Grooming the Chihuahua

Photo courtesy of: http://www.badgercrest.com

The Chihuahua is undoubtedly the oldest purebred canine native to the North American continent. He is known by no other name. The Chihuahua is a native of the state of Chihuahua, Mexico. He appears in a short-or smooth-coated variety and another type that has a long coat. The distinguishing features of a Chihuahua are very small size (average weight is 3 pounds) large ears, prominent eyes and a long tail.

The Chihuahua was important in the ceremonial life of both Toltec and Aztex peoples and is still a very popular pet in his native land and all around the world. He is the smallest of all dogs. His purpose is to provide loving companionship. His very small size keeps him from being a good pet to children or toddlers, or even young adolescents. He makes a wonderful little pet for the elderly. His size makes him very easy to pick up, carry around, and to take care of during grooming chores. The Chihuahua seems to know other Chihuahuas and prefers their company over other breeds of dogs. He is highly sensitive and can be a bit stubborn.

Although the Chihuahua looks very fragile he can be quite courageous. He is known to be more of a one-person dog and can be quite ferocious in defending that person.

The shorthaired variety is kept tidy with brushing several times a week with a rubber slicker or grooming glove. The smooth should be soft texture, close and glossy. The coat should be placed well over the body with ruff on neck, and scantier on head and ears.

The long coats should be of a soft texture, either flat or slightly curly with an undercoat preferably. Ears fringed (heavily fringed ears may be tipped slightly never down), feathering on feet and legs, and pants on hind legs. Large ruff on neck desired and preferred. Tail should be full and long (as a plume).

The long coat will need attention a couple times per week. The long-coated Chihuahua is easy to maintain with brushing a couple times per week. They normally love the attention of being groomed.

You will need a cushioned natural bristle brush and a medium-toothed comb.

Grooming procedure:

1. Brush through entire coat with a natural bristle brush and then comb to remove all tangles.

2. A suitable shampoo for both the long and short coated Chihuahua might be “natural tea tree and lavender oil.”

3. Don’t bathe your Chihuahua unless he gets really dirty. Oftentimes the Chihuahua will only need a bath about every 2 to 3 months depending on environment and circumstances. Always rinse well.

4. Blow-dry the coat while brushing the long hair.

5. After blow drying, comb through with your medium-toothed comb (these items can be purchased at any pet supply store or online.6.

Check the Chihuahua’s nails, ears and teeth. His nails should be kept moderately short. For show dogs, follow the breed standard about nails.

Note: The interior of the ear canals of the little Chihuahua should be gently cleaned. You may want to use a little Betadine scrub in his ears to prevent yeast infections. Pay special attention to drying the inside and outside of his ears. Ear infections can arise from moist ear canals.

Special Note about the Chihuahua Show Dogs:
For the show ring cut the hairs on the muzzle with a curve scissor and, for Long Coats, trim around the feet and between the pads.

Author: Connie Limon, Toy Dog Fancier. Visit us at http://www.abouttoydogs.com/ and sign up for our newsletters. About Toy Dogs is a guide to the selection and care of toy dog breeds. We feature articles, dog books, and a toy dog breeder directory.

This article is FREE to publish with the resource box.

The History of the Teacup Chihuahua by Kari Eriksson

Photo courtesy of: http://www.badgercrest.com

Before the world even knew of the expression teacup chihuahua,regular chihuahuas have had quite a history of their own. Theywere first registered with the American Kennel Club in 1904after being discovered in the Chihuahua state, a mexicanregion, bordering Texas and New Mexico. This also gave rise tothe name of the breed.

As many times happens with history, there are slightlydifferent versions as to the origin of what became the teacupchihuahua. If we comine known facts they are said to come fromthe ancient Techichi dogs of the Toltec Civilisation nearMexico City. The Azteks conqured the Toltecs and turned thesedogs in to sacred icons of the upper class, giving themreligious meaning. Todays chihuahuas are smaller in size thanwere the Techichis, which was also mute.

This dog is then believed to have been crossed with an orientaldog, a hairless breed that gave modern teacup chihuahuas more ofthe look they have today, smaller and smooth-coated with vocalresources that surpass their size. Where the stories differ ispartly as to how this hairless breed came to that part of theworld. Some say these early chihuahua ancestors immigratedacross the Bering Strait land bridge.

