Is your Chihuahua a heavy shedder? Shedding can create a mess while potentially triggering allergy attacks in people who suffer from pet allergies. As your Chihuahua sheds, he will leave behind loose hair that will blanket your floors and furniture.

You can’t stop your Chihuahua from shedding. With the exception of certain hairless breeds like the Xoloitzcuintli or Chinese Crested, all dogs shed. It’s a natural process that’s actually beneficial for our canine companions. There are ways to deal with a shedding Chihuahua, however, to maintain a clean home and protect against allergy attacks.

Single-Coat vs Double-Coat Chihuahuas: What’s the Difference?

The amount of hair your Chihuahua sheds will depend heavily on the number of coats he has. There are single-coat and double-coat Chihuahuas. Double-coat Chihuahuas have two coats of hair, so they shed more hair than their single-coat counterparts.

• Single-coat Chihuahuas have a single, outer coat consisting of thick guard hairs. Also known as a top coat, the outer coat offers protection from minor injuries, bugs and the sun.
• Double-coat Chihuahuas have a top coat of guard hairs and an undercoat of softer, thinner hairs. The undercoat helps to regulate the Chihuahua’s temperature. During warmer months of the year, it increases circulation by allowing air to reach the Chihuahua’s skin. During the cooler months of the year, the undercoat insulates the Chihuahua’s body to minimize the loss of body heat.

Chihuahuas can further be classified as smooth coat or long coat depending on the length of their hair. Smooth-coat Chihuahuas have short hair that sits close to their body. Long-coat Chihuahuas have long hair that extends farther out from their body.

Some smooth-coat Chihuahuas only have a top coat, whereas others have a top coat and an undercoat. The same is true for long-coat Chihuahuas. While a double coat is more common with long-coat Chihuahuas, some of them only have a top coat.

AKC Standards for Single-Coat and Double-Coat Chihuahuas

The Americal Kennel Club’s (AKC’s) breed standards accept Chihuahuas with or without an undercoat. Only a sparse coat resembling bareness is grounds for disqualification, and this rule only applied to long-coat Chihuahuas. If you own a smooth-coat Chihuahua, you can register him even if he has a sparse coat.

An undercoat, though, is preferred for long-coat Chihuahuas in the AKC’s breed standards. Only double-coat Chihuahuas have an undercoat. For smooth-coat Chihuahuas, the AKC’s breed standards permit but do not prefer an undercoat.

When Do Single-Coat Chihuahuas Shed?

Single-coat Chihuahuas typically shed small amounts of hair throughout the entire year. Some of them may shed more heavily in spring and fall, but they will almost always shed year-round.

If you own a single-coat Chihuahua — regardless of whether he has a smooth coat or long coat — you can expect to find small amounts of hair in your home throughout the year. Single-coat Chihuahuas only have a top coat. They will shed their top coat gradually year-round, leaving behind thick guard hairs on floors, furniture and other surfaces.

When Do Double-Coat Chihuahuas Shed?

Double-coat Chihuahuas typically shed their undercoat once in spring and again in late fall, and they shed their top coat gradually throughout the year. 

The process of shedding an undercoat in a short period is known as “blowing a coat.” Most double-coat Chihuahuas will blow their coat twice a year. It lasts for about two to three weeks, during which you can expect to find large clumps of hair in your home. These large clumps of hair are known as “tufts.”

Why Chihuahuas Shed

Chihuahuas shed so that they can regrow new, healthier hair. They don’t keep their hair indefinitely. After their hair has reached a certain length, it will fall out so that new hair can grow in its place. This is all part of the hair growth cycle (see below).

Shedding isn’t limited to Chihuahuas. All dogs and even most mammals experience some degree of shedding — assuming they have hair. Over time, the hair on most mammals will become weaker and brittler. The hair growth cycle tells their bodies when to shed hair old and when to regrow new hair.

Double-coat Chihuahuas shed their undercoat to help regulate their body temperature. Shedding in spring allows for the development of a lighter and thinner undercoat. When the summer months arrive, double-coat Chihuahuas will be ready. Their newly developed undercoat will allow air to flow around their skin, thus keeping them cool.

Shedding in fall allows for the development of a heavier and thicker undercoat. They will shed their lightweight and thin undercoat in preparation for the upcoming cold weather. Chihuahuas will develop a heavier and more insulative undercoat in its place.

The Hair Growth Cycle

Chihuahuas have a three-stage hair growth cycle. The hair growth cycle is hardwired into their DNA. It affects their top coat, and if present, their undercoat. Undercoats, though, have a shorter growth cycle than top coats. Chihuahuas will shed and regrow their undercoat hairs faster than their top coat hairs.

1. Anagen (growth phase): Nutrient-rich blood from the papilla feeds the hair follicle and stimulates growth.
2. Catagen (transition phase): The hair has reached its predetermined length and has stopped growing. The hair separates from the papilla but remains in the follicle.
3. Telogen (resting phase): The hair remains dormant before falling out of the follicle. 

After the telogen stage, the hair falls out and a new hair grows in its place, thus repeating the three-stage hair growth cycle.

Illustration showing the three stages of hair growth in Chihuahuas (click to enlarge).

Do Long-Coat Chihuahuas Shed More Than Smooth-Coat Chihuahuas?

It’s a common myth that long-coat Chihuahuas shed more than smooth-coat Chihuahuas. Some long-coat Chihuahuas do, in fact, shed more, but this isn’t always the case.

The amount of hair a Chihuahua sheds has nothing to do with the length of his coat. Rather, it’s determined by whether the Chihuahua has an undercoat. Double-coat Chihuahuas have an undercoat, which they typically shed in spring and fall. They also have a top coat, which they shed more gradually year-round.

Single-coat Chihuahuas only have a top coat. They don’t have as much hair as double-coat Chihuahuas, so they shed less. If a smooth-coat Chihuahua has an undercoat, he will shed more than a long-coat Chihuahua without an undercoat. Long-coat Chihuahuas simply shed longer strands of hair, which are more visible than the shorter strands of hair shed by smooth-coat Chihuahuas.

How Daylight Affects Shedding

Shedding is governed by changes in daylight. In the Northern Hemisphere, there are approximately 1 fewer minutes of daylight per day beginning with the arrival of fall. The days essentially become shorter and the nights longer. These photoperiod changes will trigger hormonal changes in Chihuahuas that, among other things, affect when they shed.

The shorter days associated with the fall season may cause Chihuahuas to shed. Single-coat Chihuahuas may shed more of their top coat than usual in fall, whereas double-coat Chihuahuas may blow their entire undercoat. This is the result of hormones telling their bodies to produce a new thicker coat in preparation for winter.

The days will become longer in spring, conversely. As they are exposed to more daylight, Chihuahuas will experience hormonal changes that can affect their shedding. They no longer need a thick undercoat or top coat in spring, so they may shed it. Shedding in spring allows Chihuahuas to develop a thinner and more breathable coat in preparation for summer.

Common Causes of Excessive Shedding

Unless your Chihuahua is hairless, he’s going to shed. Some shedding is normal. It allows Chihuahuas to maintain a strong and healthy coat by replacing their old hair with new hair. What’s not normal, however, is excessive shedding. If you notice bald spots on your Chihuahua, an underlying problem could be to blame. Here are some of the most common causes of excessive shedding in Chihuahuas.

#1) Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism can cause excessive shedding. This thyroid disorder is characterized by an underactive thyroid gland. Chihuahuas with hypothyroidism don’t produce enough thyroid hormone. With low levels of thyroid hormone, Chihuahuas may experience lethargy, weight gain, anemia and excessive shedding.

#2) Cushing’s Disease

Cushing’s disease has been linked to excessive shedding. Also known as hyperadrenocorticism, it involves the overproduction of cortisol. Cortisol is a hormone that regulates stress and facilitates metabolic functions. As levels of cortisol increase, Chihuahuas may begin to shed excessively.

Excessive shedding due to Cushing’s disease is typically limited to the body. Chihuahuas with Cushing’s disease may lose hair on their body, but the hair on their head and legs will remain intact.

#3) Heat Cycle

Female Chihuahuas may shed excessively during, as well as shortly after, their heat cycle.They’ll experience hormonal changes during their heat cycle. Depending on the particular stage of their heat cycle, female Chihuahuas may produce more estrogen or more progesterone. These hormonal changes can cause them to shed excessively. Dams who’ve recently given birth may experience similar hormonal changes.

#4) Stress

Just like our hair can fall out when we are stressed, so can a Chihuahua’s hair. When they encounter a perceived threat, Chihuahuas produce stress hormones like cortisol and epinephrine. Stress hormones are responsible for their fight-or-flight response, which plays a key role in their survival, but they can contribute to excessive shedding as well.

Common stressors in Chihuahuas include separation anxiety, boredom, relocation, death in the family and the addition of a new family pet. Stressors such as these may not pose a direct threat to Chihuahuas, but they can trigger their fight-or-flight response, resulting in elevated levels of stress hormones.

#5) Food Allergies

Food allergies can cause excessive shedding. Food allergies involve an overactive immune system response to a particular food or an ingredient. With food allergies, the Chihuahua’s immune system wrongfully identifies the food or ingredient as a foreign invader. It will attack the food or ingredient with antibodies, which can lead to symptoms like itching and hair loss.

Common food allergies in Chihuahuas and other dogs include:

• Dairy
• Beef
• Chicken
• Eggs
• Soy
• Wheat
• Fish

Even if your Chihuahua doesn’t suffer from any food allergies, he may suffer from contact allergies. Like all types of allergies, contact allergies involve an overactive immune system response to an allergen. But Chihuahuas only need to come into contact with the allergen to trigger a contact allergy attack. Chihuahuas suffering from food allergies, in comparison, must ingest the allergen.

Allergens for contact allergies may include shampoo, flea medicine, antibiotics, metals such as nickel, rubber, wool, plastic and household cleaning products. If your Chihuahua is allergic to any of these allergens and they get on his skin, your Chihuahua may develop an itchy and red rash. If left untreated, he may scratch this rash to the point where it becomes bald.

#7) Infections

Chihuahuas can develop infections that cause them to shed excessively. Ringworm, yeast and pyoderma are common types of skin infections linked to excessive shedding. As the invading germ begins to spread on the Chihuahua’s skin, he will itch profusely. Fortunately, most infections are treatable.

