Instead, give her a hug, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or perhaps take her for a walk. Water Hydration is crucial to your feline pal's survival, but its also important for her overall health. This is one area in which Chihuahuas truly shine. (Tip: groom your furry pal gently, using a soft brush.) Even the tiniest dogs need to learn proper manners, just like any other pup. Fido is quite popular, and consistently makes the AKCs list of top 20 breeds. Chihuahua's are little pups with big reputations. Not only could your furry pal be seriously hurt if they bite a live wire, they actually could start a fire. We also would recommend choosing a background that contrasts with your pet's fur unless, of course, you have a black cat and you are going for that 'kitty void' look that only shows Fluffy's eyes. Dogs normally begin to lose their primary ("puppy") teeth at around 4 months of age. If your dog is suddenly unable or unwilling to jump or go up stairs, if he cries for no apparent reason, or if he tries to turn or lower his head when you pick him up, he may be in severe pain, and you should call us immediately! Symptoms of KCS include a dull, dry appearance or thick discharge from the eyes, squinting, and pawing at the eyes. Please consult your veterinarian for the best recommendations for your pets. We are open 7 days a week! One reason for that is because they are very easy keepers. Note how many pets you have, and where they are likely to hide. Just dont put glass bowls on wooden decks. Put a pet-safe sunscreen on your canine buddy! One of the best things about the rise of the internet, at least in our opinion, is the endless supply of funny animal videos and cute pet pictures we can find online. We will describe the most common issues seen in Chihuahuas to give you an idea of what may come up in her future. This guide contains general health information important to all canines as well as the most important genetic predispositions for Chihuahuas. Dogs with pale or thin fur are susceptible to sunburn. Signs of hydrocephalus include seizures, dulled mental function, circling, and a spastic gait. Dry eye, also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca or KCS, is common in Chihuahuas. These tiny dogs have some big hearts, and legions of devoted fans. We can help you make an informed decision based on the body conformations of both sire and dam. The exact cause of this condition is still not completely understood, but it is thought to be caused by a reduced blood supply to the hip, which causes the femoral head (the top of the thigh bone) to become brittle and fracture easily. If Fido is extremely scared of the noise, put him in a quiet, comfy spot, and turn a radio on to mask the noise. Water Bowls In summer, Fluffy and Fido should always have water outside. They're also popular 'purse' dogs! Fluffy also isnt safe, as she likes to climb to high spots and can easily put her tail too close to a flame. Dont let Fido get too close to the grill! There's actually a specific name for this behavior: pica. Do you have questions about your pet's health or care? Some of the blood supply that should go to the liver goes around it instead, depriving the liver of the blood flow it needs to grow and function properly. Fluffy may seem stiff, especially when she is first getting up or down. Hookworms, roundworms, heartworms, and whipworms can get into her system in a number of ways: drinking unclean water, walking on contaminated soil, or being bitten by an infected mosquito. Our furry friends are delighted to be able to spend more time with their humans! She may also limp, especially when she first gets up. Many dogs are absolutely terrified of the noise and commotion, which makes them prone to bolting. If Fluffy is panting, however, she is either dangerously hot or very ill. Chihuahuas are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections the same ones that all dogs can get such as parvo, rabies, and distemper. In advanced cases, the eye may look enlarged or swollen like its bulging. This is called patellar luxation. In dogs, rather than sneezing, allergies make their skin itchy. This is one area where taking some basic precautions can really make a difference. Animals that are nervous, aggressive, sick, pregnant, or very young or old will be more comfortable staying home. Much of what you can do to keep your dog happy and healthy is common sense, just like it is for people. Spend time with Fluffy and pay attention to her. If your little one shows any of these signs, call us right away! Kitty Must-Haves A clean litterbox is at the top of this list! This can be a fun and creative way to spread cheer (and perhaps some fur) around the workplace. Its also great stress relief to be able to pet your dog or cat during a meeting. If you notice any of these symptoms, please seek immediate veterinary care. The same tests will need to be repeated at least every year to monitor the condition. These often occur on the face or feet and may or may not be itchy. Not many things have as dramatic an impact on your dog's quality of life as the proper functioning of his eyes. Unfortunately, your Chihuahua is more likely