Others claim they were brought by Spanish settlers who hadestablished trade routes with China. In support for this theoryis stated that China has well documented practices ofcultivating both animals and plants to be smaller in size. In ahistoric letter found to be written by the famous ChristopherColumbus is said that he found a small dog on the island ofCuba that was mute. This adds to the speculation of the orginsof the chihuahua.

There are different forms of support for the above theories,ranging from DNA to painted ancient artwork, though the theteacup chihuahua history might remain somewhat of a mystery,especially as to how they ended up where they were firstdiscovered as a breed in 1884 and adopted into the AKC twentyyears later. In England the breed was not registred untilanother twenty years later.

Even though its past in some parts still remain a mysterynobody can deny that this small dog with the big temper remainsa favorite with many. The small chihuauas nicknamed teacupchihuahuas have made history in the past and continue to do sotoday on movie screen, TV, commercials and in homes worldwide.

About the Author: Kari Eriksson is an infopreneur and a doglover since many years. Lately Teacup Chihuahuas have become aspecial interest and he operates The Teacup ChihuahuasDirectory at http://www.teacupchihuahuasdirectory.com/ where you

can find articles, links and useful resources.

Source: http://www.isnare.com/

Famous Teacup Chihuahuas by Kari Eriksson

Photo courtesy of: http://www.badgercrest.com



Chihuahuas including the nowadays often searched for teacup
chihuahuas have risen to fame on many occasions throughout
history and modern times. Teacup chihuahuas have been on the
big screen in movie theaters, on the laps of celebritys and as
mascots for fastfood companies just to mention a few.

Lately, probably the first that comes to mind for many is
Tinkerbell Hilton, the teacup chihuahua pet of Paris Hilton
that even wrote her own diaries. She was bought originally from
a greek breeder, reportedly for somewhere close to 4000 USD and
went on to star in all three seasons of The Simple Life, the
30-minute TV reality show.

Another teacup chihuahua is Bruiser who made it to the big
screen as the pet of Elle Wood, played by Reese Witherspoon, in
the Legally Blond movies. Bruiser makes the trip from
fashionable Beverly Hills to the university world of Harward
Law School. The movie was released in july of 2001 and followed
by a sequel two years laters where Bruiser again was on the
movie cover and obviously starred in the film.

Teacup chihuahuas or at least chihuahuas in general have also
made it into business big time. Chihuahuas are commonly
associated with Mexico and so is fast food chain Taco Bell. So
in the later part of the 1990s the Taco Bell Chihuahua Gidget
hit the commercial world with a slam. In commercials for the
company Gidgets speaks through special effects and goes
ordering tacos. This character grew so popular that it spawned
toy production and started a subculture of its own.

If we take the step from the real world to the cartoon one we
find someone who resembles a teacup chihuahua, but sometimes it
is hard to tell if he has the required size for a teacup
chihuahua. Of course we are here talking about Ren Höek, the
partner to Stimpson J Cat in the Ren and Stimpy lineup. The
former is a somewhat neurotic character that often found ways
to be not so nice to his fellow character causing parents to be
critical about the whole series. Ren is often considered mexican
and was originally inspired by a postcard of a chihuahua in a
sweater.

Last, but definitely not least, we should mention Wheely Willy,
the inspiring motivator. He is seemingly a little big to be a
teacup chihua but he really deserves mention. Abonded and
injured at early age he was not able to walk on his own until
his new owner found him sort of wheelchair for his back legs
and now he visits hospitals and has been the subject of two
books bringing inspiration to the people he meets.

About the Author: Kari Eriksson is an infopreneur and a dog
lover since many years. Lately Teacup Chihuahuas have become a
special interest and he operates The Teacup Chihuahuas
Directory at http://www.teacupchihuahuasdirectory.com where you
can find articles, links and useful resources.

Source: http://www.isnare.com

Outrageous Tales About Chihuahuas: Some Are True! By Bill Knell

When you look at a Chihuahua that weighs less than two pounds
full grown, it is hard to imagine that it’s actually a dog!
That is why so many people once believed the rumor that
Chihuahuas were some kind of weird mix of rodent and canine.
The rumor began after people who traveled along the Mexican
Border with Texas and Arizona over one hundred and fifty years
ago noticed the breed.

Early Wild West novels and storybooks expanded on the rodent
mix rumor and explained the small size of the Chihuahua by
claiming that the animals were created through a secret process
used by native medicine men or pagan priests in Mexico or South
America. However, dime novels were not the only places where
tale tales about Chihuahuas were spread.