If your Chihuahua is suffering from a bacterial infection like pyoderma, your veterinarian may prescribe an antibiotic medication. If your Chihuahua is suffering from a fungal infection like ringworm or yeast, your veterinarian may prescribe an antifungal medication.

#8) Fleas

Fleas can cause Chihuahuas to shed excessively. Measuring just 1.5 to 4 millimeters long on average, fleas are small parasitic insects that feast on the blood of mammals and birds. They can burrow themselves in your Chihuahua’s coat, at which point they will bite your Chihuahua. Your Chihuahua may be bitten hundreds of times per day if he’s suffering from a flea infestation.

Fleabites are naturally itchy, but some Chihuahuas are particularly sensitive to them. Flea saliva is a common allergen. Many Chihuahuas and other dogs are allergic to flea saliva. A condition known as flea allergy dermatitis (FAD), it causes intense itching in response to fleabites.

#9) Mange

Mange can cause excessive shedding. There are certain types of parasitic mites that can infest your Chihuahua’s skin. Mange is a group of skin diseases that involve these parasitic mites.

Two of the most common types of mange include Demodectic and Sarcoptic. The former is caused by Demodex mites, whereas the latter is caused by Sarcoptes scabiei mites. Parasitic mites such as these can quickly reproduce while causing intense itching and hair loss.

How to Control Your Chihuahua’s Shedding

You can’t prevent your Chihuahua from shedding, but there are ways to control it. If you’re tired of finding loose hair scattered throughout your home, consider the following tips.

Here are some tips to control your Chihuahua shedding:

• Brush your Chihuahua’s coat at least once a day. Daily brushing will remove loose hair, strengthen tangled knots and evenly distribute your Chihuahua’s natural skin oils throughout his coat.
• Use the right type of brush. Not all grooming brushes are the same. If your Chihuahua only has a top coat, a slicker brush or pin brush may suffice. If he has a top coat and an undercoat, you may want to begin with a slicker brush or pin brush, followed by an undercoat rake.
• Bathe your Chihuahua regularly. You can control your Chihuahua’s shedding b bathing him at least once a week.
• Consider a medicated shampoo for allergy-related shedding. If allergies are responsible for your Chihuahua’s excessive shedding, ask your veterinarian if a medicated shampoo is right for your tiny companion. There’s hydrocortisone shampoo, for instance, that suppresses the inflammation and itching associated with contact allergies.
• Use a blow dryer. After bathing your Chihuahua, use a blow dryer on the cool-air setting to remove loose hair from his coat.
• Use a deshedding spray. Try using a waterless deshedding spray to control your Chihuahua’s shedding. These sprays typically contain natural ingredients, such as Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins, that moisturize and strengthen the Chihuahua’s coat.
• Vacuum and sweep floors. Keeping your floors will minimize your Chihuahua’s loose hair.
• Use a Lint roller on furniture. You’ll probably discover hair on furniture. A quick and easy way to remove it is to use a lint roller. Lint rollers feature strips of self-adhesive tape to which dirt, dust and loose pet hair will stick.
• Invest in a premium kibble. What type of food do you feed your Chihuahua? Low-quality kibble with lots of corn, preservatives, artificial flavors and filler ingredients may contribute to excessive shedding.
• Add olive oil to your Chihuahua’s diet. Drizzle a teaspoon of extra-virgin olive oil over your Chihuahua’s food once daily. The high concentration of Omega-3 fatty acids in olive oil will promote a healthy coat and skin that keeps excessive shedding in check.
• Consider a supplement. There are supplements available to minimize shedding in dogs. Omega-3 fatty acid supplements, vitamin A supplements and biotin supplements may improve your Chihuahua’s coat and minimize his shedding.
• Get a veterinary checkup annually. Excessive shedding may be attributed to an underlying disease or condition. An annual checkup will allow you to treat these diseases and conditions early — potentially before they lead to excessive shedding.
• Dress your Chihuahua. Chihuahua clothes are more than just a fashion statement; they can control loose hair. A shirt or sweater will catch your Chihuahua’s loose hair so that it doesn’t end up on the floor.

What You Shouldn’t Do

While excessive shedding can be a nuisance, you shouldn’t shave your Chihuahua. Chihuahuas need their hair for protection. The guard hairs protects them from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. If you shave your Chihuahua, you’ll remove these guard hairs while placing your Chihuahua at risk for sunburn.

If your Chihuahua has an undercoat, shaving him will remove both the guard hairs and the thinner undercoat hairs. Undercoats help regulate the temperature of dogs. They keep dogs warmer in winter by insulating their bodies, and undercoats keep dogs cooler in the summer by increasing air circulation around their skin. Your Chihuahua won’t have an undercoat if you shave him.

Shaving is never the answer to excessive shedding. It won’t make your Chihuahua shed any less. Your Chihuahua will still shave the same amount of hair if you shave him; your Chihuahua’s hair will simply be shorter. You can trim your Chihuahua’s coat, but you should never shave it.

In Conclusion

Shedding is a natural and expected part of owning a Chihuahua. While their small size may lead some to believe they shed less than other dogs, Chihuahuas actually have a moderate shedding level. And there are ways to control your Chihuahua’s shedding.

References:

Brushing Up For Shedding Season

How do you manage your Chihuahua’s shedding? Let us know in the comments section below!

Purebred Chihuahuas are categorized as either long-coat or smooth-coat (AKA short coat). Contrary to what some people may believe, these aren’t actual breeds but rather varieties of the Chihuahua. If you’re thinking of adding a new Chihuahua to your family in the near future, it’s important to understand the differences between long-coats and smooth-coats. While their appearance is likely the most noticeable difference, there are some other unique features associated with each of these varieties. Knowing what features and characteristics the different Chihuahua varieties have will help you make the most educated decision possible.

Before we start, it’s important to note that the breed standards for both the long-coat and smooth-coat Chihuahua variety are the same with a few exceptions. The AKC states that all Chihuahuas, regardless of their coat, must meet a certain criteria. You can visit the official AKC website for a more descriptive outline of these standards, but some of them include a weight of no more than 6 pounds, well-rounded head (apple-shaped), full and round eyes, slightly-arched neck, lean shoulders and muscular hindquarters. So what differences are there in the breed standards between the two varieties?

Long-Coat Breed Requirements

• Soft-to-the-touch fur coat.
• Fur can be either be straight or naturally wavy.
• Undercoat preferred.
• Fur should remain strong and prominent all the way to the tip of the tail.
• Excess hair around neck (AKA ruff) is preferred.

Smooth-Coat Breed Requirements

• Short fur coat that’s close to their body.
• Glossy
• Soft texture
• Excess hair around neck (AKA ruff) is preferred.
• Excess hair on tail is preferred.

The criteria listed above is simply the official breed standards set by the AKC. If you’re looking to register your Chihuahua with them or allow them to participate in an AKC-sponsored show, you’ll need to make sure they meet all of the specifications. Start by determining whether your Chihuahua is a long-coat or smooth-coat variety and then work your way down through the requirements. Remember, the breed standards are the same for both varieties with the exception of the listed requirements previously mentioned.

Long-Coat Chihuahuas

Whether you own a Chihuahua or not, you’ve probably seen or at least heard of the long-coat variety before. As the name suggests, they have a much longer coat of fur than their counterpart, the smooth-coat Chihuahua. The long-coat variety tends to soft and semi-fluffy coat of hair, and they may or may not have an undercoat.

One might assume that long-coat Chihuahuas require more grooming and maintenance, but this isn’t always the case. If you do a little searching online and at some of the various Chihuahua forums, you’ll probably notice how most owners agree that long-coat Chihuahuas shed less than their smooth-coat counterpart. This can be somewhat confusing given the fact that they have more fur, so why is it that they shed less? One of the reasons is simply because their fur stays more securely on their body, which then prevents it from falling off. Long-coat Chihuahuas that lack an undercoat will also naturally shed less than long-coat Chihuahuas with an undercoat. Of course this doesn’t mean a long-coat variety isn’t going shed at all, but they are a smarter choice for owners who are concerned with keeping their floors cleaned.

While long-coat Chihuahuas do in fact shed less, they also pick up more grass, dirt and debris from being outside. The extra fur on their body acts as a magnet to anything they come into contact with. If you allow your long-coat Chihuahua run and play outside for long periods of time, they will likely drag in leaves and debris on their coat. You can minimize this, however, by brushing their coat before letting them back in the house.

Smooth-Coat Chihuahuas

On the other side of the fence so to speak is the smooth-coat Chihuahua. It should go without saying that this variety possesses a much shorter and smoother fur coat. The fur rests directly on top of the Chihuahua’s skin, creating the appearance that they have little-to-no fur. Smooth-coat Chihuahuas can be found in a variety of colors, from white and black to brown and grey.

Something that you need to be aware of is that smooth-coat Chihuahuas will in fact shed more than long-coat Chihuahuas. If you plan to own a smooth-coat Chihuahua, be prepared to spend extra time grooming them and cleaning the floors in your home; otherwise, you’ll find their fur stuck to you anytime you sit down on the living room furniture. This can certainly be an annoyance, but it’s easy to deal with their shedding once you learn the basics. Visit the link for a more detailed guide on how to minimize your Chihuahua’s shedding.

Although smooth-coat Chihuahuas shed more than long-coats, grooming them is actually easier and less time-consuming. All Chihuahuas will need to be occasionally groomed, but smooth-coat varieties can go for a longer period of time without it. The short coat on their body prevents build-ups of dirt and debris, and it also doesn’t get tangled up like that of a long-coat’s.

In Conclusion…

The choice between a long-coat and smooth-coat Chihuahua is one that only you can make. Both of these varieties can make wonderful loving pets for the family when raised in a healthy environment. As long as you raise your Chihuahua with lots of love, attention and care, they will grow up and offer you the same level of respect you gave them. The length of their fur coat has absolutely no effect on their personality or characteristics.

References:

http://www.examiner.com/article/chihuahua-101-long-or-short-hair

If you see a flea on your Chihuahua, it’s important to take immediate action to treat and prevent them from coming back. Although they are most commonly found in parts of Europe, Asia and Africa, dog and cat fleas can still be found year-round in warmer regions of the U.S. The problem is that many owners don’t even know their Chihuahua has fleas until an infestation has begun. Their small size and stealth-like behavior allows them to go unnoticed while they feast on the blood of your tiny canine companion. Here we’ll take a look at some of the most effective ways to both treat and prevent fleas in your Chihuahua.

