Chihuahua Health
The problem with writing anything on the topic of health or health problems, is the possibility of encouraging false diagnosis leading to further harm to your pet. Therefore, please do not use this page for diagnosis, instead leave that to a qualified vet. The Chihuahua is a long-lived breed, often living up to 16 years and beyond; they are generally a healthy breed with relatively few health problems, so enjoy this fact as you read.
| Chihuahua Health |
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| Rheumatism | Chihuahuas are susceptible to the cold and rheumatism, and will do their best to burrow in blankets, etc. given the chance to avoid the possibility of getting cold (even when it is presently warm). |
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| Slipped stifle or subluxation of the patella | That is, loose kneecaps on the rear legs; this can either happen rarely or frequently depending on the dog, so in mild cases it may present simply like a "trick knee" righting it self (do not attempt to manipulate it yourself) but in more severe cases surgery might be advised. |
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| Gum problems | The Chihuahua has too small a mouth for its teeth, resulting in teeth overcrowding. Overcrowding of teeth can cause various teeth and gum disorders; this can cause the same plaque and tartar build-up humans experience; there is therefore a need to avoid sugary foods, a need to brush her teeth or give dental chews; have her teeth checked regularly. |
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| Eye problems | Chihuahuas have large eyes which can easily suffer injury; a few drops of a saline solution is often recommended for dust in the eye (also for corneal dryness) but if the injury seems more serious take her to the vet, of course. |
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| Hypoglycemia | Hypoglycemia is low blood sugar and is a common problem in young Toy breed puppies; most will grow out of it, for some it's a danger throughout their lives; symptoms: staggering gait, glassy eyes, and sometimes either limpness or rigidity. If she doesn't receive immediate help, she can suffer seizures, unconsciousness, and finally, die; treatment involves putting some sugar in her mouth and calling the vet. |
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| Weight gain (excessive) | As you might expect, a healthy balanced diet is recommended to prevent obesity; avoid giving human food (high in sugars and / or salt), and due to Chihuahuas being susceptible to gum and teeth problems, ensure dry foods (i.e. dog biscuits, chews, bones, etc.) are a main part of the diet. See also Article page |
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| Suseptable to toxic products (poisons) | Be cautious around toxic products such as chocolate and even fertilizer; being a very small breed it will not take much to poison. See also Article page |
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| Head injury | Chihuahuas are often born via caesarean section because puppies are born with relatively large heads, part of this condition is they can have a "molera" which is an unclosed section of the skull (can remain open throughout their life), making the dog prone to injury. |
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| Wheezing | Wheezing or a honking cough (some times referred to as "reverse sneezing") is a tracheal collapse and is a narrowing of the windpipe due to the weakening of the cartilage which supports the trachea; it is common in Chihuahuas. The cough is often brought on after exercise, heat, excitement, or humidity; over-weight dogs are particularly vulnerable; the condition can be managed by using glucosamine supplements to strengthen cartilage; protect your Chihuahua's throat by keeping pressure off the airway, for example, use a harness instead of a collar. What is sometimes recommended when this wheezing occurs is that you gently rub the throat from base to chin but if this is a serious recurring problem consult your vet. |
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| Stress | Chihuahuas have a high metabolic rate and are prone to shaking but they do also suffer from stress and prefer a calm living environment. |
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| Heart murmur | Heart murmurs are not common in Chihuahuas; where one is detected it is often the "functional" type; this means she can still be as active as she wants to be and live a long, normal life. |
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| Constipation | Digestive disorders can be a common complaint with Chihuahuas, and often due to eating human food. Be careful with this type of disorder if looking serious but mild cases have various remedies advocated (in addition to improving the diet long-term). Try a teaspoon of the following or you can put a little in an egg-cup and dip your finger in to it, then in to her mouth but without forcing it on her; unsweetened yoghurt or pumpkin oil (without the spices) or olive oil. Within the hour she should be able to "go". Seek vet advice if this hasn't worked. |
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| Pregnancy | (See our Pregnancy and Breeding pages) |
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| Poison | (See our Poison Prevention article) |
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| Ear Mites | Caused by tiny insects that live in the ear canals and feed on skin debris. Mites are the most common cause of an ear infection in a Chihuahua but there are others, nevertheless, suspect it if both of your dog's ears are infected.
The characteristic sign is intense scratching and violent shaking of the head. The ear discharge is reddish brown, or black and waxy. Treatment is by means of a miticide. It is important to establish that the infection is ear mite and not some other causes, since incorrect treatment can cause problems, so speak to your Vet. |
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This page was last modified on Monday, May 31, 2010 07:21:17 PM
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