Chihuahua health guide
Also known as: Chi
About this breed
The Chihuahua is the world's smallest breed and a Macau favourite for its portability and devotion. Tiny size brings specific risks: fragile knees, crowded teeth, a delicate windpipe and, in some lines, heart disease in later life.
Living in Macau's climate
Chihuahuas tolerate warmth better than most breeds but chill quickly in heavy air conditioning; provide a warm bed away from vents. On hot pavement days, remember their whole body is close to the ground, so test the surface with your hand before walks.
Common health conditions
Patellar luxation
Signs: Skipping or holding up a back leg for a few steps, especially when excited.
Prevention: Keep weight lean, cover slippery floors, and have both knees graded at every annual exam.
Dental disease
Signs: Bad breath, tartar and early tooth loss in a crowded tiny mouth.
Prevention: Daily brushing from puppyhood and professional cleaning as advised, often yearly.
Mitral valve heart disease
Signs: A murmur found at check-up, later coughing at night and tiring on walks.
Prevention: Cannot be prevented, but yearly auscultation from age 6 catches murmurs early, when medication extends good-quality life.
Tracheal collapse
Signs: Honking cough triggered by excitement, heat or collar pressure.
Prevention: Walk on a harness, keep weight down and avoid smoke and incense.
Daily care tips
- Use a harness, never a collar, on this tiny windpipe.
- Brush the teeth daily; Chihuahuas are dental patients for life.
- Provide a step or ramp to favourite furniture.
- Keep a consistent feeding routine; tiny dogs have little energy reserve.
Screening schedule
8 to 16 weeks
Vaccination course with knee, heart and fontanelle checks.
1 to 6 years
Annual exam with dental scoring, knee grading and heart auscultation.
7 years and up
Twice-yearly senior checks with blood work and murmur monitoring.
Book a breed-savvy check-up
Our vets see Chihuahua patients every week and know exactly what to screen for. Call +853 6677 6611 or book online.
Book a check-upRelated breeds
This guide is general information for the breed as a whole and does not replace an examination of your individual pet. When in doubt, always call the clinic.
Reviewed by the Royal Veterinary Center veterinary team.