Many Chihuahua owners are under the assumption that there’s only a single type of flea. The truth is, however, that there are over 2,000 species worldwide, 200 of which are located inhabit the U.S. While they may look and act the same, there are some distinct differences between the species. No matter what type of flea is infesting your Chihuahua, you need to treat them in a timely manner; otherwise, they will reproduce and grow to numbers that are difficult to control.

Think you know everything about fleas? Think again. Take a look at some of these interesting statistics and facts about fleas:

• Prehistoric fossils reveal fleas to have been around 100 million years ago during the Cretaceous period.
• A single female can leave over 2,000 eggs in their lifetime.
• The average flea will bite into their host several hundred times a day. If a Chihuahua is infested with just 10 fleas, that’s thousands of bites each day!
• Fleas prefer warmer temperatures, but they can still live in near-freezing regions when necessary.
• Fleas live approximately 3 months before dying.
• Because of their powerful back legs, fleas can launch over 10 inches into the air, which is why they are so difficult to pick off a small Chihuahua.

Why Fleas Are Dangerous To Chihuahuas

Unfortunately, a lot of owners brush off a flea infestation as something that’s minor and not of serious concern. While it may only look like it causes an occasional itching, fleas are much more troubling. Fleas are considered parasites because they bite into their host (your Chihuahua) to drink their blood, which they typically do about 300-400 times per day. As a result of being constantly bitten throughout the day, some Chihuahuas will obsessively lick and clean themselves to try and eliminate their fleas, but this usually doesn’t work. An infested Chihuahua will remain covered in fleas until the owner steps in to remove them.

To make matters worse, some Chihuahuas are allergic to the saliva in fleas’ mouths, which causes them to chew and scratch the hair off their body. In some of the more severe cases, Chihuahuas will even chew the skin off their body, leaving open wounds that are susceptible to infection. In addition to traditional flea treatments, you’ll have to place a cone over your Chihuahua to keep them from causing further injury to their body.

Possibly the most serious issue associated with fleas is their ability to transmit harmful parasites and diseases, such as Rickettsia typhi, Bartonella hensalae, hemoplasmas, Flea Tyhus and even the Bubonic Plague! Some of these harmful pathogens are even transmittable to humans, so keep your Chihuahua out of your bed if they’re infested with fleas.

Treating Your Chihuahua’s Fleas

The first step in treating fleas in your Chihuahua is to understand and identify their breeding grounds. If you see fleas on your Chihuahuas skin, they’re probably burrowed in other parts of your home, and it’s up to you to find out where. Think about where your dog spends their time napping and resting and clean these areas. If your Chihuahua has a bed or crate filled with blankets, take these items out and wash them using warm water and a small amount of bleach. Also, it’s not uncommon for fleas to lay their eggs in the carpet and on rugs. When your Chihuahua has a flea infestation, try to get into the habit of vacuuming the floors daily to help remove eggs that could possibly be lingering there.

Giving your Chihuahua plenty of baths is also helpful in reducing the number of fleas and flea eggs infesting their body. Don’t just use any dog shampoo, but instead look for one that’s made specifically to treat fleas in small dogs. Hertz sells a couple of different products that many owners have had success using. Just be sure to follow the directions step-by-step to ensure your Chihuahua is safe and comfortable during their bath. As you bathe them in the water, it’s also a good idea to keep a cup of soapy warm water nearby to place any fleas you pick off your Chihuahua in. The soapy water should drown them, as they won’t be able to jump out.

When your Chihuahua is done bathing and you’ve given them plenty of time to dry off, you should go over their coat with a flea comb. These combs and can be purchased from most major pet stores for as little as $5 bucks and are designed to pull out both fleas and their eggs. Just keep another cup of warm soapy water nearby and occasionally dip the comb in it to remove any fleas you’ve picked off them.

If you want to go one step further, you can fill a spray bottle with a mixture of vinegar and water and spray your Chihuahua’s coat down with it. The highly acidic content of vinegar won’t bother your Chihuahua (just keep it out of their eyes), but fleas seem to hate it.

Severe Flea Infestations

Depending on how severe your Chihuahua’s flea infestation is, using the traditional methods listed above may not be enough. If you can’t seem to get rid of all their fleas, or if they come back in a few days, you’ll need to take a different approach to treat these horrific parasites. Hands down, one of the strongest and most effective flea medicines for dogs is a product called Frontline. According to their official website, Frontline is also the #1 choice of flea and tick treatment by veterinarians. So, why is this product so popular and effective? Unlike other flea medications, Frontline kills fleas at all stages of their life (eggs, larvae, pupae). Once it’s applied to their skin, it will begin to kill the fleas in as little as 12 hours.

References:

PedMD Fleas

Frontline.com

Have you noticed your Chihuahua shaking? Maybe he does it before going on car rides, or perhaps he shakes during the winter. While all dogs shake occasionally, this behavior is particularly common in Chihuahuas. They shake more frequently than larger dogs. Here are some of the most common reasons Chihuahuas shake and what, if anything, you should do about it.

Reasons Chihuahuas Shake

Chihuahuas may shake for any number of reasons. Some of these reasons are normal and don’t pose any need for concern. Others, however, may indicate a serious condition. Therefore, you should try to identify why your Chihuahua is shaking so that you can take the appropriate action.

#1) Cold

Chihuahuas may shake when they are cold. It’s an internal mechanism that allows our furry four-legged friends to regulate their body temperature.

The normal body temperature for Chihuahuas is between 99.5 and 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit, which is slightly higher than that of a person’s normal body temperature. If a Chihuahua’s body temperature rises above 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit, he may pant to cool off. If a Chihuahua’s body temperature drops below 99.5 degrees Fahrenheit, on the other hand, he may shake to warm up.

Chihuahuas get cold more easily than larger dogs. This is due primarily to their high ratio of body surface area to body volume. They have more skin relative to the size of their small bodies. When exposed to cold temperatures, heat will quickly escape their bodies through their skin.

Shaking allows Chihuahuas to raise their internal temperature through the consumption of energy. As they shake, some of their energy supplies will be converted to heat.

Some Chihuahuas only have a top coat, whereas others have a top coat and an undercoat. The presence of an undercoat will further protect Chihuahuas from cold temperatures, meaning they will be less likely to shake than single-coat Chihuahuas with only a top coat.

Chihuahuas may shake when they are wet. Chihuahuas don’t want to walk around with a wet coat. It will weigh them down and increase their risk of hypothermia.

After getting a bath — or jumping in a pool or body of water — they may attempt to dry themselves by shaking. According to a study conducted by the Georgia Institute of Technology, dogs can shake themselves 70% dry in a matter of seconds. Researchers also discovered that smaller dogs, such as Chihuahuas, shake more rapidly than larger dogs.

Shaking will release excess water from the Chihuahua’s coat. Any remaining water will quickly evaporate so that the Chihuahua stays warm and comfortable.

#3) Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia is a common reason Chihuahuas shake. Not to be confused with hyperglycemia, it’s a metabolic condition involving low blood sugar levels.

Chihuahuas use glucose for energy. The amount of glucose in a Chihuahua’s blood is represented by his blood sugar levels. The more glucose in the Chihuahua’s blood, the higher his blood sugar levels will be. Hypoglycemia is characterized by episodes during which the Chihuahua’s blood sugar levels fall below 60 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dl) or 3.3 millimoles per liter (mmol/L).

Chihuahuas have naturally high metabolic rates, which places them at risk for hypoglycemia. They consume more energy relative to their body size than larger dogs. Additionally, Chihuahuas have less glycogen to use for “backup energy.” These genetic characteristics increase the risk of hypoglycemia in Chihuahuas.

If your Chihuahua experiences a hypoglycemia episode, he may shake. Along with weakness and loss of appetite, shaking is an early sign of low blood sugar. If left untreated, hypoglycemia can lead to seizures and even death.

#4) Pain

Pain can cause Chihuahuas to shake. Like all dogs, Chihuahuas are adept at hiding pain. They’ve developed this trait over thousands of years.

Pain is a sign of weakness in the wild. It shows would-be predators that a dog is an easy target. To discourage predators from attacking them, the canine ancestors of modern-day Chihuahuas would hide their pain.

Unless your Chihuahua is in severe pain, he probably won’t yelp. He may, however, exhibit other, more inconspicuous signs, such as shaking. Maybe your Chihuahua is suffering from a toothache or arthritis, or perhaps he recently pulled a muscle. Regardless, if he’s in pain, your Chihuahua may shake.

Other signs your Chihuahua is experiencing pain include:

• Lack of appetite
• Excessive self-grooming
• Sensitivity to touch
• Heavy panting
• Pacing or circling
• Changes in gait
• Restlessness
• Lethargy

#5) Excitement

Excitement can cause Chihuahuas to shake. It’s a natural response to their heightened emotional state. When excited, adrenaline and other neurotransmitters will surge through the Chihuahua’s body. The sudden surge of these chemicals can manifest in the form of physical reactions, such as barking or shaking.

It doesn’t take a lot to excite a Chihuahua. Saying the word “treat,” for instance, is often enough to instill a sense of excitement. After your Chihuahua has learned this magic word, he will associate it with a tasty treat. Your Chihuahua may then shake until you’ve given him a treat.

Jingling your car keys may instill a similar sense of excitement. Most Chihuahuas love going on car rides. When they see and hear your car keys jingling, your Chihuahua may become excited knowing that he will be able to take a road trip. Not all Chihuahuas behave the same when excited, but many of them will shake in response to their weighted emotional state.

#6) Stress

You may notice your Chihuahua shaking if he’s stressed. Stress is a survival mechanism that’s attributed to their fight-or-flight response. Just like we become stressed when exposed to a potential threat, so do Chihuahuas. The perceived threat triggers the release of stress hormones, such as cortisol, that activate the Chihuahua’s survival instinct.

As levels of stress hormones increase, the Chihuahua will become energized and alert, which can help him survive the perceived threat. The Chihuahua will essentially prepare to either fight or flee from the threat, and he may shake until making this critical decision.

Common stressors that can cause Chihuahuas to shake include:

• Thunderstorms
• Fireworks
• Changes in daily routine
• Prolonged periods of confinement
• Veterinarian visits
• Separation from owner
• Social interaction with unfamiliar people and animals
• Lack of exercise
• Punishment-based training
• Grooming (nail trimming, ear cleaning, bathing, etc.)

