Ever wonder if Chihuahuas have dewclaws? You can always check your Chihuahua’s paw pads. A quick visual observation will reveal whether he has dew claws, and if so, how many he has. Unless you’re familiar with these special digits, though, you won’t know where to look.

What Are Dewclaws?

A dewclaw is a digit — a toe, nail and supporting structures — on the bottom of a dog’s paw pad that sits higher and closer to the dog’s body than the other nails. It’s the equivalent of a thumb. Just like our thumbs are positioned high and on the inner side of our hands, so are a dog’s dewclaws.

Dewclaws receive their namesake from their ability to knock dew off the grass. They typically don’t touch the ground. Dewclaws are higher than the other digits on a dog’s paw pads where they are able to brush the sides of grass blades when the dog walks. 

What Are Double Dewclaws?

Double dewclaws refers to the presence of both front leg and hind leg dewclaws. Most dogs have a single dewclaw on each of their front legs. There are some dogs, however, that have dewclaws on their hind legs as well.

These are double-dewclawed breeds. They still have dewclaws on their front legs, but double-dewclawed breeds have dewclaws on their hind legs as well. Double-dewclawed breeds may have a single dewclaw per hind leg, or they may have two dewclaws per hind leg. Regardless, all double-dewclawed breeds have dewclaws on the paw pads of their hind legs.

Double-dewclawed breeds include the following:

• Anatolian Shepherd
• Basenji
• Beauceron
• Briard
• Catahoula Leopard Dog
• Catalan Sheepdog
• German Shepherd
• Great Pyrenees
• Icelandic Sheepdog
• Norwegian Lundehund
• Saint Bernard
• Spanish Mastiff

They may look the same, but front leg dewclaws and hind leg dewclaws are anatomically different. Front leg dewclaws are typically attached by bone and muscle, whereas hind leg dewclaws are typically attached by only soft tissue. Because they are attached by bone and muscle, dogs have more strength and flexibility in their front leg dewclaws.

The term “hind-limb-specific preaxial polydactyly” is also used to describe double-dewclawed breeds.

Dewclaws, especially hind leg dewclaws, are largely functionless. Most dogs rarely or never use them. Whether they want to scratch an itch, dig a hole or run in circles, dogs will typically use their other four digits. But there are still instances in which dogs may use their dewclaws.

Some dogs use their dewclaws to hold things. Because it’s high and on the side of the paw pad, the dewclaw will wrap around objects. Dogs can essentially hold small treats and toys in their paws using this special digit. 

Some dogs use their dewclaws to stabilize themselves when traversing uneven terrain. Dewclaws normally don’t touch the ground. When a dog is going up or down a hill, however, his dewclaws may dig into the side of the hill to stabilize him.

Dewclaws also provide stability when turning at fast speeds. For a brief moment when turning, the dog’s dewclaws will touch the ground. With all five digits touching the ground, he will be able to turn more easily and without falling over.

Dogs in cold climates may use their dogs to increase traction with ice and snow. Retrievers may pull themselves out of the water and onto the ice- or snow-covered ground using their dewclaws. Other cold-climate breeds like the Great Pyrenees and Iceland Sheepdog may dig their dewclaws into ice and snow so that they don’t slip.

Do Chihuahuas Have Dewclaws?

Chihuahuas have dewclaws. With the exception of the African wild dog, nearly all dogs are born with dewclaws.

The Chihuahua isn’t a double-dewclawed breed. While Chihuahuas are born with dewclaws, they only have these special digits on their front leg paw pads.

You can find your Chihuahua’s dewclaws by inspecting his front leg paw pads. Each of his front leg paw pads should have a single dewclaw that’s positioned about 1 inch high on the inner side. Your Chihuahu’s dewclaw nails will likely be thinner and smaller than his nails.

Why Chihuahuas Have Dewclaws

Illustration of the miacis, an indirect ancestor of all dogs.

Chihuahuas have dewclaws for the same reason that other dogs have them: it’s an anatomical feature that’s rooted in their evolutionary history.

Contrary to popular belief, the evolutionary history of Chihuahuas didn’t begin with wolves. There was a small carnivorous mammal that came before long before wolves. Known as the miacis, this cat-like mammal roamed the Earth roughly 65 million to 33 million years ago. Evolutionary evidence suggests that all caniforms — wolves, dogs, bears, foxes, raccoons and other dog-like carnivorans — evolved from the miacis.

The miacis didn’t hunt like the modern-day wolf. Rather than chasing prey on the ground, it would chase prey up trees. The miacis had five retractable claws per paw pad, which it used to quickly climb up trees in pursuit of prey. Some of the earliest members of this cat-like mammal actually lived in trees.

Illustration of the cynodictis.

The miacis evolved into a ground-dwelling mammal known as the cynodictis. The transition from living in trees to living on the ground led to some evolutionary changes. While the miacis had cat-like features, the cynodictis had dog-like features. The cynodictis is believed to be one of the first if not the first true dog.

The cynodictis was a digitigrade animal, meaning it walked on its toes while keeping its heels raised off the ground. Evolution pushed its legs forward, allowing it to run faster on the ground by striking its toes. With a raised heel, the fifth claw of the cynodictis and its canine descendants no longer touched the ground, thus becoming dewclaws.

After a few more evolutionary steps, dogs emerged. Dogs share many of the same characteristics as the cynodictis, including carnassial teeth, a long muzzle and a raised fifth claw. The term “dewclaw” was coined in the mid- to late-1500s to describe this now-raised digit on dogs and other animals. 

Chihuahuas have dewclaws because, like all dogs, they are modern relatives to the cynodictis and miacis. The miacis was tree-dwelling, so it used its fifth claw to climb trees. When the miacis evolved into the ground-dwelling cynodictis, it no longer needed to climb trees. Evolution made the cynodictis a digitigrade animal by raising its heel so that its fifth claw no longer touched the ground.

Why Some Dogs Don’t Have Dewclaws

Not all dogs have dewclaws. While most are born with these special digits, some dogs have their dewclaws surgically removed.

Breeders may get their puppies’ dewclaws removed to protect them from future injuries. Dogs are more likely to injure their dewclaws than their other digits. Dewclaws don’t touch the ground, so dogs may snag their dewclaw nails on objects when running and playing.

Breed standards may not allow dewclaws. The American Kennel Club (AKC) breed standard for the Portuguese Water Dog, for instance, says the hind legs must not have dewclaws; Portuguese Water Dogs can only have front leg dewclaws if owners want to register and compete them in the show ring.

The AKC breed standard for the Great Pyrenees, on the other hand, requires double dewclaws. Owners can’t get their Great Pyrenees’ front or hind leg dewclaws surgically removed if they want to register and compete them in the show ring.

Dogs may get their dewclaws surgically removed because of an injury or disease. If a dog has a cancerous tumor, such as a subungual squamous cell carcinoma tumor, under his dewclaw nail, the veterinarian may remove his entire dewclaw. Alternatively, if a dog has a severely injured or infected dewclaw, the veterinarian may remove it.

Is Dewclaw Removal Safe?

Dewclaw removal is a controversial topic. When performed by a licensed veterinarian, it’s typically a safe procedure. The veterinarian will anesthetize the dog, followed by amputating his dewclaws. But all surgical procedures carry a risk of complications.

Dogs may develop an infection at the incision site, or more rarely, they may experience cardiac arrest or a stroke from the anesthesia. Even without complications such as these, dogs may experience pain after getting their dewclaws removed.

While some breeders opt for dewclaw removal surgery to protect their puppies from future injuries, dewclaw injuries aren’t very common. They typically involve working dogs that have been bred for a specific purpose, such as herding livestock or hunting wild game. Working dogs may snag one of their dewclaws while performing the task for which they were bred, resulting in injury.

Most companion dogs, including Chihuahuas, will never sustain a dewclaw injury. Unlike their working counterparts, they don’t have a job to perform. Instead, companion dogs are pets that provide company and companionship. Because they spend most of their day lounging near their owner, companion dogs are less likely to injure their dewclaws than working dogs.

Dewclaw removal may actually increase the risk of injury. According to a study published in the “Journal of the American Veterinary Association (JAVMA),” front leg dewclaw removal is a risk factor for injuries involving other digits.

Front leg dewclaws are connected by bone and muscle, making them more functional than hind leg dewclaws, the latter of which are connected only by soft tissue. When a dog’s front leg dewclaws are removed, more stress will be placed on his other digits, thereby increasing the risk of injury to those other digits.

Many veterinarians will only recommend the removal of a dog’s front leg dewclaws if there’s a valid medical reason for doing so, such as a cancerous tumor. It’s a more invasive procedure than hind leg dewclaw removal. The veterinarian will have to cut through bone and muscle during a front leg dewclaw removal procedure.

Hind leg dewclaws are more loosely attached, so veterinarians can remove them more easily. This procedure is particularly simple when performed on puppies around three days after birth.

Caring for Your Chihuahua’s Dewclaws

If your Chihuahua has dewclaws — which he should unless they were removed — you’ll need to care for them. Dewclaw injuries are rare, but they can still occur.

You’ll need to trim your Chihuahua’s dewclaws. Dewclaws grow just like all other nails. Since they rarely make contact with the ground, though, they won’t wear down as quickly as your Chihuahua’s other nails. Neglecting to trim them regularly may result in them becoming ingrown. Just remember to watch out for the quick.

Dewclaws have a quick. The quick is the section of a nail that’s nourished with blood. Cutting into the quick of a dewclaw nail or any other nail will create a painful, infection-prone wound.

Dewclaw nails can break or splinter open. Assuming the break is shallow, you should be able to trim it down with a pair of canine nail clippers. If the dewclaw nail is broken deep into the quick, conversely, you should seek veterinary attention.

Signs and symptoms of a broken dewclaw nail include:

• Licking the affected paw pad
• Yelping or pulling away when you attempt to touch the affected paw pad
• Limping while walking
• Swelling and redness
• Bleeding (if the break is deep into the quick)

If your Chihuahua burrows under blankets, you should keep an eye on him to ensure that he doesn’t snag his dewclaws. A snagged dewclaw may sound harmless, but it can lead to a more severe injury.

Your Chihuahua may attempt to pull his paw away after snagging his dewclaw in a blanket. Assuming it’s stuck, he will inadvertently stress the problematic dewclaw. To protect him from injuries like a broken toe or torn ligament, you’ll need to help your Chihuahua free his dewclaw from the blanket. Hold your Chihuahua’s paw pad with one of your hands while using your other hand to unsnag his dewclaw.

In Conclusion

Like most dogs, Chihuahuas have dewclaws. They are born with one of these raised digits on each of their front legs. You can care for your Chihuahua’s dewclaws by following the tips listed here.

References:

https://lifewest.edu/lifelines/stabilization-of-the-canine-dewclaw/

Does your Chihuahua have dewclaws? Let us know in the comments section below!

Welcome to Chihuahua Wardrobe, the world’s #1 site dedicated to Chihuahua clothes and accessories!

