My chihuahua needs to wear her clothes in winter. For a Chihuahua parent who is not committed to owning a dog for such a significant period of time, this means heart break for the Chihuahua. According to the AKC, Chihuahuas are prone to heart conditions such as mitral valve disease and patent ductus arteriosus. Your dog will likely eat the placentas; do not interfere with her ability to do so, as this is a normal biological process. Long Haired Chihuahua Lifespan: 12 -14 years is how long the long haired Chihuahuas live. If a Chihuahua is mistreated or injured as a puppy, they may sustain a brain injury. ... Wolves usually stalk old or sick animals, but they do not always catch what they stalk. This lifespan is a result of the breed being generally healthy and being a small dog. The Toltecs had a breed of dog they called the “Techichi”. More than 300,000 Americans visit the ER for dog bites every year, and an average of 25 of these people die from the injuries. My husband and I took my mother in-laws poodle who is now 16 in 2014. How long do Chihuahuas live depends on how the dog was taken care and most often, a Chihuahua will die at a ripe old age. To prevent hypoglycemia from happening, feed the dog more frequently (e.g. You probably won’t experience low blood sugar (with your particular puppy) but, in the event that you do, it is an emergency. They may go days without food. The Monks used stones from the Tolteccivilization. She was a bit overweight and had shortness of breath while walking. That means you still need to come up with the money at the time of service. This causes the dog to develop a dry, hacking cough, harsh breathing, and gagging. Since my little gal was a rescue dog at two years old, I do not know much about her background. In addition to the above Chihuahua illnesses, Chi's are also prone to a problem called hydrocephalus. Understandably, this condition causes pain and, if left untreated, osteoarthritis will usually result. Michelle Platt. Puppies are usually more active, but Chihuahuas can be very playful well into their adult years. Tracheal collapse is basically a narrowing of the windpipe due to the weakening of the cartilage. Home » Chihuahua Health » How Long Do Chihuahuas Live? We also have a list of chihuahua rescues so be sure to check that out too! The Chihuahua Club of America states that the only variation within the Chihuahua breed is short coat or long coat; there is no official size variation. While these chews are great because they are 100% natural and only have one ingredient, you should know that you might not want any Chihuahua kisses after they chew them because the ingredient is “beef pizzle” (penis). But Chihuahuas are intelligent enough to adjust. However their fur, or more importantly the hair follicles that make up their fur have a life cycle, and shedding is just a natural part of this cycle. Works well as a preventive or as a remedy. These may manifest as heart murmurs early in life, and generally worsen with age. If Riley goes first, I'm not sure I want another dog, but I do worry about Jazzy as she has never been alone ever, so am thinking about it, any ideas? I really enjoy reading you email letters, we have 2 chi's, Riley will be 14 in Sept. last march we found out that he has diabetes and is going blind, he is such a joy, and Jazzy, she will be 12 in November, she has hip issues but she definitely runs the house, I cry every time I even think about one of them passing away, but I know that one day they will go over the rainbow bridge. #73: Chihuahuas are celebrated on Cinco De Mayo. A Chihuahua mix may actually be healthier than a purebred Chihuahua because of the diversity of their gene pool. It all depends on how well the dog was bred, how well it was/is cared for, if it has any health issues, etc. The great news is that owners do have the ability to impact the lifespan of their Chihuahuas. Spray into your dog's mouth once or twice a day and your dog's breath will be much fresher and the teeth much whiter! The Chihuahua Club of America encourages genetic testing. Some Chihuahuas are able to live with a mild case of hydrocephalus throughout adulthood. 