What Are The Most Common Chihuahua Health Issues?

Bold and confident in spite of their small size, Chihuahuas often have big-dog attitudes. They can be fearless and assertive, as well as vocal and alert. This makes Chihuahuas excellent watchdogs. Chihuahuas require regular exercise, although their small size means they can get most or all of it indoors. However, Chihuahuas, are prone to certain health conditions, we will explain the most common Chihuahua health issues below.

Common Chihuahua Health Problems

Below are the Top 10 Chihuahua health problems, along with handy insights on how to identify these issues, treatment options, and how to help prevent them.

#1:Dental Problems

Because of their small mouths and crowded teeth, Chihuahuas are prone to dental problems such as:

1. Retained Puppy Teeth: Chihuahuas sometimes don’t lose their baby teeth, which  causes overcrowding in their mouth, leading to dental problems if not treated.
2. Impacted Teeth: If any adult teeth don’t erupt, they are buried in the jaw and eventually form cysts, resulting in pain and potential jaw damage
3. Gingivitis: Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease that’s caused by a buildup of plaque, causing irritation and inflammation of the gums.
4. Malocclusions: Abnormal bites, including overbites or underbites, may cause teeth to rub against soft tissues or other teeth, resulting in injury or excessive wear.
5. Plaque and Tartar Buildup: The crowded placement of a Chihuahua’s teeth can lead to an accumulation of tartar and plaque, and potentially to periodontal problems.

 When It Develops

Dental problems in Chihuahuas may develop early. Some symptoms and signs of periodontal disease might show up as early as one year of age. By their second birthday, a lot of  Chihuahuas begin displaying significant signs of dental issues. However, more noticeable issues usually start around four years old.

How To Spot Symptoms

Symptoms of Dental Issues in Chihuahuas include:

1. Red or swollen gums: Bleeding or inflamed gums.
2. Bad breath: Foul odor from the dog’s mouth.
3. Difficulty eating: Loss of appetite, weight loss due to pain, dropping food.
4. Blood in the mouth: Blood in their mouth or on chew toys.
5. Loose or wiggly teeth: Teeth that move or seem loose and unstable.
6. Excessive drooling: More drooling than normal.

Treatment

Treatment for dental issues in Chihuahuas may include professional attention from a vet and/or treatment at home. These treatments may be in order: Regular vet check-ups, brushing the dog’s teeth, providing dental chew toys that help remove plaque, extraction of diseased teeth, and a high quality diet.

Prevention

Here are some preventative steps that may help prevent or manage dental problems in Chihuahuas:

• Vet Check-ups: Regular check-ups with a vet are important for detection and subsequent treatment of dental problems.
• Professional Cleanings: Professional dental cleanings at regular intervals can help maintain oral health.
• Regular Brushing: Use a dog specific toothbrush and toothpaste to brush your Chihuahua’s teeth in order to help prevent plaque buildup.
• Dental Chews: Dental chews for small dogs help clean teeth and also reduce a build-up of tartar.

#2:  Luxating Patella

Patellar luxation is an orthopedic condition that’s characterized by the kneecap slipping out of the femoral groove. As the kneecap repeatedly slips in and out of the femoral groove, the cartilage in this groove will gradually wear down. The kneecap normally sits in a groove lined with cartilage at the bottom of the femur. Even when Chihuahuas stretch their legs, all of their kneecaps will usually stay within the groove of the femur.

Patellar luxation, though, involves the kneecap slipping out of that shallow groove. Patellar luxation can occur in all dogs, but it’s particularly common in toy breeds, such as the Chihuahua. Only the hind legs are affected by this condition.

When It Develops

This depends on the type of luxating patella:

• Congenital: Some Chihuahuas are born with a predisposition to patellar luxation. In these instances, the issue may be noticeable by the time the puppy is around four to six months of age.
• Developmental: In these cases, a luxating patella might develop over a period of time due to such factors as obesity, trauma, or genetic predisposition. It may not  not become obvious until the Chihuahua is older, possibly not until the dog is an adult.