Want to dress your Chihuahua like a rock star? You’ve come to the right place.

We connect you to one of the largest selections of Chihuahua clothes and accessories. Your Chihuahua gives you unconditional love and companionship, so why not return the favor with some stylish new threads? Whether you’re searching for a shirt, sweater, water-resistant jacket, hoodie, costume, collar, harness, footwear (yes, Chihuahuas can wear shoes) or other apparel, we’ve got you covered.

Click the “Shop” button at the top-right to start shopping.

A Little Bit About Chihuahua Wardrobe…

First launched in 2013, Chihuahua Wardrobe is a website for Chihuahua owners by Chihuahua owners. We know how difficult finding clothes for a small Chihuahua can be, which is why we created this site.

While we specialize in Chihuahua clothes, we also offer guides, articles, photos and other exclusive content on the breed. As owners ourselves, we know a thing or two about the breed. From potty training and teaching basic obedience, to vaccinations and managing common health problems, it’s a lot of work. We make the process a little easier by covering common topics such as these in our health, training, grooming and information sections.

Think you have the cutest Chihuahua on the block? If so, send us a picture and we will gladly upload it to our site so others can see!

10 Reasons Why Your Chihuahua Needs Clothes

There’s no denying the fact that Chihuahuas look cute when wearing clothes. However, there are other reasons why you should dress your Chihuahua…

1. Protects Against Insects: From fleas and ticks to mosquitoes and ants, Chihuahuas are frequently exposed to a variety of pests. Some of these pests are nothing more than a nuisance, but others can transmit serious and potentially fatal infectious diseases. A shirt or sweater can protect your furry four-legged companion against common pests such as these.
2. Promotes Socialization: Dressing your Chihuahua in clothes attracts attention when in public, which helps to socialize your pup and prevent behavioral problems like aggression later down the road.
3. Keeps Your Chihuahua Warm: Being the world’s smallest dog breed, Chihuahuas don’t tolerate cold climates as well as larger breeds. When a Chihuahua is exposed to sub-freezing temperatures, his body temperature may drop to dangerously low levels, a condition known as hypothermia. A warm shirt or sweater protects against hypothermia by slowing down the rate at which your Chihuahua loses heat.
4. Keeps your Chihuahua Dry: A raincoat will keep your Chihuahua dry in snowy or rainy weather, further protecting against hypothermia.
5. Minimizes Shedding: While there’s no way to stop your Chihuahua from shedding, dressing him in a shirt or sweater prevents loose hair from escaping his coat.
6. Protects Against Sunburn: Prolonged exposure to the hot mid-day sun can burn a Chihuahua’s skin, increasing the risk of skin cancer. You can protect your Chi from sunburn, however, by dressing him in a light shirt.
7. Protects Paws. You can protect your Chihuahua’s paws from sharp rocks, gravel, broken sticks, ice and debris with “paw wear.”
8. Chihuahuas are the Perfect Size: With an average weight of just 2 to 6 pounds, Chihuahuas are the perfect size for dressing in clothes. You can easily dress and undress your Chihuahua in just minutes.
9. Protects Against Skin Allergies. Clothes can protect your Chihuahua from skin allergies (contact dermatitis), a condition from which approximately 15% of all dogs suffer. By creating a barrier between your Chihuahua’s skin and the environment, allergens like pollen, mold and trace chemicals won’t reach him as easily.
10. More Photo Opportunities: You’ll probably take more photos when your Chihuahua is dressed in cute outfits, posting and sharing these moments with friends.

Choosing the Right Clothes for Your Chihuahua

Now that you know a little bit about why your Chihuahua needs clothes, you might be wondering which clothes to choose. From graphic shirts and fuzzy sweaters to ballerina-style “tutus” and funny costumes, the possibilities are endless. With so many options, though, how do you know which one is right for your precious Chi?

Purpose

For what reason are you buying Chihuahua clothes? If you want to keep your Chi warm throughout the winter season, perhaps a sweater or thick shirt will work. On the other hand, a lightweight shirt is recommended for the late spring and summer months. If you want to protect your Chihuahua from fleas or skin allergies, choose an article of clothing that covers most of his skin.

Material

Just like our clothes are made of different materials, so are our dog clothes. Clothes made of 100% cotton is an all-around great choice; it’s soft, comfortable, inexpensive, and easy to clean. Because of its water-absorbent properties, however, cotton isn’t the best option for your Chihuahua to wear in the rain or snow. Instead, consider clothes made of a water-resistant material like polyester or nylon.

Size

It’s important to choose the right size clothes for your Chihuahua. While holding the title of the world’s smallest dog, Chihuahuas vary in size. Teacups, for instance, often weigh just 1 to 2 pounds, while larger Chihuahuas weigh 6 or more pounds. There’s no such thing as one-size-fits-all dog clothes, so consider your Chihuahuas size — weight, length and height — when shopping for new clothes. Whether it’s a shirt, sweater or any other article of clothing, it should list the size range for which it was designed.

Function

Basic Chihuahua shirts and sweaters function just like the shirts and sweaters that we wear: you slide your Chihuahua’s front legs through each of the openings and he’s good to go! Others, however, have velcro straps, buttons or zippers.

Style

What style of clothes are you looking for? A single-colored shirt is always an option, but one of the great things about Chihuahua clothes is the countless number of styles from which to choose. One idea is to choose clothes that reflect your Chihuahua’s personality. If your Chihuahua has a ferocious personality, consider a graphic “Bad to the Bone” shirt. Or if you own a female Chihuahua, maybe a pink “Pampered Princess” shirt. Have some fun when choosing a style, and don’t be afraid to express your Chi’s unique personality through apparel.

Tips on Dressing Your Chihuahua

Chihuahuas are often frightened of unfamiliar objects, and clothes are no exception. When attempting to dress your Chi for the first time, he may pull away, shake or otherwise show signs of anxiety.

You can ease your Chihuahua’s anxiety of getting dressed by following these tips:

• Begin dressing your Chihuahua early, preferably while he’s still a puppy.
• Stick with simple clothes at first, avoiding complex garments with multiple latching mechanisms.
• After your Chihuahua wears a new garment of clothing for the first time, inspect his body for signs of chafing or irritation.
• Don’t tug or pull your Chihuahua’s legs when attempting to dress him.
• Reward your Chihuahua with a treat and affection both before and after getting him dressed.
• It may sound silly, but talking to your Chihuahua in a calm and soothing tone while dressing him can help ease his anxiety.
• Avoid tight-fitting clothes that restrict your Chihuahua’s movement.
• Don’t force your Chihuahua to get dressed if he’s anxious.
• If an article of clothing prevents your Chihuahua from doing his business, remove it before taking him outside.

Chihuahua Accessories: What You Should Know

In addition to clothes, you should also consider buying accessories for your Chihuahua. A leash and collar (or harness), for instance, is a must-have combo for any Chihuahua. Even if your Chi is kept indoors, you’ll still need to take him outside to do his business. Allowing your Chihuahua to “roam free” outside without a restraint increases the risk of him running away.

A collar or harness also allows you to include an identification tag on your Chihuahua. If your Chi isn’t microchipped or “ID tattooed,” he’ll need an ID tag displaying his name, your name, address and your phone number. According to the National Council of Pet Population Study and Policy and the National Humane Society, roughly 1 in 3 pets will run away in their lifetime, but only 10% are ever reunited with their owner. Placing on your Chihuahua’s collar or harness increases the chances of a successful reunion if he’s ever lost or runs away.

If you plan on traveling with your Chihuahua, you should invest in a special carrier. Whether you’re going to the vet, pet store, or just running errands around town, you can bring along your Chi by placing him in a carrier. It provides a safe and secure environment, preventing him from jumping out.

A bed is another must-have accessory for Chihuahuas. While you can always create a soft bedding area using old blankets, dog beds are designed with an emphasis on ergonomics and comfort. Statistics show that up to 25% of all dogs will develop osteoarthritis (OA) or degenerative joint disease (DJD). An orthopedic dog bed can ease the pain and discomfort associated with arthritic conditions such as these.

These are just a few of the top Chihuahua accessories.

A Brief Overview of the Chihuahua

• Full of personality and spunk
• The world’s smallest dog breed
• Make excellent watchdogs
• Few health problems compared to other breeds
• Average lifespan of 15 to 20 years
• Requires minimal grooming
• Weigh as little as 2½ to 5½ ounces when borne
• Two official varieties: long coat and smooth coat (initially, only long-coat Chihuahuas were recognized)
• Described as either apple head or deer head based on facial appearance
• The AKC only recognizes the apple head variety
• While not an official term, small Chihuahuas are often called “teacup”
• Clannish nature, preferring the company of other Chihuahuas
• Dozens of coat colors and color combinations recognized by the AKC
• Often born with a molera or “soft spot” in skull
• Love to burrow in blankets, bedding and clothes
• First recognized by the AKC in 1904
• The AKC revised the Chihuahua’s breed standards in 1934, 1954, 1972 and 1990
• Light shedders compared to other breeds, making them ideal for people who suffer from pet allergies
• Enjoy basking in warm spots, such as in front of a window, fireplace or heater

Chihuahua Background and Information

The Chihuahua is a small-framed dog with large erect ears and a terrier-like temperament that originated in Mexico. While the breed’s true origins remain a mystery, there’s strong evidence suggesting that it’s a descendant of a similar small-framed companion dog of pre-Columbian Mesoamerica called the Techichi. As we discuss in The History of the Chihuahua, archeological findings and DNA analyses link the modern-day Chihuahua to the Techichi.

Several civilizations, including the Maya, Toltec and Aztec, are believed to have domesticated the Techichi, keeping them for companionship and ceremonial rituals. They viewed the small dogs as being guardians of the afterlife, believing the Techichi would follow his respective owner into the afterlife when sacrificed. After landing in the New World, Spanish explorers wrote about the Techichi and how the native Aztecs fed and cared for the small dog.

While the Techichi is most likely the Chihuahua’s ancestor, other theories regarding the Chihuahua’s past suggest the breed is of Asian or European origin. Some believe the Chihuahua is a descendant of the Maltese pocket dog, which also shares the breed’s characteristic molera. A fresco painted by Sandro Botticelli in the Sistine Chapel depicts this small dog with striking Chihuahua-like characteristics.

Another theory is that Chinese explorers brought a small dog over to the Americas, and this small dog crossbred with the Techichi to make the modern-day Chihuahua. Alternatively, perhaps European explorers brought over a dog that was crossbred with the Techichi. All signs point to the Techichi being the Chihuahua’s likely ancestor, but we still don’t know the whole story.

Chihuahuas Enter the U.S.

Regardless of what happened in the past, we know that some of the earliest Chihuahuas were brought over to the U.S. in the late 1800s. American tourists visiting the border states encountered merchants selling Chihuahuas during this period, some of whom brought the pint-sized pups back to the U.S. With many Americans seeing the Chihuahua for the first time, the breed’s recognition steadily increased in the years to follow. In 1904, the first Chihuahua, aptly named Midget, was registered with the AKC. And just a few years later, the AKC had its first Chihuahua champion, Beppie.

