Chihuahua: The first 90 days
During a Chihuahua puppy's first 90 days, choose manageable experiences and protect recovery between them. Schedule the first attempt after the dog's normal age-appropriate outlet, not at peak excitement. Sequence sleep, toilet training, handling, food routines, socialisation, and short training sessions with rest between them. Space new experiences with sleep and familiar routines; progress by recovery, not by a calendar target.
What to protect during the first 90 days
Chihuahua's exercise is recorded as The Chihuahua loves to run and play and can usually get enough exercise in a very small space. Here, that matters because it changes the amount and timing of movement, stimulation, and recovery this situation needs.
A manageable order of experiences
- Sequence sleep, toilet training, handling, food routines, socialisation, and short training sessions with rest between them.
- Use this exercise note (The Chihuahua loves to run and play and can usually get enough exercise in a very small space) to choose the starting amount of movement and the length of the recovery period.
- Space new experiences with sleep and familiar routines; progress by recovery, not by a calendar target.
Pause and seek help if
Pause and seek help when development, appetite, sleep, movement, or fear responses change unexpectedly.
References
Height: 5-8 inches
AKC page PageMap DataObject > height
Weight: not exceeding 6 pounds
AKC page PageMap DataObject > weight
Life expectancy: 14-16 years
AKC page PageMap DataObject > life_expectancy
Grooming: The two coat varieties of the Chihuahua have slightly different grooming needs. The smooth-coat Chihuahua will need only occasional brushing and regular baths to look dapper, while the longhaired variety should have his coat brushed at least once a week to avoid any tangles or mats. Both varieties should have their nails trimmed regularly. Good dental care…
AKC page Grooming > official section copy
Exercise: The Chihuahua loves to run and play and can usually get enough exercise in a very small space. Simply trotting around following their people is usually enough exercise for this happy breed. Short, slow walks will keep your dog in good weight and condition. Avoid overexerting the Chihuahua. If your dog is panting and working hard to keep up, it's time to…
AKC page Exercise > official section copy
Training: The Chihuahua is a very alert little dog of high intelligence. He is eager to please his humans and responds well to positive training practices. Chihuahuas seem well aware of how cute they are and learn how to get their way. From the very beginning you must enforce the fact that you are in charge. Never allow your Chihuahua puppy to do anything that will…
AKC page Training > official section copy
Official breed description: The Chihuahua is a tiny dog with a huge personality. A national symbol of Mexico, these alert and amusing
AKC page About the Breed > official breed description
Recommended parent-club health tests: ['Patella Evaluation', 'Cardiac Exam', 'Ophthalmologist Evaluation']
AKC page Health > Recommended Health Tests From the National Breed Club
Official breed standard: http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Chihuahua.pdf
AKC page The Breed Standard > View Full Breed Standard
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