How to Care for a Baby Chihuahua

Chihuahuas may be the smallest dog breed in the world, but their personalities are large. They are very loyal to their owners and can be aggressive toward other people and dogs. As puppies, they are quite fragile, physically and emotionally. They need a lot of attention and care. Chihuahua puppies will be cared for primarily by their mother until they are about 6 weeks old, at which point they will stop nursing. Then you can start taking over their care.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Warm, soft place to sleep
• Outdoor area for exercise
• Soft puppy food
• Collar and leash
• Puppy toys

1. Set up a home. Make sure your Chihuahua baby has a safe, comfortable place to sleep and play that is set apart from the rest of the house. These dogs are tiny and can easily be stepped or sat on. It is better to keep the puppies confined to their own space so accidents don't happen.

2. Keep her warm. Make sure her sleeping area has a heat lamp. Do not shine it directly on her, but keep it centered about 12 inches above her sleeping area. If you live in a warm climate, just put her in a sunny spot, but keep the temperature around 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

3. Feed your puppy three small meals per day and leave water out at all times. For smaller puppies (5 to 8 weeks old), blend puppy chow in a blender with some goat's milk to make a soft, nutritious mush. Typically, puppies can eat 1/2 cup per meal, but if he seems hungry feed him more than that.

4. Exercise your puppy. Though small, Chihuahuas are very active. They love to run around and be outside. Keep your puppy away from any other dogs, however, until he has all of his shots. In fact, keep him away from any areas that other dogs have been. Your own yard is best.

5. Socialize your puppy. Once she has had all of her shots, take her out to be around people and other dogs as much as possible. If you do not teach her early how to share you with other people, she will become aggressive and overly protective of you.

Tips & Warnings

• Chihuahuas should be left with their mothers as long as possible; 12 weeks is ideal. Their mothers teach them many social skills.

Resources

• More about Chihuahuas