How To Spot Symptoms

Here are some symptoms of Luxating Patella in Chihuahuas:

• A bow-legged posture where the knees of the hind legs are spaced apart, with the paws close together
• A knock-knee posture where both hind legs are tilted inward at the knees
• Shaking a hind leg before putting pressure on it
• Unable to bend a knee
• Holding up a hind leg while walking
• Hesitation to jump

Treatment

Both medical as well as surgical intervention may be needed to treat Luxating Patella in Chihuahuas. Here are some types of treatments:

•  Physiotherapy
• Joint Supplements
• Hydrotherapy
• Turmeric
• Surgery

Prevention

There isn’t much that can reasonably be done to prevent Luxating Patella in Chihuahuas. Here are a few things that may prove helpful:

• Regular Check-ups: Scheduling regular vet check-ups can be helpful in diagnosing a Luxating Patella in its early stage, so that treatment can be started.
• Weight Control: Feed your Chihuahua a healthy diet and make sure it gets appropriate exercise.
• Responsible Breeding: As Chihuahuas are genetically susceptible to Patellar Luxation, always observe responsible breeding practices and don’t breed dogs with the condition.

#3. Hypoglycemia In Chihuahuas

Hypoglycemia, also called low blood sugar, is a common condition in Chihuahuas, and can be quite serious, even life threatening. Puppies and small breed dogs such as Chihuahuas are especially prone to it. Hypoglycemia might be brought on by a small body size. Chihuahuas, for instance, are physically small plus they have a fast metabolism and small glycogen storage, which makes them susceptible to low blood sugar.

Inadequate nutrition, such as not eating enough food or by waiting too long between meals can cause a Chihuahua’s blood sugar levels to drop. Stress, anxiety and excitement can also trigger a hypoglycemic event. Illness may be a contributing factor, as well, along with too much exercise.

When It Develops

There is no set time frame for Chihuahuas to develop Hypoglycemia. However, certain situations and periods of their life increase the risk.

Puppies

• Age: Puppies have the highest incidence of Hypoglycemia, particularly those less than three months old. They’re especially susceptible then due to their small size and higher energy needs.
• Weaning: The period when a puppy is transitioning from nursing to solid food may be a time of high risk for hypoglycemia, as puppies may not be eating enough or get the nutrients they need.

Adult Chihuahuas

• Poor Nutrition: A diet that is inadequate and/or an irregular feeding schedule may cause low blood sugar
• Illness: Underlying health problems, such as gastrointestinal issues, infections, or liver disease, may predispose an adult Chihuahua to low blood sugar.
• Stress: Stressful conditions, including a change in its environment, vigorous activity, or travel, might trigger hypoglycemia in an adult Chihuahua.

How To Spot Symptoms

Symptoms of Hypoglycemia in Chihuahuas include:

• Seizures or fainting
• Trembling or shivering
• Excessive salivation
• Lethargy and weakness
• Disorientation or confusion
• Lack of coordination
• Pale gums
• Loss of appetite

Treatment

Treatment for Hypoglycemia in Chihuahuas consists of two types:

• Immediate Treatment: If your Chihuahua is showing signs of low blood sugar, your first action should be to give it some source of fast acting sugar. Keep the dog warm, and take it to the vet as soon as possible if the episode is severe and not improving.
• Long Term Management: Managing a Chihuahua who is prone to episodes of low blood sugar involves feeding a healthy, nutritious diet, avoiding stressful situation for your dog, regular vet visits to catch any underlying health problems that might trigger hypoglycemic incidents, and feeding frequent meals along with snacks to prevent blood sugar from dropping too low.

Prevention

There are several measures that might be taken to prevent Hypoglycemia in Chihuahuas:

• Regular and balanced meals:
• Nutritious snacks:.
• Avoidance of stress:
• Regular vet check-ups:

#4 Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that can affect Chihuahuas, causing increased intraocular pressure and even resulting in blindness if not treated quickly and appropriately. Chihuahuas are prone to eye problems, including Glaucoma. There are two types of Glaucoma:

1. Primary Glaucoma: This is a hereditary condition, very often genetic, and may develop without underlying eye disease. Chihuahuas can be predisposed to primary glaucoma.
2. Secondary Glaucoma: This type of Glaucoma is a result of other eye conditions like lens luxation, uveitis, cataracts, or trauma. Any condition that causes a blockage to the drainage of aqueous humor. The fluid in the dog’s eye can result in secondary Glaucoma.

