Common Chihuahua Health Problems

Chihuahuas, like many toy breeds have health problems. Common Chihuahua health problems include, but are not limited to: hydrocephalus (water-on-the-brain), Luxation of the patella (knee problem), collapsing trachea, and seizures. Below is a brief description of common Chihuahua health problems, for more information, Click Here!

Hydrocephalus
A Chihuahua with hydrocephalus (water-on-the-brain) may have an unusually large head for its size. This is caused by swelling, due to excess fluids collecting on the Chihuahua's brain. This is a fatal condition. Other signs include frequent falling, seizures, unsteady gait, east-west eyes (the opposite of crossed eyes), and a very large molera. The Chihuahua's molera or fontanel, is considered a breed characteristic, NOT a defect. Most Chihuahuas have a molera, which is a soft spot on the top of the Chihuahua's head. This is similar to a human baby's soft spot. Chihuahuas won't outgrow it, unlike babies. The Chihuahua's molera will usually shrink as the Chihuahua matures. The Chihuahua's molera won't be a problem as it is petted and handled gently around its head. In rare cases, the molera remains very large and can be a sign of hydrocephalus.

A Chihuahua with hydrocephalus is in serious pain and will die soon, unfortunately, the only humane solution is euthanasia, or vet assisted death. For more information on Hydrocephalus in Chihuahuas, Click Here!

Luxation of the patella
A common Chihuahua health problem is luxation of the patella. This is also known as a trick knee. When it occurs, the kneecap in the rear legs slips out of its groove, which can effect the Chihuahua's mobility and even temperament. Chihuahuas that jump a lot can aggravate this problem. If your Chihuahua is one of the unlucky few whose kneecaps slip often, surgery is the solution. A Chihuahua with a mild case can live a normal life. luxation of the patella is a relatively common problem in small breeds like the Chihuahua and some large ones as well. For more information on luxation of the patella in Chihuahuas, Click Here!

Collapsing trachea
Collapsing trachea is a problem for Toy dogs of many breeds, including the Chihuahua. Chihuahuas have very small and narrow trachea, which are susceptible to collapse. The trachea is like a straw made of cartilage that carries air from the neck to the chest. When the cartilage collapses, breathing becomes difficult, like sipping soda through a flattened straw. The symptoms include coughing, shortness of breath, and exhaustion. This can be treated with medication, and by reducing irritants in the air (secondhand smoke, sprays, etc). Smoking around a Chihuahua lowers the prognosis. For more information on collapsing trachea in Chihuahuas, Click Here!