The Chihuahua has certain health issues that range from the serious to the inconvenient. Chihuahuas can be subject to orthopedic problems, blood disorder issues, and other maladies that potential owners should be aware of before deciding on purchasing one of these popular little dogs.
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Patella Luxation
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According to the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals website, a condition called luxation of the patella affects many Chihuahuas. This describes a dislocation of the kneecap in the rear leg. The dog will exhibit signs of lameness over time. Younger dogs have the ability to compensate for the problem, sometimes making it difficult to detect. Luxation of the patella is often genetic, but can also happen when the dog hops on and off furniture, or hops around on its back legs extensively. The ligaments that hold the patella in place undergo excessive stretching and the kneecap slides out of position. A quick diagnosis of this health issue helps the Chihuahua avoid injuring other joints, because it often tries to compensate by walking or running differently. Treatment options range from keeping the dog fit and lean, to surgery.
Hypoglycemia
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Small breeds like Chihuahuas are prone to developing hypoglycemia, where blood-sugar levels drop dramatically. The Chihuahua̵7;s small stomach is one of the reasons, because it limits the intake of food. If the dog does not take in as many calories as it expends, it can experience disorientation, convulsions, shivering or seizures. The dog can seem listless and in extreme cases, and could lapse into a coma and die. It is prudent to have a sugar-filled snack to give the dog in such an emergency. Younger dogs and puppies are especially at risk of this hypoglycemia. To reduce the chances of hypoglycemia, keep Chihuahuas on a regular eating schedule so it dines throughout the day.
Reverse Sneezing Attack
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Chihuahuas often suffer from attacks of what veterinarians term a ̶0;reverse sneezing.̶1; The theory is that the dog has an elongated palate that somehow becomes misaligned for a while, which precipitates snorting, sneezing and honking that can be quite disconcerting to the owner. Many types of toy breeds have this affliction, which can happen when the dog drinks too quickly, strains hard against a leash or gets itself in an excited state. You can often alleviate the problem by rubbing the dog's neck and massaging its throat. Sometimes pinching your dogs nostrils closed will give it no choice but to breathe through its mouth, ending the attack.
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