Raising A Chihuahua To Be Happy And Healthy

By: Leedobbins.
Pet lovers who have only a little space to accommodate their pet usually choose Chihuahuas because of their small stature. Chihuahuas make wonderful and attractive pets and have distinguishing features that make them unique compared to other dog breeds. However, because they are so small, one does need to take special care when raising a Chihuahua.

Chihuahuas think that they are among the big breed of dogs. They don't realize that they are so tiny and they behave as though they are big, They are often called a "big dog in a small dog's body". So you have to guard him always because he might engage himself into violent encounters with big dogs.

If your Chihuahua is still a puppy, you have to provide him with a nutritious diet. Take note that he has different food requirements depending on his age. From the time he starts to eat until he reaches 3 months old, he should be fed four small meals a day. From 3 months to 6 months old, reduce his meal to three times a day. After 6 months, two meals a day is sufficient for his food requirements until he reaches one year old.

One feeding per day is appropriate after your Chihuahua is a year old. Most Chi's prefer to eat several small meals rather than one large one. Hard food may be the best choice for your Chi as some dogs of this breed have a difficult time digesting canned food and can develop diarrhea as a result.

One thing that is much easier than most dogs when it comes to raising a Chihuahua is giving them a bath. Due to their small size, Chihuahua's are typically easy to bathe. You should give your Chi a bath monthly. Over bathing your Chi will cause him to lose the natural oils on his coat, which could cause dandruff.

When giving your Chihuahua his bath, it's very important that you're careful to avoid getting water into his ears. If the ears happen to get wet they can cause a horrible infection. Due to the possibility of infection, you want to make sure you thoroughly monitor your dog's ears and call your Vet immediately if they appear to be red at all or you notice him scratching them.

Training your dog the proper way will earn you many benefits like owning an obedient dog and will also allow you to call him away from dangerous situations. Start training him on simple tricks even at an early age and he will easily learn as he grows older. But gradually provide him with a general obedience training and this will help him in dealing with dangerous scenarios.

It is best to trim your Chi's nails every month. Cat claw trimmers can also be used to your Chi which is scissor-shaped and has a round indent for the claw. Start trimming your Chi's nails even at an earlier age so that he will easily be accustomed to it. You'll have more enjoyable grooming session with your pet later on.

Weak knees are very common for Chihuahuas, especially as they age. Be sure to watch your chi carefully, and if you notice any difficulty walking, get him checked out by a vet.

You must remember that Veterinary care is extremely important in raising a Chihuahua. First, as a puppy, you have to take him for immunization shots and worming to effectively protect him from illness and diseases. Later, as recommended by your Vet, you must bring him in for regular checkups, cleaning of the ears and teeth, as well as booster shots to make him actively healthy.

Chihuahuas are loyal pets with a sweet temperament. Take good care of your Chihuahua and you will be rewarded with a devoted and healthy pet for many years to come.
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