When It Develops

Primary glaucoma is usually hereditary and might develop at various ages, usually in adulthood. Primary glaucoma ordinarily shows up in middle aged to older dogs, typically between the ages of three and seven. But, it can occur earlier or later. If your Chihuahua has a family history of Glaucoma, they are at a much higher risk of developing this eye condition.

Secondary glaucoma is a result of other eye conditions or trauma to the eyes. It can develop at any age in the Chihuahua’s life.

How To Spot Symptoms

• These are the typical symptoms of Chihuahuas with Glaucoma:
• Cloudy Cornea: The cornea may appear cloudy or bluish.
• Dilated Pupil: The affected eye might have a pupil that is larger than the other and doesn’t respond as it should to light.
• Bulging Eye: In severe cases, the eye may appear enlarged or bulging.
• Pain: Signs of pain include squinting, tearing, or rubbing the eye.
• Vision Loss: There might be signs of vision loss, like bumping into things or disorientation.
• Redness in the Eye: The whites of the eye are reddened.

Treatment

Glaucoma in Chihuahuas might be treated with medications or surgery.

Medications:

• Oral Medications: Oral medications might be prescribed to help minimize the pressure in the eye.
• Topical Eye Drops: Medications for reducing the intraocular pressure along with improving fluid drainage are often prescribed.
• Pain Management: Medications to help manage pain as well as inflammation.

Surgery:

• Cyclophotocoagulation or Cyclocryotherapy: Procedures that reduce production of aqueous humor.
• Drainage Implants: Devices that are implanted to drain fluid from the eye.
• Laser Surgery: Improve drainage of aqueous humor.

Prevention

Although you can’t prevent Glaucoma in Chihuahuas, breed specific screening including eye exams, particularly for Chihuahuas with a family history of Glaucoma.

#5:  Tracheal Collapse:

Tracheal collapse is a common respiratory condition in Chihuahuas and other toy or small dog breeds. It involves the weakening and flattening of the tracheal rings, leading to airway obstruction. It may be caused by a variety of factors, including genetic predisposition, age, obesity, respiratory Infections, or environmental factors. The trachea, also called the windpipe, is the tube that takes the dog’s air from its mouth or nose to its lungs.

When a trachea collapses, instead of the rings maintaining a totally open pipe or tube, they collapse or squash down. Chihuahuas are at high risk, probably due to a genetic tendency for the rings to be malformed.

When It Develops

Although it may occur at any age, tracheal collapse is more common in middle-aged to older Chihuahuas.

How To Spot Symptoms

Symptoms of Tracheal Collapse in Chihuahuas include:

• Chronic Cough: Sometimes described as a goose honk cough, and may become worse with exercise, pressure on the neck, or excitement.
• Difficulty Breathing: Labored, noisy breathing, particularly during exercise.
• Gagging or Retching: Usually after eating or drinking.
• Cyanosis: Blue looking discoloration of a dog’s gums and tongue, which is a sign of lack of oxygen.
• Exercise Intolerance: Decreased ability to play or exercise.
• Fainting or Collapse: Fainting or collapse may occur due to extreme airway obstruction.

Treatment

Treatment of Tracheal Collapse in Chihuahuas includes Medical, Lifestyle and Surgical approaches.

Medical Management:

• Sedatives: Lessen anxiety and coughing.
• Bronchodilators: Help to open airways, making breathing easier.
• Cough Suppressants: Meds that will decrease irritation and coughing
• Antibiotics: In cases where there is infection.
• Anti-inflammatories: Reduces trachea inflammation.

Lifestyle Changes:

• Keep your Chihuahua at a healthy weight to decrease pressure on its trachea.
• Use a harness rather than a collar for walks to avoid putting pressure on your Chihuahua’s neck.
• Reduce exposure to irritants such as dust and smoke.
• Minimize stress and excitement that triggers coughing.

Surgical Options:

In severe cases, surgery may be required.

• External rings might be placed around the trachea to support it.
• Placement of a stent inside the trachea to keep it patent. (open)

Prevention

Sadly, you cannot prevent tracheal collapse in your Chihuahua, especially since it can be an inherited condition. Still, you can manage the condition to potentially keep it from worsening. Perhaps the main factor is to prevent your dog from becoming obese. Being overweight causes problems with the trachea. Also avoid overexertion, stress, and schedule regular check-ups at the vet to monitor the condition.