Early descriptions of the dogs by Missionaries and
Conquistadors traveling throughout South America indicated they
were used in worship ceremonies or even eaten by faithful
followers of the Aztec religion. Such descriptions were often
exaggerated to make the Aztec People seem completely pagan to
Christians and, thereby, justify their conquest and conversion.
While we are certain that Chihuahuas were used in Aztec worship
ceremonies, there is no evidence to date that any were eaten.
Many have been found buried with people, so it’s possible they
were killed to join their owners in death.

Because Chihuahuas are much smaller and seem to be so different
from other dog breeds, a number of old wives tales exist about
these tiny animals. Some are true, others are just myths spread
by the uninformed:

BAD BREATH - Chihuahuas have a breath odor that is no better or
worse than that of any other dog breed. This rumor started
because so many early Chihuahua owners fed their dogs unwanted
fish parts leading to a generally horrific mouth odor.
Captains, mates and others who worked aboard ships in the
California of the middle to late 1800’s found Chihuahua dogs to
be terrific companions. Not only would these dogs sound the
alarm if anyone came near their personal property, but they
were small enough to be welcome aboard vessels of any size.
Ship captains were particularly found of them because
Chihuahuas had a knack for chasing rats out of small spaces
that other dogs couldn’t reach. When pups came along and they
were sold to landlubbers, new owners were told that the dogs
just loved fish parts!

CHIHUAHUAS HAVE GIVEN BIRTH TO KITTENS - Chihuahuas tend to get
along unusually well with Cats. In fact, Chihuahuas have been
known to nurse orphaned or abandoned kittens. However, I can
say with great certainty that no Chihuahua has ever been known
to give birth to a litter of kittens.

CHIHUAHUAS COME FROM OUTTER SPACE - Some Natives of North and
South America have traditions that indicate their ancestors may
have come from the stars. Some researchers believe that’s an
incorrect interpretation of the native people’s belief that
their ancestors come from a higher spiritual existence. Either
way, early scholars who took an interest in the origin of
Chihuahuas indicated that they had not been able to discover
how, when or where the breed originated. As interest in ghosts,
Atlantis and space beings first became popular in the late
1800’s, many people adopted the idea that Chihuahuas must have
been brought to Earth by visitors from beyond. Needless to say,
this is probably not true and likely came from the same people
who believe that Corn is an Alien invention unfit for human
consumption.

CHIHUAHUAS CAN HEAL SEVERE INJURIES OR REDUCE PAIN - Early
settlers who came to the Southwest United States noticed that
Mexicans and some Native Americans would tie Chihuahuas to
parts of their bodies that seemed to need healing or where pain
was a problem. This practice lead to the theory that the dogs
were magical and could cure an assortment of physical problems.
In reality, Chihuahuas have been known to lie near or on parts
of their owner’s bodies where pain was being felt, an infection
had set in or other health problems may have existed. The warmth
of their tiny bodies probably helped ease pain a bit. The
licking of infections or open wounds may have helped clean out
microorganisms or infected tissues. Interestingly enough, it
has become known that some dogs seem to possess the ability to
diagnose cancer or other health problems in various parts of
the human body.

CHIHUAHUAS CAN CURE OR REDUCE THE SEVERITY OF ASTHMA AND
ALLERGIES - Most people with Asthma or severe Allergy problems
have a problem with furry pets. Not so, it seems, with the
Chihuahua. Although there is no known medical evidence to
support the idea that they can cure any disease, many Chihuahua
Owners who suffer with Asthma or severe Allergies claim the dogs
help. It has not been uncommon for people living in the
Southwest to get a Chihuahua for a child or family member with
Asthma or Allergy problems. The dogs sometimes lie near that
person’s mouth while they are sleeping and later become ill. At
the same time, the person involved would wake up feeling better.
The idea was that the problem was transferred from the suffering
human to the dog. Whether that part of the tale is true or not,
it is a fact that Asthma and Allergy sufferers seem to do
better with short or long haired Chihuahuas then with any other
dog breed.

CHIHUAHUAS COME FROM CHINA OR EGYPT - There is some evidence
that Chihuahuas may have already existed in Africa and Asia
before they were discovered in America, but none so conclusive
to say that they originated in any of those places. We are just
now discovering that seafarers may have visited our shores long
before Columbus or even the Vikings. This may account for the
presence of Chihuahuas in other parts of the world. No one
really knows the exact origin of the Chihuahua.

IF REALLY UPSET, A CHIHUAHUA’S EYES WILL FALL OUT OF IT’S HEAD
- The ‘bug eye’ look of some Chihuahuas undoubtedly lead to
this myth. Modern science has shown this to be false.