#7) Illness

Illness is another common reason Chihuahuas shake. While they are considered generally healthy compared to other breeds, Chihuahuas can still succumb to a variety of diseases and medical conditions, some of which may result in shaking.

Infections can cause Chihuahuas to shake. Fever is a symptom of many viral and bacterial infections. As the invading pathogen spreads, the Chihuahua’s immune system will fight it with heat (among other things). The Chihuahua may then shake while his body temperature remains elevated.

Gastrointestinal distress can cause Chihuahuas to shake. Chihuahuas can experience an upset stomach that leaves them feeling nauseous or otherwise “under the weather. Some of them may eat grass to try and alleviate their upset stomach. Other Chihuahuas may simply shake until their stomach issues have subsided.

While not as common as infections and gastrointestinal distress, generalized tremor syndrome (GTS) can result in shaking. Also known as white shaker syndrome, it’s a nervous system disorder that involves full-body tremors. Chihuahuas with GTS will experience episodes in which their entire body shakes. Small dogs, especially those with a white coat, are more likely to experience GTS than larger dogs.

#8) Old Age

Senior Chihuahuas are more likely to shake than their younger counterparts. Chihuahuas have one of the longest lifespans in the canine kingdom, with many of them surpassing the two-decade mark. As they enter their golden years, though, they may exhibit new behaviors, such as shaking.

Age-related shaking is often attributed to muscle atrophy. All dogs, as well as humans, will lose some of their muscle mass as they grow older. Their bodies can’t maintain the same amount of muscle mass, so they burn it off. With less muscle mass, senior Chihuahuas may shake.

Senior Chihuahuas may shake due to osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease that involves the degradation of protective joint tissues. Chihuahuas have soft, protective cartilage within their joints. Over time, this cartilage may wear down, resulting in painful bone-on-bone contact.

Is It Normal for Chihuahuas to Shake?

Nearly all dogs will shake, and Chihuahuas are no exception. But their small size makes Chihuahuas particularly prone to shaking.

It’s normal for Chihuahuas to shake when they are cold. As previously mentioned, they have a high ratio of body surface area to body volume, so they lose their body heat faster than larger dogs. Shaking allows Chihuahuas to raise their body temperature through the expenditure of energy.

It’s normal for Chihuahuas to shake when they are wet. A water-logged coat is uncomfortable, and it increases the risk of hypothermia. Unless you dry your Chihuahua with a towel or hair dryer, he may attempt to dry himself by shaking.

It’s normal for Chihuahuas to shake when they are excited. Chihuahuas are full of energy, and many of them will get excited at the simplest things. In addition to jumping and vocalizing, they may express their excitement by shaking.

Shaking attributed to other causes is typically abnormal. It’s not uncommon for Chihuahuas to shake when they are in pain, stressed, ill or old. Causes such as these, however, indicate a problem.

What to Do If Your Chihuahua Shaking

If your Chihuahua is shaking, you should try to determine the cause. He may be trying to tell you that he needs help. Ignoring his plea may cause additional pain and suffering for your pint-sized companion.

Abnormal shaking requires action on your behalf. If your Chihuahua is shaking because he’s in pain or sick, take him to the veterinarian immediately. The veterinarian can treat your Chihuahua and alleviate his pain or illness.

If your Chihuahua is shaking because he’s stressed, you can either remove the stressor or desensitize your Chihuahua to it. Stressors are things that cause stress. With the stressor removed, your Chihuahua should no longer shake. Of course, some stressors are beyond your control, in which case you should focus on desensitizing your Chihuahua to those stressors.

For age-related shaking, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. You can’t roll back the hands of time, but there are ways to help your senior Chihuahua so that he doesn’t shake as much. Your veterinarian may recommend lifestyle changes to strengthen your Chihuahua’s muscles, or your veterinarian may recommend nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce joint inflammation.

If you aren’t sure why your Chihuahua is shaking — or if he doesn’t stop shaking — seek veterinary care.

Shaking and seizures aren’t the same. Seizures involve sudden and uncontrolled bursts of neurological activity. When a Chihuahua experiences a seizure, electrical activity will increase in his brain.

Symptoms can vary depending on the type of seizure. Focal seizures are isolated to one side of the brain, so they tend to have mild symptoms like dialed pupils and loss of vision and hearing. Generalized seizures, in comparison, involve increased electrical activity on both sides of the brain, which can lead to more severe and pronounced symptoms. During a generalized seizure, Chihuahuas may experience convulsions in which their muscles rapidly contract and relax.

Shaking and seizures differ in several ways. Chihuahuas maintain complete consciousness when shaking, whereas they may lose consciousness or become less aware of their surroundings during a generalized seizure.

Chihuahuas typically have some level of control over their muscles when shaking. Depending on the cause, they may not be able to fully stop shaking. Nonetheless, Chihuahuas can still walk and move their bodies when shaking. A generalized seizure may result in the loss of muscle control. If the Chihuahua experiences convulsions, he won’t be able to control his muscles.

In Conclusion

As an owner, you must distinguish between normal and abnormal shaking. Your Chihuahua may be shaking because he’s cold, wet or excited, all of which are normal. You don’t have to take any action if your Chihuahua’s shaking is attributed to any of these causes. But in cases of abnormal shaking, you should treat or resolve the underlying problem that’s causing this behavior.

Does your Chihuahua shake a lot? We’d love to hear about it in the comments section below!

Are you proud of your Chihuahua and want to show them off here on our site? If so, send us a picture or two and we’ll be more than happy to show them off at our photo gallery. After we receive the pictures, we’ll upload them to our photo gallery where they will be on display for all of our visitors to see. Just be sure to follow some of the basic rules and guidelines listed below.

There’s no denying the fact that owners love showing off their precious Chihuahuas, which is why we decided to add this feature to our site. ChihuahuaWardrobe.com was originally created as a go-to resource with information on Chihuahua training, health problems, grooming, breed statistics, etc. After receiving some feedback from our highly-valued visitors, we decided to start a photo gallery where members could send in pictures of their precious Chis.

Important Rules To Follow When Sending Your Chihuahua Pictures:

1. Please send no more than (3) pictures of your Chihuahua.
2. Each image with a maximum file size limit of 3 MB.
3. If you would us to display their name, please include this information along with the images. (optional)
4. It may take a couple days before your photos are uploaded to our site, so please be patient and bear with us.

Where Do I Send My Chihuahua Pictures?

Click here to send your pictures of your Chihuahua or mail them directly to [email protected] We’re pretty busy with making improvements and adding new content to our site, so it may take us a couple days to upload your images. Rest assured, though, each and every photo your submit will be reviewed by our staff and uploaded as long as follows the criteria listed here.

Where Will My Chihuahua Pictures Be Displayed?

Currently, we’re showing off visitor photos at our Chihuahua Pictures and Visitor Photo page. As we continue to receive submissions, we’ll be adding them here for our visitors to view as they please. In the future, we may start up a blog where your submissions could be on display as well.

Thanks again for visiting and we look forward to showing off your Chis!

chihuahuawardrobe.com

Like many modern-day dog breeds, much of the Chihuahua’s history is shrouded in mystery.

Where did the Chihuahua originate from? Were they brought over from Europe? Are they descendants of a different breed? Were they bred for a specific purpose like hunting rodents or herding livestock? While there’s no definitive answer to these questions, historians have concocted several theories on the Chihuahua’s history that we’re going to explore.

The State of Chihuahua, Mexico

Historians continue to speculate on the Chihuahua’s true origins, but most agree that it leads back to the state of Chihuahua Mexico. Spanning 95,544 mi² (247,460 km²) and bordering Texas and New Mexico to the northeast (see map below), Chihuahua is a the largest of Mexico’s 32 states. It was here where dog fanciers are believed to have discovered some of the earliest Chihuahua specimens in the mid-1800s.

In 1884, Mexican merchants began selling the small dog to border tourists, many of whom brought them back to the U.S. to keep as pets. Back then, the dog didn’t have an official name. Rather, people named it after the region in which it was seen. This resulted in the modern-day Chihuahua being called the Arizona dog, Texas dog, Mexico dog, and the Chihuahua dog. Of course, only one of these names withstood the hands of time, with the breed now being universally recognized as the Chihuahua.

The Techichi Theory

Historians generally accept the idea that some of the earliest Chihuahuas were discovered in Mexico in the late 1800s. It’s what happened before this period that continues to spark debates.

One of the most plausible theories is that the Chihuahua is a descendant of the Techichi, a small-framed companion dog domesticated by several pre-Columbian Mesoamerican civilizations and Native North American tribes. With an average weight of 10 to 20 pounds, the Techichi is roughly twice the size of the Chihuahua but shares many of its counterpart’s physical characteristics. Unlike the Chihuahua, the Techichi is believed to have been mute with only long coats (the Chihuahua has both short and long coats).

Maya and Toltec Civilizations

Following this theory, it’s safe to assume either the Maya (1800 BC to 900 AD) or Toltec (900 AD to 1150 AD) were the first to domesticate the Techichi. The Maya — not “Mayan” as some describe this civilization — viewed dogs as being guardians of the afterlife, using them in burial ceremonies and as a source of food. They would often sacrifice, mummify and bury dogs alongside their respective owners, believing their canine companions would join them in the afterlife. The Maya even had nine different words for dog in their language, some of which referred to specific varieties. It’s unknown which breeds the Maya domesticated, but historians believe it included the Techichi and the Xoloitzcuintli (Xolo) at the very least.

When archeologists unearthed ancient burial shafts in Colima, Mexico, they discovered effigy pots and sculptures dating back to 300 BC depicting a dog with striking similarities to the Chihuahua. Archeologists have also discovered wheeled dog toys in Central America dating back to 100 AD, showing both apple head and deer head varieties. These were likely two variations of the Techichi, suggesting a direct link with the modern-day Chihuahua.

Another piece of evidence reinforcing the Techichi theory lies in a 1,200-year-old Maya figurine depicting a woman holding a child in one hand and a small dog with Chihuahua-like characteristics in the other. This figurine can be found at New Orleans’ Tulane University.

The Maya civilization began to decline in 800 AD, giving rise to the Toltec by 900 AD. And like their predecessors, the Toltec also domesticated dogs for food and sacrificial purposes. Archeologists have discovered Toltec carvings of small dogs with rounded apple heads and erect ears, presumably the Techichi.