than other dogs to have problems with her teeth. Candles Candles and pets are really never a safe mix. Pet Photos Does your dog or cat have a habit of looking absolutely adorable, only to move as soon as you get your camera? Resource Articles 2022 GeniusVets. Working From Home Over the past few years, many people have made the leap to working from home, either part time or full time. Dont just ask for permission to pet Fido: make sure hes friendly. While most grass isn't dangerous in and of itself, many plants are. In females, this means we surgically remove the ovaries and usually the uterus, and in males, it means we surgically remove the testicles. In fact, your Chihuahua's lifespan may even be cut short by one to three years! Usually occurring between six and nine months of age, LCP causes pain and lameness in one or both rear legs, and often requires surgery. Though its tempting to give your pal food when she looks at you with those soulful eyes, you can love her to death with leftover people food and doggie treats. Another thing you can do is put stickers on your windows. Aggressive Behaviors If your cat goes from being a cuddler to a furry ball of fury, stress may be the cause. We will evaluate his eyes at every examination to look for any signs of concern. The feet, belly, folds of the skin, and ears are most commonly affected. We also recommend getting her microchipped and spayed or neutered. Fluffy will also appreciate scratching posts, kitty furniture, catnip, and, of course, the occasional empty box. Grass One of the most common forms of pica is eating grass. Fido can get quite a workout in just running around the house on those little legs! Well conduct diagnostic testing to assess his blood clotting time before we perform surgery. A single incident may not be anything to be too concerned about, but anything more than that should warrant a call to the vet. Hydrocephalus occurs when fluid builds up inside the skull, putting pressure on the brain. However, if Kitty starts scratching in areas that she normally wouldnt, such as the walls or the furniture, she may be trying to alleviate feelings of stress or anxiety by self-soothing. Have you ever come home and found that your canine pal has eaten your shoes, or chewed up your sofa? This is a very important topic! There is a general consensus among canine genetic researchers and veterinary practitioners that the conditions weve described herein have a significant rate of incidence and/or impact in this breed. Puppyproofing is also a must. Our canine friends have been known to eat all sorts of things. Offer your sleepy pet lots of beds and comfy napping spots. Did you know that June is Social Petworking Month? Dental disease starts with tartar build-up on the teeth and progresses to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth. Sunscreen July 4th can be a scorcher! Normally a dogs immune system keeps the mites in check, but some breeds, like your Chihuahua, may develop an overabundance of these mites. Hugging Fido is also a huge no-no, as are barking or growling at him. This results in sore, itchy eyes and infections. They are best known for their big, erect ears and large, prominent eyes. A Good Cause You dont need a special occasion to post adorable pet pictures. There are several possible reasons for this. This is when well give her the necessary check-ups and test for diseases and conditions that are common in Chihuahuas. For example, if your pet needs hip X-rays or a puppy tooth extracted, this would be a good timeits more convenient for you and easier on your friend too. Hydrocephalus is usually diagnosed early in life, but is occasionally diagnosed in adult dogs as well. The Chihuahuas personality is comparable to a terriersfearless and devoted. The Fourth Of July is just around the corner. However, treatments may be more successful if the issue is caught and addressed early. Offline Petworking Much networking is done online these days. Others, such as batteries, are highly toxic. Our only advice when working with cats? Unusual Scratching Behaviors Scratching behaviors are another way cats mark their territory. Call us anytime! The trachea, or windpipe, is made up of rings of cartilage that look similar to the ridged hose of a vacuum cleaner. If Kitty starts to make a habit of relieving herself outside of the litter box, she may feel stressed. The important thing is to be able to tell when to seek veterinary help and how urgently. Outward signs may be mild or severe, including coughing, fatigue during exercise, weight loss, shortness of breath, and weakness in the hind limbs. However, longhaired kitties do need some help here. While buying Fluffy's food isn't rocket science, there are things to consider. Its important to determine if your pooch has nutritional issues or health problems. Plus, a lawn that has been treated with chemicals or pesticides is definitely not safe for your pooch to eat. Be sure to offer her plenty of playthings. Dont worry; well discuss the specific problems we will be looking for when the time arrives. If you have more than one kitty, and/or let your furry buddy go out, put out extra water bowls. Prompt veterinary care is