Chihuahua Dog BreedingFind the Perfect Match

Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) is life-threatening for Chihuahuas, especially puppies under 4 months and adults under 4 lbs. It can cause weakness, seizures, coma, and death within hours. Prevention requires feeding every 3-4 hours, keeping puppies warm, and avoiding stress. Emergency treatment involves rubbing Karo syrup on gums and immediate veterinary care. Breeders should avoid producing extremely small puppies and must educate all buyers about prevention, as this is the leading cause of death in Chihuahua puppies.

Luxating patellas affect 40% of Chihuahuas - one of the highest rates among all breeds. This inherited condition causes kneecaps to dislocate, graded 1-4 in severity. OFA patella evaluation is MANDATORY for all breeding stock. Never breed dogs with Grade 2 or higher as surgery costs $1,500-3,000 per knee. The condition causes arthritis and chronic pain if untreated. Both parents should have normal patellas to reduce incidence in puppies.

Chihuahuas have the worst dental disease rate of all breeds - 80% have periodontal disease by age 2. Their tiny mouths cause overcrowding and retained baby teeth. This leads to infection, heart disease, kidney failure, and even jaw fractures. Daily brushing is essential, along with annual dental cleanings under anesthesia. Poor dentition is hereditary, so check both parents' teeth before breeding. Dental disease significantly shortens lifespan if untreated.

A molera is an open fontanel (soft spot) on the skull, present in 80-90% of Chihuahua puppies. It's NOT a defect but a breed characteristic, similar to human babies. Some close by 6 months; others remain permanent. Dogs with moleras can live normal lives but require careful handling to prevent injury. Size varies from pinpoint to dime-sized. Large moleras increase injury risk. Educate all owners about protecting the head area, especially during play and grooming.

Tracheal collapse is a progressive disease where the trachea flattens, common in Chihuahuas. It causes a characteristic honking cough, exercise intolerance, and respiratory distress. Triggers include excitement, collar pressure, heat, and obesity. Management requires using harnesses only (never collars), maintaining ideal weight, and avoiding triggers. The condition has a hereditary component, so check family history before breeding. Severe cases may require medication or surgery.

'Teacup' is NOT a recognized variety but a marketing term for undersized Chihuahuas. Dogs under 3 lbs face severe health risks: hypoglycemia, organ failure, bone fractures, and shortened lifespan. The breed standard is 2-6 lbs. Ethical breeders never intentionally breed for extreme small size. Breeding runts together is unethical and creates suffering. Educate buyers that smaller isn't better - it's dangerous. Standard-sized Chihuahuas are already the world's smallest breed.

Chihuahuas' prominent eyes are prone to injuries and genetic conditions. Corneal ulcers from trauma are common emergencies. Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) causes genetic blindness. Lens luxation and dry eye (KCS) affect older dogs. Annual CERF/OFA eye exams are required for breeding stock. Avoid breeding dogs with excessively bulging eyes as they're more injury-prone. Educate owners about protecting eyes from trauma during play and grooming.

Hydrocephalus (water on the brain) involves fluid accumulation in the skull, more common in apple head Chihuahuas. Symptoms include an abnormally domed skull, wide-set eyes, circling, seizures, and blindness, usually apparent by 4 months. Mild cases may be manageable, but severe cases are fatal. There's a genetic component, so avoid breeding dogs with overly domed skulls or any signs of neurological issues. MRI can diagnose but is expensive.

Males: minimum 1.5 years, optimal 2-8 years. Females: minimum 2 years (must be fully grown), retire by 6 years. Maximum 3 litters lifetime due to physical stress on tiny bodies. Small litters (1-3 puppies) are normal. Single puppy pregnancies are high risk due to large puppy size. C-section rate is 30-40%. Skip at least 2 heat cycles between litters for full recovery. Never breed females under 4 lbs due to increased complications.

Chihuahuas have poor temperature regulation due to their tiny size and high surface area to volume ratio. They're at risk for hypothermia in cold weather and heat stroke in hot weather. They require clothing in cold climates and air conditioning in heat. Shivering may indicate cold OR stress. Never leave them outside unattended. Puppies and seniors are especially vulnerable. This isn't a defect but requires owner education about providing appropriate environmental protection year-round.