Chihuahuas as Apartment Dogs
One of the smallest of the toy dogs is the Chihuahua.
The Chihuahua is most likely from Mexico many centuries
ago. In his native land they thought he helped passage
into the afterlife and was a sacred dog. The Chihuahua
is known for a rounded, apple shaped head with erect,
pointed ears. Chihuahuas are found in short smooth hair
coats and long and soft coats. He generally weighs 2
to 5 pounds.
The exact origin of the Chihuahua is unknown; however,
it is believed by many that his ancestors are an important
part of the Toltecs, which is an ancient Mexican civilization
of the 9th century. Ther Toltecs named the Chihuahua
Techichi. Even after the Aztecs conquered the Toltecs,
the Chihuahua continued to flourish for centuries. Archeologists
have found Chihuahuas in ancient graves. Then Hernando
Cortes conquered Mexico and the breed was lost to history.
Few records of the little Chihuahua were left behind.
The Chihuahua was rediscovered in the late 1800's near
Mexico City.
The Chihuahua is active, not very sociable with other
breeds, but seems to recognize other Chihuahuas and
enjoys their company. He is a devoted family pet with
streaks of jealousy displayed when their beloved people
spend time with other people. They also tend to display
jealousy of larger dogs.
The Chihuahua is:
- Perfect for apartment dwellers due to the small size;
- They do not do well with children;
- Excellent for adults and the elderly;
- They do not tolerate rough play;
- He is loving and devoted to his owners;
- He is capable of alerting you to strangers, but because
of his size of course is not able to do much else.
- He needs to be socialized early in life to prevent
behavior problems;
- He can be paper-trained;
- The long-haired type Chihuahua requires daily grooming;
- He normally has a soft spot in the center of his head
which will need additional protection;
- He should wear sweaters and coats in cold weather.
In general, the Chihuahua is a healthy dog. There
are a few conditions you will want to look out for,
they are:
- Cryptorchidism: A condition in which one or both
testicles do not descend into the scrotum;
- Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar levels;
- Luxating patellas: Or loose kneecaps which can cause
pain or lameness.
Symptoms of hypoglycemia are common in the toy breed
dogs less than three months of age. Some bouts of hypoglycemia
may be associated with more serious disease such as
Addison's disease, severe liver disease, tumors just
to name a few. If hypoglycemia episodes occur often
you will need your vet to perform diagnostic testing
to determine if there is a more serious problem causing
the episodes.
Symptoms to watch for that relate to hypoglycemia:
- Loss of appetite;
- Extreme lethargy;
- Incoordination;
- Trembling;
- Muscular twitching;
- Weakness;
- Seizures;
- Unusual behavior;
- Dilated pupils;
- Stupor or coma.
Treatment for hypoglycemia may include:
- Giving glucose orally or by intravenous injection;
- Treatment for the underlying cause of hypoglycemia
episodes.
At home if you suspect your Chihuahua has hypoglycemia
you can:
- Rub Karo syrup on your dog's gums and call your vet
immediately for further instructions;
- Provide a warm environment (fleece t-shirts sold at
http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com are effective in keeping
your Chihuahua warm);
- Frequent feedings;
- Routine vaccinations and deworming procedures;
- Young puppies should be fed 3 to 4 times per day.
Cryptorchidism is an inherited condition. Its occurrence
cannot be prevented in the individual animal. Castrating
animals diagnosed with this condition may help reduce
the incidence in the general population of the Chihuahua.
About the Author
Written by: Connie Limon Visit us at http://www.abouttoydogs.com
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