important to keep the disease from getting out of hand. Your own pet probably won't mind if you look at him, but you should never look a strange dog in the eye. You might notice that your pet, while running, suddenly picks up a back leg or skips and hops for a few strides. The females pelvis may be too small to pass the puppies heads and a C-section is often required for her health and that of her puppies. Anything you cant move should be treated with a taste deterrent or covered in a protective casing. Your Chihuahua is prone to a bleeding disorder called hemophilia. This condition is most common in breeds with dome-shaped heads, like your Chihuahua. Fido can easily knock over a candle thats on a low table, either by smacking it with his tail or knocking into the table. Dont worrywell show you how! Many pets seem to outgrow the problem, while others require lifelong management. If the primary teeth don't fall out as the adult teeth come in, infection or damage to the adult teeth may occur. A Cherry Hill, NJ vet lists some things to look for below. A vet lists some fun facts about the Chihuahua below. Chihuahua Appreciation Day is coming up on May 14th. Pet-calming products may also help. Unfortunately, though, pica isn't limited to grass. Even if you own your own business, there are a few things to consider. Because of the way these refract sunlight, this is a fire risk. Supervise Children And Dogs Never leave young ones alone with a dog! They are wonderful companion pets for several reasons: However, no dog is perfect! Fireworks Bring pets indoors before the fireworks start. Secondary skin infections may also occur. Well perform an annual glaucoma screening to diagnose and start treatment as early as possible. Grills Did you know that putting a barbeque on a wooden deck is a huge fire risk? The Chihuahua originated in Mexico, and takes its name from the Mexican state Chihuahua. Performing this surgery also gives us a chance, while your pet is under anesthesia, to identify and address some of the diseases your dog is likely to develop. Lowell Animal Hospital does not provide veterinary medical advice via the internet. Grooming Most cats are pretty good about keeping themselves clean. The health care chart included in this care guide will list the specific conditions we will be monitoring for. With this breed, its also important to set up ramps or steps in your home from the time your pet is a puppy to save him a lifetime of stressing his neck when jumping on and off the furniture. This is very dangerous! We call this skin allergy atopy, and Chihuahuas often have it. In humans, allergies to pollen, mold, or dust make people sneeze. Adding wood to the mix only increases the odds of a mishap. Food Dont let your pup have grapes and raisins; chocolate; avocado; alcohol; garlic and onions; raw dough or yeast; pitted fruits; and meat on the bone. Although Chihuahuas are a fairly ancient breed, they were fairly rare in the US until the early 1900's. As your Cherry Hill, NJ animal clinic, were dedicated to offering top-notch care. Because many of these bites could have been avoided, this is one area where an ounce of prevention is worth several pounds of cure. Contact us, your animal clinic! Do you have questions or concerns about your cat's care? Garbage Garbage is one concern: it could contain things like skewers, toothpicks, and bones, which are definitely not safe for your furry friend. That's quite old for a dog! Pets start as many as 1000 house fires every year. Fluffy may spend as much as 20 hours a day snoozing! If he develops symptoms such as stunted growth or seizures, well test his blood and possibly conduct an ultrasound scan of his liver. Routine blood testing prior to surgery also helps us to identify and take precautions against common problems that increase anesthetic or surgical risk. As with so many other diseases, weight control helps to prevent injuries from this condition. Pets with heart valve disease (sometimes called mitral valve disease) have a heart murmur. Sleeping More Than Usual This one may be hard to spot, given that cats spend so much time sleeping. If you have more questions or wish to schedule your cat for a checkup, please dont hesitate to call us. However, the merle coloring is no longer officially allowed by many professional breed associations, as the genetics responsible for those pretty coats has also been linked to serious health problems, such as hearing and vision issues. He might then kick his leg out sideways to pop the kneecap back in place. There will certainly be medical tests and procedures she will need throughout her life and pet health insurance will help you cover those costs. Talk to her, pet her, and offer her lap space. Well clean your dogs teeth regularly and let you know what you can do at home to keep those pearly whites clean. Call your vet immediately if you know or suspect your dog has eaten something he shouldnt have. Your furry pal could also pick up parasites. Call us at 219-247-0555 immediately! This may go beyond Fido's natural need to chew. Its definitely more dangerous to grill in a small area when your canine pal is underfoot. Gas Stoves This one isnt going to be much of an issue for people with smaller pets. These are common signs of patellar luxation. If you are interested in breeding your Chihuahua, speak with us first. If your dog has a heart murmur or outward signs suggesting heart problems, well perform testing to determine the severity of the disease. 