Chihuahuas are a toy sized dog. The body is longer than it is tall. The head is round with an apple shape. The muzzle is short and pointed with a well defined stop.
Chihuahua puppies have a soft spot on the top of their head called a molera. This usually closes by adulthood, but in special cases can become a problem.
They have large, round eyes that are set well apart on their head. They are normally dark, ruby, and may be lighter in white dogs. They also have large, erect ears.
Dewclaws may or may not be removed. The tail is typically long, sickle-shaped, either curled over the back or to the side. Chihuahua coats can be either long or short haired.
They come in all colors, marked or splashed are accepted.
Health Problems
Chihuahua are prone to rheumatism, slipped stifle, colds, and gum problems. They can also have corneal dryness and secondary glaucoma because of their protruding eyes.
It is important to keep their eyes clean to help with these problems. They can gain weight easily, so their diet is important. Because they are so small it is important to take caution with chocolate, fertilizer, or other potential poisons.
They are a small dog and it does not take much to poison them. Cesarean sections are common because of the large nature of the puppies heads. They are susceptible to fractrued bones and other accidents because of their frail nature.
Chihuahuas have a molera, which in some cases can remain open throughout life. This will make the dog more prone to injury. They have a tendency to wheeze or snore because of their short muzzle.
Other Facts
1. Chihuahuas are usually 6-9 inches in height, and generally weigh 2-6 pounds.
2. Chihuahuas usually live about 15 or more years.
3. It is important to take chihuahuas on walks even though they can run around the house. This helps them with their migration instinct, and will also help them behave better.
4. Chihuahuas are the oldest breed on the American continent and the smallest breed in the world.
5. Chihuahuas make great watch dogs and will alert their masters. They do not make good guard dogs because of their small size.
6. Chihuahuas generally have litters containing 1-4 puppies.
7. Chihuahuas do not like cold weather.
my chihuahua is 9 weeks and it looks like his soft spot got bigger. Is this normal? I am really concerned about this. I have had many chihuahuas and have never seen this before.
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I have a 5 week old chihuahua that isnt walking yet he seems like he is trying but his back legs jump like a frog and stumbles his front paws curl under sometimes...he eats and plays normal just doesnt walk..is this normal can he be delayed or is it something to be concerned about
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I just bought a teacup Chihuahua puppy 8 weeks old and she weighs 1.5lbs. She was fine her first day home but now throws up her food throughout the day. Her poop was orange and her energy comes in spurts then she sleeps. Is this normal or could she be sick? Please help.
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Permanent Link Julie williams
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Puppies 4 weeks mom nursing very short time sore nipples there 6 puppies should I start giving them anything else? They don't seem to have the full tummy after eating. Live in small town so not able to get suppliment milk until Monday. Not all have teeth yet do have puppy chow I could soften for them. Just not sure what to do
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What age do the male chihuahuas start breeding? Mine is only goin on 5 months and he has a tendency to hump on our lil kitten. Please advise. Thank You
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