Some questions pop up more often than others when new pet parents research what to expect with their Chihuahua. The most common questions are about their health. That includes how often they need to be groomed, do chihuahuas lose their teeth, and do they have any health problems?
If you are the proud parent of a Chihuahua or just considering adding one to your family, you should know a few things about their health. Find out some facts and tips about keeping your Chihuahua healthy and happy below.
How Small Chihuahuas Are
One thing that makes Chihuahuas so unique is how small they are. That tiny size is also why some first-time pet parents worry about their health and if they are fragile.
While it’s true that Chihuahuas are small dogs, they are not as fragile as you might think. In fact, they are one of the longest-living breeds of dogs. The average lifespan for a Chihuahua is about 14 to 20 years, though some have been known to live even longer.
With that said, it’s essential to do everything you can to give your Chihuahua a long and happy life. That includes proper nutrition, exercise, socialization, and regular vet check-ups.
Their size also means they are more susceptible to cold weather. So, if you live in an area with cold winters, it’s essential to take steps to keep your Chihuahua warm and comfortable. That includes investing in doggy sweaters or coats and not leaving them outside for long periods in the cold.
8 Different Types of Chihuahuas
Before going deeper and knowing do chihuahuas lose their teeth, do they have health problems, and how to care for them, it’s best to know the types of chihuahuas. Here are eight types of Chihuahuas based on their appearance:
1️⃣Long-Haired Chihuahua
One of the most popular types of Chihuahuas is the long-haired variety. As the name suggests, these dogs have long, silky coats that can come in various colors.
While they do require regular grooming to prevent matting, many people find their long hair to be amazingly beautiful. It’s also worth noting that long-haired Chihuahuas are not hypoallergenic.
So, if you’re allergic to dogs but still want one of these beautiful pups, you’ll need to take extra care when grooming them and make sure to do it in a well-ventilated area.
2️⃣Short-Haired Chihuahua
Another common type of Chihuahua is the short-haired variety. As you might expect, these dogs have short, smooth coats that are easy to take care of.
They come in a wide range of colors and patterns, including brindle, black, white, cream, etc. Short-haired Chihuahuas are also not hypoallergenic so keep that in mind if you don’t want to do a lot of grooming.
You might also hear short-haired Chihuahuas referred to as smooth-coated Chihuahuas. It’s because their coat is so smooth and fine that it lies close to their body.
3️⃣Deer Head Chihuahua
The deer head Chihuahua is a variety that is becoming increasingly popular. As the name suggests, these dogs have heads that resemble deer, with large eyes, long ears, and a narrow muzzle.
Their bodies are small and compact with short legs. Deer head Chihuahuas come in a wide range of colors, including black, white, brown, and more.
You can quickly identify a deer head Chihuahua by its large, pointy ears. These ears are one of the things that make them so unique and give them an adorable appearance.
4️⃣Apple Head Chihuahua
The apple head Chihuahua is probably one of the most well-known types of Chihuahua. One of the most distinguishing features of the apple head Chihuahua is its large head. It is due to a genetic mutation that causes their skulls to be misshapen.
Their eyes are also large and round, giving them a unique appearance. While this might sound dangerous, it’s actually not harmful to the dog in any way.
In fact, many people find the apple head Chihuahua to be even cuter because of its unique skull shape. It’s also worth noting that apple head Chihuahuas are not as common as other types of Chihuahuas.
5️⃣Pear Head Chihuahua
The pear head Chihuahua is very similar to the apple head variety, but there is one key difference. As you might have guessed, the pear head Chihuahua has a head shape that resembles a pear.
Their skulls are slightly elongated, which gives them their unique appearance. Like the apple head Chihuahua, pear head Chihuahuas are not as common as other types of Chihuahuas.
You can rarely find them in shelters or pet shops, so you’ll likely have to go through a breeder if you’re set on getting one of these pups. They are, however, just as cute and loving as any other type of Chihuahua.
6️⃣Teacup Chihuahua
As the name suggests, teacup Chihuahuas are very small. In fact, they are one of the smallest breeds of dogs globally. They typically weigh between two and four pounds and are around six inches tall.
While they might be small, teacup Chihuahuas have the same personality traits as their larger counterparts. They are loyal, loving, and protective of their owners.
One thing to keep in mind if you’re considering a teacup Chihuahua is that they are prone to health problems. Because of their small size, they are at a higher risk for things like broken bones and respiratory problems.