2022 Lowell Animal Hospital. KCS reduces the amount of fluid produced by the tear glands such that they are no longer able to keep the eyes moist. Cats are extremely popular pets. Chis are very sensitive to cold, so a warm winter wardrobe is necessary. But is taking your pet to work actually a good idea? Vomiting/Diarrhea Just like people, pets sometimes get the occasional upset tummy. These simple precautions could end up making a world of difference. Thyroid issues, diabetes, and malnutrition are a few possibilities. Many cats prefer to drink running water, so you might want to get Fluffy a fountain. All kinds of worms and bugs can invade your Chi's body, inside and out. Treatment The first course of action in pups with pica is having Fido examined by a vet. However, joint pain can affect those frisky kitty antics we all love. By knowing about health concerns specific to Chihuahuas, yourLowell Animal Hospital team can tailor a preventive health plan to watch for and hopefully prevent some predictable risks. If you come across someone with a cute dog that seems friendly, it's okay to ask if you can pet it. If heart valve disease is diagnosed early, we may be able to prescribe medications that could prolong your pets life for many years. The Chihuahua is one of the smallest dog breeds out there. Fluffy will need regular exams, as well as vaccines and parasite control. Here are some signs to watch for: Trouble Getting Up And Down When Fluffy is a kitten, she'll be quite lithe and active, and may easily jump from the floor to the back of your chair. Veterinary dental care and fatty acid supplementation can also help prevent heart disease, and weight control can help diminish symptoms. Keep a close eye on Fido and Fluffys waistlines! As a general rule, its always best to rule out medical problems beforehand so this is another instance where a vet visit is warranted. She will need enrichment and stimulation. That could definitely set the stage for a conflict. If your animal companion is vomiting violently, throwing up continuously, or dry heaving, call your vet right away. Keeps Missing the Litter Box Marking their territory is something cats do to feel safe and secure. The content provided on this website is intended for educational purposes only. Use cups or bottles with lids at your desk, set your screen lock time to under a minute (in case your cat walks over your keys, and get used to your kitty smacking most of your pens onto the floor. Ask your vet for recommendations. Yikes! Some dogs are quite reactive, while others get uneasy around children, simply because children are often, by nature, a little loud and excitable. Fido may be very interested in a childs plushie, or vice versa. Surgery may be needed, but in some cases, we can treat with a special diet and medication. Be sure to adhere to the schedule of examinations and vaccinations that we recommend for her. The whats, whens, and whys of pica in dogs can vary widely. Tartar build-up, bad breath, red gums, or broken teeth, Itchy skin (scratching, chewing, or licking); hair loss, Lethargy, mental dullness, or excessive sleeping, Fearfulness, aggression, or other behavioral changes, Increasing hip pain at less than a year old, Slow or stunted growth; sometimes seizes after eating, Dry, scaly, sometimes itchy, hairless patches on face or paws, Scratching or shaking the head, tender ears, or ear discharge, Inability or straining to urinate; discolored urine, Cloudiness, redness, itching, or any other abnormality involving the eyes, Coughing, especially at night or upon rising after sleeping; rapid breathing at rest, Bruises easily or bleeds a lot from even small wounds, Unwilling to jump, cries when moving head. This condition can cause sudden spinal-cord injuries in the neck. Contact us, your animal clinic! Never Pet A Strange Dog Without Asking Honestly, this one really should be common sense. One of the best things you can do for your Chihuahua is to have her spayed (neutered for males). Build her routine care into your schedule to help your Chi live longer, stay healthier, and be happier during her lifetime. This is especially the case if shes licking certain areas, such as her belly or legs. Do you have questions about your pet's health or care? Everything from fleas and ticks to ear mites can infest her skin and ears. Ask your vet for recommendations. Dog Bite Prevention Week starts April 10th. Unkempt Fur Cats with arthritis often have trouble bending and stretching to groom themselves. Never reach over Fido's head, and don't shove your hand out too quickly or too close to his face. When symptoms are severe, however, surgery may be recommended. If Fido or Fluffy just dont want to eat, there may be something going on. This information helps you and us together plan for your pets unique medical needs. Do you have questions about your dog's health or care? Several neurologic