In 1923, the Chihuahua Club of America (CCA), a nonprofit organization, was formed to promote the breed and educate breeders about common health problems. The CCA created the first standards for the breed during this same year.

By 1987, more than 21,000 Chihuahuas were registered with the AKC, roughly 15,000 of which competed in AKC conformation shows. However, the Chihuahua’s popularity in the U.S. exploded in the 1990s, thanks in part to a series of TV commercials featuring the breed.

If you’re familiar with the phrase “Yo quiero Taco Bell,” you probably know which company created these commercials: Taco Bell. To compete with other fast food restaurants in the “Burger Wars,” the Tex-Mex chain introduced a talking Chihuahua as its mascot. In 1997, Taco Bell aired its first TV commercial featuring its new mascot, Gidget. In the commercial, a fawn-colored deer-head Chihuahua spoke — using voice-over effects — the catchphrase “Yo quiero Taco Bell,” which is Spanish for “I want Taco Bell.” In the following years, Taco Bell released several other commercials featuring Gidget, including alternative catchphrases like “Drop the chalupa!” and “Viva Gorditas!”

Developed in partnership with the international advertising agency TBWA Worldwide, the commercial series was an instant hit, both for Taco Bell and the Chihuahua breed. These commercials, along with a newfound interest in toy dogs, catapulted the Chihuahua to #7 based on AKC registrations in 1999.

While the breed’s rankings declined in the years to follow, it remained in the top 20 for over a decade. Today, the Chihuahua consistently ranks as one of the most popular breeds in the U.S., U.K., Canada, Australia, Mexico and many other countries.

Did you know? Countless celebrities have owned or currently own Chihuahuas, including Madonna, Reese Witherspoon, Hilary Duff, Marilyn Monroe, Christina Rici, Demi Moore, Sharon Osbourne, Ashton Kutcher, Mickey Rourke, Sandra Bullock, Scarlett Johansson, Adrian Brody, Paula Abdul and Katharine McPhee.

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Does your Chihuahua bark up a storm at every little thing he sees? Well, you aren’t alone. Excessive and inappropriate barking is one of the most common Chihuahua behavioral problems reported by owners.

This behavior can become a nuisance and make life difficult for both you and your family, but you can train even the most vocal Chihuahua to stop barking by following the tips listed below.

Is Barking Really That Bad?

Barking in itself isn’t necessarily bad. It’s an instinctual trait that’s been passed down from their ancestors over the course of thousands of years. From large Mastiffs to small Chihuahuas, all dogs bark to communicate. Along with growling, eye gazing, showing teeth and body posture, it’s one of the primary ways in which dogs communicate.

Your Chihuahua might bark when he needs food or water, or when he needs to go outside. Your Chihuahua may also bark if an intruder is trying to enter the home, alerting you to the intruder’s presence. These are all acceptable forms of barking and shouldn’t be discouraged. Teaching your Chihuahua not to bark when he needs to go outside, for example, will result in more accidents in your home.

There are times, however, when a Chihuahua’s barking is inappropriate — and this is where you should draw the line. Examples of inappropriate barking include:

• Barking at pedestrians
• Barking at passing cars
• Barking at guests
• Barking at postal workers
• Barking at neighbors
• Barking at other animals
• Barking at objects (vacuum cleaner, broom, trash cash, etc.)
• Any barking that’s a nuisance to you, your family or others

Inappropriate barking can interfere with your daily life, disturb your sleep, anger your neighbors and create a stressful environment in your home. Furthermore, barking is often covered by state laws and city ordinances. In Massachusetts, residents may file a formal complaint to the city council when their neighbor’s dog barks excessively. If the city council believes the barking to be a nuisance, they may order the owner to bring the dog indoors, or in extreme cases, get rid of the dog.

Even if there’s no specific law covering dog barking in your area, this behavior may fall under a loud noise ordinance, resulting in hefty fines. As an owner, it’s your responsibility to define when it’s acceptable for your Chihuahua to bark and when it’s not.

Why Chihuahuas Bark

The first step to controlling your Chihuahua’s barking is to understand why he does it. Chihuahuas bark for a variety of reasons. Some of these reasons are appropriate, while others are not.

As previously mentioned, barking is a form of communication in the canine kingdom. When a Chihuahua barks, he’s usually trying to say something, either to you or another animal.

#1) Boredom

Some Chihuahuas bark because they are bored. Known as “boredom barking,” it usually consists a long, high-pitched monotone bark that occurs in intervals. Being social pack animals, Chihuahuas need regular physical and mental stimulation. Failure to provide your Chihuahua with this stimulation can lead to behavioral problems such as chewing on the furniture, scratching at doors, digging at the carpet and barking.

To prevent boredom, give your Chihuahua plenty of mental and physical stimulation on a daily basis. Whether it’s playing fetch, tug-of-war, going to the dog bark, or teaching tricks, stimulation is essential to nipping boredom barking in the bud.

You should also avoid leaving your Chihuahua alone for more than six consecutive hours a day, or three hours if he’s a puppy. When left alone for long periods of time, Chihuahuas may bark to release built-up energy and express their loneliness. Leaving the TV or radio on can help by distracting your Chihuahua with background noise, but long periods of isolation may still trigger his barking instinct.

#2) Fear

Barking can often be attributed to fear. When a Chihuahua is confronted with a perceived threat — another dog, animal, person, object or loud noise — he may bark and show signs of aggression.

This is all part of the Chihuahua’s fight-or-flight instinct, and it plays a key role in their survival. Chihuahuas, like all dogs, prefer running from threats rather than engaging them directly. If a Chihuahua is backed into a corner or otherwise escape, however, he may try to scare the threat away by barking.

Fear barking typically consists of several high-pitched barks in short intervals. You can usually tell if your Chihuahua is barking because of fear by looking at his posture. If he’s afraid, he’ll push his ears back, hold his tail low, and the fur on his back will stand up. Do not allow anyone to touch your Chihuahua if he’s exhibiting these signs, as this could result in the person being bitten.

#3) Needs Something

When a Chihuahua needs something, he may bark to the attention of his owner. If a Chihuahua needs to go potty, for instance, he may bark by the door, essentially telling his owner, “Hey, let me out!” Whether he needs to go outside, or if he needs food or water, this type of barking can occur anytime the Chihuahua wants to get your attention.

Attention barking is usually soft and short. The Chihuahua will stop barking once his needs are met.

#4) Territorial

Chihuahuas may also bark when another dog, person or animal encroaches upon their territory. This behavior is closely associated with fear barking. The Chihuahua views the encroaching subject as a threat to his territory, so he barks to try and scare it away.

A Chihuahua’s “territory” may include his home, yard, crate, bedding, car seat, food and water bowl, and other areas to which he’s accustomed.

Normally, territorial barking becomes louder and more aggressive as the perceived threat gets closer. If the threat doesn’t go away, the Chihuahua may attack it.

Because territorial barking typically comes before an attack, you shouldn’t discourage your Chihuahua from doing it. If you teach your Chihuahua not to bark when his territory is encroached, he may bite the encroaching person or animal.

#5) Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety is a common behavioral disorder in Chihuahuas. It’s characterized by the Chihuahua feeling a constant need to be with his owner. When left alone, the Chihuahua may act out by barking, howling, chewing and using the bathroom indoors. Some owners disregard separation anxiety as being harmless or even cute, but it causes severe stress and anxiety, both for the Chihuahua and the owner.

If separation anxiety is causing your Chihuahua to bark, you need to desensitize him to you leaving and being away. There’s nothing wrong with taking your Chihuahua on the occasional car ride, but it shouldn’t be a daily occurrence. If your Chihuahua expects to go with you every time you leave, he may bark and act out the next time he’s left behind.

Check out this article for more information on separation anxiety in Chihuahuas and how to treat it.

#6) Dementia

Also known as canine cognitive dysfunction, dementia can cause a wide variety of behavioral problems in Chihuahuas, including excessive barking. Chihuahuas suffering from this disease often bark for no apparent reason. It’s believed that Chihuahuas with dementia bark because they are confused, or because they’ve forgotten who their owners are.

Barking triggered by dementia isn’t something that you can stop through traditional training techniques. You need to find out what works and what doesn’t for your Chihuahua through trial and error. Comforting your Chihuahua by petting and speaking his name may help. There’s also medication available for masking the symptoms of dementia, such as Anipryl (selegiline). Ultimately, though, you need to remember dementia isn’t something that’s easily fixed.

#6) Excitement

Some Chihuahuas bark when they are excited or anticipating something that will cause excitement, such as a new toy, going for a walk, or seeing their owner after a long day. The stimuli causes the Chihuahua’s energy levels to rise until he can no longer control it. As a result, he barks, paces, jumps and exhibits other energetic behavior.

Excitement barking consists of short, high-pitched barks. The Chihuahua will stop barking once the stimuli is removed and his energy levels normalize.

#7) Dreaming

Like people, some Chihuahuas vocalize when dreaming. The Chihuahua may bark, howl, whimper and even appear to run in place. This behavior typically occurs during the rapid eye movement (REM) stage of sleep, during which the Chihuahua’s eyes will twitch in response to his increased brain activity.

Some owners feel the need to wake their Chihuahuas when they dream, believing they are helping by getting the Chihuahua out of a nightmare. Most veterinary experts agree, though, that it’s best to let them sleep through the dream. Sleep is essential for a Chihuahua’s physical and mental health. If you wake your Chihuahua every time he dreams, it can cause fatigue, irritability and even a suppressed immune system.

How to Stop Your Chihuahua from Barking

Teaching a Chihuahua not to bark requires an understanding of what’s causing the behavior. And as you can see, Chihuahuas bark for many reasons. In most cases, however, the following training method will correct barking disorders.

Teach the Speak Command

It may sound counterproductive, but teaching your Chihuahua to bark on command can actually help you control his barking. The ultimate goal is to teach the quiet command. Using the quiet command, you can instantly stop your Chihuahua from barking. Before you can do so, however, you must first teach your Chihuahua the speak command.

Follow these steps to teach your Chihuahua the speak command:

1. Have a friend or family member approach the front door.
2. Immediately before this person rings the doorbell, tell your Chihuahua to “speak.”
3. If he barks, reward him with a treat and affection.
4. Repeat until your Chihuahua barks on command.

The doorbell method is only one way to teach the speak command. You can use any stimuli that normally causes your dog to bark. The idea is to create an association between the speak command and treats while enticing his barking behavior through stimuli.

Teach the Quiet Command

After your Chihuahua has learned the speak command, you should teach him the quiet command.

Follow these steps to teach your Chihuahua the command:

1. Use the speak command to make your Chihuahua bark.
2. While he’s barking, place a treat in front of his nose.
3. Assuming your Chihuahua stops barking to inspect and sniff the treat, reward him with the treat and affection.
4. Repeat until your Chihuahua stops barking on command.

