Chihuahua Health Problems

Chihuahuas are generally healthy. Common Chihuahua health problems are usually those associated with small breed dogs, such as hypoglycemia, patellar luxation, tracheal collapse, and teeth problems. In addition, chihuahuas are prone to 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 13th most registered breed by the AKC for 2010.

Common Chihuahua Health Problems

The 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:

Hypoglycemia
Patellar Luxation
Tracheal Collapse
Teeth Problems
Hydrocephalus

Chihuahua Health Problems - Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia 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:

Lethargy and weakness
Confusion and disorientation
Restlessness and agitation
Muscle incoordination
Nervousness
Trembling
Seizures

In severe cases, the dog may become unconscious and sometimes die.

The severity of the symptoms depends on the level of the blood glucose and how fast the blood glucose level drops. If left untreated, a dog showing mild symptoms of hypoglycemia can deteriorate rapidly. Immediate veterinary treatment is essential to avoid permanent brain damage.

However, before getting to the vet, there are several things that you can do to prevent the condition from deteriorating. The first thing to do is to get the blood glucose back to a safe level. This can be done by giving your dog a source of sugar such as syrup, honey, or jam by mouth. If the dog is suffering from a seizure or in a coma, carefully rub small amounts of syrup on the inside of the cheeks, gums and tongue. Also keep the dog warm because low blood sugar will cause hypothermia.

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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 Collapse

Tracheal 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.

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Chihuahua Health Problems - Teeth Problems

The Chihuahua has too small a mouth for its teeth, resulting in overcrowding. Overcrowding of teeth can cause various teeth and gum problems, such as plaque and tartar buildup because of food trapped between the teeth. If the plaque and tartar are not removed, gum disease such as gingivitis can occur which can lead to 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.

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Chihuahua Health Problems - Hydrocephalus

Chihuahuas have a special characteristic - They are born with a soft spot (called a molera) on the top of the head. The molera itself is not a health problem for the Chihuahuas - it is just a characteristic of the breed.

However, if a Chihuahua has an unusually large molera, he may suffer 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.

Recommendations for Your Chihuahua!

Nature's Herbs for Pets Joint Relief for Dogs

This Chinese herbal formula contains effective herbs for joint problems such as hip dysplasia, arthritis, and stiffness due to inflammation of the joints. Works well as a preventive or as a remedy.

Only Natural Pet Glucosamine + Asta for Dogs and Pets

This supplement contains glucosamine, which can strengthen the joints, and Astaxanthin, a super-antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties.

Doc Ackerman's Epilepsy & Seizure Formula for Dogs and Cats

A great herbal formula that provides relief from the effects of epilepsy for your dog. It contains nerve-calming and nourishing herbs such as chamomile, ginseng, passion flower, St.-John's wort, valerian root, etc.

PetzLife Oral Care Dental Spray for Dogs

This spray is specially formulated to prevent plaque and tartar build-up on your dog's teeth. The formula is made with all natural plant extracts that kill harmful bacteria on contact. Spray into your dog's mouth once or twice a day and your dog's breath will be much fresher and the teeth much whiter!

You may also want to add this to your dog's food:

Wysong Dentatreat

This powdered dental treat is composed of a special blend of dental-active natural cheeses, minerals, apple polyphenols, and many other ingredients that help to maintain oral health. Just sprinkle it directly onto your dog's food.