#6 Hydrocephalus

Hydrocephalus, also referred to as “water on the brain,” is a condition where cerebrospinal fluid accumulates within the ventricles of the brain, causing increased pressure and possibly damaging the brain’s tissue. This condition can be congenital in Chihuahuas. This is the most common cause of hydrocephalus in Chihuahuas, and means that the dog is born with it.

Genetic factors predispose a dog to Hydrocephalus. Less often, hydrocephalus may develop later in life due to infections like meningitis, trauma, brain tumors, or obstruction of the flow of Cerebrospinal fluid.

When It Develops

Congenital Hydrocephalus:

• Early Signs: Puppies may show signs soon or immediately after birth, including bulging eyes, and a dome-shaped, enlarged head and skull.
• Birth or Puppyhood: Congenital Hydrocephalus is present at birth or develops within the first few weeks afterward. It’s caused by genetic factors or in some cases, developmental issues during the course of gestation.

Acquired Hydrocephalus:

• Later in Life: Although less common, Hydrocephalus might develop in older Chihuahuas because of factors such as infections, brain tumors, inflammation, or head trauma..

How To Spot Symptoms

Symptoms of hydrocephalus can vary depending on the severity and the age of onset. Common signs include:

• Enlarged Head: Noticeable in puppies, due to the increased fluid pressure causing the skull to expand.
• Bulging Fontanelle: Soft spot on the top of the skull that doesn’t close normally.
• Seizures: May occur due to increased pressure on the brain.
• Abnormal Gait: Difficulty walking or uncoordinated movements.
• Behavioral Changes: Such as lethargy, irritability, or disorientation.
• Visual Impairments: Including blindness or abnormal eye movements (nystagmus).
• Difficulty Learning or Delayed Development: In puppies, showing slower learning and development compared to their littermates.

Treatment

Treatment options depend on the severity of the condition and the symptoms presented.

Medical Management

Medications:

• Corticosteroids: Such as Prednisone to lessen intracranial pressure as well as inflammation.
• Anti-seizure Medications: To reduce or prevent seizures.
• Diuretics: Furosemide or acetazolamide are normally prescribed to reduce production of Cerebrospinal Fluid.

Surgical Intervention

1. Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy (ETV): This is a fairly uncommon procedure in which a small hole is made in the floor of the third ventricle that lets the cerebrospinal fluid bypass the obstruction and flow out of the brain.
2. Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) Shunt: This shunt is the most common surgical treatment, in which a shunt is placed for the purpose of diverting excess fluid from the dog’s brain to the abdominal cavity, where it can then be absorbed.

Prevention

• Genetic Counseling: If you are a breeder, genetic counseling can help you understand the risks involved.
• Breeding Practices: Dogs with known hydrocephalus should not be used for breeding in order to lessen the risk of passing Hydrocephalus to any offspring.
• Regular Veterinary Checkups: Early detection and treatment as needed along with monitoring symptoms can help to manage Hydrocephalus effectively.

#7: Heart Disease

Heart disease is an all too common health problem in Chihuahuas, as it is in many small breed dogs. In fact, cardiovascular disease is the main cause of death in Chihuahuas. There are four main types of heart disease in Chihuahuas: Mitral Valve Disease, Dilated Cardiomyopathy, Congestive Heart Failure, Patent Ductus Arteriosus.

When It Develops

Acquired heart diseases typically develop later on in life as a result of factors like genetics, age, lifestyle, plus underlying health problems. Congenital heart problems such as ventricular septal defects or pulmonic stenosis are present at birth.

How To Spot Symptoms

Symptoms of heart disease in Chihuahuas may include:

• Bluish Gums and/or Tongue: Indicates insufficient oxygen.
• Swollen Abdomen: Caused by accumulation of fluid.
• Coughing: More likely at night or following exercise.
• Breathing Difficulties: Panting or rapid, labored breathing.
• Fatigue and Weakness: Tires easily, doesn’t want to exercise.
• Fainting: Collapse or fainting episodes.
• Loss of Appetite: Losing interest in food.