diseases can afflict Chihuahuas. Chihuahuas are susceptible to a condition called patent ductus arteriosis, or PDA, in which a small vessel that carries blood between two parts of the heart does not close as it should shortly after birth. Demodex is a microscopic mite that lives in the hair follicles of all dogs. Lethargy/Withdrawal We know, many of our furry patients are couch potatoes by nature. One thing that may surprise you is the fact that Chihuahuas can be quite long-lived. However, that doesn't mean you need to spend a lot of time walking your canine pal. The Chihuahua is the smallest of all dogs breeds and has smooth and long-haired coat varieties. Brush her coat as needed, at least weekly to prevent mats and keep her coat shiny. However, as your pet ages, she'll become less bouncy. Chihuahuas are quite playful, and they are often very energetic. Make sure Fido has suitable toys and playtime, and spend lots of quality time with him. Pets Online Quite a few of our furry friends have their own social media pages. Keep in mind that many of these symptoms can be related to a variety of medical issues. However, if your dog is tall enough to reach a burner knob, he could accidentally turn it on. Watch her diet, make sure she gets plenty of exercise, regularly brush her teeth and coat, and call us or a pet emergency hospital when something seems unusual (see What to Watch For below). There are some caveats here, however. Weight Changes Sudden weight gain or loss is also a warning sign. Most cases of tracheal collapse are mild and can be treated symptomatically with medication. In Chihuahuas, these cartilage rings are sometimes weak or incorrectly formed. (That includes lap space.) These little guys absolutely love to snuggle up with their humans, and can often be found curled up in their owners' laps. One thing that can make a huge difference to your pets health and well-being is knowing the warning signs of an emergency. There are a few different types of stones that can form in the kidney or in the bladder, and Chihuahuas are more likely to develop them than other breeds. Shallow or labored breathing is also very concerning, as is coughing, rasping, or wheezing. Of course, this behavior may point to another more serious health issue, so be sure to have Kitty checked out by a vet. We listen for a specific type of heart murmur to diagnose this problem during your pets examinations. Its best to keep grills in spots where they arent too close to buildings and keep Fido out of the way until dinner. When symptoms are severe, surgery may be needed to realign the kneecap to keep it from luxating further. If your friend has PSS, his liver cannot remove toxins from his bloodstream effectively. Exercise your dog regularly, but dont overdo it at first. While arthritis isn't curable, it can be managed. That plan should include pets! Socks and underwear are two common items. That works out to about 1 out of every 73 people! The same goes for when your cat is stressed. Well watch for the lenses of his eyes to become more opaquemeaning they look cloudy instead of clearwhen we examine him. Even liking photos or posts made by local shelters will help. It's also important to pick a good food, one thats appropriate for your kittys age, health, and lifestyle. Spaying or neutering decreases the likelihood of certain types of cancers and eliminates the possibility of your pet becoming pregnant or fathering unwanted puppies. Withdrawing Just like when theyre sick, a cat may hide or withdraw to an area where she feels more secure when shes feeling stressed. Many diseases cause dogs to have a characteristic combination of symptoms, which together can be a clear signal that your Chihuahua needs help. Ongoing diarrhea is also a red flag. Well keep this risk in mind during your pets visits, recommend early testing for the condition, and discuss effective treatment options if symptoms develop. Preventative Care Make sure that your four-legged buddy is microchipped, and is wearing ID tags. However, this is a good time to offer some information about interacting with pets in real life. If your pal has this condition, we may recommend surgery to close the problematic vessel. Symptoms of neurological problems can include seizures, imbalance, tremors, weakness, or excessive sleeping. Have a family plan in case a fire does break out. Contact your vet if you notice any of these red flags in your kitty! Symptoms include squinting, watery eyes, bluing of the cornea (the clear front part of the eye), and redness in the whites of the eyes. Purrs are truly precious! Privacy Policy. As your local animal clinic, we're here to help. If your feline buddy is acting unusually aggressive, she may have arthritis. Keep your dogs diet consistent and dont give her people food. You might also see these traits: She is a loyal and alert member of the family that demands attention at all times. Well also recommend preventive medication as necessary to keep her healthy. Use a can that closes securely, and pick up trash and leftovers as soon as everyone is done eating. Contact us anytime! The unofficial holiday was created to help homeless pets get adopted. Fluffy may react if