The Aztec and European Explorers

The Aztec rose to power shortly after the end of the Toltec civilization, establishing their capital of Tenochtitlán in 1325 AD. They viewed the Toltec as being the perfect example of a civilization, following many of their predecessor’s traditions, including both human and dog sacrifices. In an effort to appease their gods, they would sacrifice humans in blood-offering ceremonies. If humans weren’t available, the Aztec would sacrifice dogs, including the Techichi.

Like the Maya, Toltec and other Mesoamerican cultures, the Aztec believed that sacrificial dogs joined their owners in the afterlife. Furthermore, they believed diseases could be transferred from humans to dogs, curing the human in the process.

Several European explorers described the Techichi in written journals. After journeying to the New World in 1529, Franciscan priest and ethnographer Bernardino de Sahagún spent the next 50 years studying the Aztec culture. In his work, Sahagún wrote about the Aztec’s ceremonial practices, which included sacrificing the small dog.

“The deceased were burnt, encircled by all their clothing and belongings, but he who had nothing among his wretched belongings went bare, and underwent much pain and suffered much in order to pass the place of the obsidian-bladed winds. And also they caused him to carry a little dog, a yellow one, and they fixed about its neck a loose cotton cord. It was said that he (the dog) bore the dead one across the place of the nine rivers in the land of the dead.”

The Aztec emphasized color in their culture, viewing yellow as the color of death. According to Sahagún, they would sacrifice yellow-colored Techichis, believing the deceased canines would help them cross the ninefold river to Meitlantecutli. The Spanish conquistador Francisco Hernandez (died 1515) wrote about the Techichi being used as a food source by the Aztec, similar to the way in which Spaniards would eat rabbits.

Other written accounts by European explorers describe how the Aztec domesticated and used the Techichi as pets. In “The Natural and Moral History of the Indies,” Spanish Jesuit missionary José de Acosta (1540 to 1600) described the Aztec, whom were believed to be Indians at the time, feeding dogs and keeping them for company.

“The Indians so love these little dogs that they spare their meat to feed them, so when they travel in the country they carry them upon their shoulders or in their bosoms, and when they are sick they keep them with them but only for company.”

The Techichi, along with their native owners, didn’t fare well following the arrival of European colonizers. Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés (1485 to 1547) led a third expedition to the New World, which he partly funded using his own money. Cuba’s governor, Diego Velázquez de Cuéllar, attempted to cancel the expedition shortly before the ships sailed. Cortés ignored this order, however, embarking on a bloody conquest that would lead to the fall of the Aztecs while nearly eradicating the Techichi in the process.

Was the Techichi Crossed with Another Small Dog?

While many historians believe the Chihuahua is a descendant of the Techichi, others believe it’s a cross between the Techichi and a small hairless dog known as the Chinese Crested.

If you’re familiar with the World’s Ugliest Dog Competition, you’ve probably heard of this breed before. Held annually in Petaluma, California, it celebrates dogs for their “unique” appearance, rewarding the winning owner with $1,000 and a trophy. All dogs are eligible to participate, but the Chinese Crested continues to dominate the competition, winning year after year.

Photo of a Chinese Crested

Weighing an average of 10 to 13 pounds (4.5 to 1.4 kg), the Chinese Crested is smaller than many other breeds, albeit larger than the Chihuahua. Some historians believe it was crossed with the Techichi, resulting in the modern-day Chihuahua. Perhaps Chinese explorers or merchants brought the hairless dog to the Americas, but widespread Chinese immigration to Central and North America didn’t occur until the mid-to-late 1800s. If the Chinese didn’t land in the Americas until the 19th century, it would have been impossible for the Chinese Crested to cross with the native Techichi.

Well, several theories suggest China discovered the Americas before Christopher Columbus. If true, maybe some of these early Chinese explorers brought the Chinese Crested to Central America and/or North America, where it was later bred with the Techichi to create the Chihuahua. That’s a long shot to say the least, yet it’s still a possibility historians consider.

Other theories link the Chihuahua to the Xoloitzcuintli (Xolo), a small and mostly hairless dog that has roamed Mexico for thousands of years.

Fun Fact: The Xolo is the official dog of Mexico and was added back to the AKC’s list of official breeds in 2011.

Nonetheless, many historians reject the Chihuahua’s connection to any hairless breed, including the Xolo and Chinese Crested. These hairless breeds have rectangular heads and stiff tails, which is in stark contrast to the Chihuahua’s physical appearance.

Giorgio Armani, the first Xoloitzcuintli to be named best of its breed at the Westminster Dog Show

The European Descent Theory

Another possibility is that Chihuahuas originated from Europe, specifically the island country of Malta.

Nestled 50 miles (80 km) below Italy, this Mediterranean island was once home to a small dog, known as the Maltese pocket dog, which shared a distinct characteristic with the Chihuahua: an opening in the skull, also known as a molera or soft spot. Between 80% and 90% of all Chihuahuas are born with this undeveloped cranial gap.

Another piece of evidence connecting the Maltese pocket dog to the modern-day Chihuahua lies in the Sistine Chapel. In 1482, Italian Renaissance painter Sandro Botticelli completed a fresco on the second compartment of the south wall. Known as The Trials and Calling of Moses, this vibrant fresco depicts a boy holding a small dog with an uncanny resemblance to the modern-day Chihuahua.

One could argue that the Maltese pocket dog is actually the Techichi or Xolo brought over from Mexico, but Botticelli completed this fresco ten years before Christopher Columbus discovered the Americas. Therefore, it would have been impossible for him to know what the Techichi looked like.

Below is a photo of Botticelli’s The Trials and Calling of Moses, along with a closeup revealing the boy holding a small dog.

The dog certainly looks like a Chihuahua… What do you think?

The Trials and Calling of Moses Is the boy holding a Chihuahua? You be the judge.

DNA Evidence Sheds Light on Chihuahua’s Origin

A recent study involving the Chihuahua’s DNA may shed light on the breed’s origin. Researchers from the KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm, Sweden sought to investigate the origins of several modern-day American dog breeds, including the Chihuahua. For the study, researchers compared the Chihuahua’s mitochondrial DNA to Asian dogs, European dogs and archeological sites, looking to see if there was a connection.

Researchers did not find a link between the Chihuahua and any Asian or European dogs. They did, however, discover the Chihuahua’s unique DNA type in Mexican pre-Columbian samples, suggesting the breed — or perhaps its Techichi ancestor — was around in Mexico before the European explorers arrived.

You can access these findings in the Royal Society journal.

The Modern Chihuahua

One of the first detailed written accounts of the Chihuahua was by James Watson, a dog judge and writer who immigrated from Scotland to New York in the 1870s. When traveling to San Fransisco to attend a dog show in 1888, Watson stopped by El Paso and crossed the border into Mexico to investigate rumors of this talked-about breed. Here, he purchased a Chihuahua, whom he later named Manzanita, from a Mexican merchant for $5.

Watson returned soon after to buy several more Chihuahuas, including one of the first champions of the breed, Juarez Bell. He wrote about his new companions in The American Kennel Register and Country Life in America, describing them as being small enough to fit in his pocket.

In the 1890s, Mexico’s president gave the famous Italian-French opera singer Adelina Patti a bouquet of flowers in which a small Chihuahua was hidden. Patti felt an immediate connection with her new canine companion, taking Bonito across the country as she toured. At the time, many people had heard of Chihuahuas but never actually seen one. Patti changed the Chihuahua’s course in history by presenting this affectionate, fun-loving breed to the world.

Carl Lumholtz, Norwegian explorer and researcher of indigenous Mexican cultures, wrote about the Chihuahua in his two-volume set Unknown Mexico (1902). According to Lumholtz, the Chihuahua fetched “quite a price” by dog fanciers. He also described the breed as being timid with erect ears, prominent eyes and a small hole on the top of the skull. We did some math to determine exactly how much Chihuahuas cost back then, and after adjusting for inflation, we discovered that James Watson spent the modern-day equivalent of $133.03 for his Manzanita.

It wasn’t until 1904, however, when Texas resident H. Raynor registered the first Chihuahua, Midget, with the AKC. During that same year, three other Chihuahuas were registered with the AKC. And just a few years later, the AKC had its first champion. By 1915, 30 Chihuahuas were registered with the AKC.

The Chihuahua Club of America (CCA) was founded in 1923 to promote the breed and provide educational resources on health, grooming and general characteristics. In 1952, the CCA separated the breed into two different varieties: the smooth coat and long coat.

In 1928, the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) — Canada’s version of the AKC — added the Chihuahua to its list of officially recognized breeds. In 1948, the United Kennel Club (UKC) — the UK’s version of the AKC — followed suit by adding the Chihuahua to its list as well.

The Chihuahua’s Popularity Grows…

In the early-to-mid 1900s, owners preferred working dogs that could hunt, herd livestock, retrieve fowl and kill varmints. While affectionate and fun-loving, the Chihuahua lacked many of these functional traits. Instead, breeds such as the Collie, Boston Terrier, Beagle and Cocker Spaniel were chosen. This resulted in slow and seemingly stagnant growth for the Chihuahua’s popularity in the U.S.

The public’s perception of dogs began to shift in the 1960s. Rather than owning dogs for work purposes, people sought to own them for companionship — and the Chihuahua was the perfect canine companion. Word quickly spread about this pint-sized dog with a fierce yet loving personality, sparking a newfound popularity for the breed. In 1964, the Chihuahua ranked #12 based on AKC registrations. The AKC even lists the Chihuahua as one of the top 10 breeds of the 1960s. In the 1980s, some 25,000 were registered with the AKC.

In the mid-1990s, the fast food restaurant chain Taco Bell launched an innovative marketing campaign starring a talking Chihuahua named Gidget Chipperton. Voiced by Carlos Alazraqui, Gidget presented the Chihuahua to millions of Americans. So, in addition to increasing revenue and brand recognition for Taco Bell, the commercial campaign played a key role in the Chihuahua’s popularity, particularly in the U.S.

It’s safe to say Taco Bell’s advertising campaign introduced the Chihuahua to millions of Americans. In 1999, the Chihuahua ranked #7 based on AKC registrations. In 2000, it dropped to #8 on the list. In 2001 and 2002, the Chihuahua ranked #9. The Chihuahua’s rankings gradually declined thereafter, dropping to #11 in 2006, and #12 in 2007 and 2008.