Treatment

Medical Management:

• Diuretics: Furosemide (Lasix) for reducing fluid buildup in the abdomen and/or lungs.
• Beta-Blockers: Helps slow the heart rate, thus reducing the workload on the dog’s heart.
• Pimobendan: A drug to help the heart pump with more efficiency.
• ACE Inhibitors: Enalapril or benazepril are ACE Inhibitors that work to reduce blood pressure, which makes it easier for the Chihuahua’s heart to pump blood.

Diet And Lifestyle:

• Weight Management: Your Chihuahua needs to be maintained at a healthy weight to reduce stress on its heart.
• Low-Sodium Diet: Helps prevent retention of fluid.
• Moderate Exercise: Exercise per recommendations of your vet.

Surgical Intervention

• PDA Surgery: Closes the patent ductus arteriosus in puppies born with this congenital defect.
• Mitral Valve Repair/Replacement: For severe cases of mitral valve disease.

Prevention

While it isn’t possible to prevent Heart Disease in Chihuahuas, you can help to minimize its long term effects by practicing responsible breeding practices, which means not breeding Chihuahuas with known heart disease. Regular veterinary visits can spot early symptoms of heart disease so that treatment may begin sooner.

#8 Open Fontanel

An open fontanel, also known as a “soft spot,” or molera, is a condition in Chihuahuas where the bones of the skull don’t fully close, leaving a gap covered by a soft membrane. Open Fontanel is not uncommon in Chihuahuas. It is caused by genetics or development factors. This condition is quite often hereditary and more common in small breeds like Chihuahuas..

When It Develops

The fontanel, or soft spot, often called the molera in Chihuahuas, is present at birth.

How To Spot Symptoms

Here are some typical signs of an Open Fontanel in Chihuahuas:

• Palpable Soft Spot: A noticeably soft area on top of the head where the skull bones have not completely fused, which you are able to feel.
• Hydrocephalus: An open fontanel may sometimes be associated with hydrocephalus, which may cause other symptoms such as an enlarged head, vision problems, and difficulty walking.
• Neurological Symptoms: In more severe cases, Open Fontanel symptoms can include uncoordinated movements, behavioral changes, or seizures, if the brain tissue is affected.
• Treatment
• Protective Measures:, Be careful when handling your Chihuahua with Open Fontanel to avoid situations where head trauma might occur.
• Monitoring: In numerous cases, Open Fontanel doesn’t cause any problems. Best case scenario, it will close on its own as the dog gets older. Regular checkups with a vet are important.

Treatment

• Medical Treatment::If hydrocephalus or other complications are present, treatment might include meds to relieve pressure or reduce production of cerebrospinal fluid.
• Surgery:: Severe hydrocephalus may require surgical intervention like placing a shunt to drain excess cerebrospinal fluid.

Prevention

There is no way to prevent Open Fontanel except not breeding a Chihuahua with the condition or with a known familial history of it.

#9: Chronic Bronchitis

This respiratory condition is quite common in Chihuahuas, and is characterized by chronic inflammation of the bronchial tubes in the lungs. Associated coughing and other respiratory symptoms may significantly affect quality of life for your Chihuahua. In diagnosing this condition, a vet will usually rule out what it isn’t before making a diagnosis. Cause might be unknown, or such factors as environment, allergies, genetic predisposition, or infections.

When It Develops

Chronic bronchitis in Chihuahuas can develop at almost any stage, but it is more often seen in middle-aged and older dogs.

How To Spot Symptoms

Here are some typical symptoms of Chronic Bronchitis in Chihuahuas:

• Wheezing: High pitched sounds while breathing from narrowed airways.
• Persistent Cough: Chronic, repeated, dry, hacking cough is the most common symptom.
• Difficulty Breathing: Rapid, labored breathing, particularly during exercise..
• Retching or Gagging: Generally occurs after coughing.
• Cyanosis: Blue tinged tongue and/or gums that indicate poor oxygenation.
• Intolerance to Exercise: Lessened ability to engage in exercise because of respiratory distress.

