How to Care for a Chihuahua under 5 lbs

Small chihuahuas are charming and loving companions.
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The American Kennel Club describes a chihuahua as a "graceful, alert, swift-moving compact little dog with saucy expression, and with terrier-like qualities of temperament." A member of the AKC Toy Group, chihuahuas should be well-balanced little dogs not to exceed 6 pounds. Caring for one of these little powerhouses requires extra attention.

Step 1

Choose a premium quality dog food, with a veterinarian consultation if needed. Get the smallest kibble possible to make eating easy. Feed adult dogs once or twice a day at about the same time. Chihuahuas require very little food, so minimize table scraps. Always have fresh water available. Chihuahuas drink very little so change the water daily.

Step 2

Exercise and play with your chihuahua every day. Most chihuahuas get enough exercise romping around the house with toys. If you take your chihuahua outside, use a harness instead of a collar to prevent neck injuries. Pet-proof fences and pens. A 5-pound Chihuahua can easily slip through a picket fence.

Step 3

Vaccinate your chihuahua on the schedule recommended by your veterinarian.

Step 4

Groom your chihuahua with monthly baths, and regular checks for fleas and ticks. Use high- quality anti-parasite medication that is dosed correctly for a 5-pound dog. Overdosing can be fatal.

Step 5

Check your house for potential fall hazards. A fall from a sofa can kill or seriously injure a 5-pound chihuahua. Use dog steps or ramps if your dog is to be allowed on the furniture. Never leave a chihuahua unattended on furniture unless it is well-trained to use the steps or ramp.

Step 6

Educate your children, family and guests about how easy it is to injure a 5-pound chihuahua. Slammed doors, careless footsteps or rough play can have tragic results.

Warnings

  • Chihuahuas and children are not always a good mix. Do not allow children to tease or scare a chihuahua and always supervise children around a very small chihuahua.

Tips

  • Chihuahuas are amenable to training and like to learn new tricks.