How to avoid making the same Mistakes other Chi owners are making.... (more)

Health Concerns Facing The Chihuahua

The Taco Bell advertising campaign featuring a Chihuahua pup sent the popularity of this breed soaring.  Many people decided they needed a cute little Chihuahua to call their own, but what they forgot about was the actual business of taking care of a dog.  Chihuahua's are a small breed of dog and their size can lead to many health concerns.  Chihuahua health problems are usually genetic or related to their small size. 

Slipping Kneecaps

Chihuahua's often suffer from what is called, luxating patellas.  The kneecaps on the rear legs slip out of place causing pain, stiffness and difficulties walking.  This can sometimes be a severe problem.  It is a common condition for smaller breeds.  If your Chihuahua suffers from luxating patellas you should have him checked out by the vet.  In mild cases the dog will be fine without medical interference and should be able to live a normal life.  In severe cases, however, your dog may need surgery to correct the condition.

A Tricky Trachea

Chihuahua's often suffer from problems with a collapsing trachea.  The trachea flattens out and results in a dry cough and breathing problems.  It is often linked to injury, like from a collar or leash pulling or pushing against the trachea.  It is usually a condition that shows up in older dogs, but sometimes a pup can be born with it. Your veterinarian can treat the problem with medications and you may be able to prevent it with proper Chihuahua care, like using a harness instead of a collar leash.

Heart Issues

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Chihuahua's are prone to a few different heart conditions and of all Chihuahua health problems, heart conditions produce the most fatalities.  They can experience heart murmurs, although these are the least common heart ailment in Chihuahua's.  If a Chihuahua does have a heart murmur it is usually nothing to cause great concern and the dog will not experience adverse health effects from it.  The more common heart conditions that Chihuahua's face are mitral valve disease and pulmonic stenosis.

Mitral valve disease is a term for degenerative thickening and deformity of the heart.  It is genetic and effects males twice as much as females.  It can cause the heart to become inflamed or not operate properly.  A Chihuahua suffering from mitral valve disease may experience symptoms like passing out, weakness, fluid build up in the lungs and shortness of breath.  The severity if the disease varies and it is most often controlled through medication if caught early enough.

Pulmonic stenosis is a condition where the blood flow to the heart is partially obstructed.  There are varying levels of severity dependent upon how much the arteries are blocked.  Severe cases can lead to congestive heart failure.  Dogs with mild cases may not experience any symptoms at all.  Dogs with sever cases may experience breathing problems, be easily fatigued and have abdominal swelling.  Surgery is the most common method to correct this condition.   

Blood Sugar

Hypoglycemia is a common condition in Chihuahua's.  Hypoglycemia is low blood sugar.  Usually pups are born with it, but outgrow it right after weaning.  Symptoms include staggering, glassy eyes and lethargic behavior.  It can be treated by specialized Chihuahua care like following a special diet and feeding routine and avoiding sugary treats.  If your dog experiences an episode of hypoglycemia you should immediately give the dog some sugar and go to the veterinarian.

Chihuahua's are generally healthy, despite all the Chihuahua health problems described.  Most conditions are easy to control and as long as you schedule regular check ups with the veterinarian your dog should remain in good health. Prevention and good Chihuahua care is the key to keeping your Chihuahua healthy. To help keep your Chihuahua healthy read 'How To Choose A Vet For Your Chihuahua'.

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