How to Care for Little Chihuahua Dogs

Chihuahuas need special protection from the elements due to their small stature.

The earliest chihuahua dogs were found in the Mexican state sharing the same name, according to the American Kennel Club. Alert, small dogs, chihuahuas have a rich and varied history; they were once revered as pets of nobility. The average life span of a chihuahua is between 11 and 18 years, making sound and regular care a necessity for owners of these adorable, tiny dogs.

Instructions

1. Schedule your chihuahua for yearly vaccinations. The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) backed by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) has a recommended vaccination schedule for dogs, ranging from the initial vaccines puppies need to the yearly vaccines every dog should have.

2. Take your chihuahua to the veterinarian yearly for a physical examination. This rules out the possibility of overall health problems, including obesity, blood-borne pathogens, worms, bone disorders, genetic disorders, reproductive problems, ocular disease and more. This can be done on the same visit as yearly vaccinations.

3. Feed your chihuahua a quality, high-protein food. Foods should have meat listed as the first ingredient, according to "Nutrition for Veterinary Technicians." Crude protein should be listed as no less than 30 percent of the overall food and crude fat at no less than 20 percent of the overall volume of the food.

4. Regulate the amount of food your chihuahua eats. Several small meals a day are preferred, according to "Dogs for Dummies." Feeding your dog on a controlled schedule allows you to adjust food intake as needed to maintain your dog's weight. It also allows you to have a greater control over when your dog needs to go outside to defecate.

5. Supply your chihuahua with copious amounts of clean, fresh water. Though native to sunny, hot environments, the short coat and small body of the chihuahua make it easy for these little dogs to get heatstroke. Ensure that water is available at all times, especially on hot, sunny days and on days where your dog engages in great amounts of physical activity.

6. Brush chihuahuas on a daily basis with a short bristled brush. Brushing removes dirt and debris from the chihuahua's coat. Brushing also distributes the dog's natural oils throughout the coat for a healthy shine and more protective coating.

7. Wash chihuahua dogs no more than once a month. The oils in the dog's coat serve as protection against the elements. Washing removes these oils and may lead to dry skin, a particular problem for chihuahuas.

8. Exercise your dog daily. Chihuahuas are prone to short bursts of energy, according to the American Kennel Club's "Dog Breed Bible." Though they may not have the endurance for long walks on a regular basis, chihuahuas still need exercise. A game of tug or fetch, indoors or out, is often enough to meet a chihuahua's needs.

9. Socialize chihuahua dogs early in life. Expose your dog to a variety of people and situations. This ensures a calmer, gentler dog that does not react with fear or aggression in the face of new situations.

10. Buy a harness and leash rather than a collar and leash for walking. If your chihuahua pulls on a leash attached to a collar, the collar may damage the dog's trachea. A harness prevents this damage, and also prevents the possibility of your dog slipping out of the collar setup, an easy feat for small dogs.

11. Consider putting a sweater on your dog during the winter months. Chihuahuas are sensitive to temperatures below 40 degrees F. Temperatures below 35 degrees F open your dog up to illnesses such as colds, hypothermia and pneumonia.

12. Keep an eye out for the manifestation of certain medical problems. Chihuahuas are particularly disposed to weak knees, hip displaysia, glaucoma and corneal problems. Speak to your veterinarian about screening for these diseases.

References

• "Clinical Textbook for Veterinary Technicians"; Joanna Bassert, Dennis McCurnin; 2009
• "The Dog Breed Bible: Descriptions and Photos of Every Breed Recognized by the AKC"; D. Caroline Cole; 2007
• "Dogs: The Ultimate Care Guide: Good Health, Loving Care, Maximum Longevity"; Matthew Hoffman; 2008
• "Clinical Veterinary Advisor: Dogs and Cats"; Etienne Cote, DVM; 2006
• "Nutrition for Veterinary Technicians and Nurses"; Ann Wortinger; 2007

Resources

• The American Kennel Club: Chihuahua