Positive Reinforcement

Correcting behavioral problems like excessive barking requires positive reinforcement, not punishment. If you punish or scold your Chihuahua for barking, you’ll only encourage him to bark by giving him attention. Yelling “Bad boy!” or “Bad girl!” for example, feeds the Chihuahua’s desire for attention. He thinks you are barking with him, so he continues to bark (and possibly more loudly) as a result.

Instead of yelling at your Chihuahua when he barks, reward him when he doesn’t. If your Chihuahua remains quiet in a situation when he usually barks, give him a treat and affection. He’ll eventually realize that being quiet in this scenario results in rewards. Positive reinforcement is the key to stopping excessive and inappropriate barking, so keep plenty of treats on hand.

Provide Plenty of Exercise

Lack of exercise plays a key role in Chihuahua barking problems. Because of the breed’s small size, some owners assume that Chihuahuas don’t need regular exercise. But Chihuahuas need just as much physical stimulation as larger dogs. Failure to give your Chihuahua this physical stimulation will result in built-up energy that’s released through inappropriate behavior.

You can discourage excessive and inappropriate barking by giving your Chihuahua at least 30 minutes of exercise per day. This can include walking, playing fetch, chase, tug-of-war, or just running around outside. As long as your Chihuahua is moving, his energy will be released; thus, helping to correct many behavioral problems such as barking.

Be Consistent

Consistency is essential when teaching a Chihuahua not to bark. If you reward your Chihuahua with a treat for obeying the quiet command, give him a treat every time he does it; otherwise, the mixed messages will confuse him and make training more difficult.

All family members in your home should also be on board with the training process. If someone else punishes your Chihuahua for barking, for example, it could impede your training efforts. Sit down and discuss your training method, as described in this article, with all family members. You can even attach a note with the basic training rules to your refrigerator or elsewhere in your home.

What You Shouldn’t Do

There are certain things you shouldn’t do when attempting to correct your Chihuahua’s barking problem. Even if you’ve successfully taught your Chihuahua the quiet command, the following mistakes could negate your training efforts.

Don’t Reward Inappropriate Barking

It’s unlikely that you give your Chihuahua a treat when he barks excessively or at inappropriate times. However, you could still be rewarding him with affection or attention, which encourages him to bark.

To stop their Chihuahua from barking, some owners may toss a toy across the room. This creates a distraction by diverting the Chihuahua’s attention away from the stimuli that initially triggered his barking. In the long run, though, this makes the problem worse by encouraging the Chihuahua to bark in the future.

If you reward your Chihuahua when he barks — treats, toys, affection, playtime, attention, car rides, etc. — he will create an association between barking and rewards. So, the next time he wants a reward, he will bark. Ignore your Chihuahua and don’t give him any attention, or even eye contact, when he barks at inappropriate times.

Don’t Use a Muzzle

A muzzle isn’t an effective solution to stop a Chihuahua from barking. Depending on the specific type, it may prevent the Chihuahua from eating, drinking or panting. Both drinking and panting are essential to regulating the Chihuahua’s body temperature. If he cannot do these things, his body temperature will rise to potentially dangerous levels. Because of this, leaving a muzzle on an unattended Chihuahua can be viewed as cruelty, leaving the owner susceptible to animal cruelty charges.

The basket-style muzzles typically allow the Chihuahua to drink and pant while wearing it, but you still shouldn’t use it to stop your Chihuahua from barking. Muzzles promote stress and anxiety, which can worsen behavioral problems. The Chihuahua will still feel the need to bark; the muzzle only prevents him from acting on this instinct.

There are times when a muzzle is useful and appropriate. If your Chihuahua is fearful of the vet or groomer and exhibits signs of aggression, a muzzle can protect the vet or groomer from being bitten. Generally speaking, though, muzzles should only be used to prevent a Chihuahua from biting. They should not be used as punishment or to correct behavioral problems.

Don’t Use a Shock Collar

We do not condone the use of shock collars to stop a Chihuahua from barking. Often marketed under gimmicky names like “e-collars” and “collar-mounted electronic training aids,” they use battery-powered electrodes to emit up to 4,500 volts (sometimes more) directly into the Chihuahua’s neck when he barks.

Some shock collars are operated manually, while others automatically apply the shock when a bark is detected. The latter are particularly troublesome since they shock for all barks, both good and bad.

Whether it’s manual or automatic, you should avoid using shock collars when training your Chihuahua. While typically not fatal, they still cause pain and discomfort. Can you imagine being shocked in your neck? It’s not pleasant. There have even been reports of dogs sustaining second- and third-degree burns around their neck from wearing shock collars.

Aside from the pain and potential harm shock collars cause, their effectiveness is questionable at best. In a study titled “The Welfare Consequences and Efficacy of Training Pet Dogs with Remote Electronic Training Collars in Comparison to Reward-Based Training,” researchers from Lincoln University in the UK found that shock collars were no more effective at training dogs than traditional recall and control chasing techniques.

Did you know? The use of canine shock collars is banned in Denmark, Norway, Switzerland, Germany, Australia, Slovenia and some parts of Australia.

Spray collars are less invasive than shock collars but still a poor choice when training a Chihuahua not to bark. They work — and I use the term “work” loosely — by spraying mildly irritating substances like citronella or lemon juice in the Chihuahua’s face when he barks. The short bursts of juice sting the Chihuahua’s eyes and nasal passages, punishing him for barking.

Furthermore, both shock and spray collars are known to pick up the sound of other dogs barking. If your neighbor’s dog barks while your Chihuahua is wearing one of these collars, it could activate the collar and punish your Chihuahua. While some owners have reported success using these punishment-based training collars, most canine behavioral specialists will agree that there are better, safer and more effective ways to teach a Chihuahua not to bark.

Rather than exposing your Chihuahua to pain and discomfort, follow the use the techniques described here to teach your Chihuahua his barking boundaries. As long as you remain consistent with your training efforts, your Chihuahua will learn when it’s acceptable to bark and when it’s not.

What About Removing the Stimuli?

You can typically stop a Chihuahua from barking by removing the stimuli from his environment. If your Chihuahua barks at pedestrians walking in front of your home, for example, you can pull the curtains shut. Or if your Chihuahua barks when he hears your car pull into the driveway, you can raise the volume on the TV to create white noise. With the stimuli removed, your Chihuahua will no longer feel the desire to bark.

With that said, removing the stimuli is only a temporary solution for barking problems. You can’t keep the curtains closed or the TV on forever. And the next time your Chihuahua is exposed to the stimuli, he will bark. Rather than removing it, try to desensitize your Chihuahua to the stimuli. This is done by acclimating your Chihuahua to whatever is making him bark.

Using the same scenario mentioned above, you can desensitize your Chihuahua to pedestrians outside by having someone walk in front of your home (with the curtains open). This person should begin at a far enough distance so it doesn’t cause your Chihuahua to bark immediately. You can then feed your Chihuahua treats for as long as he’s quiet. Once he begins to bark, stop feeding him treats and begin to ignore him.

It may take several sessions, but this should desensitize your Chihuahua to whatever causing him to bark.

The Bottom Line on Chihuahua Barking

All dogs bark, and Chihuahuas are no exception. It’s one of their primary methods of communication. When your Chihuahua’s barking becomes a nuisance and interferes with life, however, you need to take action by correcting his behavior. Barking excessively or at inappropriate times creates a chaotic environment for you, your family and your Chihuahua. Use the training techniques described here to correct your Chihuahua’s barking and regain control of your home.

How do you stop your Chihuahua from barking? Let us know in the comments section below!

References:

https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/how-get-your-dog-stop-barking

https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/common-dog-behavior-issues/barking

https://pets.webmd.com/dogs/guide/understanding-why-dogs-bark

Syringomyelia (SM) is a serious health problem that affects a number of small dog breeds, one of which is the Chihuahua. Unfortunately, very few owners are aware of this condition and oftentimes mistake its symptoms for allergies or other issues. As a result, Chihuahuas suffering from SM aren’t given the treatment and/or medication they require. Whether you believe your Chihuahua is affected by this condition or not, it’s important to understand what SM is and what the proper course of treatment is if your Chihuahua develops it.

According to the Chihuahua Club of America, SM began showing up in the Chihuahua bloodline in 2006. A purebred long-coat Chihuahua named Deerus Flashmoon was the first to be officially diagnosed with SM. Since then, numerous Chihuahua organizations and veterinarians have worked to educate owners on this increasingly common condition. Although it’s not considered a common condition, SM can result in result in some painful symptoms and even life-threatening complications.

What Is Syringomyelia?

Syringomyelia (SM) is a condition where fluid-filled sacs develop around the spinal cord where it connects to the brain. In a normal Chihuahua, the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) circulates to and from the brain with ease. However, those suffering from SM tend to have some form of obstruction preventing the flow of CSF; therefore, it pools up in the spinal column where it forms these fluid-filled cavities.

While it’s most commonly associated with small dogs, the fact is that any breed can develop SM at any given time in their life. One such small dog breed, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, is known for its high risk of suffering from SM. In fact, some estimates suggest that over 90% of CKCS’ will develop the condition at some point in their life. This is a shocking statistic to say the least, but early detection and treatment can help your canine deal with this horrible condition.

Causes

SM is generally caused when the top of the spinal column is blocked, preventing the normal flow of spinal fluid to the brain. When this occurs, the characteristic sacs begin to develop and fill with fluid. You have to remember that spinal fluid isn’t meant to remain in the spinal column. In healthy canines, and people for that matter, it travels back and forth to the brain. Dogs suffering from SM have a blockage that prevents their spinal fluid from moving, and as a result, it causes the fluid-filled sacs to pop up. It may only be a single sac, or it can be as many as half a dozen.

One of the most common causes of SM in Chihuahuas is a malformation or deformity where the brain is larger than the skull, such as Chiari-like malformation (CM). Typically, the brain of Chihuahuas suffering from CM will push up against the narrow cavity of the spinal column, resulting in a natural blockage. When the brain is pressed hard enough, it becomes air-tight, preventing the flow of spinal fluid to and from the brain. Some Chihuahuas are born with SM, while others develop it later into their adulthood.

Symptoms

Symptoms can vary from a minor itchy feeling to excruciating pain and discomfort. It really depends on how severe your Chihuahua’s SM condition is, as well as their body’s reaction. With that said, here are some of the most common side effects associated with Syringomyelia:

• SM is also known as the neck scratching disease because dogs suffering from it will scratch their neck excessively.
• Pain around the neck and head (generally worse at night).
• Sensitivity to extreme cold or hot temperatures.
• Spinal scoliosis (spine bends in an abnormal shape).
• Shaking and shivering.
• Yelping for no visible reason (sign of pain).
• Holding one or both of their back legs up off the ground.

