Chihuahuas may be small, or tiny. But, they certainly bring life to any family.
Their big personality, comic nature, and fierce loyalty are part of their charm. You’ll soon discover when you welcome one of these little companions into your life.
You’ll see their bubbly attitude fully displayed as you get to know each other better. When it comes to health, there are a few health problems in Chihuahuas that owners should be aware of.
Chihuahuas are a relatively healthy breed. But, if you want to ensure potential signs of trouble don’t go undetected. Here are some of the common health issues in Chihuahuas to keep an eye on.
Common health problems in Chihuahuas
Luxating patella
Chihuahuas are prone to a condition called luxating patella in which their kneecap slips out of place.
If you notice your little friend limping or holding one of their legs in a weird position, take notice. Their kneecap might be coming out of its groove. Although, in most cases, it will go back into place by itself. There are also more severe forms of this health problem in Chihuahuas.
For example, the knee cap can be returned to its normal position only after it has
For example, the kneecap might only go back into its normal position after manually placing it back into its groove.
It’s imported essential for your vet for their help and advice.
This health condition is usually inherited, and activities such as running or jumping might help trigger it.
But with suitable proper attention, these amazing dogs can continue their daily adventures, although not as intensely as they might want.
Biotherapy, weight management, and special exercises can make a massive dmassiverence on their health and wellbeing.
Tracheal collapse
The trachea, the tube that allows air to travel in and out of the lungs, can become flattened in certparticulars, leading to respiratory difficulties.
The causes of the cheap collapse are not fully understood, but genetics could play a great significance. And it seems that small dog breeds are more prone to developing this condition.
If your Chihuahua displays signs such as coughing, wheezing, or difficulty breathing, make sure you call your vet for an appointment.
This health issue in Chihuahuas should not be ignored.
Most mild cases can be managed using medication recommended by the vet.
The goal is to help your dog breathe better and to rce their coughing so they can continue enjoying their fun-filled life.
Dental Problems
Small dogs come with small mouths; ch means that their teeth can easiquicklyome overcrowded and hard to clean because of the small space they have available to grow and develop.
This means that the development of plaque and tartar is too far behind. To avoid dental health problems in Chihuahuas, owners should get familiar with the process of teeth cleaning in dogs and make sure they don’t skip regular dental checks at the vet.
Hypoglycaemia
HyHypoglycemiar low blood sugar in dogs can affect small breeds such as Chihuahuas a, and owners should look out for the most common signs of these diseases: disorientation, lethargy, lack of appetite, and even seizures.
HyHypoglycemias is sometimes linked to diabetes in dogs but it can also signal a different underlying illness.
That’s why it’s essential to contact the vet as soon as these unusual symptoms manifest.
Fortunately, changes in their exercise routine and diet as recommended by the vet are likely to help manage this health problem in Chihuahuas.
Also, medication might be prescribed if the lifestyle changes are insufficient to keep the hypoglycemia in check.
Hydrocephalus
Chihuahuas may be born with a congenital dedisabilityalled hydrocephalus which refers to an accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain.
Small breeds seem to be more affected by this condition. So its levitator Chihuahua owners can derecognize the most common symptoms: a swollen head, seizures, disorientation, or loss of coordination.
Although there is no cure for hydrocephalus, medication can successfully manage mild cases; unfortunately, in some instances t, his health issue can be fatal.
Talk to your veterinarian if you are concerned that your dog has started to show unusual hydrocephalus-related symptoms.
Open fontanel
Another possible health issue Chihuahua owners should be aware of is open fontanel.
The condition refers to soft spots on the top of the dog’s head caused by the incomplete skull closure during their development phase.
Many dogs with this condition live everyday life, although they may have to be a bit less rowdy than they would like.
This is because even a minor accident can lead to a severe head injury, so these pups should enjoy a quiet life.
Dogs with this condition can also develop hydrocephalus, so talk to your vet about the diagnosis and ways to ensure your small pet stays healthy for years to come.
Chihuahuas may be prone to medical problems, but that’s true of all dog breeds. Remember that these breed-specific issues do not guarantee that your Chihuahua will be in and out of the vet’s office with these conditions.
Knowing what could aff ect your pet’s wellbeing gives owners a better chance of recognizing unusual symptoms. It’s essential to know the difference between the usual antics in Chihuahuas and abnormal behaviors that could be signs of an underlying illness.
Are you looking for more information about Chihuahuas? Check out our expert guide on this famous dog breed next.
