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Chihuahua Health ProblemsCommon Chihuahua health problems include hypoglycemia, patellar luxation, tracheal collapse, teeth problems, and hydrocephalus.
Chihuahuas are the smallest breed of dog in the world, and they are the only "natural" toy breed - meaning they are naturally small and not a result of generations of
breeding-down larger breeds. Despite their small size, Chihuahuas are blessed with mountains of energy and affection.
The Chihuahua is either long-coat or short-coat. In Canada and the United Kingdom, long-coats and short-coats are considered two separate breeds. However,
in the United States, there is no such distinction.
The Chihuahua is energetic, alert, observant, and agile. Despite their size, Chihuahuas can be bold with other larger dogs and can also be very protective of their
families, making them good watch dogs.
The Chihuahua is a rather popular breed in the U.S.A.- Ranked 12th most registered breed by the AKC for 2008.
Common Chihuahua Health ProblemsThe Chihuahua is generally healthy with relatively few health problems. They are a long-lived breed, often living up to 16 years and beyond. One common health problem with the Chihuahua is obesity. Because of their small size, they do not need a lot of food but owners tend to over-feed their Chihuahuas. If you have a Chi, therefore, it is important to keep his weight in check for his overall health. Though not a health problem, the Chihuahua (as well as many other toy breeds) tends to shiver or tremble, especially when the dog is excited or stressed. Toy dogs have a higher metabolism and so dissipate body heat faster than larger dogs. Shivering helps to generate body heat. Chihuahuas should always be protected against the cold - a doggie sweater or blanket in the winter is necessary. Despite the fact that they have relatively few health issues, the Chihuahua, like all breeds, do have some genetic problems. Below are some of the more common Chihuahua health problems:Chihuahua Health Problems - HypoglycemiaHypoglycemia refers to abnormally low blood glucose (sugar) levels. Hypoglycemia is one of the most common Chihuahua health problems. Dogs with extremely low blood glucose usually show the following signs:
Chihuahua Health Problems - Patellar Luxation
Patellar luxation is a hereditary condition in which the knee cap slips out of its groove. Sometimes the kneecap will slip back into place; while other times a veterinarian
may need to put it back in place. If it is not corrected through surgery, then osteoarthritis
will usually result.
Between 75% and 80% of Chihuahuas that have luxating patellas have an inherited problem that causes the patella to slip to the inside. Although Chihuahuas often
develop knee problems, they are not prone to developing malformation of the hip and hip dysplasia.
It is a good idea to prevent this condition by starting Chihuahuas on chondroprotective medications
(glucosamine and chondroitin) when they are young.
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Chihuahua Health Problems - Tracheal CollapseTracheal collapse is a narrowing of the windpipe due to the weakening of the cartilage, which forms and supports the trachea. This condition is common in Chihuahuas. Symptoms include a dry, honking cough, harsh breathing and gagging. The cough is worsened by exercise, heat, excitement, and humidity. Obese dogs are particularly vulnerable to this condition. Treatment consists of managing the cough and using supplements to strengthen cartilage. In particular, use a supplement with glucosamine to help keep the lining of the airway in a healthy, moist state. To protect your Chihuahua's throat and keep pressure off the airway, use a harness instead of a collar. TopChihuahua Health Problems - Teeth ProblemsThe Chihuahua has too small a mouth for its teeth, resulting in overcrowding. Overcrowding of teeth can cause various teeth and gum problems. For example, food can easily be trapped between the teeth, causing plaque and tartar buildup. If untreated, this may result in gum disease such as gingivitis, as well as premature tooth loss. Keeping the teeth clean is therefore important. Besides brushing your Chihuahua's teeth daily, you can help keep his mouth clean by giving him dental biscuits and dental chew toys. It is also advisable to feed your dog a healthy and natural diet; dry food is better for the teeth instead of canned or semi-moist food. Avoid snacks or poor-quality foods rich in starch and sugar. TopChihuahua Health Problems - HydrocephalusChihuahuas have a special characteristic - They are born with a soft spot on the top of the head known as a molera. The molera itself is not a health problem for the Chihuahuas - it is just a characteristic of the breed. However, a Chihuahua with an unusually large molera may be suffering from hydrocephalus, a condition characterized by a build-up of fluid around the brain which may result in eventual death. Symptoms of hydrocephalus include a swollen head, listlessness, lethargy, grogginess, poor coordination, and seizures. Hydrocephalus tends to affect most Chihuahuas before they reach 9 months of age, although some Chihuahuas may not show symptoms until they are older. Some Chihuahuas are able to live with a mild case of hydrocephalus throughout adulthood.
References Canada's Guide to Dogs (http://www.canadasguidetodogs.com/chihuahuashort.htm) Dog Owner's Guide (http://www.canismajor.com/dog/chihua.html) TOP of Chihuahua Health Problems |
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