If you’ve noticed your Chihuahua exhibiting one more of the symptoms previously mentioned, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian immediately. They will perform a more thorough examination of your Chihuahua to determine whether further investigation is required. Currently, the only way to 100% identify SM is through a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan. Some veterinarians may have these devices in their office, but chances are you’ll be referred to a veterinary specialist, such as a neurologist.

Treatment

There are a couple of different forms of treatment available for Chihuahuas suffering from SM, and only an experienced veterinarian can tell you what course of action is best for your specific Chihuahua’s condition. It’s important to sit down and talk with your veterinarian to weigh the pros and cons associated with each treatment option. Only then can you make an educated decision to help your Chihuahua’s condition improve.

In recent years, Chihuahuas and other dogs suffering from SM have been given drugs that inhibit the production of cerebrospinal fluid formation with limited success. Drugs like Prilosec result in lower spinal fluid production, which in theory would help to treat SM. The problem, however, is that use of fluid-inhibiting drugs only works as a short-term treatment option, and it also comes with its own fair share of unpleasant side effects.

Pain management is oftentimes the recommended choice of action by veterinarians. As long as your Chihuahua’s condition isn’t worsening, medication to help them deal with the pain may be advised. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as Rimadyl and Metacam, are useful for both reducing pain and inflammation associated with the condition. Opiates may also be given when traditional NSAIDs aren’t enough to subside their discomfort.

Lastly, there are surgical procedures aimed to treat SM and the unpleasant side effects it creates. Typically, surgical operations are only recommended for Chihuahuas with severe and/or late-stage SM, as it’s usually accompanied by extreme pain and discomfort. The primary goal of surgery is to release pressure on the foramen magnum so that spinal fluid can easily flow to and from the brain. This is oftentimes done by removing pieces of hypoplastic occipital bone or the surrounding area. Once the bone is removed, it should open up just enough space for the spinal fluid to flow freely.

References:

https://etd.ohiolink.edu/apexprod/rws_etd/send_file/send?accession=osu1554712901697936&disposition=inline

https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/syringomyelia-and-chiari-like-malformation

https://asap.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/ASAP-Fall-2014-Connections-with-Kids-newsletter.pdf

https://cavalierhealth.org/syringomyelia.htm

Raising a Chihuahua puppy inside your home is an exciting and memorable time that you’re certain to never forget. Just the sight of these energy-filled balls of fur is enough to put a smile on anyone’s face, regardless of what kind of day you’re having. However, the decision to raise a Chihuahua puppy on your own isn’t one that should be made lightly. You’ll need to offer them a safe and healthy environment with everything they need for proper growth and development.

It’s all too common for people to take Chihuahua puppies into their home based on their cute looks alone, without fully realizing just how much work goes into caring for them. As a result, the puppies needs aren’t met and they are the ones who suffer from their owner’s mistake. If you’re willing to invest your time, money and energy into one, keep reading and we’ll reveal how to raise a healthy Chihuahua puppy.

Bringing Your Chihuahua Puppy Home

Once you’ve found a Chihuahua puppy from a breeder that you simply can’t live without, you’ll need to first make some preparations before bringing them home, one of which is getting plenty of premium puppy food. While some veterinarians may recommend specific formulas, it’s usually best to stick with the same type of food the breeder has been feeding them. When you’re checking out new puppies, ask the breeder what they’ve been feeding them. Most breeders will even be more than happy to send some of the food home with you.

It’s hard not to instantly fall in love with a cute Chihuahua puppy, but you have to refrain from taking them away from their mother too early. Doing so may increase their risk of developing certain health conditions, and it also places unnecessary emotional stress. So when is it okay to take a Chihuahua puppy away from their mother? There’s really no one single answer to this question, as all puppies develop both emotionally and physically at different rates. A good rule of thumb, however, is to wait until they are 10 weeks old before bringing them home.

Here’s a rough outline of what you’ll need to do BEFORE bringing your Chihuahua puppy home:

• Pick up a bag or two of premium puppy dog food and two bowls (one for food and the other for water).
• Create a safe and confined area where your puppy can roam, play and rest when you aren’t there to watch them. Ideally, the area should have hardwood, laminate, tile or linoleum floors that are easy to clean, as your puppy will probably have some accidents here.
• Purchase a soft bed and some blankets for them to snuggle up in. Puppies need the comforting feeling provided by blankets even more so than adults, so make sure you have a nice bedding area set up for them.
• Unless you want all of your furniture and clothes chewed on, pick up a few small chew toys the next time you’re at the pet store. Chihuahua puppies will go through a teething stage where they will have the desire to chew.
• If you haven’t done so already, start stockpiling newspapers to lay in your Chihuahua puppy’s play area. This will help protect the flooring underneath by soaking up some of the urine.

Scheduling Their First Veterinarian Visit

Once you bring your Chihuahua puppy home, you’ll need to call and schedule their first veterinarian appointment. Don’t just take them to the first veterinarian name you come across in the phone book or online, but instead call around and ask some of your friends and family members who they recommend. You want to choose an experienced, professional vet that’s naturally good with animals. Once you’ve found one, call them up and tell them you’d like to make an appointment for your newly-born Chihuahua puppy.

During your pup’s initial vet visit, they should administer a vaccination for the deadly Parvovirus. As you may already know, the Parvovirus is a deadly viral disease that takes the lives of thousands of dogs each year. To make matters worse, it seems that puppies are at a greater risk of the Parvovirus than older dogs. Once they come into contact with it, the virus spreads to the intestinal lining where it feeds on the living cells, causing diarrhea, weakness and dehydration. Thankfully, this virus is easily preventable through a series of vaccinations administered by a vet.

Of course the veterinarian should also perform a thorough checkup and inspection to see if there’s any medically concerning issues with them. Typically, this consists of checking in their ears for mites, in their coat for fleas, and making sure all of their bones have developed properly. While you’re at the vet, be sure to talk to them about follow-up vaccinations, as your Chihuahua will need several more sets in the months to follow.

Potty-Training a Puppy

If there’s one thing you can count on with a Chihuahua puppy it’s that they are going to have accidents. No matter how many times you take them outside or keep them cooped up in their crate, there will be times when they use the bathroom inside the house. Don’t punish or scold them for this behavior, but instead use it to teach them the boundaries of what’s acceptable and what’s not. When your Chihuahua puppy has an accident inside the house, say “No,” and immediately take them outside for a couple of minutes. Even if they don’t use the bathroom while they are outside, they will still begin to associate being outside with using the bathroom.

When you finally see your Chihuahua puppy do their business outside, be sure to give them lots of praise followed by a small treat. Positive reinforcement goes a long way with training a Chihuahua puppy, and it will essentially be your most important tool. If they are having a problem using the bathroom inside, try to confine them in a room or area of the house where they can’t escape from. Puppies like to sneak away to do their business where their owners can’t see, so you should take this option away from them.

References:

http://www.dogster.com/dog-health-care/vet-checklist-dogs-first-visit

http://pets.webmd.com/dogs/features/making-the-most-of-your-vet-visit

Chihuahuas exhibit some quirky behaviors, one of which is burrowing. Rather than lying in their bed, they may burrow under a blanket. Some of them will walk around in circles before tunneling into place, whereas others will scratch or dig at the blanket.

Burrowing doesn’t mean your Chihuahua is trying to hide from you. Chihuahuas are highly affectionate, and they typically prefer to be near their owners. There are instances, however, in which they may disappear for hours on end. Regardless, if your Chihuahua is nowhere to be found, he may be burrowing.

Common Reasons Chihuahuas Burrow Under Blankets

Burrowing may seem like a spontaneous behavior, but there are typically reasons behind it. Here are some of the most common reasons Chihuahuas burrow under blankets.

#1) Comfort

Just as we humans sleep under blankets because it’s comfortable, so do Chihuahuas. Nothing beats the feeling of a blanket against the skin. Blankets are designed to be placed over the body. They are made of soft fabrics — wool, cotton, linen, fleece, microfiber, etc. — that are gentle on the skin.

If a Chihuahua wants to take a nap, he may seek out the comfort of a blanket. The blanket’s soft texture will make it easier for him to fall asleep. Some Chihuahuas may even fluff the blanket beforehand to create a spacious den-like area. But whether the blanket is fluffed or flat, it will provide the Chihuahua with a comfortable, dark resting space.

#2) Sense of Security

Burrowing under blankets creates a sense of security for Chihuahuas. With an average weight of just 4 to 6 pounds, Chihuahuas are the smallest dog breed on the planet. Their small size can leave them feeling vulnerable when exposed.

Chihuahuas may feel innately threatened by the much larger people, animals and objects around them. A person or another dog could accidentally step on them, or a tall piece of furniture could fall on them. Burrowing offers a solution.

Chihuahuas can create an enclosed environment by burrowing under a blanket. As they tunnel their way under the blanket, they’ll no longer be exposed. Chihuahuas won’t be able to see the people, animals and objects around them, so they’ll no longer feel threatened.

The sense of security created by burrowing is similar to that of staying in a crate. Featuring three walls, a door and a roof, crates are enclosed. They provide Chihuahuas with an isolated space by blocking out the Chihuahua’s surroundings. Because of the sense of security it creates, many Chihuahuas prefer staying in their crate when they aren’t burrowing.

#3) Warmth

Chihuahuas burrow under blankets to stay warm. During the winter, you may find your Chihuahua in front of a space heater or under a blanket.

The breed’s small size makes them susceptible to cold temperatures. Chihuahuas lose their body heat faster than larger breeds. They have a greater surface area to body mass ratio than larger breeds, meaning Chihuahuas have a lot of skin relative to their total body size. While a high surface area to body mass ratio allows Chihuahuas to quickly absorb heat, it also allows them to quickly lose heat.

Furthermore, most Chihuahuas only have a top coat, so they are more vulnerable to cold temperatures than dogs with both a top coat and a fluffy undercoat. By burrowing, Chihuahuas can conserve their body heat and regulate their internal temperature more effectively. Each blanket acts as a layer of insulation. They will trap the heat produced by the Chihuahua’s body, thereby creating a warm and cozy environment for him.

Here are some ways to keep your Chihuahua warm during the winter:

• Keep outdoor walking and playtime sessions short. 
• Provide your Chihuahua with plenty of warm blankets.
• Place a space heater and the “low” heat setting in front of your Chihuahua’s bed (don’t leave it running unsupervised).
• Avoid shaving or trimming your Chihuahua’s coat.
• Dress your Chihuahua in a piece of warm apparel, such as a thick wool shirt or sweater.

#4) Instinct

There may be an instinctual factor that compels Chihuahuas to burrow under blankets. Most Chihuahuas today eat store-bought kibble — or homemade meals in some cases — provided by their owners. But like all breeds, they were originally forced to scavenge and hunt for food in the wild.

Chihuahuas originated from the state of Chihuahua, Mexico. During the breed’s early years, feral Chihuahuas would eat whatever they could get their paws on. In addition to foraging for fruits and vegetables, they would hunt small animals in the Mexcian state of their namesake. They used their small size to their advantage by “flushing out” other small animals, such as mice and voles, from their underground tunnels. Like terriers, Chihuahuas would dig at the ground during their hunting excursions.

