Chihuahua Average Lifespan | Chihuahua Life Expectancy

The lifespan of a Chihuahua is one of the most often asked questions by its owners.

You may be sitting on the couch with your tiny Chihuahua on your lap, patting and staring at him one day. However, a question arises in your mind: how long can I enjoy the company of this cuddly companion? Chihuahuas have a short lifespan.

Continue reading to learn everything there is to know about the Chihuahua’s lifetime.

Chihuahua Life Expectancy: How Long Do Chihuahuas Live?

Although we can’t predict exactly how long each Chihuahua will live, we have a reasonable average age range to go by. We may also rely on the fact that, in general, smaller dogs live longer.

Chihuahuas have a rather long lifetime, with estimates ranging from 12 to 18 years.

This figure is based on a Chihuahua spending a very healthy life and not being exposed to too many conditions that might shorten a Chihuahua’s lifespan.

While the majority of Chihuahuas die before they reach adulthood, there have been a few accounts of dogs living longer than two decades.

According to one of them, Megabyte, the oldest Chihuahua, lived for 20 years and 265 days. Hopefully, this ancient Chihuahua enjoyed a long and happy life. It’s incredible!

What Affects The Lifespan Of A Chihuahua?

The owners have the greatest influence on the Chihuahua’s longevity; how well they care for these small pets determines how long they live.

A Chihuahua’s lifetime is influenced by a variety of variables. The following are the most significant things Chihuahua owners may do to extend their dogs’ lives:

Feed a Well-Balanced Diet to Your Dog
Vaccinate Your Dog at the Appropriate Time
Regularly exercise your dog
Emotional and mental stimulation should be provided to your dog.
Take your dog to the vet on a regular basis.
Spend Time With Your Canine Companion

What Illnesses Are Chihuahuas Predisposed To?

There are a few ailments that commonly affect chihuahuas as they become older. I’ve included the most frequent ailments that chihuahuas are likely to contract during their lives.

Hypoglycemia

Low blood sugar is another name for this condition. This can cause a dog to get weak during the day, feel disoriented, and even lose consciousness. Hypoglycemia is more likely to be an indication of some serious illness, such as liver disease or diabetes. It can only be diagnosed with the expertise of a veterinarian. When you see a sign of Hypoglycemia in your dog, make an appointment with a respected veterinarian as soon as possible.

Obesity

Obesity may be exacerbated by overfeeding your Chihuahua. A dog with this condition may have health issues such as breathing difficulty, joint problems, arthritis, and, of course, it can shorten your dog’s lifetime.

Bladder and Kidney Stones

This condition is more common in older Chihuahuas, particularly males. It can cause your dog to suffer from excruciating discomfort, bloody urine, and difficulties peeing. The stones will usually pass on their own, but if your dog is having difficulty urinating, consult your veterinarian right once.

Reverse Sneezing

Because it sounds like a honk, reverse sneezing might easily terrify you. If you find your dog has a reserve sneezing episode, give them a gentle massage on the throat until the sneeze stops.

Luxating Patella

Patellar luxation is the term used to describe the dislocation of the kneecap. This sickness affects not just Chihuahuas, but also other tiny dog breeds. To prevent pain, your dog may be seen holding his leg in the air. It won’t be that painful, and it’ll only happen if the kneecap is dislocated.

Dental Disease

Chihuahuas have tiny mouths, which makes tooth cleaning a little tough. It renders them more susceptible to gum disease. Food is stuck in a chihuahua’s mouth is a normal occurrence, so wash their teeth thoroughly and often.

The Diseases That Can Kill Your Chihuahua

There are also several disorders that might lower your pup’s life expectancy and lead to his or her death.

Trauma

It is one of the most common causes of death in Chihuahuas. If the trauma is significant, it might result in extreme situations such as falling from great heights, being involved in a vehicle accident, or being accidentally stepped on. Make sure to keep a close eye out for your dog to avoid situations like these.

Heart Disorders

The most prevalent cause of mortality in the Chihuahua dog breed is heart disease. Arrhythmia, heart failure, and heart valve issues are the three types of heart problems. When a dog reaches the age of 14, he or she is more likely to get heart disease.

Infections

Another prevalent health issue that can lead to your dog’s death and should not be overlooked. Some of the most frequent illnesses that can affect any dog are parvovirus, distemper, rabies, sepsis, and leptospirosis.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the age of the oldest Chihuahua that has ever lived?

Megabyte, the Chihuahua’s oldest dog, has successfully lived for 20 years. This breed of dog is not prone to significant ailments, which might be one of the reasons behind Megabyte’s long life. The owner’s meticulous attention to detail is also a feature.

What is the Teacup Chihuahua’s typical lifespan?

There is no such thing as a teacup Chihuahua. You might consider it a member of the Chihuahua family with the smallest size. A teacup chihuahua’s typical lifetime remains the same — 12-20 years.

What makes a Chihuahua so anxious?

You may find that your Chihuahua is irritable the majority of the time. There are several factors that might cause your dog to become violent. For example, not feeling safe, female chihuahuas may be on their cycles, sadness, and a terrible environment are all major causes of violent behavior.

It is detrimental to your dog’s general health. If the environment is not safe for Chihuahuas, they become worried and fearful. As a result, make sure you provide a wonderful atmosphere for your canine companion. If you don’t, your dog may succumb to cancer sooner than expected.

Conclusion

The Chihuahua has a lengthy lifespan, therefore adopting one into your household is a long-term commitment. This, however, is unquestionably a positive thing, considering their appealing personalities and caring natures.

Just be aware of the medical concerns listed above and take the procedures outlined for extending their lives, and your small little buddy will be able to stay by your side for a long time.

You’ll obtain the greatest dog and enjoy every minute if you keep an eye on them.

What else is there to say besides – long live the Chi!