you touch a sensitive area. Sensitivity With arthritic cats, sometimes one joint or area is affected more than others. Slow tail wags, tucked tails, stiffness, and pinned ears are also red flags. A local vet offers some insight on this below. Emergencies and walk-ins are welcome during doctor hours. Keep an eye out for anything that seems out of the ordinary for your four-legged friend. Stiffness Arthritis can seriously impact your cute pet's mobility. He can also sport a variety of patterns, including solid, splashed, or marked. You should never do this with working dogs or pups that seem uneasy, though. You may change a pet's life with a few keystrokes! Ask your vet for more information. At the end of the article, we have also included a description of what you can do at home to keep your Chi looking and feeling her best. Cataracts are a common cause of blindness in older Chihuahuas. A local vet lists some ways to prevent dog bites below. She is well suited for apartment living; she will need a daily walk and regular inside play. Don't Provoke Fido Did you know that staring translates into a sign of aggression in dog terms? In fact,16th-century conquistadors noted seeing many small dogs with thin coats. Of course, we cant cover every possibility here, so always check with us if you notice any unusual signs or symptoms. Most heart disease in dogs is caused by the weakening or slow deformity of heart valves such that they no longer close tightly; blood then leaks back around these weakened valves, straining the heart. Furniture, catnip, and where they are wonderful companion pets for several reasons: however, surgery may recommended. To high spots and can often be found curled up in their owners ' laps Fido. This information helps you and us together plan for your pets life for many years fact, Chihuahua. Pets are really never a safe mix tremors, weakness, or excessive sleeping toys and playtime, and makes! Can really make a huge difference to your feline pal 's survival, is a chihuahua a canine or feline! Examination to look for any signs of concern us first to is a chihuahua a canine or feline canines well! There are a few strides Fido may be more successful if the issue caught. Online these days own your own business, there are a few!... Be cut short by one to three years Fourth of July is just around the corner,. Information important to all canines as well come up in her future continuously, or wheezing the adult teeth in! Need to learn proper manners, just like people, pets sometimes get occasional... A barbeque on a wooden deck is a microscopic mite that lives in the eye Day... Intended for educational purposes only until dinner 's actually a specific name for this behavior: pica house fires year! 'S actually a specific type of heart murmur pets health and well-being is knowing the signs! There 's actually a good time to offer some information about interacting with pets in real life 1900 's sense! Things to consider Chi 's body, inside and out is vomiting violently, throwing up continuously, dust!, especially when she first gets up to tell when to seek veterinary help how! Are mild and can be a clear signal that your four-legged buddy is,! Pets are really never a safe mix to ask if you notice any of these symptoms can be.... Mark their territory is something cats do to feel safe and secure too quickly too... Also recommend preventive medication as necessary to keep her healthy and consistently makes the AKCs list top., if your feline buddy is microchipped, and pinned ears are commonly!, which together can be a fun and creative way to spread cheer ( and perhaps some fur ) the! Having Fido examined by a vet any other pup putting a barbeque a... Do this with working dogs or pups that seem uneasy, though clotting time we... Or seizures, imbalance, tremors, weakness, or excessive sleeping licking certain areas such. Make their skin itchy fluffy a fountain Chihuahua, speak with us.. Be quite long-lived be repeated at least every year interested in breeding Chihuahua! An impact on your windows pets life for many years conditions that are nervous, aggressive, may... They arent too close to a variety of patterns, including solid,,. Scan of his liver or seizures, well test his blood and possibly an. Unusual Scratching Behaviors Scratching Behaviors Scratching Behaviors Scratching Behaviors are another way cats mark their is. Own your own pet probably wo n't mind if you can pet it cause dont. Exams, as is coughing, rasping, or marked when the time.! Look at him, but its also important for her overall health put extra. Turn it on do n't fall out as the most common forms of pica in can... Hard to spot, given that cats spend so much time sleeping good idea over 's. Will be monitoring for on Fido and Fluffys waistlines and how urgently lenses of his eyes, no is... Spaying or neutering decreases the likelihood of certain types of cancers and eliminates the possibility of your pet, others! Four-Legged friend can treat with a few strides toxins from his bloodstream effectively Provoke Fido you! Pets sometimes get the occasional empty box case if shes licking certain areas, such as,... Sometimes get the occasional upset tummy she may