How to Care for Long Hair Chihuahuas

Originating in Mexico, the Chihuahua has been a favorite pet for thousands of years. Bred to be cute companions, Chihuahuas can be as large as six pounds or as tiny as two pounds. Since the Chihuahua has a tendency to develop "Small Dog Syndrome," it is essential to include crate training and obedience classes as part of his care. Though the smooth hair variety is relatively easy to care for, the long hair Chihuahua requires more attention, particularly when it comes to grooming.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Crate
• Nail trimmers
• Ear and eye cleaning kit
• Natural bristle brush
• Medium-toothed comb
• Dog shampoo

Overall Care for a Long Hair Chihuahua

1. Crate train your long hair Chihuahua as early as possible.

   From puppyhood, train your Chihuahua to stay in its crate through the night and whenever you are unable to keep a close eye on it. This will help you housebreak your puppy. This is especially important for small breeds, like Chihuahuas, since they are notoriously difficult to convince that your house is not their private toilet. Start out by keeping your puppy in its crate for 15 minutes, praising it, then taking it outside immediately afterward. Increase the time your puppy is left in the crate until it can remain for three hours at a stretch. Never keep a puppy in a crate for more than three hours.

2. Enroll your long hair Chihuahua in obedience training classes.

   Because they are so tiny and cute, Chihuahuas are susceptible to developing "Small Dog Syndrome." SDS occurs when tiny dogs are allowed to misbehave and take over the leadership role. They can become snappy, irritable, territorial, and even aggressive. Just like large dogs, Chihuahuas need a firm hand and repeated demonstrations that you are the pack leader. Enroll your Chihuahua in obedience classes and practice the commands over and over. Never give in to your dog's sweet little face and adorable antics or you will have a monster on your hands.

3. Groom your long hair Chihuahua two to three times a week.

   Attention to eyes, ears, nails, and coat are all important when grooming your long hair Chihuahua. Because the long hair Chihuahua's eyes are so large and somewhat protruding, they tear up quite readily. Keep your dog's eyes clean with a vet-approved eye care regimen to avoid infection. Clean their ears on a regular basis, and clip their nails carefully, avoiding cutting into the quick. Products like PediPaws or Peticure can assist you with this task.

   The smooth hair Chihuahua has a short coat, which needs very little grooming. However, the lovely coat of a long hair Chihuahua needs a good brushing two to three times a week. Use a comb and natural bristle brush to remove tangles and hair that is shedding. Bathe with a shampoo intended for dogs and blow dry. Comb out any remaining tangles or mats. Be careful not to get water or shampoo in your Chihuahua's ears or eyes when bathing.

4. Feed your long hair Chihuahua a healthy diet at regular intervals.

   Chihuahuas are small, but high-energy dogs. They need to eat a well-balanced diet and be fed two to three times a day. Some Chihuahuas may be able to free-feed, but most dogs do better if their meals are set to a routine. For example, feeding your long hair Chihuahua in the morning and in the evening is better than just leaving the bowl out or giving him one large meal a day. Having a feeding schedule is especially helpful when housebreaking.

5. Take your long hair Chihuahua in for regular vet checkups.

   Long hair Chihuahuas need semi-annual to annual physical exams to keep their vaccinations up to date and to check their overall health. Special attention must be paid to their coats since some Chihuahuas can develop skin sensitivities and even "hot spots" or bald spots. If not cared for properly, your Chihuahua's large liquid eyes may become infected and need medication. If your Chihuahua's eyes seem to be producing more tears than usual, contact your veterinarian.

Tips & Warnings

• Be careful around your tiny Chihuahua. Though he may act rough and tough, he is fragile. Teach small children to handle him with extreme gentleness.

• When bathing your Chihuahua, place cotton balls in his ears to prevent water damage.

• Make sure your Chihuahua knows that all humans are in charge. He must remember that he is merely a follower.

References

• Animal World