How to Take Care of Geriatric Chihuahuas

A great companion dog, the chihuahua weighs less than 6 pounds and requires little exercise, making it the perfect dog for apartment dwellers. Forever sassy and very intelligent, they can provide your family with 16 years of love and loyalty, provided they are properly cared for and have few health issues. If you are fortunate enough to enjoy your chihuahua into the senior years, some preparations are necessary for the comfort of this particular breed.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog sweater
  • Heating pad designed for dog beds
  • Senior dog food
  • Nutritional supplements, if applicable
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Visit your veterinarian regularly, or every six months. Chihuahuas are prone to a number of bone and joint problems, so be sure to take note if your dog shows signs of limping. Ask the veterinarian if your dog could benefit from a particular supplement for advanced age or specific health issues. Common selections can include glucosamine or chondroitin for healthy joints.

    • 2

      Carry your chihuahua down from places where it could jump from and potentially fracture a bone, as they are susceptible to this type of injury. Be observant when your dog is on the couch or about to get out of a car, and gently gather it up and set down.

    • 3
      A sweater will help keep your chihuahua warm during cold weather.

      Keep your chihuahua warm if your environment tends to get cold. When going outdoors in cooler weather, dress your chihuahua in a dog sweater and keep the walk short. For indoor comfort, line the bed with a special heating pad designed specifically for dog beds. Because the chihuahua is so small, they are very sensitive to cold temperatures, especially at an advanced age when it becomes more difficult for them to generate the necessary body heat.

    • 4

      Feed your chihuahua a quality dog food that is formulated specifically for small breed, senior dogs. This will not only provide your dog with the adequate nutrition, but keep weight under control, which is essential for this breed. Maintain the same brand of food so as not to disrupt your dog's diet and cause digestive problems.

    • 5

      Provide a calm and relaxed atmosphere for your senior chihuahua. Excitable children should not be allowed to handle your chihuahua, and avoid any pets that could be irritating or stressful.

    • 6

      Look for signs of pain or discomfort within your dog. This can be seen by a loss of appetite, incontinence or any obvious changes in personality. It's important that any geriatric dog is monitored for any behavioral changes or digestive difficulties. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you are concerned with any signs of distress.