SEWER RATS HAVE BEEN SOLD AS CHIHUAHUAS - This is yet another
branch of the false rodent identity once attributed to
Chihuahua dogs. Years ago, a story appeared in one of the
supermarket tabloids proclaiming that a couple visiting Mexico
came upon the hybrid of a rat-dog mix that looked like a
Chihuahua. The story went on to say that purchased the creature
and brought their discovery back to the USA. Once home, the
animal attacked and killed cats and even large dogs in their
neighborhood leading to the need for its destruction. This lead
to the often repeated and equally nonsensical rumor of a couple
who vacationed in Mexico and brought home a sewer rat they had
purchased as a Chihuahua.

AN ANCIENT CHIHUAHUA WAS DISCOVERED PERFECTLY PRESERVED IN A
SOUTH AMERICAN PYRAMID - Here is another crazy story courtesy
of our friends at the supermarket tabloids. This one appeared
in an early 1970’s tabloid article. A perfectly preserved
Chihuahua was said to have been discovered in a South American
pyramid amongst a king's ransom in gold and jewels. The article
claimed that the animal was so perfectly preserved that the
dog’s flesh was still edible, blood samples could be extracted
from the dog’s body and the animal’s eyes were a color never
before seen in animals(???). Well, they made it up, not me!

The craziest thing about all the tale tales that surround the
Chihuahua Breed is that some may actually be true. The
Chihuahua is the world’s smallest dog breed and longest-lived.
Animal Behaviorists tell us that Chihuahuas are the only dogs
that tend to prefer the company of humans to that of other
dogs. They will nurse kittens and seem to have helped people
who suffer from various maladies. With a background like that,
I suppose almost anything is possible. However, one thing is
for sure. They make the world’s best pets! You can read more
about Chihuahuas at http://www.ArizonaPups.com and find free
dog training and health tips at
http://doggiestyle.billknell.com

About the Author: Bill Knell. Email: billknell@cox.net.
Website: http://www.billknell.com Terms To Use Article:
Permission is granted to use this article for free online or in
print. Please add a link to or print my website address:
http://www.billknell.com

Source: http://www.isnare.com

The Chihuahua: Perfect Apartment Companions

Photo courtesy of: http://www.badgercrest.com


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.

Author: Connie Limon. Visit us at http://www.abouttoydogs.com and sign up for our helpful newsletters. About Toy Dogs is a guide to the selection and care of toy dog breeds. We feature articles, dog books and a toy dog breeder directory. Purchase one full page ad with 3 pictures, a 12 picture video, advertising in our newsletters and article marketing promotion. To my knowledge no other toy dog breeder directory offers this unique package of advertising for toy dog breeders.

This article is FREE to publish with the resource box.

Grooming the Chihuahua

Photo courtesy of: http://www.badgercrest.com


The Chihuahua is undoubtedly the oldest purebred canine native to the North American continent. He is known by no other name. The Chihuahua is a native of the state of Chihuahua, Mexico. He appears in a short-or smooth-coated variety and another type that has a long coat. The distinguishing features of a Chihuahua are very small size (average weight is 3 pounds) large ears, prominent eyes and a long tail.

The Chihuahua was important in the ceremonial life of both Toltec and Aztex peoples and is still a very popular pet in his native land and all around the world. He is the smallest of all dogs. His purpose is to provide loving companionship. His very small size keeps him from being a good pet to children or toddlers, or even young adolescents. He makes a wonderful little pet for the elderly. His size makes him very easy to pick up, carry around, and to take care of during grooming chores. The Chihuahua seems to know other Chihuahuas and prefers their company over other breeds of dogs. He is highly sensitive and can be a bit stubborn.

Although the Chihuahua looks very fragile he can be quite courageous. He is known to be more of a one-person dog and can be quite ferocious in defending that person.

The shorthaired variety is kept tidy with brushing several times a week with a rubber slicker or grooming glove. The smooth should be soft texture, close and glossy. The coat should be placed well over the body with ruff on neck, and scantier on head and ears.

The long coats should be of a soft texture, either flat or slightly curly with an undercoat preferably. Ears fringed (heavily fringed ears may be tipped slightly never down), feathering on feet and legs, and pants on hind legs. Large ruff on neck desired and preferred. Tail should be full and long (as a plume).

The long coat will need attention a couple times per week. The long-coated Chihuahua is easy to maintain with brushing a couple times per week. They normally love the attention of being groomed.

