Category: Chihuahuas

Chihuahua Health 101: Common Health Problems Among Chihuahuas

9/9/2016

by Tara M. Clapper, Contributing Writer

Chihuahuas make loving and affectionate pets. They're generally low-maintenance and even rather inexpensive to feed due to their small size. However, health problems may be a major concern and expense of Chihuahua ownership. Here are some common health problems experienced by Chihuahuas and ways to avoid them when selecting or interacting with your Chihuahua.

Poor eyesight. Like most toy breeds, some Chihuahuas have problems with their eyes. At first, you may notice your pet experiencing trouble when seeing during specific times of the day (just in daylight or just at night). Eventually, this can progress into total blindness.

Collapsing trachea. Many new Chihuahua owners are terrified upon hearing a Chihuahua cough rather violently. The severity of it shakes the dog's entire body. This is caused by a collapsing trachea. With this condition, a dog has trouble breathing when active or excited (and Chihuahuas love to bounce around and get very happy when their owners come home). Dummies.com suggests that smokers cease smoking around Chihuahuas because the smoke settles near a Chihuahua's height (the smoke can worsen difficult breathing).

Petellar luxation. This condition describes disruption in the hind legs around the knee. When this occurs, the kneecap can slip. This causes lameness and pain (your dog may yelp or have trouble walking). Veterinarians can treat severe cases with surgery.

Hypoglycemia. As with people, dogs can be hypoglycemic. This is especially prevalent in small dogs like Chihuahuas. Hypoglycemic dogs may experience loss of appetite and seizures. You can try to control hypoglycemia by feeding your Chihuahua a sugary food when the dog exhibits symptoms (syrup, honey or vanilla ice cream), but avoid chocolate, which is toxic to dogs. Providing more meals in smaller portions may also help your pet.

When selecting a Chihuahua, keep these items in mind. Teacup Chihuahuas and smaller members of the breed are often at increased risk for health problems. Look for a social and active member of the litter or consider a Chi mix to avoid health problems.

If your Chihuahua exhibits any concerning behaviors or if you believe your dog may have a health problem, consult a veterinarian.

This overview is not meant to be used for diagnosis and is informative in nature only.

This post was originally published on Examiner.com as Chihuahua Examiner. Republished with permission of the author.

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Chihuahuas 101: Long or Short Hair?

9/9/2016

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by Tara M. Clapper, Contributing Writer

So you want to share your time with a Chihuahua. Congratulations! Chihuahuas are wonderful companion pets and lap dogs. Known for their loyalty and attachment to one individual, Chihuahuas are generally pretty low-maintenance but do require a great deal of attention and attendance to possible health issues.

Chihuahuas (or "Chis" as they are known affectionately to their owners) come in two varieties: long and short hair. Here are some things to consider when deciding between these types.

Allergies. Many people are allergic to dogs. The actual cause of the allergy is pet dander. Both long and short hair dog varieties produce dander. Some allergy sufferers learn that they are more allergic to one type of hair than the other, so preference may depend upon the person. To reduce allergic reactions to Chihuahuas, maintain their coats and brush them frequently. Vacuum often, especially around short haired dogs. Chihuahua owners suffering from allergies should also train their dogs--while it's usually innocent for a small dog to jump up and climb on a person, a Chihuahua can inadvertently trigger an allergy attack if too close to the face.

Environment and climate. Chihuahuas come from Chihuahua, Mexico. They've adapted to that type of environment--often warm, hot and sunny. They're also small dogs and they get cold very easily. If you're in a hot climate, it may be more practical to own a Chihuahua with short hair. Conversely, dogs with long hair do better in colder environments. Regardless, it's always best to keep an eye on your dog during hot or cold weather conditions to ensure her comfort and safety--bring some extra water along when traveling in hot months, and during cold seasons don't forget the Chi sweater!

Maintenance. If time and money are a concern, consider the maintenance costs of your new best friend. Chihuahuas incur vet costs like any other dog, but they eat comparatively little, they are easy to entertain and if you own a short hair, grooming is simple. You can brush the short hair dog at home. Depending on the demeanor of the dog, you may wish to take the long hair Chi to the groomer on occasion, but generally you can brush their coats at home, too. Occasionally, long hair Chihuahuas will encounter additional problems--matted fur, feces stuck on tail or weeds and outdoor objects tangled in the fur.

Aesthetic. Most Chihuahuas are adorable, but what type of dog do you prefer? Long hair Chis are sometimes considered cuter, especially as puppies, because they are fluffier and softer to the touch.

Before purchasing a Chihuahua, do some research on the advantages and disadvantages of each coat; also discuss the options with other members of your family.

Do you prefer long or short haired Chihuahuas?

This post was originally published on Examiner.com as Chihuahua Examiner. Republished with permission of the author.