In 2012, the Chihuahua ranked #18 based on AKC registrations. With the Chihuahua’s declining rank in AKC registrations, some people assume the breed is no longer popular, but this isn’t necessarily true. At the turn of the 20th century — when the AKC began recognizing the Chihuahua — it didn’t recognize many other breeds. Over the years, the AKC added more than a hundred breeds to its list. As of November 2016, the AKC recognizes 202 breeds. So while the Chihuahua may rank lower today in terms of registrations, this is partially because of the increasing number of recognized breeds.

The Chihuahua has also been popular in the U.K., Canada, Mexico and Australia. In 2008, the Chihuahua (smooth coat) ranked #17 in Canada based on CKC registrations. In 2013, it ranked #4 on the Fédération Cynologique Internationale’s (FCI) list of most registered breeds. In 2015, the Chihuahua (smooth coat) ranked #13 in the U.K. based on the UKC registrations.

Today, the Chihuahua consistently ranks as one of the most popular dog breeds in the U.S., Mexico, U.K., Canada, Australia, and many other countries.

What are your thoughts on the Chihuahua’s history? Let us know in the comments section below!

References:

http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/585352/Techichi

http://www.akc.org/about/archive/guide-collections/chihuahua-collection/

The Chihuahua (2012) by Susan Payne

Chihuahuas, Complete Pet Owner’s Manual (2013) by Caroline Coile Ph.D

As with any breed, a Chihuahua’s lifespan varies depending on a number of different factors (see below for a complete list). Some of these factors are controllable, whereas others are outside of owners’ control. Owners should familiarize themselves with these factors so they give their Chihuahua the longest, fullest life possible.

There’s no fool-proof method for predicting exactly how long they can live, but current data suggests that Chihuahuas live an average of 15 to 20 years when properly cared for by a loving owner.

Small breeds like the Chihuahua and Yorkshire Terrier live longer than medium-to-large breeds like the Labrador Retriever and Mastiff. Medium-to-large breeds have an average life expectancy of 10 to 13 years.

Does this mean all Chihuahuas live between 15 and 20 years? Not necessarily, but this is a good rule of thumb to follow.

Factors That Impact a Chihuahua’s Lifespan:

• Diet – a Chihuahua’s diet will directly impact their lifespan. Owners should feed their furry four-legged friends a nutritious, well-balanced premium dog food with no fillers, preservatives or artificial flavors. Avoid the temptation of feeding your Chihuahua leftover dinner scraps, as this can lead to obesity, toxicosis and other health problems.

• Weight – equally as influential in a Chihuahua’s lifespan is weight. Obese Chihuahuas are prone to a variety of adverse health conditions that may lower their average lifespan, including diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Underweight Chis may also experience a lower average lifespan due to malnutrition and a weakened immune system.

• Healthcare – it should come as no surprise that healthcare plays a role in a Chihuahua’s lifespan as well. Taking them to the veterinarian for routine checkups will promote a long, healthy life by diagnosing illnesses early, before they progress to life-threatening ailments. Most veterinarians recommend taking adult Chihuahuas between the ages of 7 and 10 for a wellness check once a year. If you have senior Chihuahua over the age of 10, however, you should take them for a wellness check twice a year.

• Genetics – “good genes” can lengthen a Chihuahua’s lifespan, which is why it’s important to pay close attention to a pup’s parents if you’re looking to adopt. If the parents are healthy, energetic and happy, their pups are more likely to live a long and healthy life.

• Spaying/neutering – Chihuahuas that are spayed and neutered tend to live longer than those that aren’t fixed. Neutering a male Chi before the age of year will decrease their risk of developing testicular and prostate cancers, and fixing female Chis before their first heat cycle can reduce their risk of developing uterine and ovarian cancers. Of course, there are other health benefits associated with spaying and neutering a Chihuahua, such as lowered aggression levels, reduced risk of running away, and fewer pups ending up in the pound.

• Vaccinations – Chihuahuas require vaccinations and follow-up booster shots to protect against potentially life-threatening diseases like the parvovirus, Leptospirosis, Bordetella bronchiseptica (kennel cough), canine influenza, distemper and rabies.

• Oral Care – like most small breeds, Chihuahuas are prone to dental problems like tooth decay, tooth toss and gum disease. Some studies suggest that as many as 9 out of 10 Chihuahuas will experience dental problems. Allowing your Chihuahua to suffer from poor oral health can reduce their lifespan. Bacteria enters the bloodstream through bleeding gums (caused by gingivitis) and goes straight to the heart and kidneys.

• Gender – statistically speaking, females live longer than their male counterparts. The exact cause of this longer average lifespan is unknown, but studies suggest female Chihuahuas live 1 to 2 years longer than males.

• Activity Levels – keeping your Chihuahua active is crucial to promoting a long, healthy life. Whether it’s playing fetch, tug-of-war (with a toy, of course), or going for a walk around the neighborhood, give your Chi plenty of daily exercise. Doing so will burn excess fat, build muscle, strengthen their immune system and ward off illness,  which can increase their average lifespan.

The World’s Oldest Chihuahua

The world’s oldest Chihuahua on record (keyword being on record) is Megabyte, who passed away on January 1, 2014, at the age of 20 years and 265 days. Other than the occasional news article and blog posts, details are scarce about Megabyte’s life; however, we know this full-bred Chihuahua lived 20 full years before passing away on New Year’s Day, 2014.

There have been several reports of Chihuahuas living to 20, 21 and even 22 years of age. These reports were never verified, and thus Megabyte retains his title as the world’s oldest Chihuahua.

Chihuahua Age In Human Years and Dog Years

*This chart can be used for all dogs under 20 pounds.

References:

http://users.pullman.com/lostriver/breeddata.htm

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_oldest_dogs

http://pets.webmd.com/dogs/features/dogs-and-life-span-which-breeds-live-longest

Potty-training is an essential process that every owner must go through with their Chihuahua. Unless you plan on keeping your furry four-legged friend in a fenced-in backyard (not recommended), you’ll have to teach them to use the bathroom outside the house and not inside. Unfortunately, however, Chihuahuas have a notorious reputation for being a breed that’s difficult and downright stubborn to housebreak. In fact, some owners throw in the flag and simply lay out pee pads for them instead. The truth is that practically any Chihuahua, no matter how old they are, can be potty-trained when it’s done correctly and under the right circumstances.

Although Chihuahuas can be successfully potty-trained at any age, it’s recommended that you start as soon you bring them into your home, preferably when they are still a puppy. During the first 6-12 months of a Chihuahua’s life, their brains are developing at a rapid pace; therefore, they will naturally catch on to routines and consistency. You can use this to your advantage by instilling the basic potty-training commands in your Chihuahua’s head. When they learn these principles at an early age, it will stay with them well into their adult years, making the potty-training process easier for the both of you.

Chihuahua Potty-Training – Where Should I Start?

It’s easy to feel lost and confused when you first bring your Chihuahua home. You’re busy preparing their bed, making sure they have food and water, and you’re probably playing them with, too. While all of this fine, you need to place potty-training at the top of your list of priorities. As stated above, it’s crucial that you begin teaching them the basics of where using the bathroom is acceptable and where it’s not.

Before you start attempting to potty-train your Chihuahua, you’ll need to pick up a few basic items first. These items are necessary to encourage good behavior, as well as prevent bad behavior. Here are the things you’ll need:

• 1-2 boxes of small milk bone treats for rewarding good behavior.
• A crate that’s just large enough for your Chihuahua to stand up and turn around in.
• A small, comfortable bed with a couple soft blankets.
• A soft, non-abrasive collar with a leash that’s at least 10-feet long.

Note: This isn’t an entire list of everything you need to own a Chihuahua, but rather a list of items that will come in handy when potty-training your Chihuahua.

Potty-Training Basics

One of the key factors to successfully potty-training your Chihuahua is letting them know when they do something bad. When you see them do their business on the floor inside your home, quickly walk over to them and immediately say “No!” or “Bad boy/girl!” You should never physically spank or hit your Chihuahua, as this may injure them and make it more difficult to train them. Instead, stick with a strong verbal statement, letting them know that what they did is unacceptable. Chihuahuas are quite emotional, and verbally telling them “no” while pointing at them is all it takes to get the message across.

No matter how hard you try to prevent it, accidents will happen. It’s an inevitable part of owning any indoor dog, regardless of breed, so don’t expect your Chihuahua to be any different. After you see them peeing or pooping inside the house, tell them “No!” and walk them outside. While you’re walking them, say something along the lines of “go potty” or “go pee-pee,” as this will help them associate the words with the actual behavior. It may take some time, but remain patient and wait for them to do their business. When they are good and use the bathroom outside, give them a milk bone treat along with lots of petting and praise as a reward for their good behavior. Treats go a long ways when it comes to potty-training and obedience training, so use them to your advantage.

Another little trick I’ve learned that helps to potty-train a Chihuahua is to always take them to the same place outside to do their business. Chihuahuas have a keen sense of smell and will be able to tell where they’ve used the bathroom before. When they come across an area where they’ve already used the bathroom, they will notice the scent and assume it’s okay to use the bathroom here again. You can begin walking your Chihuahua to other parts of the yard once they are older and fully potty-trained, but stick to a designated area during their early puppy years.

Chihuahua Crate Training

Some owners are under the impression that forcing a small Chihuahua to stay cooped up inside a crate is cruel and inhumane. After all, how fun can it be to remain stuck inside a crate where you can barely move around? The fact is, however, that a crate gives your Chihuahua their own personal space in which they can call home. There’s a certain sense of security they begin to feel and associate with their crate, and chances are they grow to enjoy being inside it. As the owner of three Chihuahuas myself, I frequently find my Chis hiding in their crates even with they are allowed to roam the house free.

The reason why crates are such an effective potty-training tool is because you can confine them to it anytime you’re unable to watch them. Instead of “hoping” your Chihuahua doesn’t use the bathroom inside the house, you can rest assured knowing they are safely confined to their crate. Naturally, most Chihuahuas won’t use the bathroom in the same crate where they sleep and rest. If they have to use the bathroom, they will try to hold it until you let them outside. This works in your favor, as it lets your Chihuahua develop the skills necessary to hold their pee until you take them outside. Just remember to never leave a Chihuahua in a crate for long periods of time.