Feral Chihuahuas would also dig to protect against predators. From jaguars and pumas to wolves and black bears, Chihuahuas had many natural predators in the wild. Using their paws, they would dig dens in places that larger predators couldn’t reach.

Domesticated Chihuahuas no longer need to scavenge for food, nor do they need to protect against predators, but they still possess this same instinct as their ancestors. This may compel them to burrow. Burrowing involves a similar digging action. Rather than digging at the ground, though, Chihuahuas burrow by digging at blankets.

#5) Anxiety Relief

Anxiety may compel Chihuahuas to burrow under blankets. According to a Finnish study of 13,700 dogs, 72.5% of all dogs exhibit anxiety. If your Chihuahua suffers from anxiety, you may find him burrowing during fireworks. The sound of fireworks blasting off on the Fourth of July or New Year’s Eve can cause anxiety in Chihuahuas. It can trigger your Chihuahua’s fight-or-flight response, resulting in high levels of stress hormones.

Thunderstorms can cause similar bouts of anxiety. When the weather turns south, your Chihuahua may tunnel under a blanket for relief. Even baths can cause anxiety in Chihuahuas. Some Chihuahuas are afraid of baths. When they hear the faucet running in the bathroom, they’ll hide under a blanket.

Burrowing may ease Chihuahuas’ anxiety. They’ll feel warm and secure under a blanket. At the same time, the blanket will apply gentle pressure to their bodies, mimicking the feeling of cuddling with their littermates during puppyhood, further relaxing them during stressful events. 

There’s a special type of dog shirt that applies similar pressure to a dog’s body when worn. Known as the ThunderShirt, it’s designed to calm dogs similar to swaddling an infant. You can adjust the Thundershirt so that it applies gentle, consistent pressure throughout your Chihuahua’s body. Thunderworks, the company behind the popular calming shirt, says the Thundershirt ranked as the most effective anxiety solution among veterinarians in a 2011 survey.

#6) Showing Affection

Some Chihuahuas lick their owners in the face to show affection, whereas others burrow next to their owners.  As companion dogs, Chihuahuas want to be close to their owners. Many of them are clingy. Clingy Chihuahuas stay attached to their owners at the hip, following them wherever they go. Even if your Chihuahua isn’t clingy, however, he may still want to burrow in your bed.

When given the option of lying in his bed alone or lying next to you in your bed, your Chihuahua will probably choose the latter. He may jump up on your bed, followed by burrowing his way under the covers.

Like when cuddling with his littermates, your Chihuahua will feel more relaxed and secure lying next to you in your bed. It’s also a way for your Chihuahua to express affection. Your Chihuahua is telling you that he loves and trusts you when he burrows in your bed.

If you’re his primary caretaker, you may be the person with whom your Chihuahua will share a bed. Chihuahuas will often bond with multiple people, such as family members and pet sitters, but they typically have a “favorite” person. They’ll develop a stronger bond with this person, preferring to be near this person than everyone else.

#7) Peace and Quiet

Chihuahuas burrow under blankets for peace and quiet. It allows them to escape the chaos. When their home environment becomes loud, disordered or otherwise chaotic, they may burrow as a means of escape.

Any form of chaos may compel Chihuahuas to burrow for peace and quiet. If you have a bunch of friends over for dinner, your Chihuahua may seek the sanctuary of a blanket. Alternatively, he may burrow if you are renovating your home’s interior. Burrowing will transport your Chihuahua into his world so that he doesn’t have to experience the chaos firsthand.

#8) Claiming Territory

Chihuahuas burrow under blankets to claim their territory. Chihuahuas have scent glands in their paws. Known as eccrine glands, they allow Chihuahuas to mark their territory by scratching.

Chihuahuas secrete sweat out of their eccrine glands. It’s a supplementary cooling mechanism in all dogs. When dogs begin to overheat, they’ll pant to cool off. They’ll also secrete sweat, thereby releasing heat from their body. And because this sweat comes from their paw pads, it will act as a moisturizer, preventing the Chihuahua’s paw pads from drying out and cracking. 

Aside from lowering their body temperature and moisturizing their paw pads, sweating allows Chihuahuas to claim their territory, which may result in burrowing behavior. As they press their paw pads against a blanket, they’ll leave behind trace amounts of sweat. Other dogs can smell this fluid. If another dog wants to avoid confrontation, he may avoid places marked with a Chihuahua’s scent.

The fur around your Chihuahua’s paw pads can become moist due to sweat. This moist environment can then pave the way for bacteria and fungi, resulting in an even stronger scent that many owners describe as corn chips or popcorn.

Pregnancy hormones can cause Chihuahuas to burrow under blankets. Dams go through hormonal changes when pregnant. Their bodies will rapidly produce progesterone, prolactin and estrogen. As these hormones flood their bodies, they may behave differently. One common behavior in pregnant dams is burrowing.

Pregnant dams burrow as a form of nesting. With high levels of pregnancy hormones, they will instinctively prepare for birth. About one week prior to birth, they will look for a safe place to give birth. A pregnant dam may choose a quiet corner in an unoccupied room or closet, or she may choose the space under a blanket.

Even if your Chihuahua isn’t pregnant, she may have pregnancy hormones that compel her to burrow. Female Chihuahuas may undergo hormonal changes that mimic some of the symptoms of pregnancy without actually being pregnant. A condition known as pseudopregnancy, it involves high levels of prolactin and low levels of progesterone. With pseudopregnancy, your Chihuahua will exhibit symptoms of pregnancy, such as searching for a place to give birth and gaining weight, without being pregnant.

#9) Hiding Toys or Treats

Chihuahuas burrow under blankets to hide toys or treats. Like all dogs, Chihuahuas are possessive. They aren’t fond of sharing their possessions with other dogs.  When they get a treat or toy, they may hide it to keep it safe.

You may find treats and toys in your bed. Burying is an instinctual behavior known as caching. In the wild, Chihuahuas and other dogs would bury their leftover food to prevent other animals from stealing it. This same instinct may compel modern-day dogs to burrow. With a toy or treat in their mouth, Chihuahuas may work their way under a blanket to find a hiding spot.

#10) Habit

Chihuahuas burrow under blankets out of habit.  Just like we humans are creatures of habit, so are Chihuahuas. After performing the same activities day after day, they will continue to perform those activities without thinking about it.

Part of your Chihuahua’s daily routine may be burrowing. He may become accustomed to burrowing at 3:00 p.m., for instance. When the clock strikes 3:00 p.m., your Chihuahua may automatically burrow under a blanket for a midday nap. He may also become accustomed to unburrowing himself at a specific time later in the afternoon.

#11) Illness or Injury

Illness or injury may cause Chihuahuas to burrow under blankets. Dogs are masters at hiding pain. It’s a trait that improves the chances of survival in the wild.

Pain is a sign of weakness in the wild. If a dog is limping or yelping, predators may view him as an easy target. Therefore, dogs have evolved to hide their pain. Rather than yelping, your Chihuahua may simply burrow under a blanket if he’s sick or injured. 

If you believe your Chihuahua is suffering from an illness or injury, take him to the veterinarian immediately. Only a licensed veterinarian can provide a proper diagnosis.

Is Burrowing Safe? What You Should Know

In most cases, burrowing is completely harmless. It may even benefit your Chihuahua by keeping him warm on a cold winter day or easing his anxiety. But you should still take some precautions to ensure your Chihuahua is safe while he burrows.

If he burrows in your bed, you may want to encourage your Chihuahua to burrow from the top of the blanket. He will likely struggle to get underneath the blanket from the bottom (the foot of your bed). Even if he’s successful, the blanket may get twisted around your Chihuahua to the point where it traps him.

Make sure your Chihuahua can easily escape from under the blanket. He may get hot or thirsty, in which case he will attempt to surface from his blanket-covered nest. To ensure your Chihuahua can escape, create a path for him. After he has burrowed, lift the blanket slightly to create a clear path from the top of the blanket all the way to his nest. 

Most Chihuahuas can escape from under a blanket on their own, but senior and arthritic Chihuahuas may need a helping hand.  They are slower and less dextrous than their counterparts. If your Chihuahua is old or has arthritis, you may need to lift the blanket completely off him when he’s ready to surface.

If your Chihuahua is an avid burrower, you stay on top of nail grooming. Chihuahuas with long nails may snag them in blankets. Aside from shredding up your blankets, this may cause discomfort or pain for your Chihuahua. You can prevent your Chihuahua from snagging his nails by trimming them at least once a month.

How to Choose a Burrowing-Friendly Blanket

Whether your Chihuahua burrows in your bed or his own bed, you should choose the right blanket for him. Some blankets are better suited for burrowing than others.

Don’t allow your Chihuahua to burrow under weighted blankets. With an average weight of 10 to 20 pounds, they are too heavy for small dogs. He may struggle to breathe under the weight of a heavy blanket. Weighted blankets are denser than normal, lightweight blankets, so they restrict airflow. The poor airflow under a weighted blanket can make it difficult for your Chihuahua to breathe and place your Chihuahua at risk for overheating.

Avoid choosing a knitted or crocheted blanket. They are more likely to cause nail snags than other types of blankets. While there are nuances between knitted and crocheted blankets, they both feature interlocking loops. Your Chihuahua may snag a nail on one of these loops, resulting in injury.

Heated blankets should also be off-limits to your Chihuahua. They may look like ordinary all-fabric blankets, but heated blankets have wires running through them. When plugged into a wall outlet, electricity will flow through these wires while subsequently generating heat. If your Chihuahua burrows under a heated blanket, he may accidentally the wires. The heated blanket may then pose an electrical hazard to both you and your Chihuahua.

Choose a blanket made of an organic fabric. Organic fabrics are more breathable than synthetic fabrics, and they are less likely to cause skin allergies. A lightweight blanket made of cotton or linen is perfect for a Chihuahua. You can even opt for a thicker wool blanket during the winter months.

In Conclusion

Chihuahuas love to burrow under blankets. Some of the most common reasons for burrowing include comfort, a sense of security, warmth, anxiety relief, claiming territory and hiding treats or toys.  As long as your Chihuahua isn’t sick or injured, it shouldn’t be a problem. Just remember to follow the safety tips listed above. 

References:

Why Is My Dog Hiding Things?

https://healthtopics.vetmed.ucdavis.edu/health-topics/canine/why-does-my-dog-dig

Does your Chihuahua love to burrow? Let us know in the comments section below!

*As an Amazon Associate, Chihuahua Wardrobe earns from qualifying purchases.

Chihuahuas are known for having relatively few health problems compared to other dog breeds. Like most small dogs, though, Chihuahuas tend to have oral problems that can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, tooth loss and even stroke. One of the reasons for this is simply due to their small mouths, which generally force teeth to become impacted as they grow in. While some Chihuahuas may live long and happy lives without experiencing dental problems, most will have at least some oral issues arise. Thankfully, however, there are certain things we can do as owners to help maintain good oral health for our Chihuahuas.

