Tips on Raising a Healthy Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are the smallest breed in the word and unfortunately the comes with its fair share of health problems. However, healthy Chihuahuas can live longer than 15 years, which is why raising a healthy Chihuahua should be a top-priority for all Chihuahua owners.
Chihuahuas should be taken to the Veternarian when you first get them. They will need sets of shots as they get older. These shots are important as they can prevent deadly illnesses such as Parvo and Rabies.
You should bath your Chihuahua on a regular basis, usually once every week or two. You can find special dog shampoo gentle enough for your Chihuahua at the pet store. I've found the best place to bath your Chihuahua is in the bath tub. Just use some luke-warm water, shampoo, and a cloth to give your Chihuahua a good cleaning.
You should frequently check for your Chihuahuas ears for ear mites and earwax buildup. The Veternarian should also do this for.
Clipping your Chihuahuas nails should be part of their grooming routine. Just be extremely careful not to cut them to short, or you could cause injury to them. You can find special dog nail clippers at most large pet stores which should be used instead of human nail clippers.
One health problem with Chihuahuas is that being so small makes toxins affect them much more than larger Chihuahuas. We all know Chihuahuas like to lick in the corners of things. Well, sometimes they can get into fertilizers, pesticides, anti-freeze, and other chemicals. So just be sure to keep an eye on your Chihuahua to prevent this.
Another problem with Chihuahuas being so small is that children can easily step on them. If you have children in the same house as your Chihuahuas the best idea is to seperate them at all times.
Walking daily is a must for every healthy Chihuahua. Too often, Chihuahuas get locked up inside their owners apartment, house, or in a cage all day. Chihuahuas, like all animals, have their primal instinct to run free and play. Serious health problems such as diabetes and obesity can arise if your Chihuahua does not get its needed exercise. So make sure to take the time to take your chihuahua to play and walk outside.
All Chihuahuas, even the long-haired ones, don't have much protection from the weather. In the freezing winter, consider getting your Chihuahua a warm sweater. Many Chihuahuas actually like wearing them when it's cold. Another idea is to get your Chihuahua a rain coat, this can be great for when it's snowing, raining, or just cold outside. Plus, your Chihuahua will look adorable in it!
These are just a few things a Chihuahua owner can do to help raise a healthy and happy Chihuahua. Be sure to take your Chihuahua to the Veternarian for regular check-ups.