Chihuahua
DogSmallWeight 1.5β3 kgLifespan 12β18 yrs
Among the smallest and longest-lived dogs β senior years center on mitral valve disease and knee problems; guard puppies against hypoglycemia.
Temperament: Alert and fearless, utterly devoted, vocal
π©Ί Common diseases & risks
High
Mitral valve disease
Senior cough or exercise intolerance needs a cardiac workup
Common
Luxating patella
Common in small breeds
Watch
Hydrocephalus
Puppy with an odd head shape or circling β investigate
Common
Hypoglycemia
Frequent small meals for puppies
High
Periodontal disease
Very high incidence
π Recommended screening & frequency
- #1Heart auscultation (annual, senior twice yearly)
- #2Dental check (twice yearly)
- #3Knee check (annual)
π Nutrition
Small, frequent meals; high calorie density in small stomachs β choose a small-bite energy-dense formula.
π Daily care
Smooth or long coat variants differ in grooming; bundle up in winter; no jumping off furniture.
π Related symptom pages
Tags link to the symptom pages most characteristic of each disease
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