You will need a cushioned natural bristle brush and a medium-toothed comb.

Grooming procedure:

1. Brush through entire coat with a natural bristle brush and then comb to remove all tangles.
2. A suitable shampoo for both the long and short coated Chihuahua might be “natural tea tree and lavender oil.”
3. Don’t bathe your Chihuahua unless he gets really dirty. Oftentimes the Chihuahua will only need a bath about every 2 to 3 months depending on environment and circumstances. Always rinse well.
4. Blow-dry the coat while brushing the long hair.
5. After blow drying, comb through with your medium-toothed comb (these items can be purchased at any pet supply store or online.
6. Check the Chihuahua’s nails, ears and teeth. His nails should be kept moderately short. For show dogs, follow the breed standard about nails.

Note: The interior of the ear canals of the little Chihuahua should be gently cleaned. You may want to use a little Betadine scrub in his ears to prevent yeast infections. Pay special attention to drying the inside and outside of his ears. Ear infections can arise from moist ear canals.

Special Note about the Chihuahua Show Dogs:

For the show ring cut the hairs on the muzzle with a curve scissor and, for Long Coats, trim around the feet and between the pads.

Author: Connie Limon, Toy Dog Fancier. Visit us at http://www.abouttoydogs.com and sign up for our newsletters. About Toy Dogs is a guide to the selection and care of toy dog breeds. We feature articles, dog books, and a toy dog breeder directory. Purchase a full page ad with 3 pictures, a 12 picture video, advertising in our newsletters, and article marketing. To my knowledge no other toy dog breeder directory offers this same package of advertising services to the toy dog breeder. Special thanks to Badger Crest Kennels for use of the photo in this article.

This article is FREE to publish with the resource box.

Selecting a Chihuahua - Puppy or Adult?

Photo courtesy of: http://www.badgercrest.com


Everyone is surely going to get excited when trying to select a Chihuahua. Truly a man’s best friend, you can rely on your Chihuahua in giving you company, cuddling up together and some can even guard your house. You need to review your personal lifestyle and needs when adopting a Chihuahua. It is a major decision whether or not you would choose to have a puppy or an adult as a pet. Before deciding on which Chihuahua to adopt, here is some useful information that might help you decide.

About Chihuahua Puppies

* Bringing up a Chihuahua puppy is an advantage because this means that you would guide its growth and well being. You would have the chance to raise it up according to what you want. This means you can ensure that it is properly nurtured with the right dog food, ensure that necessary dog shots are given and prevent heartworm at this early stage. Having your Chihuahua puppy personally trained is also a plus since you can teach him exactly what you want.

* You should adopt a Chihuahua puppy when it is at least 10 weeks old. Chihuahua puppies need a lot of time to be cared for by their mothers. This is a crucial stage for them. They somehow gain a psychological advantage for both Chihuahua puppy and for the mother Chihuahua as well.

* A Chihuahua puppy can easily adjust to new surroundings as compared to an adult Chihuahua. Although most Chihuahua puppies may cause minimal to major damage to your personal stuff while they are in the stage of teething. They need to be housebroken and house training needs a lot of time, effort and patience from the owner.

* There is no assurance of what a Chihuahua puppy would look like when it gets old. Also, his temperament might change when he grows up.

* Most pet owners love how Chihuahua puppies can be entertaining. They are very cute and adorable pets that is a hit for both children and grown ups. Chihuahua puppies can be easily regarded as one of the family.

About an adult Chihuahua

* You would have less of a fuss taking care of an adult Chihuahua. They already have this established behavior that you can easily adopt too. By being with the adult Chihuahua more often, you would have more or less an idea of what its temperament is.

* You need to get as much information that you can when adopting an adult Chihuahua. Take note of its habits and mood swings. You can acquire information from the previous owners of the Chihuahua. Some adult Chihuahuas may have some behavior issues. It is important to take note of them.

* It may take some time and effort for an adult Chihuahua to be completely comfortable with a new owner.

* Take note that you need to introduce an adult Chihuahua to your children and other household members. This would help the Chihuahua be familiar with them and helps them refrain from biting or barking thinking that they maybe strangers.

* Adult Chihuahuas may not need your full attention unlike Chihuahua puppies need and would require lesser trips to the veterinary.

* For a fully grown Chihuahua, physique and behavior is basically not a variable anymore. What you see is basically what you get.