References:

https://www.aspca.org/news/house-training-your-dog-or-puppyhttp://pets.thenest.com/potty-train-teacup-chihuahua-3559.html

https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/how-potty-train-your-dog-or-puppy

Biting is an instinctual characteristic shared by all dogs, and Chihuahuas are no exception.

Long before we domesticated them, dogs have used their teeth to kill prey, improve jaw strength, fend off predators, establish dominance in their pack’s social hierarchy, and play with other canines. Modern-day dogs have inherited this behavior from their ancestors, biting when provoked or otherwise stimulated. Unfortunately, this often results in owners, family members or complete strangers getting bit — behavior that should not be allowed.

Is a Biting Chihuahua Really That Bad?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 4.7 million dog bites occur in the U.S. each year, 800,000 of which require medical attention. Because of their small size, however, many owners turn a blind eye to their Chihuahua’s biting. After all, how much harm can a 5-pound Chihuahua really cause?

While a bite from a Chihuahua isn’t going to inflict the same damage as a bite from a larger dog like a pit bull or boxer, it can still leave a painful wound that’s prone to infection. There’s an old myth that a dog’s mouth is cleaner than a human’s mouth, but this isn’t a true. A dog’s saliva may contain one or more disease-causing pathogens, including Pasteurella multocida, Pasteurella canis, Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, and Capnocytophaga canimorsus. When a Chihuahua bites, germs such as these can enter through the wound and cause an infection.

Biting is also a financial liability for the owner. If someone is bitten by your Chihuahua while visiting your home, the victim could sue for the cost of medical bills, pain and suffering, and other related expenses. According to the Insurance Information Institute (III) and State Farm, roughly one-third of all homeowner’s insurance claims paid out in 2014 and 2015 involved dog bites.

Furthermore, it’s usually children between the ages of 5 and 9 who are bitten by dogs. Their small size, erratic movements, and inability to identify a dog’s temperament makes them a prime target for an attack. Children and Chihuahuas can safely coexist in the same home, but only after teaching both the boundaries of acceptable behavior.

Why Chihuahuas Bite

Chihuahuas possess innate behavioral traits passed down from their ancestors, including biting. Even the most docile “lap-friendly” Chihuahua can bite when pushed to the edge. To prevent this unacceptable behavior, owners must familiarize themselves with some of the reasons why Chihuahuas bite.

Teething

A Chihuahua puppy’s baby teeth (milk teeth) will erupt through his gums at 3 to 5 weeks of age, allowing the pup to transition from mother’s milk to dry food. To relieve the discomfort associated with this developmental process, puppies will bite and chew on just about anything they can get their paws on, including toys, socks, shoes, carpet, rugs or even your hand.

This behavior will continue until all 28 baby teeth have erupted. Your Chihuahua’s biting and chewing habits may return when his adult teeth erupt — usually occurring around 3 to 4 months of age.

Because of his young age, a puppy’s bite isn’t going to inflict much damage, nor does he intend to cause damage. Nonetheless, it’s important to begin teaching your Chihuahua early that biting is not acceptable.

Follow these tips to control your Chihuahua’s biting during the teething stage:

• Allow but don’t encourage your Chihuahua to bite your fingers.
• Teach bite inhibition by pulling your hand away saying “Ouch! That hurts!” when your Chihuahua bites too hard. This is the single most important thing you can do (we explain in greater detail below).
• Fill ice cube trays with low-sodium chicken or beef broth and place them in the freezer. Once frozen, offer the cool treat to your teething Chihuahua.
• Chilled carrots are an excellent and nutritious treat for a teething Chihuahua.
• Divert your Chihuahua’s chewing away from things like shoes and carpet by providing them proper toys. Rope toys are great because they can withstand countless hours of chewing. Kong toys are some of the toughest dog toys on the market, making them perfect for a teething Chihuahua. You can even fill them with water and freeze it for added relief of sore gums.
• Avoid plush toys, as they offer little-to-no relief of sore gums and are easily torn apart.

Maternal Aggression

Female Chihuahuas are more likely to bite during the first 2-3 weeks after giving birth. Known as maternal aggression, this behavior is the result of powerful chemical alterations occurring throughout her body, including increased production of the hormones oxytocin and prolactin, and decreased production of progesterone.

Known as the “love hormone,” oxytocin is released by the hypothalamus section of the brain and is associated with maternal bonding, nurturing and attachment. It’s used to stimulate contractions during labor, helping the fetus move through the birth canal.

Levels of the calming hormone progesterone decrease when a female Chihuahua is about to give birth, triggering increased production of the hormone prolactin. In addition to stimulating milk production, prolactin is associated with nesting and maternal instinct. Veterinary experts believe prolactin is also primarily responsible for the behaviors exhibited by female dogs during pseudopregnancy. These hormonal changes experienced by a female Chihuahua during pregnancy, or shortly after, can make her more aggressive.

You shouldn’t attempt to correct a female Chihuahua’s maternal aggression, but rather keep your distance until her hormones go back to normal. If you need to inspect or weigh her puppies, wait until she leaves her nesting area for food or water. Her aggression should gradually fade with each passing day after giving birth, with her behavior returning to normal within 3 to 4 weeks.

Pain-Induced Aggression

Chihuahuas have a natural instinct to protect themselves from danger. When a Chihuahua experiences pain, he may lash out and bite the person nearest to him, regardless of whether that individual caused the pain. He doesn’t know who or what caused the pain, but his natural fight-or-flight instinct tells him to lash out at the nearest person or animal.

According to a study of 13 dogs conducted by researchers at Autonomous University, Barcelona, pain-inducted aggression was identified in all dogs. “Dogs that had never been aggressive before the onset of pain began to behave in this way in situations where an attempt is made to control them,” explained lead researcher Tomàs Camps. This study was published in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior— Clinical Applications and Research.

If your Chihuahua suffers from a medical condition like patellar luxation, which is common in this breed, he may exhibit aggressive behavior when touched in the affected knee. Owners and family members should use caution when handling a Chihuahua who’s suffering from painful physical conditions or injuries to avoid being bit.

A Chihuahua doesn’t necessarily have to be suffering from an injury or medical condition to exhibit pain-induced aggression. Toy breeds are most susceptible to pain-induced aggression because of their small size and heightened sensitivity towards pain. If a child (or adult) presses pulls, pinches or pushes your Chihuahua with too much force, he or she may get bit.

Signs that your Chihuahua is in pain may include:

• Aggressive behavior
• Flattened ears
• Loss of appetite
• Not interested in playing
• Reluctance to accept treats
• Yelping, whining or growling when touched (reactions such as these typically occur when a specific spot is touched)
• Difficulty jumping and climbing stairs
• Heavy panting
• Excessive paw-licking
• Difficulty sleeping

If you believe your canine companion is suffering from pain, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian ASAP. After performing an examination, your veterinarian can help to identify the cause of the pain and offer advice on treatment and pain medication options.

Past Abuse

According to the study “Behavioral and Psychological Characteristics of Canine Victims of Abuse” published in the Journal of Applied Animal Welfare Science (JAAWS), dogs with a history of past abuse were more likely to exhibit aggressive behavior towards unfamiliar people and unfamiliar dogs.

If you adopted a Chihuahua from a shelter or rescue, perhaps his biting is the result of abuse by a former owner. You can check with the organization from which you adopted your Chihuahua to see if there’s any history of abuse, but many cases go unreported. 

Whether it’s physical abuse, social isolation, yelling/verbal punishment, confinement to a chain, or removing the pup from its mother too early, abuse comes in many different forms. Some Chihuahuas recover quickly from such abuse, while others have lasting emotional scars that sow the seeds for aggressive behavior.

Teaching a Chihuahua with past abuse to trust humans again isn’t an easy task, nor will it happen overnight. With time, patience, dedication and lots of affection, however, you can help your Chihuahua overcome these negative feelings.

Fear

Chihuahua is more likely to bite another animal or person if he fears for his safety. Veterinarians are often the target of such aggression, simply because dogs are fearful of unfamiliar people and situations. When you take your Chihuahua to see a new veterinarian for the first time, he may growl and nip during the examination. The veterinarian isn’t going to harm your canine companion, but he or she is still perceived as a potential threat.

Because the victims of fear bites are typically strangers, owners should tell strangers not to pet or otherwise touch their Chihuahua. It’s not uncommon for strangers to stop and pet dogs at the park. In doing so, they place themselves at risk of being bitten. If you walk your Chihuahua in a park or other public area, politely decline any requests to pet your canine companion, unless your Chihuahua is familiar with the individual.

Socialization is key to nipping fear-inducted biting in the bud.

Territorial

Chihuahuas have a natural instinct to protect what they believe is their property, including toys, food, treats, water, beds, people and home. Known as territorial aggression, a Chihuahua is more likely to bite another person or animal if that person or animal encroaches upon their property. The purpose of this isn’t to harm the individual but to make him or her go away.

A prime example of territorial aggression is when a postal worker delivers mail to a home, only to get chased and potentially bitten by the homeowner’s dog. According to a report by the United States Postal Service (USPS), 6,549 of its employees were attacked by dogs in 2015. The dog perceives the postal worker as encroaching upon HIS territory, so his natural instinct is to chase the postal worker away.

Preventing bites from territorial aggression begins with teaching your Chihuahua that it’s YOUR property and that YOU will protect it. If he acts aggressively when a stranger knocks on the door, show him that it’s okay by asking a friend to come over and knock and enter through the front door, rewarding your Chihuahua with a treat afterward.

If your Chihuahua is aggressive in a particular area, such as the corner of the living room, give him access to the area only when he’s not displaying signs of aggression. You can do the same if he’s aggressive around a toy, taking the toy away and giving it back when he’s docile. Some experts also recommend making dogs “work” for their toys and property by performing basic obedience commands like sit or heel, after which the dog is rewarded with the toy or item. Along with regular socialization and positive reinforcement, this can put an end to territorial aggression.

To prevent territorial aggression around food, carefully approach your Chihuahua with a treat while he’s eating. He should stop eating momentarily to accept the treat, after which you should walk away and wait a few minutes before returning with another treat. This shows your Chihuahua that it’s not always bad when someone enters his territory.