Treatment

Treatment of Chronic Bronchitis in Chihuahuas involves:

• Vet Visits: Regular check-ups to monitor the condition with adjustments to treatment as required.
• Humidified Air: Helps keep the airway moist, making it easier to bring up secretions from the lungs.
• Cough Suppressants: Use cautiously, because coughing helps to clear mucus.
• Bronchodilators: These medications open the dog’s airways.
• Anti-Inflammatory Drugs: Corticosteroids such as Prednisone reduce inflammation.
• Weight Management: A healthy weight lessens strain on the dog’s respiratory system.
• Exercise: Moderate exercise will help maintain overall health, but avoid overexertion.

Prevention

• Regular Vet Check-ups: With early detection and management of respiratory issues , progression to chronic bronchitis may often be prevented.
• Avoid Exposure to Irritants: Reduce exposing your Chihuahua to air pollutants and allergens, as well as avoiding smoking around your dog.
• Vaccinations: Keep up with vaccinations to ward off respiratory infections such as Kennel Cough and others.

 #10: Kidney Stones

Kidney stones, also called nephroliths, are a condition in which mineral deposits form in the kidneys. These deposits can cause extreme pain and discomfort, along with health issues for Chihuahuas. Gaining a working knowledge of the causes, diagnosis, symptoms and treatment options can be quite helpful to you if you have a Chihuahua with this condition.

When It Develops

Kidney stones ordinarily develop in middle aged or older Chihuahuas.

How To Spot Symptoms

• Straining to Urinate: Difficulty and pain during urination.
• Frequent Urination: More frequent need to urinate, often small amounts.
• Lethargy: Less energy and a decrease in activity.:
• Signs of Discomfort or Pain: Restlessness, avoiding movement, or whining..
• Blood in Urine: Red or pink urine, an indication of
• Vomiting: Nausea and vomiting caused by pain or dysfunction of the kidneys..

Treatment

Dietary Changes: Special diets low in certain minerals can help dissolve some types of stones or prevent new ones from forming.

• Medications:
• Pain Relief: Analgesics to manage pain.
• Antibiotics: If a urinary tract infection is present.
• Urinary Acidifiers/Alkalinizers: To adjust the pH of the urine, depending on the type of stones.

Surgical and Non-Surgical Procedures

• Surgery: In more severe cases, the surgical removal of kidney stones might be required, especially if they’re large or causing obstruction.
• Lithotripsy: This process uses shock waves to break kidney stones into smaller pieces that the Chihuahua may pass naturally.
• Urohydropropulsion: This non-surgical procedure uses a catheter to flush smaller stones out of the bladder.

Prevention

Although it isn’t guaranteed, being proactive about helping your Chihuahua to avoid forming kidney stones is always a good idea. Here are some things you can do:

• Balanced Diet: Feed a healthy, balanced diet that’s right for your dog’s size, age, and health status, and avoid excessive minerals that contribute to stone formation.
• Hydration: This is perhaps the most important thing you can do to avoid kidney stones in your dog. Always make sure that your Chihuahua has access to fresh, clean water.
• Prompt Treatment of UTIs: Treating urinary tract infections quickly will help prevent complications such as kidney stones.
• Regular Vet Check-Ups: Regular visits to the vet to monitor for any signs of kidney stones can help prevent them as well as other kidney issues.

Does Pet Insurance Cover Common Chihuahua Health Issues?

In most cases, yes. When you’re checking out pet insurance for your Chihuahua, check coverage to make sure that genetic and hereditary conditions are covered. Understand that there is a difference between genetic conditions that are inherited and pre-existing conditions. Although the majority of pet insurance do not cover pre-existing conditions, most will cover genetic issues. It’s also a good idea to look at  benefit limits, waiting periods, and reimbursement percentages, as well.

There are a lot of pet insurance policies available. You may decide to choose a policy with coverage for injuries and accidents, but not disease or illness. Alternatively, you may prefer a policy with coverage for chronic health problems like arthritis, as well as other common health problems in Chihuahuas. When you  research pet insurance, you’ll find policies with the following typical coverage:

• Prescription meds
• Surgery
• MRIs
• Prescription food and/or nutritional supplements
• Routine wellness examinations
• Alternative treatments
• Diagnostic tests
• Blood and lab tests
• X-Rays
• Behavioral therapy

Although pre-existing conditions aren’t usually covered, there are pet insurance providers that do offer coverage. It will probably have a higher price tag, but will include extra benefits when and if you need them for your Chihuahua.