Chihuahuas have become very popular members of households all over the world. Their small size fits into any living space and their big personality fills homes with joy. While they do live longer than larger breeds, Chihuahuas are prone to a few health problems. The following are the top 3 health concerns for Chihuahuas of which owners of Chihuahuas and people thinking about getting one should be aware.
#1 – Luxating Patella
Although they are small, for some reason one of the major problems with Chihuahuas are luxating patellas. This is when the kneecaps (rear legs) are loose and slip out of their grooves. The severity varies from dog to dog. It can be hereditary or caused by jumping too high, being overweight, or anything else that causes stress on the patella.
#2 – Dental Issues
Chihuahuas are known for having ridiculously bad breath. Unfortunately, that bad breath is a symptom of a host of dental issues your Chihuahua may have. Their mouth is often too small for their teeth, causing overlaps where food gets trapped. They can develop all sorts of dental issues including plaque, tarter buildup, and premature tooth loss. Having your Chihuahua’s teeth checked out is essential because these problems can lead to infection that can cause bacteria to get to the heart, kidney, and liver. It can travel to the brain and lead to death.
#3 – Hypoglycemia
Common in younger Chihuahuas, hypoglycemia happens when your Chihuahua is burning off more energy than he is consuming. They are prone to this due to the small size of their stomach and the fact that some Chihuahuas are finicky eaters. It can lead to death if left untreated. If you notice signs of hypoglycemia including trouble walking, glass eyes, limpness or stiffness, take your pup to the vet immediately.