To put things into perspective on just how serious Chihuahua oral problems are, studies have shown that roughly 3/4 of Chihuahuas will develop at least one form of gum disease by the age of 4. It may only cause bad breath at first, but all types of gum disease are progressive; therefore, it’s only going to get worse unless you take action to stop it. Chihuahuas haven’t developed the ability to brush their own teeth yet, so it’s up to you to do it for them.

How To Brush Your Chihuahua’s Teeth

Brushing your Chihuahua’s teeth is arguably the single most important thing you can do for their oral health. When food particles and residue gets stuck on their teeth, it turns to tarter. Small amounts of tarter here and there isn’t going to cause any serious problems, but over time it can and will lead to tooth decay, gingivitis, tooth loss and other forms of gum disease. You can think of a toothbrush as your weapon in the fight against tartar and tooth decay.

Some owners may simply try to brush their Chihuahua’s teeth with an old toothbrush and regular toothpaste, but this isn’t recommended. Chihuahuas, like most dogs, will probably try to eat anything you put in their mouth. Regular toothpaste that we use in our mouths contains fluoride, which can be harmful if swallowed. Even small amounts of fluoride can make a Chihuahua sick to their stomach. So, how are you supposed to brush your Chihuahua’s teeth? There are actually toothbrushes and toothpaste designed specifically for dogs. The toothbrushes come in a wide range of sizes designed to fit all breeds of dogs. Some of them are even sleeve-like pieces that fit over your finger with stubbles on one side. Canine toothpaste is made with delicate ingredients that are completely safe for small dogs. In addition, they come in a variety of flavors so your Chihuahua will likely enjoy getting their teeth brushed. You can find canine toothpaste available in beef, chicken, salmon and malt flavors.

Once you’ve acquired a canine toothbrush and toothpaste, refer to the following steps to brush their teeth:

• Step One –  Sit down comfortably in a chair and place with your Chihuahua comfortably in your lap. Some Chihuahuas may be nervous and anxious when you try to brush their teeth, especially the first few times. To make things easier, you should continue to talk, praise and pet your Chihuahua throughout the process. Ensure them that everything is okay and try to maintain a positive attitude, as this will likely spread to your Chihuahua.
• Step Two – The next step is to coerce your Chihuahua into opening up their mouth. If you purchased a flavored canine toothpaste, chances are they will be more than happy to open their mouths when it’s placed in front of them. Dab a little bit of the toothpaste on your finger and place it in front of their mouth. Hopefully they will open up and start licking it, at which point you can gently hold their mouth open with one of your hands.
• Step Three – With your Chihuahua’s mouth open, you should now have access to their teeth and gums. Take a minute to closely inspect their mouth to see if there are any serious signs of tooth decay or gum disease. As long as everything looks good, place a small amount of toothpaste on the toothbrush and gently run it over their teeth. There’s really no one particular way to brush a Chihuahua’s teeth, as all Chihuahuas are different. If your Chihuahua is trying to close their mouth, just focus on the large canines and then work your way to the smaller teeth.
• Step Four – After you’ve brushed your Chihuahua’s teeth, let them know how good of a boy/girl they were by giving them lots of praise and petting. Positive reinforcement in the key to making your Chihuahua enjoy having their teeth brushed. If you continue to give them praise each time you brush their teeth, chances are they will grow to love it.

Other Ways To Improve Your Chihuahua’s Oral Health

In addition to brushing your Chihuahua’s teeth, there are a couple other things you can do to improve their oral health. For starters, you should only be feeding them a premium solid dog food. Soft canned dog food can be a real treat for a small Chihuahua, but it can also increase the chance of tooth decay. The soft moist food particles will stick to their teeth where they slowly eat away at the enamel. If you decide to give your Chihuahua wet food, only give it to them as an occasional treat and not an everyday meal. A good crunchy dog food will naturally help to scrape tartar off their teeth as they eat it.

Rawhides and tough chew toys are also helpful in removing built-up plaque and tartar. There’s no denying the fact that Chihuahuas love playing with their favorite toys, so why not give them a toy that’s going to help clean their teeth?  A simple rawhide chew is all it takes to help remove some of the food particles and tartar on their teeth. Just remember to closely watch over your Chihuahua anytime they are given a treat.

References:

http://www.examiner.com/article/chihuahua-dental-care-101

Have you noticed your Chihuahua wheezing? Many owners fear the worst upon hearing sounds of apparent respiratory distress. They assume their canine companions can’t breathe, so they rush them to the nearest emergency veterinary clinic.

While Chihuahuas can suffer from serious respiratory conditions, such as a collapsed trachea, wheezing episodes are typically harmless. Also known as “reverse sneezing,” it’s common in brachycephalic breeds. Chihuahuas can still breathe during these wheezing or reverse sneezing episodes, and they won’t experience any pain or lasting effects.

What Is Reverse Sneezing?

Reverse sneezing is the colloquial term used to describe episodes in which a Chihuahua or any other dog rapidly and convulsively inhales air through the nose. Some of these episodes last just seconds, whereas others may last for up to two minutes. Regardless, reverse sneezing involves the rapid and uncontrollable inhalation of air through the nose.

Sneezing, of course, involves the rapid and convulsive exhalation of air. Reverse sneezing is essentially the same but backward. Rather than exhaling air, Chihuahuas inhale air during reverse sneezing episodes. 

Here’s what to expect during a typical reverse sneezing episode:

1. The Chihuahua will stop what he’s doing and stand still.
2. He will extend his neck out.
3. He will begin to quickly inhale air through his nose.
4. During these inhalations, the Chihuahua will make wheezing, snorting, hacking or goose-honking noises. His chest will also expand and contract.
5. After the episode has passed, the Chihuahua’s behavior will return to normal.

In the veterinary industry, the clinical term used to describe these episodes is paroxysmal respiration. Paroxysmal means occurring periodically with short episodes, and respiration means the act of breathing. Whether it’s wheezing, reverse sneezing or paroxysmal respiration, though, they all refer to the same type of episodes.

What Causes Reverse Sneezing? 

Reverse sneezing is believed to be caused by spasms of the soft palate. Not to be confused with the hard palate (see illustration below), the soft palate is a section of muscle tissue covered in a protective mucus membrane. In both dogs and humans, it’s used to block off the nasal passages when swallowing.

The soft palate consists of muscle tissue that, like other muscles in a Chihuahua’s body, can succumb to spasms. If the soft palate becomes irritated or inflamed, for instance, it may begin to spasm. These spasms can manifest in the form of reverse sneezing.

Illustration of a Chihuahua’s open mouth, showing the hard palate, soft palate, tongue and tonsils. The soft palate at the back of the roof of the mouth is responsible for reverse sneezing.

Reverse Sneezing Triggers

Reverse sneezing episodes may occur spontaneously and for no apparent reason. Other instances, however, may involve a trigger.

Anything that causes the soft palate to spasm is a potential trigger. Triggers may irritate, inflame or tickle the soft palate, resulting in a spasm.

Common triggers for reverse sneezing include:

• Dust, pollen or other airborne pollutants
• Nasal mites
• Excitement (e.g. running around in circles or playing with a toy)
• Household cleaning chemicals
• Smoke inhalation
• Pulling on a Chihuahua’s collar
• Allergies
• Foreign objects stuck in the throat
• Upper respiratory infections
• Eating or drinking too fast
• Blood-filled polyps in the throat

Why Reverse Sneezing Is So Common in Chihuahuas

Reverse sneezing can affect all breeds, but it’s particularly common in small dogs like Chihuahuas. A study of over 700 dogs found that Yorkshire Terriers and Chihuahuas had the highest predisposition to reverse sneezing of all studied purebreds.

Yorkshire Terriers and Chihuahuas are brachycephalic breeds, so they have smaller and shorter heads than non-brachycephalic breeds. Normally, a dog’s soft palate will remain isolated to the back of the mouth. In brachycephalic breeds, though, the soft palate may extend partially into the throat where it interferes with the trachea.

When a Chihuahua’s soft palate begins to spasm, his trachea may become partially obstructed. The convulsing muscle tissue at the roof of his mouth may occlude the flow of air into and out of the trachea. The Chihuahua should still be able to breathe, but he may not be able to fully inhale. The Chihuahua may then experience a reverse sneezing episode until the spasm has stopped and his trachea is no longer obstructed.

Let Your Veterinarian Know!

Reverse sneezing episodes will typically pass on their own. Because they can be mistaken for signs of a more severe respiratory condition known as a tracheal collapse, you should let your veterinarian know about these episodes. Licensed veterinarians know how to distinguish between reverse sneezing episodes and tracheal collapse.

You may even want to record your Chihuahua during an episode. Just pull out your smartphone and take create a short video of the episode. When visiting your veterinarian, you can show him or her the video. Along with performing an examination, your veterinarian may use this footage to determine if your Chihuahua is experiencing reverse sneezing episodes or a collapsed trachea.

Your veterinarian can also check your Chihuahua for underlying causes. Soft palate spasms may be caused by the triggers listed above. Nasal mites and upper respiratory infections, for instance, can cause the soft palate to spasm. During the visit, your veterinarian can rule out underlying causes such as these. Alternatively, if your veterinarian identifies a mite infestation or upper respiratory infection, he or she can treat it.

You don’t need to take your veterinarian each time he experiences a reverse sneezing episode, but you should still inform your veterinarian about your Chihuahua’s episodes.

In most cases, reverse sneezing doesn’t require treatment. Some Chihuahuas experience these episodes on a daily basis. As long as it’s true reverse sneezing and not a collapsed trachea, the episodes should pass. With that said, removing or managing the triggers can minimize the frequency of reverse sneezing episodes. 

If your Chihuahua experiences reverse sneezing episodes when you tug on his collar, for instance, consider switching to a harness, instead. Collars focus the pulling force on the neck, whereas harnesses distribute the pulling force across the body. Using a harness to walk your Chihuahua will alleviate pressure on the neck so that he’s less likely to experience reverse sneezing episodes.

If you believe airborne pollutants are to blame for your Chihuahua’s reverse sneezing episodes, try to improve the air quality in your home. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), indoor air is two to five times more polluted than outdoor air. Micro-sized pollutant particles may work their way into your Chihuahua’s mouth and throat where they cause his soft palate to spasm. 

Improving the air quality in your home will result in lower levels of airborne pollutants. Changing the air filter in your home at least once a month will result in cleaner air. Vacuuming and dusting the floors will also result in cleaner air. Another tip is to decorate with houseplants. Houseplants aren’t used strictly for aesthetics; they can clean the surrounding air by absorbing pollutants and releasing fresh oxygen.

Your veterinarian may be able to treat the underlying causes of your Chihuahua’s reverse sneezing episodes. Upper respiratory infections can be treated with antibiotics or antivirals. Nasal mites can be treated with anti-parasitic medication like ivermectin. Throat polyps can be treated with surgery.

