Chihuahuas are one of the smallest dog breeds in the world, but their diminutive size doesn’t mean they have short lives. On the contrary, they can show off their longevity, especially with proper care. In this article, we’ll look at the average life expectancy of a Chihuahua, the factors that affect it, and provide helpful tips to help your pet live a long and happy life.
The average life expectancy of a Chihuahua
Chihuahuas live an average of 12-20 years. In comparison, large dog breeds have a lifespan of only 8-10 years. This difference is explained by the fact that small dogs have a slower aging process and are usually less prone to age-related diseases related to weight and size.
Factors affecting the life expectancy of a Chihuahua
- Genetic inheritance. If the Chihuahua’s parents were healthy and lived a long time, then their offspring also have a high chance of longevity. Always choose a Chihuahua puppy from a responsible breeder who tests for genetic diseases.
- Food. The diet directly affects the health of dogs. Chihuahuas have a fast metabolism, and if they don’t eat on time or not enough, their sugar levels can drop. They need good quality food with high protein and vitamin content, so avoid poor quality feed and junk food. Also, watch the portion sizes and avoid overeating, as chihuahuas are prone to obesity due to their small size.
- Physical activity. Although Chihuahuas are small, they are very energetic. Regular walks and games help them maintain optimal weight and cardiovascular health. Provide mental and physical stimulation with toys, learning or movement games at home.
- Temperature regime. Due to their small size, these dogs are sensitive to cold and heat. Dress your pets in warm overalls in the cold season. And in the heat, make sure they don’t overheat.
- Stress. Chihuahuas are sensitive to stress, so they need to maintain a stable daily routine – walks, feeding and sleeping at certain times.
- Timely veterinary assistance. Regular visits to the vet, vaccinations and parasite prevention are essential to prevent disease. The most common health problems that Chihuahuas can experience include hypoglycemia, knee problems, crowded teeth, and heart disease such as mitral valve insufficiency.
Tips for caring for elderly Chihuahuas
Caring for elderly chihuahuas requires special attention, because with age their bodies become more vulnerable to diseases and their activity level decreases. We share important tips that will help you take care of your pet.
- Choose specialized food for older dogs. They are low in calories but rich in antioxidants, protein and omega-3 fatty acids for joint and heart support.
- Periodically consult with the veterinarian about the selection of supplements to the diet that will help the dog feel better.
- If your Chihuahua has dental problems, prefer wet food or moisten dry food with water or broth.
- Avoid overfeeding and an excessive amount of treats, as excess weight increases the load on the not-so-young heart and joints of the animal.
- Walk for 15-20 minutes twice a day. Older chihuahuas need walks, just less intense.
- Encourage activity with games that don’t require jumping or running.
- Examine your Chihuahua less than twice a year. Examination of the teeth, heart, liver, kidneys and blood test will help detect problems in time.
- Pay attention to changes in your pet’s behavior, appetite, or activity level. These can be signs of pain or illness.
- Do not forget about treatment from parasites.
- Dental problems can affect the heart and other organs, so brush your dog’s teeth with a special toothpaste and regularly check their condition with a veterinarian.
- Change care cosmetics to those labeled “for sensitive skin.”
- Inspect the dog for skin irritations, tumors, or allergic reactions.
- Buy a mattress or bed that is as soft as possible to reduce discomfort in your chihuahua’s joints.
- If your pet is used to jumping on furniture, buy a ramp or steps to avoid injuries.
- Summer Chihuahuas are more sensitive to the cold. In cold weather, dress your dog in warm clothes and avoid long walks in the cold.
- In summer, provide a cool place, avoid walking during the hottest hours and provide constant access to cool water.
- But the most important and most obvious advice, in our opinion, is to give love to your dog. When a pet feels love, it can heal his emotional wounds and affect his emotional state. Give him time, pet him, talk to him, give him a sense of stability and security.
Conclusion
Chihuahuas are small dogs with a long lifespan. With proper care, they can live up to 20 years, enjoying those years with their owners. For this, it is necessary to carefully monitor the diet, health, physical activity, appearance of pets and take care of their psychological state. If you already have a chihuahua or are just planning to get one, our network of V.O.G DOG SALON salons will be happy to help you with chihuahua grooming issues, as well as draw your attention to changes in the dog’s psychological and physical condition in time.