7️⃣Chillier Chihuahua
The Chillier Chihuahua is a relatively new breed developed in the United States. These dogs are a cross between the Chihuahua and the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
They have the body of a Chihuahua and the hairless head and legs of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Chillier Chihuahuas are available in various colors, including black, white, brown, and more.
These dogs are loving and affectionate, making them great companions. However, they do require a lot of grooming, so keep that in mind if you’re considering one of these pups.
8️⃣Fawn Chihuahua
If you are looking for a Chihuahua with an exotic appearance, the Fawn Chihuahua might be the right breed for you. These dogs are characterized by their reddish-brown fur, which gives them a unique look.
Fawn Chihuahuas are only available in short-hair, so you’ll need to look elsewhere if you’re looking for a long-haired variety. These dogs are also loving and loyal, making them great companions.
They have ears that are slightly longer than average and eyes that are almond-shaped. And since they’re short-haired, they don’t require a lot of grooming.
Common Features of Chihuahuas
When talking about the physical features of Chihuahuas, it’s important to remember that there is a lot of variation within the breed. That being said, there are some features that are common among all Chihuahuas. Here are a few:
✔Large and Round Eyes
If you’ve ever seen a Chihuahua, you know that one of their most distinguishing features is their large, round eyes. It is due to a genetic mutation that causes their skulls to misshape.
While this might sound dangerous, it’s not harmful to the dog in any way. In fact, many people find Chihuahuas to be even cuter because of their skull shape. It’s also worth noting that Chihuahuas are not as common as other types of dogs.
✔Ears That Are Erect and Pointy
Another common feature of Chihuahuas is their erect, pointy ears. It looks like they’re always alert, and in some ways, they are. Chihuahuas were bred to be companion dogs, so they’re very attuned to their owner’s moods and emotions.
They’re also quick to sound the alarm if they sense something is wrong, making them excellent watchdogs. You can find Chihuahuas with both long and short ears, but all of them will be erect and pointy unless it’s a mixed breed.
✔Curled Upward Tail
Chihuahuas also have a long, slender tail, often described as “saber-like.” It is another feature that sets them apart from other types of dogs. The long tail is thought to help balance the dog while they’re running and playing.
Many Chihuahuas also have a tail that curls upward, which is considered to be a sign of good health. This is because the upward curl indicates that the dog’s spine is straight and healthy.
✔Small Size
Of course, one of the most distinguishing features of Chihuahuas is their small size. As we mentioned before, they are one of the smallest breeds of dogs globally. They typically weigh between four and nine pounds and are no more than nine inches tall.
This small size makes them very portable, which is one of the reasons why they make such great companion dogs. They can easily be carried around in a bag or purse, making them the perfect dog for people who are on the go.
✔Short Snout
Chihuahuas have a short snout, which gives them their characteristic flat face. While the short snout might make them look dainty, it’s actually quite strong. In fact, Chihuahuas have been known to bite hard enough to break the skin.
So if you’re thinking about getting one of these dogs, be sure to socialize them early on, so they learn to trust people. They tend to be territorial and do not like strangers, so it’s essential to get them used to people at an early age.
✔Short Legs
Chihuahuas also have very short legs, making them appear to be bow-legged. It is because their limbs are out of proportion with their bodies.
While this might look strange, it doesn’t cause any problems for the dog and doesn’t affect their mobility. It lets them turn quickly, which is an advantage when chasing or running.
Common Health Problems in Chihuahuas
Before answering if and why do chihuahuas lose their teeth, it’s essential to look at some of the health problems that affect this breed. Some of the most common health problems in Chihuahuas are:
➣Dental Problems
One of the most common health problems in Chihuahuas is dental disease. It is because they have very small teeth that are closely spaced together. And it makes it challenging to keep their teeth clean, which leads to plaque buildup and tartar.
Dental disease can cause pain, infection, and tooth loss if not treated. So it’s essential to brush your Chihuahua’s teeth regularly and have them checked by a veterinarian at least once a year.
➣Eye Problems
Another common health problem in Chihuahuas is eye problems. It is because they have large eyes that are set wide apart, which makes them more prone to injuries and infections.
Some of the most common eye problems in Chihuahuas are:
– Cataracts
– Glaucoma
– Cherry eye
➣Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a condition that affects the hip joint. It is usually a result of a genetic predisposition, but it can also be caused by injury or weight gain.
Hip dysplasia can cause pain and lameness in the affected leg. So it’s essential to have your Chihuahua checked by a veterinarian if you suspect they may have this condition.
➣Patellar Luxation
If you notice your Chihuahua skipping or hopping while they walk, it could signify patellar luxation. It is a condition where the kneecap or patella slips out of place.
