Welcome
We are hoping this site will give you a good introduction to the Chihuahua dog breed and also some useful dog information based on our experience and research. We have put many of our most popular topics as links below but additional items of interest can be seen in the Menu bar to the left (please see our new feature, Chihuahua Videos).
Emergency Advice
Since in some instances we might need information urgently or in an emergency situation we have with our pet Chihuahua dog, we have therefore included first some links to emergency advice on the following topics.
All the above is given on the understanding that as a responsible pet owner you will try to discuss any action you wish to take with your Vet first.
Caring for your Chihuahua
Although "caring for your Chihuahua" might sound an inane topic there is much more to it than meets the eye. Beginning by stating the obvious - the Chihuahua is a small breed of dog (the smallest) weighing about 4 or 5 pounds, and as a result it should be emphasised that there's a need to take extra care not to injure her inadvertently by not remembering this.
This means being aware that she could be severely injured or killed if she were stepped on or sat on - a significant consideration if you live in a "busy" house or if you have children. There will even be times when walking her in public thoroughfares will likely be irresponsible, and you will need to pick her up.
In addition, dropping her or if she were to jump or fall from a high place such as the back of a couch etc. could cause severe damage to her.
There are one or two other things to be aware of with the Chi (see also our Facts page), for example, when you take her for a walk with a lead you need to take care the lead is not attached to her collar (she has a weak trachea which could be damaged by any tugging) but instead attach it to a harness - this is much more important than it sounds!
So if you haven't presently got a Chihuahua, you may be wondering whether all this is for you - well they are certainly no ordinary dog (but which dog is?). Her talents lie in being a very affectionate and loyal companion, as well as (would you believe it?) a fabulous watch dog. The
latter statement is based on the understanding that she will raise the alarm very quickly if she perceives there is any threat (but you might have to help out a little with any necessary second step despite her brave nature)!
"This is a dog – right? So you look after it like you would a dog?", you might say.
Of course you would but if you want to cover all the bases in taking care of your Chihuahua, so to speak, think about some of the following as well.
The above are all topics worth spending a moment or two on, and if you want to learn even more, have a look at the following as well.
Most Popular Articles (see also VIDEO links in Chi Videos):
1. Facts about Chihuahuas
Check out these facts about your Chi. More...
2. Chihuahua Health Facts
Here are some health facts but not meant to provide diagnosis. More...
3. How can I get a Chi?
Before you consider having a Chihuahua you will need to decide if this breed of dog is right for you. You will need to think about whether she/he will be safe, whether you have the time to look after the type of animal that requires a lot of close contact time, etc (see future article on this topic). If you are satisfied with your checks, and still wish to go ahead, then why not in the first instance consider adopting?
There are times when Chihuahuas need to be rescued, re-homed and adopted - check these contact details (sorry, readers in the UK only):
Chihuahua Rescue Service
Edith Esland, Chesterfield, Derbys. Tel: 01246 866334
British Chihuahua Club Rescue
Mrs P Bungard, Hove, Sussex. Tel: 01273 413501
British Chihuahua Club Rescue Association
http://www.the-british-chihuahua-club.org.uk/Rescue/InterestAdopt.php
4. How can I house-break my Chihuahua?
The recommended way to do this is quite a simple approach. More...
5. Breeding your Chihuahua
Should you breed her? What do you need to know about her being on-heat? If you do intend to breed her what are some of the problems you need to plan for? More...
6. Chihuahua Pregnancy
What do you need to know about your Chihuahua's pregnancy. More...
7. Poison Prevention
Being aware of some common incidents of pet poisoning, and what you should do. More...
8. Should you Microchip your Chihuahua?
Microchipping your pet is becoming increasingly popular these days – the reason
More...
BLOGS - add your comment
Our blog section below is open to your questions and answers so please use our Contact Us page to send a question or comment, and the Reply link on Read comments below if you wish to add your own reply. We are presently displaying only the latest 5 blogs.