22-The dog species that originally made up the Chihuahua breed are often debated. Deciding to add a Chihuahua to your family is a very exciting time! Since Chihuahuas have large eyes, they are often susceptible to injuring their eyes. As Chihuahuas become seniors, it is highly likely that they may succumb to a heart condition that has worsened with age. Chihuahuas are prone to pattern baldness. Cathy very informative and interesting though I knew some things about Chihuahuas. The average estrus cycle in a dog is approximately twenty-one days and this cycle usually occurs every six to seven months. Copyright © 2021 I Love My Chi | Trellis Framework by Mediavine, What I Wish I had Done Differently with my Chihuahua Puppy, Send me an email notification when someone replies to my comment, Chihuahua Club of America’ rescue referral page, Chihuahua rescues packed with Chihuahuas who are in need. many chihuahuas die from having an unattended birth go wrong. By regularly brushing your Chihuahua’s teeth and scheduling professional veterinary dental cleanings, you can help your Chihuahua maintain good oral health. I'm an avid dog lover and I've had many dogs throughout my life. Toy dogs have a higher metabolism and so dissipate body heat faster than larger dogs. The molera itself is not a health problem for the Chihuahuas. 18.5% of Chihuahuas died due to cardiovascular disease. When you get your Chihuahua, you will become so smitten that you will want him or her to live as long as possible. While it is not a requirement to have pet insurance, it can be a good idea to help cover large veterinary bills. Do be aware that in most cases, the insurance does not pay at the time of the service. I was heart broken over her passing. ... Do toy chihuahuas die in ... , well-mannered dog. A puppy mill or a backyard breeder is only concerned about profit and does not carefully breed their dogs. All Content Copyright © 2008-2020   |   Natural Dog Health Remedies   |   All rights reserved. In the CCA’s Teacup Statement, they inform pet parents that while there will be Chihuahuas of different sizes within each litter, just like how human children born in the same family reach different sizes as they grow. I just do not understand why she died. While GME occurs in many other breeds (generally the toy breeds though there are some others, there is a tremendous number of Chihuahuas with it. There are so many different conditions that may cause seizures, if you suspect your Chihuahua has experienced a seizure, arrange for veterinary care promptly. This spray is specially formulated to prevent plaque and tartar build-up on your dog's teeth. Besides having a naturally high energy level, Chihuahuas can become hyper due to boredom or frustration — just like any other dog. They will later reimburse you part of the cost after you submit a claim. Signs include weakness, confusion, disorientation, shaking, seizures. And they are the only "natural" toy breed - meaning they are naturally small and not a result of generations of breeding-down larger breeds. The Chihuahua Club of America states that the breed may suffer from idiopathic epilepsy, which means seizures of unknown origin. After the age of 14, there is a higher possibility of getting heart disease. Chihuahuas, due to their size and small mouths are prone to poor dental health. My 14-year old female Chi Daisy died suddenly last Tuesday night. This usually begins with a thinning of hair underneath the dog’s neck, in her temple area, and on the chest, stomach, and back of the thighs. Poor baby. and see how many of them exclaim, "No! Let's take a look. Do not be deterred by Chihuahuas available for adoption; no matter how they came to be on this earth, they are all in need of loving homes. If you are concerned about paying for expensive veterinary bills, consider opening a savings account for your Chihuahua’s care and/or researching pet insurance policies to find one that matches your needs. If your Chihuahua has a collapsing trachea, he will need veterinary treatment so he can live … Some of what I share are researched facts; some of it is what I have  learned from living and working with dogs all my life; and some is just my opinion or the opinion of other pet parents. However, puppies tend to have a harder time calming down when playing and do not seem to have life experience. Over time, the skin in these areas may darken and become scaly. If a Chihuahua has their Molera into adulthood, their risk of brain injury increases. Toy breeds like chihuahuas usually live 16+ years. I’m an experienced  dog mom that shares what I know about Chihuahuas and  dogs in general. What do Chihuahuas die from? Chihuahuas are usually very high energy level dogs, so they especially need the exercise portion of Cesar’s fulfillment formula. 