Chihuahuas are the smallest breed of dog having a small size and big personality. They have the name of the Mexican state of Chihuahua. Chihuahuas are excellent Watchdogs. They come in many different colors. In the article, you will know all the things About Chihuahua dog breeds.
All About Chihuahua dog breeds
House environment
Chihuahuas are indoor dogs so the home environment can affect them a lot when you bring them home for the first time. Give them a loving and comfortable environment so they can adjust easily to a new environment, check your house, and puppy-proof it. Anything poisonous that you don’t want them to chew should be removed. Chihuahua puppies need to be socialized. The socialization period is very important for your puppy to teach them how to interact with new people, places, and dogs. Take them outside with you and let them become familiar with the outside environment. Designated a specific area where your puppy can rest and play and provide a soft comfortable bed and few blankets. Provide their favorite chew toys to prevent them from chewing clothing, furniture, etc.
Food and nutrition
Food plays an important role in determining the health and lifespan of a chihuahua. Chihuahuas are the smallest dog breeds and they need high-quality, high-protein-based food that is easily digestible. Most people recommend trying kibble food but you should consult with veterinarians. Since food type varies with age and health etc. Chihuahuas have small stomachs and quick metabolism. They burn their calories much faster that’s why they need to be fed small meals several times a day. Avoid foods that could be toxic for them like garlic, onion, chocolate, high amounts of salt, etc. Always having access to clean, fresh water is important. Since they dehydrate a lot, keep the water bowls clean and in easy access to your chihuahua.
Grooming
Grooming helps you to build a bond in connection with your chihuahua. However, chihuahuas require less grooming.
Brushing
Chihuahuas have two coat types long and short. Short coat chihuahua needs to be brushed once a week. Long-coat chihuahuas have long hair and need to be brushed twice a week. Use a gentle brush and comb out any matted hair.
Bath
Chihuahua puppies need a bath occasionally. Overbathing can make their skin irritated and dry. Bathe them once every two months or when they are very dirty. Bathe them in lukewarm water using a good dog shampoo with a pH balance on the dog’s skin.
Teeth care
Clean their teeth regularly 2 or 3 times a week using a good k9 brush and paste.
Nail care
Frequently trim their nails to prevent overgrowth or cracking. Trim based on the paw’s size and length.
Ear care
Clean their ears regularly to avoid the building up of wax or debris that can cause infections.
Exercise
Chihuahuas are very active high-energy dogs and need to be exercised daily to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Chihuahuas are indoor dogs that slowly introduce your puppy to walking and exercise. Take them for exercise twice a day for almost 20 minutes. Chihuahuas are entertaining dogs. Let them play in your backyard for mental stimulation. Play different games with them like playing fetch, finding a toy, etc. Exercise or walk them when the weather conditions are good. When it’s extremely hot or freezing outside, keep them inside and let them play. Take water with you when taking them for a walk. Since they easily become dehydrated.
Training
Chihuahuas are intelligent dogs and need to be trained. Training is important to overcome behavioral problems.
Basic commands
Establish yourself as alpha and leader of the pack and teach them obedience training and let them follow basic commands like, sit, stay, come, etc.
Leash training
Teach them to walk on a leash using a harness and take them on a walk. They need to know leash is a boundary and should not go beyond this.
House train
House training your chihuahua puppy lets them know a specific area. Where they can eliminate and establish training two for it like after a meal and after he wakes up.
Crate training
Crate training is also very important because it provides the puppy with an area where he can sleep properly. It also helps to curb behavioral problems. Always use positive reinforcement during training. Do not punish or scold them.
Health care
Chihuahuas don’t have any major health problems from a reasonable breeder. Who provides a medical history of your chihuahua puppy? Regular visits to a veterinarian are very important. Your vet will recommend how to keep your puppy healthy and may advise certain vaccinations based on your area. Immunizations and vaccinations of your chihuahua puppy are also important. Vaccinating them against rabies and parvovirus protects them against fleas, ticks, and other parasites. Spay and neuter your chihuahua puppy before they reach puberty. They can be spayed or neutered between 2 and 3 months of age.
Hypoglycemia
It is a major health issue for young chihuahuas. It means a rapid dangerous drop in the blood sugar level. Chihuahuas below the age of 4 months are more susceptible to hypoglycemia. If they miss 1 or 2 meals their blood sugar level can drop dangerously. Feed them regularly throughout the day to avoid this disease. Chihuahuas are loving dogs and soon will develop a productive relationship with you. Take care of them and let them feel they are being loved. With proper care and love, they can become a happy member of your family.
Feeding
Chihuahuas are high-energy dogs and need platters full of protein. So you have to choose some high-quality dried dog food. That contains at least 30% protein inside also keeps in mind. Dog food should not contain a high amount of salt. As salt can cause heart and kidney problems in your tiny dog. But if you want to treat your dogs to whole foods. Then you can go for real meats like chicken, lamb, and fish. Also, you can add vegetables or fruits like potatoes, peas, carrots, raspberries, blueberries, and banana wedges for a well-rounded diet. But keep in mind to always have a small digestive system. So they need at least 3 to 4 meals in small portions per day to maintain their diet. Also don’t leave the dog food down the whole day. As overfeeding your dogs can lead them to obesity problems and many serious health concerns.
After reading the article I’m sure you will know About Chihuahua dog breeds. Just knowing About Chihuahua dog breeds is not useful until you implement the steps for your chihuahua.
