Chihuahua/Rat Terrier Mix......Good with kids?

[fastlayne224]

I did a quick search and didn't really find out what I needed to know, so I thought I would as you knowledgeable ladies.

I have a daughter who turns 7 tomorrow, so she is going to visit her "father" and believe me I use this term loosely. Tonight, he mentioned that he and the new fam got a dog and it is a Chihuahua/Rat Terrier mix. I am concerned that this type dog is not exactly child friendly. Could someone shed some light on this for me. I should also mention that my daughter has disabilities, including some sensory issues. She doesn't walk, but she gets around on her knees a lot, so she will be down on the dogs level.

Any info or suggestions would be appreciated!!!!:)

[jesvet]

Hmmm, it isn't a breed particularly known for their wonderful patient temperament, but individuals can surprise you. I would say obviously the most important thing is to closely supervise *all* interaction.

[Chimichanga]

I don't know about mixes, but I know my parents pure bred Chihuahuas can get nasty.

Overall they are both very loving dogs...once they get to know you. Their girl dog still bites my DH's nose. But the boy dog (now) loves him.

If they feel threatened (and if your daughter gets around on her knees it may be a problem) they can get very mean - biting and barking. It's not necessarily their fault - in the wild they had to be tough so they wouldn't get picked on.

again, I'm only speaking about purebreds - like the PP said; individual dogs can vary greatly.

[Lanapoo]

Chihuahua's can be nasty at times, I should know since I was just bitten by one a few weeks ago. Believe me, I've been around dogs my entire life and know not to make quick movements and let the dog smell me before petting it. This dog was loving my attention and came to me to be pet and then his demeanor changed on a dime. Kids have quick movements and their voices can be loud and startling at times to this breed.

As for terriers in general, they aren't really known to be great kid friendly dogs. Not that they're bad but they tend to be a little more flighty and can get startled more easily.

But it all really depends on the dog itself. You can't go by breed completely because they really are individuals and this dog could be really great.

[mkredhead]

I have a Chihuahua/Rat Terrier mix and he is as gentle as they come. My friend's kids really like him and show him by strong hugging and hard petting. Speck just rolls his eyes. He loves kids and is very attentive.

For the record, he is about 15 lbs. and is 11 years old.

Again, it just depends on the dog.

[peanut butter]

I have a rat terrier and an 8 year old son and he is very gentle with my son and any other children. I'm not really sure about the Chihuahua's, but rat terriers are wonderful. I have had 3 of them in the past. But really, it all depends on the dog.