Illness

Certain illnesses and diseases may trigger aggressive behavior in Chihuahuas. Hypothyroidism is one such disease that can make an otherwise docile dog more likely to bite. Located next to the larynx (voice box), the thyroid gland is a small gland that’s responsible for producing thyroid hormones, which regulate healthy metabolic functions. Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough of these hormones.

While hypothyroidism occurs mostly in larger breeds, Chihuahuas may develop it as well. A simple blood test performed at the veterinarian’s office can reveal whether your Chihuahua is suffering from this disease. Thyroid hormone supplements like Levothyroxine (Soloxine) are often prescribed to treat hypothyroidism in dogs.

Symptoms of hypothyroidism may include:

• Aggressive behavior
• Lethargy
• Hair loss and excessive shedding
• Sudden weight gain
• Hyperpigmentation of the skin
• High cholesterol
• Anemia

Lyme disease is another disease that’s been linked to aggressive behavior in dogs. Transmitted through the bite of an infected tick, it can cause swollen joints, swollen lymph nodes, lethargy, loss of appetite, as well as neurological symptoms like irritability, confusion and aggression. However, only 5-10% of dogs with Lyme disease show symptoms.

There’s a vaccine available for Lyme disease, but many veterinarians recommend traditional tick prevention methods instead due to the risk of adverse reactions from vaccination.

Teaching Your Chihuahua Not to Bite

There’s no universal training technique that will stop all Chihuahuas from biting. Dogs bite for many reasons, and the method for stopping this behavior varies depending on the trigger. With that said, the following tips can greatly reduce many instances of biting and other forms of aggression in Chihuahuas.

Don’t Punish for Growling

Many owners scold or otherwise punish their Chihuahuas for growling. In doing so, they eliminate a key warning sign that precedes biting. If you teach your Chihuahua that growling is bad, perhaps he’ll bite without warning the next time he’s provoked. The possibility of biting is still there, but the warning sign — growling — is removed.

Allowing your Chihuahua to growl may sound counterproductive if you’re trying to teach him not to bite, but it’s actually beneficial. Owners can teach their children to back away from the Chihuahua when he growls to avoid getting bit.

Growling may also reveal the cause of his aggression. If your Chihuahua growls when picked up, perhaps he’s suffering from a painful injury or medical condition. If he growls when another pet approaches his crate, his aggression is territorial.

Teach Bite Inhibition

Bite inhibition refers to a dog’s ability to control the force of his bite. When you give your Chihuahua a treat, for instance, he shouldn’t bite your hand using the full strength of his jaw. If he knows bite inhibition, he’ll accept the treat more cautiously to prevent injuring you. The goal isn’t to prevent your Chihuahua from biting, but rather to teach him to control the force of his of bite.

Puppies learn bite inhibition at an early age while nursing and playing with their littermates. If a puppy bites one his littermates too hard, the littermate may let out a high-pitched yelp, saying “You bit me too hard — and it hurt!” The same goes for puppies while nursing: biting the mother too hard may cause her to get up and walk away. If a puppy wants to play and nurse, he must learn to control his bite.

This is one of the reasons why puppies should stay with their mother for at least eight weeks. If a puppy is removed too early, he’s less likely to develop bite inhibition through playing and nursing. The same goes for singletons who are born without playmates.

Here are the three rules to follow when teaching bite inhibition:

1. Respond to forceful bites. When your Chihuahua bites too hard, respond by pulling your hand away and saying “Ouch, that hurt!” You should then ignore him for the next few minutes to discourage forceful biting.
2. Be consistent with your training efforts. Consistency is key when teaching your Chihuahua bite inhibition. If you respond with a loud “Ouch” on one occasion but not the next, it confuses him by sending mixed messages.
3. Reinforce into adulthood. Bite inhibition is best taught at an early age, while the puppy is still young. However, you should continue to reinforce it well into your Chihuahua’s adulthood.

Socialization

Chihuahuas are much more likely to exhibit aggressive behavior if they aren’t socialized. When a Chihuahua isn’t exposed to other people, animals and environments, he’s likely to develop fear-induced aggression, such as biting an unfamiliar person’s hand. 

One study conducted by researchers from Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University found that unsocialized puppies were 580 times more likely to develop aggression problems later in life.

The idea behind socialization is to show your Chihuahua that other people and animals aren’t bad, preferably while he’s still a puppy. Puppies are most sensitive to socialization between the ages of 3 and 16 weeks, making this is a critical time to prevent aggression. If your Chihuahua has positive experiences with other people and animals at a young age, he’ll develop a more relaxed disposition towards unfamiliar faces in the future.

Here are some tips to follow when socializing your Chihuahua:

• Make sure your Chihuahua is up to date on his vaccinations before exposing him to other people and animals.
• Take a trip to the pet store with your Chihuahua.
• Bring your Chihuahua on car trips (just don’t leave him in the car).
• Go on walks with your Chihuahua, such as dog parks, around the neighborhood, wooded trails, etc.
• Play fetch with your Chihuahua outdoors.
• When taking your Chihuahua to a dog park, walk him around the outside of the fence first.
• Take your Chihuahua to friends’ and family members’ homes.
• Invite friends or family members over to your home, encouraging them to play with your Chihuahua.
• Sign up for a group-based obedience training class.
• Reward your Chihuahua with a treat after each socialization experience.

Spaying/Neutering

Spaying or neutering may reduce aggression in Chihuahuas. According to a study conducted by researchers from the University of California, intermale aggression was reduced in 60% of male dogs by neutering, with a rapid reduction of aggression in 25% and a gradual reduction in 35%.

Neutering results in lower levels of testosterone, reducing behavior associated with this hormone such as urinating to mark territory, hyperactivity, running away, and aggression.

Spaying a female Chihuahua eliminates her heat cycle, and subsequently the behaviors associated with going into heat. It may also reduce female hormone-driven behavior, including nest guarding in pseudopregnancy.

In the past, it was widely believed that neutering male dogs before puberty was necessary to prevent these behavioral problems. A study cited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AMVA), however, suggests that neutering male dogs in adulthood is just as effective at reducing aggression as neutering before puberty.

Professional Help for Biting and Aggression

When all else fails, seek professional help for your Chihuahua’s behavior. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) recommends consulting with a Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist (CAAB) or a board-certified veterinary behaviorist.

Alternatively, you can seek professional help from a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT) or member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT).

The bottom line is that you shouldn’t throw in the towel just because your previous training efforts have failed.

References:

https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/stop-your-dogs-chewing

https://www.cesarsway.com/nipping-nipping-in-the-bud

It’s not uncommon for Chihuahuas to pick up ticks when they are running and playing outside. Once a tick falls into their fur, it will bite down and begin feasting on the Chihuahua’s blood. Ticks will fall off in 2-4 days when they are full of blood, but most veterinarians advise owners to remove ticks manually. If you’ve noticed a tick on your Chihuahua, remove it by following the steps listed here.

Allowing a tick to remain on your Chihuahua will leave them vulnerable to disease and infection. Lyme disease (Lyme borreliosis) is one such disease that’s transmitted to both dogs and humans through tick bites.  Although transmission only occurs in about 1% of bites, Lyme disease is both painful and dangerous, especially in a small Chihuahua. The good news is that you can drastically reduce the chance of infection by removing ticks from your Chihuahua within 24 hours of attachment.

Inspect Your Chihuahua For Ticks

Check your Chihuahua for ticks by slowly running your hand against their fur so you can see their skin. If you run your hands across a tick, it will likely feel like a small, hard bump. Perform a close inspection of any bumps you find to determine whether or not it’s a tick (see image to the left). Ticks are small arachnids, meaning they have 8 legs, and they are usually either black or brown in color.

Some Chihuahuas — especially the smooth-coat varieties — are easier to check for ticks than others. A visual inspection is oftentimes enough to identify ticks lingering on a smooth-coat Chihuahua. For long-coat varieties, though, you need to run your hands through their fur to feel for any ticks. A grooming brush or comb may also help with identifying ticks on your Chihuahua.

Step #1 – Preparation

Before you start pulling and tugging away at the tick, you’ll need to gather some items. Gather a pair of tweezers, some latex gloves and some triple antibiotic ointment. Also, fill a disposable cup with a small amount of rubbing alcohol (used to kill the tick). Make sure all of these items are in place and proceed to the next step.

Step #2 – Removal

Sit down in a well-lit room and gently pull back your Chihuahua’s fur to locate the tick. Use your tweezers to grab the tick’s head as close to your Chihuahua’s skin as possible. Ticks forcefully attach themselves to their host, so you’ll need to clamp down hard with the tweezers to remove it. With their head clamped in the tweezers, pull the tick directly out and away from your Chihuahua’s body. Don’t jerk or twist the tick, but instead pull it directly out in a straight motion.

Step #3 – Disposal

Contrary to what some people may believe, flushing a tick down the toilet does not always kill it. Rather than flushing your tick down the toilet or throwing it in the trash, place it inside a disposable cup of rubbing alcohol, which will kill it within seconds. Please remember to only use a disposable cup to avoid spreading germs into your normal drinking cups. Let the tick sit in the rubbing alcohol for at least 20-30 minutes before flushing it down the toilet.

Step #4 – Cleaning & Rewarding

Once you’ve removed the tick from your Chihuahua, cover the wound with a small amount of triple antibiotic ointment. You can expect the area to remain red and slightly swollen for up to 2 weeks, but using antibiotic ointment will speed up the healing process while reducing the chance of infection. However, you should only use a very small amount, as some Chihuahuas may attempt to lick it off.

Lastly, give your Chihuahua a treat as a reward for everything they’ve endured. Removing ticks from a Chihuahua is typically painless, but it’s still a traumatizing experience that they don’t fully understand. Rewarding them afterward with a treat will make them forget about this unpleasant experience.

Tick Warnings and Tips For Chihuahua Owners:

• Closely monitor the tick bite area over the next 2 weeks for signs of infection.
• Soak the tweezers in a ‘fresh’ cup of rubbing alcohol after removing the tick.
• Baby ticks are as small as the tip of a pen.
• Products such as Frontline Plus are effective at killing both fleas and ticks.
• Don’t attempt to remove ticks with a hot match, as this will only encourage it to bite down harder while secreting more saliva into your Chihuahua.
• Never pull a tick from your Chihuahua using your bare hands. Instead, use a pair of tweezers or a tick removal tool.

References:

https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/what-do-if-you-find-tick-your-dog

https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/fleas-and-ticks