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The pint sized stature of the Chihuahua makes it a dog of choice for someone who is short on space but long on the desire to have an adorable pet. Be aware, though, that the small size that makes them so cute also brings on it’s own set of challenges for raising a Chihuahua.

One thing about Chihuahuas is that they are very protective and don’t seem to realize that they are so tiny. They have no qualms taking on the biggest dog on the block, and because of this you really need to keep a close watch on him. So one thing you must be careful of is to never let your Chihuahua outside by himself.

If the Chi you get is still a puppy, it’s important that you feed him or her high quality dog food. Until a Chi puppy is three months old, you should feed him four times daily, keeping the meals smaller. When your Chi reaches three months of age, reduce it to three smaller meals each day until six months. From six months to a year, you only need to feed them two times each day.

When your Chihuahua is already one year old, he only needs to be fed once a day. But he will like it better if you give several small meals in a day rather than serve it in just one big meal. Observe what kind of food he really likes but usually canned foods are hard to digest and might cause diarrhea.

Chihuahua are not only lovable but they are also easy to take care of. In fact, they are quite easy to bathe without any great resistance from them. It is recommended that anyone raising a Chihuahua bathe them once in a month. Over bathing could remove the natural oils from their furs and would also cause dandruff.

Be sure that you keep any water from getting into the ears of your Chihuahua when you bathe him, as wet ears can cause bad ear infections. Pay close attention to your Chi, and if you notice him scratching his ears a lot or redness in his ears, get him to the vet as quickly as possible.

Training your dog the proper way will earn you many benefits like owning an obedient dog and will also allow you to call him away from dangerous situations. Start training him on simple tricks even at an early age and he will easily learn as he grows older. But gradually provide him with a general obedience training and this will help him in dealing with dangerous scenarios.

It is best to trim your Chi’s nails every month. Cat claw trimmers can also be used to your Chi which is scissor-shaped and has a round indent for the claw. Start trimming your Chi’s nails even at an earlier age so that he will easily be accustomed to it. You’ll have more enjoyable grooming session with your pet later on.

Chihuahuas are susceptible to weak knees and this can affect them as they get older. Monitor your Chi’s gait as he walks and if you notice him beginning to have trouble, take him to the Vet’s and have him checked out.

Proper Veterinary attention is an essential part of raising a Chihuahua. Be sure to take your pet in for the necessary shots and worming when he is a puppy and follow up with checkups, booster shots, and teeth and ear cleaning as your Vet recommends.

You will surely enjoy the company of Chihuahuas for they are by nature loyal, gentle, bright and also affectionate. And with your loving care, you can insure they live a long and healthy life.