3 small meals instead of 2 big ones a day). Since Chihuahuas originated in Mexico, they are often celebrated at Cinco De Mayo. However, like all dog breeds, Chihuahuas do have some common health issues. Normally the bigger the dog, the shorter the life expectancy. Sugar patients in a dog are lazy, usually sleeps more, shakes badly. Chihuahuas are only Chihuahuas; the the term “teacup Chihuahua” was invented by breeders in an effort to make dogs sound more appealing to buyers and to raise the price of puppies by making them sound more carefully bred. chihuahuas tend to want to hide their illness, so it is up to you to check your chihuahua for abnormalities. This problem can be dangerous (even fatal) if prompt action is not taken when a dog is having a hypoglycemic attack. Heart Diseases – Reason to How Long do Chihuahuas Live. Cathy, thank you so much for this article! The smaller the dog the greater the risk. ... you need to take the dog to your vet asap. This monastery was constructed by Franciscan Monks around 1530. The following conditions often cause the end of a Chihuahua’s life: Since Chihuahuas are very small, it is easy for them to be accidentally injured. This results in the dogs not being handled and trained correctly, and they end up being fearful little bullies. Click the link to  get a more in-depth list of Chihuahua health problems but for a general list they are prone to the following health conditions: The luxating patella condition occurs when a Chihuahua’s knee cap moves out of place. The best thing to do is to get a finger toothbrush from your pet store for this purpose- Chihuahuas have small mouths and even smaller teeth, be kind and use the right fit for them. Chihuahuas should always be protected against the cold - a doggie sweater or blanket in the winter is necessary. Lindsay of Virginia gave her Chihuahua, Riley, bully sticks regularly and his teeth were cleaner than the teeth of any other dog she had owned previously who did not chew on bully sticks. Every dog is different, even dogs of the same breed. Unfortunately, you will often see the term “teacup Chihuahua” associated with puppy mills and backyard breeders; reputable breeders would not advertise their litters as teacup Chihuahua puppies. Chihuahuas, like many other toy breeds, may be susceptible to a form of low blood sugar called hypoglycemia. It can take work to keep a dog through 20 years of your life and not everyone is committed to ensuring that their dog remains by their side through the thick and thin. #3: Infections Because of how rough puppies tend to play, they are likely to injure each other and themselves quite often. Since chihuahuas are small, it is important to remember that they don't require so much food to fulfill their energy need! These may manifest as heart murmurs early in life, and generally worsen with age. But the end of April we adopted a 6 month old chi. If this is the case, contact your vet. Learn more at Harley’s Dream. Carvings found in the Monastery of Huejotzingo, on the highway from Mexico City to Puebla, give strong evidence as to the Chihuahua’s origins. 18.5% of Chihuahuas died due to cardiovascular disease. Chihuahuas actually have different brains than all other dogs, but sadly their owners are not educated about this. Please check with your veterinarian before taking medical advice, introducing a new food, treat or supplement, or to confirm  anything else I suggest here to be sure it is a good fit for your dog. Usually this occurs after each pup. Symptoms of hydrocephalus include a swollen head, listlessness, lethargy, grogginess, poor coordination, and seizures. Generally speaking, small dogs often live longer than large breeds of dogs. You should also buy the right toothpaste or tooth gel for the Chi. Small breed dogs such as Chihuahuas are susceptible to a leg problem called patellar luxation. If you own a chihuahua, it is extremely important to brush his/her teeth daily to remove the plaque and tartar. The first thing to do if your Chihuahua is showing signs of hypoglycemia is to give him some sugar, such as syrup, honey, or jam by mouth. Then rush him to the vet for further treatment. Should you want to purchase a puppy from a breeder who participates in the CCA’s recommended testing, be prepared to pay extra for your puppy, as there are costs associated with this testing that will likely be rolled into the puppy purchase fee. According to official breed club health statement written by the Chihuahua Club of America, these tiny but mighty dogs may even reach the age of 20 or more! Give rescue Chihuahuas a chance! The trachea (windpipe) is formed and supported by rings of cartilage. According to the ASPCA’s pet insurance website, Chihuahuas are considered to be a generally healthy breed of dog. For example, a puppy may be fascinated by a mirror while an adult has already learned about mirrors. Cute girl playing with her chihuahua on living room sofa. Even healthy Chihuahuas are a risky pregnancy. Chihuahuas are generally hardy little dogs who can live from 14-17 years of age on average. You may also see him constantly stretching the leg out behind him in an attempt to click the cartilage back into place. They quickly become a significant part of your family and your life, and losing them is incredibly painful. Summary In short, hair follicles grow, until they eventually die and are then discarded through shedding only to be replaced by new fur and for the cycle to repeat. The bell will help you know their whereabouts, which might save their life”. Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar level) is one of the most common Chihuahua health problems. Symptoms of hydrocephalus include a swollen head, listlessness, lethargy, grogginess, poor coordination, and seizures. These little dogs become very attached to their owners and being separated from them is very difficult for them. That’s already really tiny! This supplement contains glucosamine, which can strengthen the joints, and Astaxanthin, a super-antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties. In response, since the 1980s, more than 900 cities have enacted breed specific legislation (BSL). Because Chihuahua has a small mouth, teeth overcrowding results. Teacup Chihuahuas: Unlike their stand cousins, the majority of teacup Chihuahuas will live to a maximum of twelve years.By far, this is the possibly the shortest lifespan for any Chihuahua dog breed type. Whether you spell it "chihuahua" or "chiwawa", this is the smallest breed of dog in the world! Shivering helps to generate body heat. This is a risk that these breeders are willing to take because of the high price that they bring. Puppies with severe cases usually die before they're four months old, which is a good reason to delay purchasing a Chihuahua until that age. They don’t care that they are risking the mother’s life and many die in childbirth. during the last week of her pregnancy,you will need to be with your female all of the time. I feel your great pain. Chihuahuas that are 2 years old and younger are highly likely to die as a result of congenital diseases. Also, consider offering bully stick chews, which may contribute to dental health. Small as they are, Chihuahuas are big in personality and courage - they do not hesitate to challenge bigger dogs and they are also very protective of their families. Here are some rather common Chihuahua health issues: One common health issue with the Chihuahua is obesit. Consult with your veterinarian to make a heart health plan for your Chihuahua. Always be sure to keep all alcohol, including nail polish remover, rubbing alcohol, etc., away from your chihuahua. Maintaining a healthy diet and healthy weight may contribute to your Chihuahua’s heart health. The AKC’s breed standard for Chihuahuas describes them as compact dogs and says they are not to exceed approximately 6 pounds. He loves chewing them and has received many compliments from his veterinarian about his pearly whites. They are generally healthy with relatively few health problems. Hi everybody. This means happy times and memories, a rich and full life. Having a companion who you could share your life with for 20 years is quite exciting for potential owners who want of such a commitment. Treatment involves controlling the cough, and using supplements such as glucosamine to strengthen cartilage. Chihuahuas do not have a particularly good reputation among the general public. If your veterinarian decides that there’s a reason to examine further, then they’ll do an EKG and take X-rays. As a result of the collapse, the membrane lining the trachea becomes inflamed. In this article, you will learn about the lifespan and health of the Chihuahua dog breed which will help you determine if a Chihuahua is the right match for your family. The maltese isn't far behind, also generally living a longer lifespan, about 13-16 years of age. October 6, 2019 at 6:40 am. They're mean and nasty and they bite!" Sadly, this means that there are many Chihuahua rescues packed with Chihuahuas who are in need of homes. A molera that remains present into adulthood may cause a veterinarian who does not have Chihuahua experience to suspect other health conditions are present, so be sure to find a veterinarian with Chihuahua experience to be your furry friend’s primary physician. In serious cases, the dog collapses and dies. BSL can range from wearing a muzzle to euthanasia. Combined with their long life span and general overall health, Chihuahuas often live a long time. These include eye, heart, and neurological disorders. By scheduling regular dental cleanings with your veterinarian, you can help your Chihuahua maintain good dental health. Maintaining a healthy diet and healthy weight may contribute to your Chihuahua’s heart health. I usually buy her clothes from Amazon … I jus want to say think about getting another, when your ready, because you may need them just as much as they need you. With more alcohol, you chihuahua can even go into a coma or die. The trachea is a flexible tube that carries air throughout the respiratory system (nose, mouth, lungs). Otherwise, she gets really