Adopting a Chihuahua? Research the breed first

PetSmart - Kim Noetzel, PetSmart Charities®

They’re the smallest of all dog breeds, but a big hit with pet lovers who have a penchant for pocket-sized pooches. Chihuahuas became the must-have dog of 2008 because of their starring role in the Walt Disney Pictures movie "Beverly Hills Chihuahua."

The phenomenon could mirror the national clamor for Dalmatians following the release of Disney’s "101 Dalmatians" in 1996. Animal shelters across the United States saw intake of the spotted dogs increase by about 25 percent after people who were inspired to add the breed to their families realized it wasn’t the right match, according to the Humane Society of the United States.  Animated or real, “famous” animals have inspired other breed booms: Eddie from the hit NBC show Frasier sparked interest in Jack Russell Terriers in the 1990s and, more recently, the popularity of Beagles spiked when Uno became the first Beagle to win best in show at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.

Before dashing out to snatch up a Chihuahua, however, keep in mind that this breed might not be the best match for all households, says Dr. Barbara Capwell, a veterinarian in Tempe, Ariz., who’s also worked in one of the nation’s largest shelter-based veterinary trauma hospitals. A self-described Chihuahua aficionado, Capwell has rescued or provided foster care for more than a dozen of the little dogs over the years – and she’s seen, firsthand, the damage that is done when they don’t receive proper care.  

Capwell urges would-be Chihuahua Pet Parents to consider the following information before getting one:

• There’s a big difference between real-life Chihuahuas and their animated likenesses on the silver screen.  For example, the Chihuahuas featured in the Beverly Hills Chihuahua movie trailer are computer generated.  Real, live dogs featured in movies and on television have completed extensive training and perform on cue with their trainers nearby.
• Full-grown Chihuahuas weigh only two to 12 pounds and can be frail.  They can suffer broken bones and other  injuries if handled inappropriately, she said.  “Their bones tend to be very fragile and break easily, especially the front legs,” Capwell noted.  “They are also prone to a condition in which their kneecaps slip out of place, and it can be aggravated by mishandling.”
• Children and Chihuahuas don’t always go hand in hand. Not only can small children unwittingly harm the tiny dogs, but Chihuahuas might show aggression to kids when frightened or nervous. “They’re not always the best dog for families with small kids,” she said.  “They tend to attach to one person and can be aggressive to other family members, including children, and other pets.  It’s not uncommon for a nervous or scared Chihuahua to nip or bite.”
• Chihuahuas also are prone to hypoglycemia, a life-threatening condition in which their blood sugar drops.  “Symptoms include weakness and lethargy.  They don’t eat and might start vomiting.  It can progress to coma, seizure and even death,” Capwell said.  “Chihuahua owners must be able to recognize and respond to these symptoms because their dog will need immediate veterinary care. Without treatment, the dog can die.” Read more in Toy breed related medical problems.
• Despite their small stature, Chihuahuas can be unaware of their size and may show aggression toward people or other pets – including dogs many times their own size. They should always be kept on leash or safely contained when in public, particularly in places where they’re likely to encounter other dogs, Capwell noted.
• Parvovirus can be particularly fatal for Chihuahua puppies that contract it. “Like other toy breeds, they don’t have many reserves, so their chances of survival are reduced,” Capwell said.  Anyone who gets a Chihuahua puppy must be sure to vaccinate him or her fully against parvovirus and other deadly diseases. Read more about Parvovirus in What is DHLPP, anyway?
• Finally, Chihuahuas can live up to 15 years or longer. If you are not ready, willing or able to care for your Chihuahua until the year 2023 or beyond, then opt for the stuffed animal variety!

“Anyone who is thinking about getting a Chihuahua should research the breed, talk to people who already have one and consider becoming a volunteer foster parent for a Chihuahua rescue group first,” Capwell said.  “Even though this is a tiny dog, it can have a big impact on your life, so be sure that it will fit into your lifestyle.”

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