How to Groom a Chihuahua

The chihuahua is the oldest purebred dog originating in North America according to the American Kennel Club. With distinct features, they are tiny, three pound dogs with long tails and unusually large eyes and ears. Chihuahuas have either a short, smooth coat or long hair. Grooming is fairly low maintenance for both types, with a bit more care needed for long hairs.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Rubber slicker
• Grooming glove
• Natural bristle brush
• Medium-toothed comb
• Natural tea tree and lavender oil dog shampoo
• Blow dryer
• Nail clippers
• Betadine scrub
• Cotton balls

1. Brush a shorthaired chihuahua two to three times a week using a rubber slicker or grooming glove to even out the natural oils through his coat. Short hairs should have a smooth coat with a soft, glossy feel.

2. Use a natural bristle brush and medium-toothed comb to brush a longhaired chihuahua. Groom by brushing several times a week to remove shedding and matted hair.

3. Bathe both short and longhaired varieties every one to two months with a natural tea tree and lavender oil dog shampoo. Be careful not to get shampoo in their eyes or water in their ears.

4. Dry your longhaired chihuahua with a blow dryer while brushing. Then comb his long hair with a medium-toothed comb to remove any remaining mats. Air dry your shorthaired dog.

5. Clip your dog's nails as needed. Chihuahua's nails should be kept short. Only clip the ends of the nails, making sure to avoid the quick as it causes pain and bleeding.

6. Check your chihuahua's ears once a week for excessive moisture or dirt, which causes ear infections. If dirty, groom the ears by cleaning the inside and outside using a Betadine scrub. Avoid going too deep into his ear canal and be sure to dry his ears thoroughly.

Tips & Warnings

• Place cotton balls in your chihuahua's ears while bathing to keep water out.
• Never bathe your chihuahua with human shampoo or soap, as these cause skin irritation and dandruff. Use a dog shampoo recommended by your vet, breeder or pet store.