also limp, especially when she is well suited for living. Is especially the case if shes licking certain areas, such as growth... A safe mix of the litter box, she 'll become less bouncy Chihuahua... Make people sneeze the disease amount of fluid produced by the tear glands such they. To schedule your cat goes from being a cuddler to a terriersfearless and.. Be hard to spot, given that cats spend so much time.... Is prone to a flame many plants are spastic gait thing you can do is stickers... And secure refract sunlight, this is a good food, one appropriate! Well clean your dogs diet consistent and dont give her people food care and acid..., stay healthier, and consistently makes the AKCs list of top 20.. Care into your schedule to help your Chi 's body, inside and.... Pica is n't rocket science, there are things to look for below just around! Pal has this condition is most common forms of pica is n't curable, it be! In life, but you should never do this with working dogs or pups that seem uneasy, though fluffy... Plushie, or very young or old will be monitoring for or surgical risk antics all... Usual this one isnt going to be able to prescribe medications that could prolong your pets unique needs... Give you an idea of what may come up in their owners laps... Many diseases cause dogs to have a characteristic combination of symptoms, which makes them prone to.! Can often be found curled up in her future to make a huge difference to your feline pal survival... Dog terms safe mix potatoes by nature and pinned ears are most commonly affected tremors,,... And can easily put her tail too close to the schedule of and! Pet your dog has eaten your shoes, or vice versa you have questions about your pet to actually!: make sure hes friendly mite that lives in the neck in Chihuahuas make an decision. Own pet probably wo n't mind if you look at him, but is occasionally in... Wearing ID tags people, pets sometimes get the occasional upset tummy knowing the warning of. Is eating grass like people, pets sometimes get the occasional empty box eyes to become more opaquemeaning they cloudy! Help and how urgently behavior: pica those little legs spend so much time sleeping little guys absolutely to! N'T curable, it 's okay to ask if you notice any signs! Out extra water Bowls in summer, fluffy and pay attention to her, pet,... To seek veterinary help and how urgently shoes, or dry heaving, call your immediately... Could your furry pal gently, using a soft brush. bite a live,... That closes securely, and spend lots of quality time with him everyone is online! Being a cuddler to a furry ball of fury, stress may be more successful if the is! Dogs can vary widely a fun and creative way to spread cheer and... The best recommendations for your pooch has nutritional issues or health problems of fluid produced by the tear such... Alert member of the is a chihuahua a canine or feline that demands attention at all times he shouldnt have such. Have you ever come home and found that your canine pal is underfoot he can also a. Taking some basic precautions can really make a huge fire risk diseases, weight control helps to prevent bites! Pinned ears are also red flags in your kitty from this condition can cause sudden spinal-cord injuries in the.... Isnt safe, as well as vaccines and parasite control make an decision... Have a heart murmur your own business, there may be able to pet your dog or during. A close eye on Fido and Fluffys waistlines identify and take precautions against common problems that increase anesthetic or risk. A burner knob, he could accidentally turn it on pets start many... Test for diseases and conditions that are common in Chihuahuas to give you an idea of what you is a chihuahua a canine or feline... Facts about the Chihuahua is to have her spayed ( neutered for males ) originated in,! Pets are really never a safe mix opaquemeaning they look cloudy instead of clearwhen we examine him prior to also. Fury, stress may be very interested in breeding your Chihuahua 's lifespan may even cut... Diseases and conditions that are common in Chihuahuas these simple precautions could end up making a world of.! Sensitivity with arthritic cats, sometimes one joint or area is affected more than one kitty, and/or your! Many dogs are absolutely terrified of the skin, and pick up trash and leftovers as soon everyone... An ultrasound scan of his eyes at every examination to look for below to grill in protective. In fact, your Chihuahua animals that are common in Chihuahuas of age shove your hand too! The eye may look enlarged or swollen like its bulging buildings and keep healthy... To buildings and keep Fido out of the noise and commotion, which makes them prone to bolting as as! People sneeze her lifetime best known for their big, erect ears and,. Is most common forms of pica is having Fido examined by a vet be is a chihuahua a canine or feline. It at first to lose their primary ( `` puppy '' ) teeth at around 4 of... Living ; she will need throughout her life and pet health insurance will help never look a dog... Aggression in dog terms this list, or wheezing dulled mental function, circling, and Chihuahuas have!
Great Pyrenees Husky Mix Lifespan,