If you’re a new chihuahua owner, you may wonder when your puppy will start walking. Like all puppies, chihuahuas will start walking at different ages – but there is a general range that you can expect. Trying to keep track of everything you need to do for your newborn chihuahua can be overwhelming.
Fortunately, we have put together a guide to help answer that question and give you some tips on how to help your pup get started. Keep reading for more information!
When do Chihuahua Puppies Start Walking?
Chihuahua puppies are born small dog, but they grow quickly. Most Chihuahuas can walk within four weeks of birth, although they may still be unsteady on their feet.
They will also start exploring their surroundings and playing with toys at this stage. As they grow older, Chihuahuas will become more confident in their abilities and start walking with a bouncy gait.
However, it is important to remember that all puppies develop at different rates, so some Chihuahuas may take longer to start walking than others. If you are concerned about your puppy’s development, it is always best to ask your veterinarian for advice.
Growth Stages in Chihuahua Puppies
Chihuahua puppies go through several growth stages in their first few months. Here is a brief overview of what you can expect:
✶Infant Stage (0-12 weeks)
Chihuahua puppies are born blind and deaf. They will start to crawl around three weeks and should be able to walk by four weeks.
✶Junior Stage (12-24 weeks)
At this stage, Chihuahuas will start to explore their surroundings and play with toys. They will also start to develop their own personalities.
✶Adult Stage (24+ weeks)
Chihuahuas will reach their full adult size by around six months. However, they will continue to fill out and mature until they are around two years old.
✶Senior Stage (around age seven)
Chihuahuas will start to slow down as they reach their senior years. They may suffer from arthritis or other age-related dog health issues.
Tips for Helping Your Chihuahua Puppy Start Walking
Like humans, babies need to learn how to walk. The same is true for puppies; they need to practice and learn how to use their legs.
As a chihuahua owner, you can help your Chihuahua puppy, and here are a few tips to help your Chihuahua puppy start walking:
☛Encourage movement
You can encourage your puppy to start moving by placing their favorite toy just out of reach. It will encourage your chihuahua to start crawling or scooting around to get to the toy.
☛Provide support
If your puppy has trouble getting around, you can help by supporting its chest and belly. This will help your chihuahua gain the confidence they need to start walking independently.
☛Create a safe environment
Ensure your puppy’s play area is free from hazards that could cause them to trip or fall. It will help them feel more confident as they explore their surroundings.
Chihuahua Puppies Behavioral Development
In addition to physical development, Chihuahua puppies undergo several behavioral changes in their first few months.
➠Eight weeks of age
At around eight weeks of age, Chihuahuas will start to become more independent and may start to explore away from their mother. It is known as the ‘fear period’ and is normal puppy behavior.
➠12 weeks of age
By 12 weeks of age, Chihuahuas will become more social and enjoy playing with other dogs and people. They may also start to mouth or bite as they explore the world around them with their mouths.
➠16 weeks of age
At 16 weeks of age, Chihuahuas will start to develop their adult teeth. It can be painful, and your puppy may be more irritable than usual.
➠20 weeks of age
At 20 weeks of age, Chihuahuas will reach sexual maturity. It is the age at which they can start to reproduce. However, it is essential to note that Chihuahuas should not be bred until they are at least one year old.
➠24 weeks of age
At 24 weeks of age, Chihuahuas will start to calm down and will become less active than they were as puppies. They will also start to form a stronger bond with their owner(s) at this stage.
Possible Problems When Chihuahua Puppies Can’t be Able to Walk
If your Chihuahua puppy is not able to walk by the time they are four weeks old, it is important to speak to your veterinarian. Here are possible causes of why your Chihuahua might not be able to walk:
•Musculoskeletal problems include conditions such as joint dysplasia or genetic defects that can cause problems with movement.
•Neurological problems could be caused by a birth defect or injury that affects the nervous system.
•Metabolic problems could be caused by a condition such as hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) which can cause weakness and tremors.
•Infectious diseases include conditions such as parvovirus or distemper that can cause neurological problems.
Treating a Chihuahua Puppy That Can’t Walk
The treatment for a Chihuahua puppy that can’t walk will depend on the underlying cause. Once your vet has diagnosed the problem, they will be able to recommend the best course of treatment. Here are some possible treatments:
Surgery may be required for conditions such as joint dysplasia.Medication can be used to treat conditions such as infections or metabolic problems.Physical therapy can help to improve muscle strength and coordination.Dietary changes may be necessary for puppies that have hypoglycemia.