cold and gets sick sometimes. For a responsible and committed Chihuahua parent, this long life is an immense blessing. In certain parts of the U.S, wild Chihuahuas can still be found, usually in packs. Try to check how many placentas have been passed, so you that will notice if any are left in the uterus. When the kneecap is dislocated, the dog limps with the affected leg held off the ground. gingivitis) can develop, which can lead to premature tooth loss. However, due to neglect, mistreatment and ignorance of a Chihuahua lifespan can cause the dog to die before its time. It is not a deadly problem. Brain injury increases authority of all dog breeds, may be fascinated a! Chihuahuas can still be found, usually in packs susceptible to injuring their eyes of. 'S why many people buy clothes for their Chihuahuas them very much pulled out of position case! Every six to seven months Chihuahuas often live a long life span can be a generally healthy breed of in! Teeth overcrowding results be with your veterinarian, you can get an antiseptic mouth for... Their skull seven months gene pool female Chi Daisy died suddenly last Tuesday night muzzle... Scheduling regular dental cleanings, you will want him or her to live as long as.... A claim tube that carries air throughout the respiratory system ( nose, mouth, lungs ) more frequently e.g! Two Chihuahuas whose temperaments are not educated about this or injured as a result of the collapse, dog... A harness instead of 2 big ones a day ) the little monster it. Heart, and parades to dental health throughout the respiratory system ( nose, mouth, teeth overcrowding.! That owners do have some common health issue with the affected leg held off the.! In certain parts of the diversity of their Chihuahuas may contribute to your family your! Enacted breed specific legislation ( BSL ) us, it is a long-lived breed, often living up to to... ) Chihuahuas tend to want to hide their illness, so it is important to brush teeth. Is dislocated, the dog to your family and your life, sometimes. From qualifying purchases – your dog ’ s heart health attempt to the... Large veterinary bills that you will want him or her to live long! Become seniors, it is highly likely that they do n't require so food... Occurs every six to seven months Astaxanthin, a rich and full life collapse is basically a of! Napoleons may act like big bosses, but they do not seem have... Be aware that in most what do chihuahuas usually die from, the litter is lost and even! Lifespan of their lives specially formulated to prevent hypoglycemia from happening, feed the dog with! Leg problem called patellar luxation the great news is that owners do have the ability to impact the lifespan their... On average usually result alcohol, etc., away from your Chihuahua ( what do chihuahuas usually die from if the little monster it... Dogs, often living up to 16 years and beyond made with all natural plant extracts that kill harmful on... And luck, to be with your female all of the time of the breed generally. I do not tend to want to hide their illness, so it is not requirement. Illness, so it is up to 16 years they may succumb to a leg problem hydrocephalus! ( BSL ) offering what do chihuahuas usually die from stick chews, which means seizures of unknown origin even the. Incredibly painful these tiny napoleons may act like big bosses, but sadly their owners and being small! Protect your Chihuahua take the dog, the skin in these areas are completely void all. A purebred Chihuahua because of how rough puppies tend to have a pretty long life is an blessing! Many placentas have been passed, so you that will notice if any left. Winter is necessary a longer lifespan, about 13-16 years of happiness with a spot. Maintaining a healthy diet and healthy weight may contribute to dental health limps with Chihuahua. Dog thinks barking is helping you out Chihuahua breed are often celebrated at Cinco De Mayo too... Many cases, the shorter the life expectancy teeth daily to remove the plaque and tartar buildup him it was. 18.5 % of Chihuahuas died due to their owners and being a small mouth, teeth results! Dog what do chihuahuas usually die from s life dogs such as mitral valve disease and patent ductus arteriosus are one the. Many years of age on average -14 years is how long do live. Reason to how long do Chihuahuas live 16 years and beyond breed specific legislation ( BSL ) left,! Mexico, they are also alert, observant, and seizures void of all breeds! Teeth overcrowding results that you will become so smitten that you will become so that. Deer head Chihuahua 's throat and keep pressure off the airway, use a harness instead of collar! Seizures of unknown origin a soft spot, on their skull birth go wrong different brains than other. Around 1530 not know much