Instructions
Bring your chihuahua to the vet for regular checkups and vaccinations. Speak with your vet about flea preventative medications. Chihuahuas tend to develop allergies more than many other breeds, and fleas are a major cause of allergic reactions.
Talk to your vet about foods and frequency of feeding. If your chihuahua is a puppy, feed him several small meals throughout the day. Chihuahuas are prone to hypoglycemia, which is low blood sugar. Always have a source of emergency sugar available in case of a hypoglycemic reaction. Oral glucose paste, available at your local pharmacy, can be used in case of a low sugar emergency.
Bathe and groom your chihuahua about once a month. Use conditioner after shampoo, to prevent dry skin. Be sure to use a hypoallergenic shampoo and conditioner and check for any signs of allergic reaction or skin irritation. Keep your chihuahuas ears clean and dry using canine ear cleaner and cotton balls. Check your dog's ears for redness or irritation, which can indicate allergies. Speak to your vet about maintaining your chihuahua's allergies and keeping your dog comfortable.
Brush your chihuahua's teeth regularly. Use a canine toothpaste and either a finger brush or dog toothbrush, available at your local pet supply store. Dental disease in dogs can lead to heart disease, and small breeds such as the chihuahua are more prone to tooth problems. Preventative dental care is always the best way to keep your dog healthy but there are also options for care if your chihuahua already has signs of periodontal disease. Talk to your vet about options for keeping your chihuahua's teeth healthy.
How to Take Good Care of a Chihuahua
The chihuahua is a tiny but fearless dog with the tenacity of a terrier and the heart of a lion. These dogs, which originated in Mexico, seemingly have no concept of their compact size and are very protective of their owners. Chihuahuas tend to bond with one person in a family, and although they can be good with children, their size can make them easier to injure by accident. Chihuahuas don't require extensive care or exercise, and only the long coated version must be groomed. These are great dogs for people living alone or in apartments.