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Chihuahua Bathing Tips

9/9/2016

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by Tara M. Clapper, Contributing Writer

Chihuahuas are enjoyable pets--small dogs with large personalities! Like all dogs, Chihuahuas require occasional bathing. Your Chihuahua's bath frequency may depend upon whether she goes outdoors. Also, short hair Chis usually require bathing less than long hair Chis, mainly because baths keep the long hair tame.

If your Chihuahua is new to bathing or exhibits skittish behavior, you can do some things to make his experience enjoyable. Here are some tips:

Let your dog smell gloves, shampoo, your sink, towels and any other items you'll be using as you wash your Chihuahua. Dogs perceive very strongly through smell, so it will help your dog if you give her a chance to examine the bathing implements before using them.
Don't wet your Chihuahua's ears. They're prone to ear infections. You should clean your dog's ears separately when he's dry. Consult your vet if you do not yet know how to clean your dog's ears.
Try bathing your dog in a small area, such as a sink with a non-slip mat in it. The mat will help your dog feel more stable as you wash her.
Bathe your Chihuahua once per week or less. If you bathe him frequently, use a medicated shampoo.
If your Chihuahua is particularly affectionate, wrap him in a towel and carry him about a bit. This is a dry alternative to roughing up his fur.
Mind the temperature. Chis are really sensitive to the cold. Limit baths in cold temperatures and if you do bathe your dog during winter, make sure she relieves herself before her bath so she does not have to go outside wet and in the cold.

Chihuahuas are skittish but love to be clean and pretty. If you make bathing a routine with a reward, your dog may come to look forward to the experience. You can reward your dog with a small treat after his bath. Praise him and deliver affection over his clean, beautiful coat.

Do you have more tips for bathing Chihuahuas? Please leave them below.

This post was originally published on Examiner.com as Chihuahua Examiner. Republished with permission of the author.

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Dog Behavior 101: Socializing Your Chihuahua

9/8/2016

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by Tara M. Clapper, Contributing Writer

Seattle to Anchorage: Summit Lake to the Sikanni River, BC

Chihuahuas are known for their major attitudes and small bodies. A Chihuahua may adopt a Napoleon Complex around other dogs and display overt signs of dominance.

Since Chihuahuas are small, this can result in some safety hazards for them. All it takes is one bite or swipe from a larger dog to send the Chi to the vet. Here are some tips for socializing your Chihuahua by introducing her to new people and dogs:

Puppy play. If possible, introduce your Chihuahua to other dogs while he is still a puppy, ideally between eight and twelve weeks of age.

Pay attention to your dog's demeanor. She'll let you know if she's intimidated or uncomfortable when meeting others. If that's the case, you'll need to introduce her more gradually to new places, people and animals.

Enforce consistency and patterns. If your dog does well meeting other people and animals at the park, establish a routine. Dogs adapt well to their owners' routines and your Chihuahua will enjoy the brief exercise and socialization. Find out what works and make it consistent.

Paws, claws, rear and teeth. Dogs are particularly protective over certain parts of their bodies. As puppies are pet, they become accustomed to people touching them around the sensitive eyes and ears. When your Chi is young or new to the family, make a habit out of touching his mouth, rump, paws and nails. If he is reluctant, reward him with a small treat for behaving while you do this. This will help with visits to the vet and can prevent an accident in case a child ever reaches for the dog with quick movements. Your Chihuahua's vet and groomer (if you have a long-haired Chi) will also be grateful.

Larger dogs and children. Chihuahuas should always socialize with larger dogs and children under supervised conditions only. It's easy for larger creatures to step on a Chihuahua or unintentionally initiate play that is too rough for the dog.

Introductions on leash. Always introduce your dog to other animals while he is leashed. This reinforces your leadership role and makes your Chihuahua feel comfortable. Larger dogs should also be leashed during introduction for safety and control.

Positive reinforcement works very well with Chihuahuas since they love attention! Reward your dog's positive social behavior with affection and treats. If using treats frequently, be sure to adjust your Chi's meals; you don't want her to become overweight and develop health issues.

This post was originally published on Examiner.com as Chihuahua Examiner. Republished with permission of the author.

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Are Bugs Poisonous to Chihuahuas and Other Dogs?

9/8/2016

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by Tara M. Clapper, Contributing Writer

Well-adjusted Chihuahuas are curious by nature. Like little kids, they love to explore new and familiar environments--and even indoors, the occasional bug becomes part of those places. There are many substances poisonous to dogs, and with Chihuahuas it's a particular concern because they are so small. Are bugs poisonous to Chihuahuas?

There are several bugs that are harmful to dogs due to bite or sting. You can probably guess most of them--they're detrimental to human health, as well.

Aside from bees, snakes and black widow spiders, dogs shouldn't consume caterpillars or centipedes. These bugs can be even more dangerous to dogs suffering from a more severe health condition.