How to Stop Your Chihuahua’s Reverse Sneezing Episodes

Most reverse sneezing episodes will stop once your Chihuahua’s soft palate spasm has ended. However, you may be able to shorten the duration of these episodes.

While there’s no foolproof way to stop all reverse sneezing episodes, some owners have reported success using the following methods:

• Gently rub your Chihuahua’s throat.
• Place your thumb and index fingers directly over your Chihuahua’s nostrils.
• Gently blow air in your Chihuahua’s face.
• Speak softly to your Chihuahua to try and calm him down.
• Run your hand under some cold water and place it against your Chihuahua’s lips.

Most of these methods work by encouraging the Chihuahua to swallow. If there’s something stuck in the Chihuahua’s throat, it may irritate his soft palate and cause a spasm. Swallowing should clear the Chihuahua’s throat.

Video of a Chihuahua Reverse Sneezing

This video shows a Chihuahua experiencing a reverse sneezing episode. The Chihuahua stops in his track and begins to wheeze. It sounds like the Chihuahua is gasping for air, but thankfully he’s experiencing a typical reverse sneezing episode.

In Conclusion

Wheezing or reverse sneezing is more frightening for owners than for Chihuahuas. It involves spasms of the soft palate at the back of the mouth. When Chihuahuas experience a reverse sneezing episode, they’ll rapidly wheeze while inhaling air through their nose.

References:

Gesundheit! Reverse Sneezing In Dogs

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reverse_sneezing

Does your Chihuahua experience have wheezing or reverse sneezing episodes? Share your story with our community of fellow Chihuahua owners and enthusiasts in the comments section below!

With an average weight of just 3-5 pounds, there’s no denying the fact that Chihuahuas are small dogs. In fact, they are oftentimes considered THE smallest breed in the world. Of course this is just one of the many reasons why people choose to own pet Chihuahuas over other types of dogs. However, their small size oftentimes raises the issue of whether or not it’s safe to raise them around larger dogs. Families who already have larger dogs at home may need to use caution when adding a small Chihuahua into the mix, as there’s always the possibility for injury or even death.

Common Problems With Chihuahuas and Larger Dogs

The main issue that arises when raising Chihuahuas around larger dogs is the threat of injury. If a small Chihuahua snaps out in aggression towards a larger dog, it could provoke an attack in retaliation. Depending on the size and demeanor of the larger dog, this attack may result in serious life-threatening injury. Even though they are one of the smallest dog breeds in the world, Chihuahuas like to act big and bad, which puts them in harm’s way if you aren’t there to mediate the situation.

Another instance where fights are quite possible is during feeding. It’s all too common for two dogs to growl or even snap out at each other when food is around. Unfortunately, this type of behavior must be stopped if you want to create a safe and healthy environment for your Chihuahua to live in. Even if your dogs aren’t physically fighting with one another, showing teeth and making growling noises are signs of aggression that can lead to more serious confrontations in the future.

Socializing BOTH Your Chihuahua and The Other Dog

One of the key steps to create a safe environment for your dogs is to socialize them at an early age. Ideally, you should take them out to the local park or outdoor community areas where they will be exposed to other people and dogs. In today’s world where owners are busy with work, school and day-to-day chores, doing this is easier said than done. However, you must not underestimate the importance of early socialization for your Chihuahua and any other dogs in your family. Forcing them to stay cooped up in the house all day every day won’t allow them to develop the social skills needed to interact with others; therefore, they will naturally want to fight with other dogs for no reason at all.

Here are just a few of the many places where you can take your dogs to improve their socialization skills:

• Gated dog parks where owners bring their dogs to play with others.
• Obedience training classes.
• National chain pet stores, such as PetsMart or Petco.
• Over to a friend of family members house who also has a dog.
• Walks around the neighborhood.
• Exploring down by a river where people frequently visit.
• For car rides around town (they will likely see other dogs riding in cars as well).

Supervision

If you’re bringing a new Chihuahua into a home environment where there’s already another larger dog, you’ll want to closely supervise the two during the first few months. The truth is that most big dogs will grow to love having a small little companion around the house, but it may take some time. At first, they probably won’t know what to think of this new dog coming into their territory. After all, they’ve been the king of the house up until now, so why’s there a Chihuahua coming in and trying to take over?

As long as neither they aren’t showing any signs of aggression, you should be able to let them stay and play together in the same room. Just keep an eye on them and look for signs of anxiety or aggression. If you spot one of them showing their teeth or growling, immediately split them up and say “NO,” followed by taking them elsewhere. There’s no need to spank or physically discipline your dogs for not behaving, but you should tell them “no” in a firm manner. On the other hand, when they are good and play well with one another, give them a treat as a reward.

Feeding Time

You’ll want to pay extra attention to your dogs when it’s feeding time. Whether they are big or small, many dogs feel the need to protect their food by lashing out aggressively at other dogs, people or pets that come their way. Hopefully your dogs won’t have this problem, but if they do, you’ll need to know what the correct response is.

More often than not, dogs that last out with aggression during feeding time usually aren’t getting fed enough throughout the day. As a result, they instinctively feel threatened by others that come around their food. So how much should you be feeding your dogs each day? It really depends on a variety of factors, such as their breed, health, age and activity levels. A good rule of thumb, however, is to feed them two medium-sized bowls of food each day. If you feel this amount isn’t enough, talk to their veterinarian to determine a more precise and accurate feeding plan.

Another idea to help eliminate dinner time aggression is to place your dogs’ food bowls in different areas of the house. Perhaps your Chihuahua can eat in the living room or bathroom, while your larger dog eats their food in the kitchen. Since they are far away from one another, there shouldn’t be any reason for them to act aggressively.

References:

http://www.pedigree.com/All-Things-Dog/Article-Library/Does-Your-Small-Dog-Run-With-the-Big-Dogs.aspxv

http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/feeding.htm

Many owners brush off their Chihuahua’s obesity as a non-concerning issue that doesn’t pose a real threat. In addition, there are even some people that laugh or poke fun at their weight problem. The fact is, however, that that obesity is just as dangerous to canines as it is to us. It can lead to heart disease, diabetes (yes, Chihuahuas can become diabetic too), premature wearing of the joints, arthritis, and it lowers their overall life expectancy. If you believe your Chihuahua is obese or on the verge of becoming obese, you need to take the necessary action to get them back to a healthy weight.

While the exact number is unknown, some studies suggest that as much as 40% of all pet dogs in the U.S. are overweight. This number is certainly shocking, but what’s even more alarming is the fact that over half of their owners didn’t even notice a problem. If you want your Chihuahua, or any other type of dog for that matter, to live a long and healthy life, you must keep an eye on their weight and make the necessary adjustments when required.

First and foremost, you must identify IF your Chihuahua actually has a weight problem or if they are just big-boned. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC) standards, Chihuahuas should weigh less than 6 pounds. Of course this is just a general rule of thumb to follow and isn’t a 100% accurate way of determining if your Chihuahua is overweight. A more practical approach is to take your hands and gently rub them along the sides of your Chihuahua’s ribcage. If you’re unable to noticeably feel the bones because of excess fat and tissue, then they are overweight.

Why Obesity is Dangerous For Chihuahuas

If more owners took their Chihuahua’s weight and overall health more seriously, obesity wouldn’t be such a problem. Unfortunately, far too many owners either overlook their Chihuahua’s weight problem or choose to ignore it. Either way, it opens up a whole new world of numerous health issues that places your Chihuahua’s well-being at risk.

Here are some of the main problems associated with obese/overweight Chihuahuas:

• The extra weight places excessive pressure around their joints and bones, which in turn may cause them to develop arthritis at an early age. Obese Chihuahuas are at risk for developing a number of bone and joint problems, all of which can lower their quality of life.
• Significantly increases their risk of developing Type II Diabetes (mellitus) as a result of the body’s need for more insulin. In some cases, diabetes may require your Chihuahua to receive daily insulin injections just to keep up with their body’s demand; otherwise, it can cause their body to go into shock.
• Back and spinal problems are yet another issue that’s commonly associated with obese Chihuahuas. When they put on more weight than their body can handle, it weighs down the sensitive areas on their back. This may cause their spinal discs to slip, bones to fracture or ligaments to tear.
• Obese Chihuahuas are at greater risk of developing high blood pressure (AKA hypertension), and this is just as dangerous to them as it is to us. High blood pressure places a greater strain on all of the organs and tissue inside the body, which increases the chance or organ failure and numerous diseases.
• Arguably the greatest risk that comes from a Chihuahua being overweight is heart disease. The extra fat and tissue inside their body forces the heart to pump extra blood so it can reach the vital organs. Combined with the extra pressure placed on the organs, there’s an overall greater risk at developing heart disease.

Stop Feeding Table Food!

If you were on a fly on the wall at a home with an overweight Chihuahua, you would probably see their owners frequently feeding them table food. Whether it’s straight from the dinner table or just eating a snack in the living room, Chihuahuas are oftentimes fed leftovers that owners don’t want to throw away. After all, it’s nearly impossible to deny them with those sad begging eyes looking patiently up at you. However, the problem in doing so is that it leads to obesity much faster than eating dog food alone.

It may only be a piece of chicken here or a burger scrap there, but those little pieces can slowly add up and take a toll on your Chihuahua’s health. You have to remember that a Chihuahua’s digestive system isn’t meant to process most of the food we eat. In fact, the only table food that’s acceptable to feed them is boneless, skinless chicken breast, and even that should be given as an “occasional” treat.

In addition to their bodies not being able to process it properly, feeding a Chihuahua table food can also be quite dangerous. We talk a little bit about common foods that are dangerous to Chihuahuas here, and some of the ones on the list may shock you. While most owners are aware of the threat chocolate poses, things like garlic, grapes and onions can be equally as deadly. Check out the link previously mentioned for a list of some of the most common table foods that pose a danger to a Chihuahua’s health.

Increase Their Activity Levels

It should come as no surprise that exercise and increasing your Chihuahua’s overall activity levels can help them lose weight. Because of their small size, many owners overlook or simply underestimate the exercise needs of their Chihuahuas. They assume that keeping them locked up in a small house or apartment only to take them outside to use the bathroom is acceptable when it’s not. Like all dogs, Chihuahuas need plenty of time each day to run around and play. If you don’t give it to them, their muscles will shrink, bones will become weaker, and they will naturally gain more weight.

Overheating and over-exhaustion is something that you need to be aware of when allowing an obese Chihuahua to exercise. If they are overweight and their bodies aren’t used to the proper exercise, they may run themselves tired. Keep exercise sessions short at first and then gradually increase the amount of time you allow them to stay outside. And as always, never leave your Chihuahua to play outside unattended, as there are simply too many potential dangers that can harm them.

References:

https://www.petobesityprevention.org/

https://archive.nytimes.com/well.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/04/20/paying-the-price-of-a-fat-pet/

https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/obesity-in-dogs