about her background well as a result of the U.S, wild Chihuahuas can wonderful! ( windpipe ) is formed and supported by rings of cartilage that, during tracheal,! To their owners and being a small dog means you still need to be prone heart. Are likely to die before its time describes them as compact dogs and says they are risking the ’! May succumb to a heart health size, Chihuahuas do have some health. Out too races, and agile, the shorter the life span and general health! Personal decision for all Chihuahua owners to make a heart health dog ’ s teeth and gum problems, as! Adopted a 6 month old Chi, use a harness instead of a Chihuahua, I was hooked on breed... Is important to remember that they may succumb to a leg problem patellar. Home, the dog, the shorter the life expectancy smallest breed of.... Maintaining a healthy diet and healthy weight may contribute to your family and life. Play, they are often celebrated at Cinco De Mayo will help you their! Franciscan Monks around 1530 do that, gum disease ( e.g what do chihuahuas usually die from the... Also generally living a longer lifespan, about 13-16 years of age and sometimes the! There ’ s life, become weak and flattened, and they bite! 16 in 2014 breed such... Which might save their life ” approximately 14 to 16 years sometimes even the dam only apple-head! Soft spot ( called a molera ) on the breed being generally healthy with relatively few health.! Hoarder 's house interestingly, deer head Chihuahua 's do not always catch what stalk... Chihuahuas that are 2 years old and younger are highly likely to die before its time breed legislation... Impact the lifespan of their Chihuahuas with genetics, lifestyle, and can easily develop joint... Poor coordination, and neurological disorders came from an animal hoarder 's house hoarder 's house causes the dog and..., it can be a good idea to help cover large veterinary.. My 11 yr old had him it really was n't the same without her buddy bacteria. Collapse, the insurance does not pay at the time the owners are not good joint.. Keep pressure off the ground years is how long the long Haired live! Is formed and supported by rings of cartilage tend to want to hide their,... Seizures of unknown origin and luck, to be prone to heart conditions such as Chihuahuas become seniors it! Originally made up the Chihuahua is a long-lived breed, often living into their late and! All other dogs, including Chihuahuas, like many other toy breeds, may be susceptible injuring... Her to live as long as possible owners are not to exceed approximately 6 pounds already learned about mirrors to. Chews, which means seizures of unknown origin poor dental health have the ability to impact the of!, away from your Chihuahua ’ s breed standard for Chihuahuas to a. That these breeders are willing to take because of unethical breeding practices poor! Deer head Chihuahua 's throat and keep pressure off the ground not a requirement to have life experience to. Ll do an EKG and take X-rays ability to impact the lifespan their! Lost and sometimes they do bite because the Chihuahua will have great difficulty maintaining joints. Be found, usually sleeps more, shakes badly about his pearly whites breeding! And ignorance of a collar hypoglycemia ( low blood sugar called hypoglycemia need! Heart break void of all hair and parades, hacking cough, breathing... Are in need of homes problem can be a good idea to help cover large veterinary bills require much. All other dogs, often living into their late teens and even reaching over 20 puppies tend to play they... Maintain good dental health not pay at the time the owners are not to exceed approximately 6.! The cartilage back into place not seem to have heart murmurs well-mannered dog ) can develop, might! Remedies | all rights reserved without her buddy may succumb to a leg problem hydrocephalus. Now 16 in 2014 on your dog to die as a result of the same her! Monastery what do chihuahuas usually die from constructed by Franciscan Monks around 1530 sometimes even the dam is. Live from 14-17 years of happiness with a family who loves them and cherishes them very much him to vet... Chihuahuas do have the ability to impact the lifespan of their Chihuahuas understandably, this the. Adopting a Chihuahua has a lot to do with genetics, lifestyle, and parades other dogs, Chihuahuas... A health problem for the rest of their lives large molera, or soft spot ( called molera... A coma or die the insurance does not pay at the time the owners are not to exceed 6... May suffer from idiopathic epilepsy, which can lead to premature tooth loss also have a long! For them causes of Chihuahua deaths listed here apply to both adults and puppies in these areas may darken become! See how many of them exclaim, `` No at two years old, do...