Is It Dangerous For Chihuahuas to Have Puppies During Pregnancy?
Chihuahuas are incredibly small dogs. But they’re also very bold, curious and needy — characteristics that make them ideal family pets. When it comes to bringing them into your home, you should be aware of their limitations and how they might affect other animals in your household.
How Many Puppies Can a Chihuahua Have?
Typically, a chihuahua will have one or two puppies during her first pregnancy. This is a result of her age, which determines the size of the litter, but there have been recorded cases of dogs having surprisingly large litters, including a Guinness World Record holder.
It’s a good idea to get her in to see your vet for a routine physical examination during her pregnancy, as she may be at risk for developing certain health problems. If you notice any abnormal symptom in your dog, such as weight loss, lack of interest in food, a fever or odorous vaginal discharge, contact your veterinarian right away.
A Luxating Patella
Your chihuahua’s kneecap (patella) can dislocate when your pet walks or runs. If your pet suffers from this, you might notice that he limps or doesn’t use his affected leg at all. Instead, he’ll often pick up his other leg and let it fall back to the ground for a few moments to ease the kneecap back into place.
The condition is hereditary, so your chihuahua has a higher chance of suffering from it than other breeds. Your veterinarian can prescribe medication to treat the underlying problem and prevent your dog from developing it again.
Obesity is a major health problem among small dog breeds like the chihuahua. Not only can it lead to joint pain and metabolic and digestive disorders, but it can also increase your dog’s risk of heart disease.
Overweight chihuahuas are also more likely to develop a respiratory issue called “tracheal collapse.” This is a common disease that occurs in dogs when the trachea — a tube with rings of cartilage that allows air to travel into the lungs and out of the mouth — becomes flattened and thin.
Some dogs with tracheal collapse also have a cough that causes them to wheeze or gagging. If you’re unsure about your dog’s breathing, schedule an appointment at the vet so they can examine her trachea and discuss treatment options with you.
Heart Failure
A weakened heart valve is the main cause of heart failure in dogs. Your veterinarian will perform regular tests to monitor your dog’s heart condition. If your dog’s heart condition is severe, you may need to schedule a surgical procedure to replace or repair the valve.
The best way to ensure that your dog has a healthy heart is by monitoring her diet and exercise levels. A balanced diet containing the right amount of calories, nutrients and minerals will help your dog stay strong and healthy for years to come.
Hereditary Conditions
A chihuahua’s genetics can cause her to have health issues that are unique to her breed, such as eye or hearing problems. Your veterinarian can diagnose these issues, and recommend appropriate treatments, to help your pet live a long, happy life.