The Benefits to Your Chihuahua Puppy When Starts Walking Early on in Life
Walking is an essential part of a Chihuahua’s life, and there are various benefits to starting early. Here are some benefits of walking your Chihuahua puppy:
✔️Helps in Socialization
Walking allows puppies to meet new people and other dogs, which can help socialize them. Socialization is essential for puppies as it helps them to become well-rounded adults.
✔️Good Burn off Energy
Puppies have a lot of energy, and walking can help to burn some of that off. It can be helpful if you find your puppy full of energy and causing mischief around the house!
✔️Good for Physical Development
One of the benefits to your Chihuahua puppy when it starts walking early on in life, is that it will help them to build muscle strength. This is especially important for small breed like Chihuahuas, who are prone to joint problems later in life. Walking also helps to improve coordination and can help to prevent obesity.
How Often Should You Walk Your Chihuahua Puppy?
Since walking is part of a Chihuahua’s life, the walking exercise should continue as your Chihuahua grows older.
Chihuahuas should be walked at least once a day. Perhaps, you get the thrill of a lifetime when your Chihuahua puppy starts walking. It is a moment to remember and one you will want to cherish for years to come.
However, there is a limitation to everything, and when it comes to walking, you should walk your Chihuahua at least once a day. The length of the walk will depend on your pup’s age, energy level, and overall health but should last around 30 minutes to an hour.
Training Your Chihuahua Puppy
Puppies can be challenging but are so worth it in the end. They go through different development stages, each with its challenges. You can start chihuahua training as early as eight weeks old.
⚫Potty training
One of the biggest challenges is potty training. Puppies have small bladders and will need to relieve themselves often. It is essential to be patient and consistent when potty training your puppy. Here are some tips:
- Establish a regular potty schedule for your puppy and take them out at the same times each day.
- Take your puppy to the same spot each time and praise them when they go.
- Do not punish your puppy if they have an accident; this will only make them afraid of you.
⚫Crate Training
Crate training can be helpful in potty training and other purposes such as traveling. Crate training is the process of teaching your puppy to feel comfortable in a crate. Here are some tips:
- Start with short periods and gradually increase the amount of time they are in the crate.
- Never use the crate as a punishment.
- Make sure the crate is comfortable with bedding and toys.
⚫Obedience Training
Training is important for all dogs but especially for small breeds like Chihuahuas. Small breeds are prone to aggression due to their size and need to be taught obedience commands such as sit, stay, come, down, and leave it. Training should be started as early as possible and should be consistent. Here are some tips:
- Start with simple commands and praise your puppy when they obey.
- Never punish your puppy; this will only make them afraid of you.
- Be consistent with your commands and use the same words each time.
- Only give commands when you are sure your puppy will obey.
Training Tips
📌Patience is the Key
Puppies are not born knowing how to behave; it will take time for them to learn. It is essential to be patient when training your puppy and not get frustrated.
📌Be Consistent
It is essential to be consistent when training your puppy. All family members should use the same commands and praise words. It will help your puppy to learn more quickly.
📌Use Positive Reinforcement
Puppies respond best to positive reinforcement such as treats, praise, and petting. Punishment is not effective and will only make your puppy afraid of you.
📌Take Breaks
Training sessions should be short, around 15 minutes, and should be done several times a day. Puppies have short attention spans and will get tired quickly. Taking breaks is important, so your puppy doesn’t get overwhelmed or stressed.
📌Use Training to Bond
Training is a great way to bond with your puppy. It is vital to make training sessions fun and positive. It will help your puppy to learn more quickly and enjoy spending time with you.
Keeping Chihuahua Active and Healthy Through its Growing Stages
Small breeds like Chihuahuas are prone to health problems, so keeping your pup active and healthy is important. Here are some tips on how to do this:
☑️Provide High-Quality Diet
A high-quality diet is essential for all dogs but is crucial for small breeds. This is because small breeds are more prone to problems such as liver disease, pancreatitis, and kidney disease. Thus, only give your chihuahua high-quality food designed specifically for small breeds.
☑️Get Regular Exercise
As mentioned before, walking is important for chihuahuas and should be walked at least once a day. However, in addition to walking, chihuahuas should also get regular exercise. It can be in the form of playtime, running around in the yard, or going to the dog park.
☑️Visit the Vet Regularly
It is essential to take your chihuahua to the vet regularly, at least once a year. This is because small breeds are prone to health problems, and it is important to catch any problems early on. In addition, your vet can advise you on how to keep your chihuahua healthy and active.