* Most adult Chihuahuas are housebroken already so they would cause lesser damage to your belongings and don’t wake up at night like most puppies do. Usually, they have grown out of the impulse of chewing things.

* An older Chihuahua can easily adapt to other pets, like other dogs or cats, if you have a group of them at your household.

Selecting a Chihuahua is not an easy task. Everyone loves sweet looking Chihuahua puppies, but not everyone can stand up to the tiresome house training. Though most would appreciate the bonding shared with them.

Adult Chihuahuas need no great amount of guidance but can still turn out to be a lovable pet. Whichever you think is the right pet for you, just keep in mind that taking care of them requires a lot of time and effort. In return, they would always keep you company and has ready smile with an excited wag of tail waiting for you everyday.

Author: Connie Limon. Visit us at: http://www.abouttoydogs.com About Toy Dogs is a guide to information about selection of and the care of Toy Dog Breeds. We feature articles, dog training resources, toy dog breeder directory. If you raise Chihuahua puppies purchase an ad in our directory to advertise your puppies, kennel or website.

This article is FREE to publish with resource box.

Kennel Cough in the Chihuahua

Photo courtesy of: http://www.badgercrest.com



If you plan to board your Chihuahua, enter him into a dog show, or enroll him into puppy school where there will be a lot of dogs around it is probably a good idea to vaccinate your Chihuahua against kennel cough.

Kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory disease. The disease is thought to be caused by bacteria called Bordatella. In general kennel cough vaccines are not necessary for house dog Chihuahuas that have little contact with other dogs. The greatest risk is if your Chihuahua is in any of the above mentioned situations.

If you need quick protection ask your vet about the intranasal (inhaled through the nose) vaccine. This type is also best for more immediate pet contact situations. The other type of kennel cough vaccines is an injectable vaccine.

What age is safe to vaccinate for kennel cough? You can vaccinate as early as 4 weeks of age. Annual and sometimes bi-annual boosters are available and may be necessary. This will depend upon your situation and your personal vet’s protocol.

Symptoms of kennel cough:

• Bouts of high pitched, honk-like coughing for at least 2 weeks;
• Some dogs may vomit that consists of large amounts of phlegm.

With such a horrible sounding cough you would think your little Chihuahua would be just lying around all day and night. This is not the usual scenario with kennel cough. During the infection dogs generally stay active and don’t feel or behave “sick.”

There is no cure for kennel cough. Prevention is the best way to handle the disease. Kennel cough will usually clear up in a couple of week even without medication. Dog owners which include the little Chihuahua owners should be aware of possible secondary infections, which may result in pneumonia. These secondary infections are the real concern behind preventing kennel cough. If pneumonia sets in antibiotics may be necessary to clear the infection. At this point you should not try to suppress the cough. The dog or Chihuahua needs to get phlegm out of its system. Clearing this phlegm out is the key to recovery from the entire mess of infection. Therefore, do not give your dog any kind of cough suppressant. The coughing clears the phlegm he needs to rid from his system.

Your little Chihuahua may become quite uncomfortable as intense coughing can be painful. You will need to limit activity to avoid “intense coughing episodes.” If he progresses to an infection, he probably will limit his own activity and will start to lie around acting as if he is sick and at this point he definitely is quite ill.

If you have other dogs in the house, kennel cough is quite contagious and they will probably get kennel cough too. To try and avoid this you can separate everyone and wash your hands after contact with each dog. Use bleach to clean areas where your sick Chihuahua has been.

Not all coughs are “kennel cough.” If your Chihuahua starts coughing and continues for more than 2 or 3 days without signs of improvement it is wise to take him to the vet for a definitive diagnosis. Also, if you see secondary signs of illness in your Chihuahua such as lack of appetite, fever, blood in phlegm or difficulty with breathing take him to the vet for an appropriate assessment and treatment as soon as possible.

It is important to not take your Chihuahua into situations where there are other dogs if he is diagnosed with kennel cough. All dogs are susceptible to the kennel cough. It is quite contagious. There is no one breed of toy dog that is more susceptible to acquiring the kennel cough. It is therefore advisable to keep him home from puppy school and all other situations in which there will be any other breed of dog around.

Author: Connie Limon. Visit us at http://www.abouttoydogs.com and sign up for our helpful newsletters. About Toy Dogs is a guide to the selection and care of toy breed dogs. We feature articles, dog training resources, dog books, dog supplies and a toy dog breeder directory. Purchase a full page with 3 pictures, a 12 picture video and advertising in our newsletters for one year at rate of $25.

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