Chihuahuas are tiny, cute dogs with big personalities. Named after the Mexican state “Chihuahua”, these little dogs are known for their lively nature and courageous mood. They easily gain the attention of their masters, but if you find it difficult to take care of your furry little friend, this brief Chihuahua care guide will be highly useful for beginner Chihuahua owners who are nurturing their Chihuahuas.
Chihuahua’s Temperament and Basic Nature
Chihuahuas make wonderful family pets because of their loyalty and loving nature. They enjoy being close to humans. And because of their small size, it is easy to travel with them. With that said, even thought they sometimes bark at strangers and other dogs, training makes this behavior manageable.
These adorable little canines have a charming temperament. Sometimes they act a bit bossy and like they are in control, but at other times, they just love attention and to be cuddled by their masters.
Most Chihuahuas want to get their masters’ attention, but they do not like to interact with strangers. Even thought they are tiny, they often act fearless.
How Should You Train Your Chihuahuas?
Most beginners face difficulties while training Chihuahuas. However, early socialization will make the training process much easier. With effort, consistency and patience, Chihuahuas can learn commands quickly.
Chihuahuas are intelligent and quick learners. You should avoid using any harsh techniques to train Chihuahuas. Make sure every training session is short to prevent boredom.
Chihuahuas love to respond to your positive reinforcement and many Chihuahua owners claim that their Chihuahuas are obedient and well-behaved companions. However, these little dogs can become stubborn, which makes training them even more challenging.
A good option is to get dog training services like that offered at Fieldstone Animal Inn. They are a good example of a professional dog trainers that knows how to train any dog breed with a proper method.
Dietary Tips for Chihuahuas
Like any other dog breed, Chihuahuas need a healthy and nutritious diet. Depending on their age and size, you can create a routine. You may buy premium quality dog food intended for smaller breeds. The right daily portion depends on:
- The exercise routine
- Metabolism
- Weight
Chihuahua puppies and adult ones have particular dietary needs for faster growth and proper development. You may also consult a vet to choose the well-tested puppy food until it has reached 1 year old. It’s best to feed them 3 to 4 daily times daily. This ensures that your pet receives the right amount of calories and nutrients for rapid growth.
As your Chihuahua grows, you need to adjust portion sizes and check the weight. It will prevent obesity and overfeeding issues. If your Chihuahua has an upset tummy, contact the vet. Some experts recommend feeding dry kibbles to reduce the risk of periodontal disorder. As these kibbles are abrasive, they can remove plaque buildup.
Grooming Needs For Your Chihuahua
As Chihuahuas have a smooth coat and short hair, they need minimal grooming. However, the long-haired variety needs regular brushing and professional grooming. Brushing helps remove the loose hair from your dog’s coat.
Pay attention to the ears also to prevent infection. Clean the dog’s ears and trim their nails. Occasional bathing with a quality shampoo will keep your Chihuahua’s coat healthy.
Another important thing in the grooming routine is tooth brushing. Use the best toothpaste to keep the dental parts clean.
The Exercise Routine for Your Chihuahuas
Unlike other breeds, Chihuahuas have minimal exercise needs. The daily exercise session for these dogs can be up to 1 hour. You can use interactive toys and encourage your dogs to engage in play sessions.
As small Chihuahuas have delicate bones, you must not involve them in high-impact activities. So, be careful while creating an exercise routine for these dogs. Remember that puppies and adult Chihuahuas have different exercise needs. Create a controlled environment that lets your pups exercise safely. When they grow older, they gain resilience. Thus, their exercise levels will also be on the rise.
Potential Health Issues of Chihuahuas
Common Health Problems of Chihuahuas are:
Luxating Patellas – This chronic disorder causes arthritis and limping issues in your dogs. If you find your dog occasionally skipping, consult a vet. A gentle massaging will reduce the symptoms. But, surgery is essential to manage severe cases. You may buy joint supplements for your Chihuahuas.
Collapsing Trachea – This condition causes the main airway to collapse. Coughing and wheezing are common symptoms of this disorder. Collapsing trachea is a chronic disorder that may worsen as your dog gets older.
Heart disorder – Some Chihuahuas have congestive cardiac diseases that weaken their heart’s valves. This condition may enlarge their heart and cause other serious issues. Weakness and exercise intolerance are common signs of the disease.
Chihuahuas are healthy dogs, but without proper care, they may experience a few health issues. Regular check-ups with a vet and expert advice can prevent these health problems.
Training is also essential to make your Chihuahuas affectionate and playful companions. If you’re short on time, consider professional pet boarding services.
