Taking Care of a Chihuahua

Taking Care of a Chihuahua: Nutrition

While Chihuahuas are frisky, lean dogs when fed appropriately, owners should always be vigilant about their dog's diet to ensure it doesn't become overweight. Since most Chihuahuas live indoors, this can easily happen if owners overfeed their dogs or give out fatty treats on a regular basis. Taking care of a Chihuahua involves feeding the dog 3 small meals a day of a high quality dog food with a ratio of at least 30 percent crude protein, 20 percent crude fat and no more than 4 percent fiber. Chihuahuas may only need 1/2 cup to 1 cup of small-sized dog food per day.
Taking care of a Chihuahua also entails providing constant access to clean, fresh water, as Chihuahuas are prone to developing kidney stones, especially if frequently dehydrated.

Taking Care of a Chihuahua: Exercise

Many Chihuahua owners revel in the tiny size of their dog and insist on pampering the animal and carrying it around all the time. However, Chihuahuas, like all dogs, need short daily walks for exercise to keep them in top form. When walking Chihuahuas use a harness attached to a leash instead of a collar so as not to hurt their small necks. Since Chihuahuas are so small, they have difficulty regulating their body temperature and should wear a sweater if being walked outdoors in cold weather. Also, Chihuahuas should not remain outside for lengthy periods during excessive heat.

Taking Care of a Chihuahua: Grooming

Unlike most other toy breeds, Chihuahuas require minimal grooming and maintenance. Chihuahuas should be bathed monthly, though owners should be careful to avoid getting the dog's ears wet, as this can lead to infections. Chihuahuas should also be brushed on occasion with a soft-bristled brush to keep their coat shiny.

Taking Care of a Chihuahua: Affection

Taking care of a Chihuahua goes beyond basic health needs of the dog because Chihuahuas desperately long for affection and love from their owners. Chihuahua owners should set aside time each day to pet their dogs and play with them. By spending time with their owners, Chihuahuas will develop strong attachments to them and will prove to be loyal companions.
Socializing Chihuahuas from an early age with other dogs and with young children is also important. Chihuahuas have a tendency to view themselves as leader of the pack and can become jealous and aggressive toward other dogs and small children if they have not been properly socialized with them from puppyhood on.

Resources

• How to Care for Chihuahua Dogs
• Care for a Chihuahua