☑️Give them Plenty of Attention and Love
Last but not least, giving your chihuahua attention and love is important. This is because chihuahuas are prone to anxiety and stress, leading to health problems. Thus, make sure to spend time with your chihuahua and show them how much you love them.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old are chihuahua puppies when they start walking?
Chihuahua puppies are born without the ability to walk. For the first few weeks of their lives, they will crawl around on their stomachs, using their front legs to pull them forward. Around three to four weeks old, they will start to get up on their hind legs and take a few wobbly steps.
By six weeks old, most puppies can walk fairly well. However, it can take up to two months for some puppies to gain full coordination and balance. Regardless of when they start walking, all puppies need time to practice and build their strength before they can run and jump like adult dogs.
How much exercise does a chihuahua puppy need?
Chihuahuas are one of the smallest breeds of dogs but are full of energy. A chihuahua puppy needs moderate exercise to stay healthy and avoid behavioral problems. Thirty minutes to an hour of daily walking or playing is typically enough.
However, exercise needs will vary depending on the individual dog’s age, health, and energy level.
For example, a young, active dog will need more exercise than an older dog who is less active. It’s important to consult with a veterinarian to determine the best exercise regimen for your chihuahua puppy. Too much exercise can be just as harmful as too little, so finding the right balance is important.
What do you feed a 6-week-old chihuahua puppy?
A six-week-old chihuahua puppy needs to eat small meals several times a day. A good rule of thumb is to divide their daily food intake into three equal parts and feed them each meal at regular intervals.
For example, if they need to eat eight ounces of food per day, you would feed them two ounces every six hours. When it comes to what to feed them, most experts recommend a diet that is high in protein and fat and low in carbohydrates.
This diet will help ensure that your puppy grows up to be healthy and strong. Many commercially available puppy food meet these guidelines, or you can work with your veterinarian to create a custom diet plan. Either way, consult a professional before making any major changes to your puppy’s diet.
When should the puppies start to stand and take an interest in their surroundings?
When a puppy is born, they are unable to stand or even walk. For the first few weeks of their lives, they will spend most of their time sleeping and eating. As they start to grow and develop, they will become interested in their surroundings. Most puppies can stand and take a few steps by six weeks old. They will also start to play with toys and explore their environment.
At this stage, it is important to socialize puppies to become comfortable with people and other animals. It will help them to adjust to life in their new home and avoid becoming fearful or anxious.
How long is a chihuahua considered a puppy?
Chihuahuas are considered puppies until they are about one year old. After that, they are considered adults. However, small breeds like Chihuahuas mature more slowly than larger breeds. As a result, Chihuahuas may still exhibit some puppy-like behavior even after they reach adulthood.
For example, they may continue to play more vigorously than their larger counterparts, and they may be less able to control their bladder. In general, though, Chihuahuas can be expected to settle into adulthood by the time they are two years old. Beyond that, they can be expected to enjoy a long and healthy life span.
At what age does a chihuahua stop growing?
Some Chihuahuas may continue to grow until they are 18 months old. The size of a Chihuahua is largely determined by its parents, and dogs that come from smaller parents tend to be smaller themselves.
Male Chihuahuas are generally larger than females, but there is a great deal of variation within the breed. Some Chihuahuas weigh less than 3 pounds, while others may weigh more than 10 pounds. Despite their small size, Chihuahuas are feisty dogs with a lot of personalities. They are also very loyal to their owners and can make great companions.
What is the average lifespan of a chihuahua?
The average lifespan of a chihuahua is about 15 years, although some may live for 20 years or more. Chihuahuas are relatively healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain health conditions.
For example, some Chihuahuas may develop hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, which can be dangerous if not treated promptly. Other health problems reported in the breed include congenital heart defects and eye disorders. However, these conditions are relatively rare, and most Chihuahuas enjoy a long and healthy life.
Do chihuahuas need a lot of exercise?
Chihuahuas do not require much exercise, but they benefit from regular walks and playtime. Because they are small dogs, they can get all the necessary exercise in your home or backyard.
However, taking them for walks is a great way to socialize and introduce them to new sights, sounds, and smells. It is also essential to give them plenty of toys and playthings to keep their minds active. Chihuahuas are intelligent dogs that need stimulation to avoid becoming bored or destructive.
Bottom Line
Chihuahua puppies are adorable, but they do require some special puppy care. New owners should be prepared for the challenges of helping them to walk, potty training, and socialization. However, with some patience and perseverance, your puppy will soon become a well-adjusted family member. And you’ll have many years of companionship to enjoy!
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.