Dogs are usually more likely to get into other harmful things like household chemicals and cleaners, chocolate and pesticides.

If your dog has ingested a bug or other substance and exhibits signs of illness, observe your dog and call the vet. Check your household chemicals to see what the dog might have consumed if it wasn't organic.

This post was originally published on Examiner.com as Chihuahua Examiner. Republished with permission of the author.

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Chihuahua Dental Care 101

9/8/2016

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by Tara M. Clapper, Contributing Writer

Chihuahuas and other small breeds are especially prone to dental problems. While dogs have heartier teeth than humans, they're still afflicted by dental problems such as gingivitis and plaque. Diet and prevention can help your dog maintain healthy dental hygiene without costly trips to the vet.

Chihuahua dental problems do increase your pet health care costs. Additionally, they can create discomfort for your dog. Here are some ways to recognize, prevent and treat dental decay in Chihuahuas.

TLC

Chihuahuas are small, but they have needle-like teeth that hurt when they bite. You can prevent bites and frustration by helping your dog get used to the ritual of tooth-brushing. Begin by petting your dog and touching her mouth. Eventually, touch your Chihuahua's mouth and teeth.

Before you attempt to brush your Chihuahua's teeth, let her smell, inspect and lick the toothbrush and toothpaste. Remember, your dog's primary sense is his sense of smell; he'll be more comfortable with the objects after a proper introduction.

This practice can also deter food aggression and will help you safely retrieve any forbidden or harmful objects from your dog's mouth.

Good Dog, Bad Breath

If your Chihuahua has bad breath, it means she's past due for a brushing. As in humans, lingering bacteria in the mouth causes a nasty, unpleasant odor. While 'dog breath' is normal, particularly odorous breath is indicative of potential decay.

Your dog's family, friends and veterinarian will also appreciate the lack of odor after brushing has occurred.

Diet

It's true that wet food and table scraps can increase bad breath and lead to poor dental health in dogs. Consult your veterinarian concerning your Chihuahua's diet.

Ultimately, senior Chihuahuas may need to eat wet food because of the fragility of their teeth. More wet food and table scraps means more brushing for your dog. Wet food and table scraps can also lead to obesity in Chihuahuas.

Brushing Teeth

Many pet owners dread brushing their animals' teeth, but over time it becomes a manageable process. A finger brush (available from your vet or most pet stores) is most effective--especially on a Chihuahua since her mouth is small. Don't forget to use toothpaste for dogs as well.

As you brush your Chihuahua's teeth, provide treats and positive reinforcement, rewarding the dog for allowing you to brush his teeth.

Major dental infections can lead to serious health problems in pets and people. If you notice an abscess or if your Chihuahua experiences pain, it's time for a trip to the vet

This post was originally published on Examiner.com as Chihuahua Examiner. Republished with permission of the author.

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Chihuahuas and Old Age

9/8/2016

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by Tara M. Clapper, Contributing Writer

Chihuahuas start to show age after about a decade of life. While most live 13-15 years, they can live up to 18 years in good health. Dogs experience many of the same health problems and signs of aging that people can reach later in life including weight gain or loss, tooth loss and difficulty seeing or hearing.

Signs of Aging

Because Chihuahuas are usually pretty small and energetic, it's easy to forget that they age just like dogs and other animals. As your dog ages, it's important to be aware of the signs. A change in stage of life can represent a need for an altered diet, vet check-up and activity level.

Common signs of aging in dogs include:

Lethargy
Limping
Change in amount of food consumed

Common Problems for Senior Chihuahuas

Some of the signs of aging can point to medical conditions frequently experienced by older Chihuahuas. These include:

Joint sensitivity and arthritis
Cavities and periodontal disease (particularly if your dog eats table scraps or wet food)
Dry skin
Loss of senses
Back problems (such as slipped discs generated after years of leaping onto furniture)

Keeping Your Dog Safe and Healthy

You can help your Chihuahua live a long and happy life by keeping his weight in the appropriate range (as determined by your pet's veterinarian). Your dog's vet may also recommend dietary supplements and a change to senior dog food, which is formulated to provide nutrition for older dogs.

Even if your senior Chihuahua doesn't have dental problems, it's a good idea to save for a dental cleaning to prevent pain and sensitivity. Regular cleanings can prevent further problems.

This post was originally published on Examiner.com as Chihuahua Examiner. Republished with permission of the author.

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Chihuahua Health 101: Common Health Problems Among Chihuahuas

Chihuahuas 101: Long or Short Hair?

Chihuahua Bathing Tips

Dog Behavior 101: Socializing Your Chihuahua

Are Bugs Poisonous to Chihuahuas and Other Dogs?

Chihuahua Dental Care 101

Chihuahuas and Old Age

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