’s ears regularly to prevent infections.

Training

Taco terriers are energetic but temperamental dogs that may be difficult to train. For best results, begin working with your dog as a puppy, and continue training sessions even after they are full grown. Don’t expect your taco terrier to learn more than basic commands, and remember to refresh their training on a regular basis. These dogs do best with short training sessions. Always end on a positive note to boost your dog’s confidence and encourage them to look forward to training in the future.

Exercise

Taco terriers are playful dogs that need plenty of exercise to maintain a good attitude. Try to take your terrier out for at least one 30-minute long walk every day. Remember that small dogs tire easily as puppies; your terrier will be more interested in going for walks once they are fully grown. In addition to walks, you should also make sure that your little chihuahua mix has plenty of room to run around on the floor without interruptions by children or other pets.

Puppies

Taco Terrier puppies are inquisitive but fragile. Like any other chihuahua mix, these dogs should be monitored closely for health issues while they are young. Keep a close eye on your dog until they are larger, and start training early to help them work on their basic commands.

Taco Terriers And Children

Taco terriers make great lap dogs, but they are not a good choice for families with children. These small dogs need a lot of attention and don’t do well around small kids who do not understand boundaries. Far too many taco terriers end up at animal rescues because their families were not prepared to give them the attention they need. Only bring home one of these dogs if you’re prepared to watch them constantly and take them with you when you leave the house.

Dogs Similar To Taco Terriers

Taco terriers are small and vivacious dogs that are great to have around. If you’re looking for another small dog to adopt, consider getting a regular chihuahua, a toy poodle, or a Boston terrier.

  • Chihuahua – With big ears and a face that wins hearts, the chihuahua is a classic breed that never goes out of style.
  • Toy poodle – The toy poodle is a great choice for families who want a dog that is both small and hypoallergenic.
  • Boston terrier – Boston terriers are slightly larger than most toy dogs and love to run around outside.

Taco terriers are sweet dogs that like cute and playful names. Popular names for taco terriers include:

  • Buddy
  • Buster
  • Teddy
  • Chloe
  • Coco
  • Maisie
  • Penny
  • Dolly
  • Dexter
  • Ollie
  • Lily
  • Sammy
  • Jasper

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What's the right dog for you?

Dogs are our best friends but which breed is your perfect match?

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Large
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If you have kids or existing dogs select:

Kids
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Should they be Hypoallergenic?

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How important is health?
Which dog groups do you like?
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What climate?
How much seperation anxiety?
How much yappiness/barking?

How much energy should they have?

The lower energy the better.
I want a cuddle buddy!
About average energy.
I want a dog that I have to chase after constantly!
All energy levels are great -- I just love dogs!
How much should they shed?
How trainable/obedient does the dog need to be?
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How much chewing will allow?
About the Author

Melissa Bauernfeind was born in NYC and got her degree in Journalism from Boston University. She lived in San Diego for 10 years and is now back in NYC. She loves adventure and traveling the world with her husband but always misses her favorite little man, "P", half Chihuahua/half Jack Russell, all trouble. She got dive-certified so she could dive with the Great White Sharks someday and is hoping to swim with the Orcas as well.

Taco Terrier FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) 

What is a taco terrier?

A taco terrier is a toy fox terrier and chihuahua mix. These tiny dogs have big ears, fluffy fur, and pointed faces. Taco terriers generally have black, white, or tan fur in various patterns. One of the main ways to tell a taco terrier apart from a chihuahua is that they don’t have the same large heads or big eyes that the parent breed is known for.

How much do taco terriers cost to own?

The price of a purebred taco terrier is usually somewhere between $300 and $1,000. Taco Terrier puppies usually fetch a higher price if they have predictable features, which is why many breeders will keep careful pedigree information for each of the parents in their care. You may also be able to find a taco terrier for a lower price by contacting your local animal rescue.

Are taco terriers good with kids?

Taco terriers are very small dogs, which means that they have a hard time interacting with children. Although older kids may be able to pet or even play with a taco terrier, it’s not a good idea to leave them in the hands of small children who do not understand how to respect a dog’s boundaries. Because these dogs are so small and fragile, they shouldn’t be left on the floor while children are running around.

How big do taco terriers get?

Taco terriers are small dogs that tend to weigh between three and eight pounds. Your dog’s size will vary based on the genetics that they inherit from their parents and the amount of nutrition they get as a puppy. In general, taco terriers weigh more if they take after their fox terrier parent.

How long do taco terriers live?

Taco terriers are relatively long-lived, especially for a small breed of dog. You can expect your taco terrier to have a lifespan between 12 and 15 years. If you feed a healthy brand of kibble and give your dog plenty of exercise, you may be able to extend their life by an extra few years.

Are taco terriers hypoallergenic?

No, taco terriers are not hypoallergenic. These dogs inherit a fluffy coat from their fox terrier parents and actually tend to shed far more than an average chihuahua. If you have allergies, make sure to spend some time around a taco terrier before you bring one into your home. Don’t trust a breeder or animal rescue who claims that your taco terrier will not shed, even if they have short fur.

Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us? Contact the AZ Animals editorial team.

Sources
  1. Wag Walking, Available here: https://wagwalking.com/breed/taco-terrier
  2. Dog Breed Info, Available here: https://www.dogbreedinfo.com/tacoterrier.htm
  3. 101 Dog Breeds, Available here: https://www.101dogbreeds.com/taco-terrier.asp
  4. Dog Breeds List, Available here: https://www.dogbreedslist.info/all-dog-breeds/Taco-Terrier.html

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