How to Care for My Toy Chihuahua

A toy chihuahua is a very small dog that is often referred to as a teacup chihuahua. Most people think of them as nervous, yappy dogs that will bite anyone who comes too close. Like any dogs, all chihuahuas have different personality traits and while some might be stressed out and snappy, this is not true of most. Caring for a toy chihuahua is slightly different than caring for a larger dog, but is not overly difficult.

Things You'll Need

  • Chihuahua
  • Food and water dishes
  • Leash
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Instructions

    • 1

      Feed your toy chihuahua frequent small meals. He cannot eat a lot of food at one time and is in danger of low blood sugar if not fed often enough. Leaving food out all day is an option if he is housebroken. Soft foods or small kibbles are preferred by most chihuahuas. Be sure to feed a quality food to ensure he is getting all the needed vitamins.

    • 2

      Provide your chihuahua with the occasional crunchy treat to help to clean and wear down sharp teeth. There are several popular treats sold in stores that have dental benefits that are specific to your small dog.

    • 3

      Keep clean, fresh water available at all times. It can be removed at night if house training is ongoing, but needs to be available during the day.

    • 4

      Walk your chihuahua frequently if he is in the house all day. Because he needs to eat more frequently, he will also need to eliminate more frequently.

    • 5

      Make sure he receives all the vaccinations that he needs to remain healthy and he has regular veterinary checkups. Toy breeds are more prone to illness than larger dogs.

    • 6

      Trim your chihuahua's nails regularly to prevent injury to you from scratching or to himself by catching on furniture or carpets.

    • 7

      Use care when handling your chihuahua or allowing children to handle him. They are fragile and can be injured quite easily.