How Do I Care for My New Chihuahua Puppy?

Caring for a chihuahua puppy can be quite different than caring for other breeds. Chihuahua puppies are prone to developing rather serious illnesses, such as hypoglycemia, if you don't care for them properly. They also are at risk for developing personality disorders unless you provide them with adequate socialization. Caring for a chihuahua puppy is fun and generally rewarding but you've got to be dedicated and work at it.

Things You'll Need

  • High-quality puppy food
  • Dog toothpaste and toothbrush
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Instructions

    • 1

      Feed your chihuahua puppy several times a day to prevent hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia is a condition that occurs when a dog's blood sugar levels become too low. Chihuahua puppies are prone to this condition because they are so small. Feed the puppy high-quality puppy food three times a day and monitor its behavior frequently for signs of hypoglycemia. Symptoms include weakness, shivering, collapsing and disorientation.

    • 2

      Practice dominance exercises. Chihuahuas tend to become aggressive, often because they think they are in control. To prevent this unacceptable behavior, you must show your chihuahua puppy that you are the boss. Place the puppy on its back several times a day, either in your arms or on a soft surface. This puts the puppy in a vulnerable position and shows that you are dominant. Walk through doors ahead of the pup and always eat before it does.

    • 3

      Encourage your chihuahua puppy to interact with other people and animals. Socialization is a key training aspect for chihuahuas because they tend to become fearfully aggressive. Expose your pup to new experiences to make it more comfortable and to help prevent the aggression.

    • 4

      Brush your chihuahua puppy's teeth daily. Chihuahuas are prone to dental problems. Helping your puppy get accustomed to having its teeth brushed will get it used to the process. Brushing helps prevent dental problems down the road. Apply a small amount of dog toothpaste to your finger or a small fingerbrush and rub the puppy's teeth once a day. Once it gets used to this, graduate to a small toothbrush.

    • 5

      Rub your chihuahua puppy's ears, mouth and feet several times a day. Chihuahuas generally protect these areas and will often become aggressive towards others. Getting your puppy used to being handled now will help prevent unacceptable behavior. Touching your chihuahua in these areas will also help to establish your alpha role.