Patellar luxation can range from mild to severe, and it can cause your Chihuahuas real pain. Other symptoms include swelling, lameness, and stiffness.
➣Hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia is a condition that occurs when the blood sugar levels drop too low. It is most common in small breeds of dogs, and it can be caused by stress, lack of food, or strenuous exercise.
Hypoglycemia can lead to seizures, coma, and even death if not treated. So if you notice your Chihuahua acting abnormal, be sure to take them to the vet right away.
Do Chihuahuas Lose Their Teeth?
When relating to Chihuahua’s dental problems, many people wonder do chihuahuas lose their teeth? Unfortunately, due to the small size of their teeth and close spacing, Chihuahuas are more prone to tooth loss than other dog breeds.
It’s an inescapable part of owning one of these dogs, and you should be prepared for it. While it might seem like a minor issue, tooth loss can actually lead to more severe problems like infection and gum disease.
5 Reasons Why Chihuahuas Lose Their Teeth
You might be wondering why do chihuahuas lose their teeth? There are actually a few different reasons. Here are five:
◼Dental Disease
Dental disease is one of the most common health problems in Chihuahuas. That’s because they have very small teeth that are closely spaced together. And it makes it difficult to keep their teeth clean, which leads to plaque buildup and tartar.
If not treated, dental disease can cause pain, infection, and tooth loss. So it’s essential to brush your Chihuahua’s teeth regularly and have them checked by a veterinarian at least once a year.
◼Injury
Another reason why Chihuahuas lose their teeth is due to injury. Because they have large eyes that are set wide apart, they are more prone to injuries and infections. And if not treated, these injuries can lead to tooth loss.
Some signs that your Chihuahua has an injury include swelling, lameness, and stiffness. If you notice any of these symptoms, take them to the vet right away.
◼Poor Nutrition
Chihuahuas can also lose their teeth due to poor nutrition. If they don’t get enough of the proper nutrients, their teeth can become weak and fall out.
So if you’re thinking about getting a Chihuahua, be sure to do your research and make sure you’re prepared to provide them with the proper nutrition.
◼Old Age
As your Chihuahuas get older, they will start to lose their teeth. It’s a natural part of the aging process, and there’s not much you can do to prevent it.
However, you can help your Chihuahua keep their teeth longer by providing good dental care throughout their lives.
◼Poor Oral Hygiene
Last but not least, poor oral hygiene is another common reason why Chihuahuas lose their teeth. If you don’t brush their teeth regularly, plaque and tartar will build up, leading to infection and tooth loss.
So be sure to brush your Chihuahua’s teeth at least once a week, and have them checked by a veterinarian regularly to help prevent this from happening.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I know if my Chihuahua is about to lose its teeth?
One of the first signs that your Chihuahua is losing their teeth is bad breath. If you notice that your dog’s breath smells worse than usual, it could signify dental disease. Other signs include drooling, loss of appetite, and difficulty chewing. If you notice any of these symptoms, be sure to take them to the vet right away.
2. What do I do if my Chihuahua loses a tooth?
If your Chihuahua loses a tooth, the first thing you should do is call your veterinarian. They will be able to tell you what to do next and help you get your dog the treatment they need.
3. Is it normal for Chihuahuas to lose their teeth?
Yes, it is normal for Chihuahuas to lose their teeth. However, if your dog is losing many teeth or if they seem to be in pain, it’s essential to take them to the vet right away.
4. What are the long-term effects of tooth loss in Chihuahuas?
If left untreated, tooth loss can lead to more severe problems like infection and gum disease. So it’s important to take your Chihuahua to the vet if you notice any signs of dental disease.
5. How can I prevent my Chihuahua from losing its teeth?
The best way to prevent your Chihuahua from losing their teeth is to provide good dental care. It includes brushing their teeth regularly, using dental wipes, and having them checked by a veterinarian regularly. You can also feed them dog food made to help keep their teeth healthy.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know better about Chihuahua’s health and why do chihuahuas lose their teeth, you can help keep your dog healthy and prevent tooth loss. Be sure to give them good dental care, provide them with proper nutrition, and regularly take them to the vet. Do all of these things, and you’ll help your Chihuahua keep their teeth longer! For more health care tips for your Chihuahuas, click here.
Here at ILoveChihuahua, we share our personal experiences as owners of this feisty breed. We talk about recommended methods, dog supplies picks, and advice on common Chihuahua problems. Our goal is to promote responsible dog ownership, so there would be fewer Chihuahuas in shelters.
