Chihuahua Health Issues: 5 Things to Look Out For

Chihuahuas may be small in size, but they have big personalities—and they’re one of the most popular breeds we see at our hospital. Our doctors love caring for these spirited little dogs and know just how devoted their families are to keeping them healthy. Like all breeds, ChiChis have a few unique health concerns that are important to watch for. Here are the most common issues we see—and how we can help catch them early: 

1. Heart Disease

As Chihuahuas age, they can become prone to heart problems—especially chronic valve disease, where the heart valves weaken and leak, making it harder for the heart to pump blood effectively. Over time, this can lead to fluid buildup in the lungs, fatigue, or more serious complications if left untreated. 

Because Chihuahuas are small and often long-lived, early signs can be subtle, like a mild cough, slowing down on walks, or heavier breathing after play. Catching these changes early can help us manage the condition and keep your pup feeling their best. 

How we can help: 

• Physical exam – We listen closely for heart murmurs, abnormal rhythms, or breathing changes during your ChiChi’s check-up to determine if additional testing should be done. ● Diagnostic Imaging – Chest X-rays and ultrasound (echocardiogram) allow us to visualize the heart and lungs in detail. These tools are essential for diagnosing heart disease and determining whether long-term medication or ongoing monitoring is needed. ● Electrocardiogram (ECG) – We use this test to detect irregular heart rhythms and monitor electrical activity, which can guide treatment and prevent potentially fatal events. ● Ongoing management – If heart disease is diagnosed, we’ll create a tailored care plan with medication, diet changes, and regular monitoring to keep your ChiChi as healthy and active as possible. 

2. Dental Disease

Chihuahuas are especially prone to dental disease due to their small mouths and tightly packed teeth. Crowded teeth can trap food and bacteria, quickly leading to plaque buildup, gum inflammation, and tooth loss. In fact, dental problems are one of the most common health issues we see in this breed. 

The earliest warning sign is often bad breath, but more advanced disease can cause pain, difficulty eating, or even infections that affect the heart and kidneys. Preventive care is essential to keeping your ChiChi’s mouth, and overall health, in great shape.

How we can help: 

• Oral exam – We check for plaque buildup, alignment issues, and signs of gum infection. We also evaluate for loose, broken, or crowded teeth 
• Dental X-rays – These allow us to see below the gumline where serious issues can hide. X-rays help identify pockets of infection under the teeth, bone loss from the jaw, and damaged roots, which can all cause unrealized pain. This helps the veterinarian determine if any teeth need to be pulled or if infections need additional treatment 
• Professional cleaning – Just like people, Chihuahuas need regular dental cleanings to remove plaque and tartar. Dental cleanings under anesthesia performed by a veterinarian are the safest and most effective way to thoroughly clean your Chihuahua’s teeth. This can help prevent the spread of bacteria, protect their airway, and allow the vet to remove any teeth that may be causing problems. This also lets the vet identify issues that aren’t visible during a regular exam 
• Home care guidance – We can recommend brushing routines, dental diets, or safe chews to help maintain your dog’s oral health between visits. 

3. Luxating Patella (Kneecap Dislocation)

Chihuahuas are prone to a condition called luxating patella, where the kneecap slips in and out of place. This can cause your dog to suddenly hop, skip a step, or hold one leg up while walking. Some dogs may not show discomfort, but others may limp or seem reluctant to run or jump. 

In mild cases, this condition may be managed with monitoring and lifestyle adjustments. More severe or painful cases can lead to long-term joint problems and may require surgery to correct. 

How we can help: 

• Physical exam – We carefully assess your dog’s knees, feeling for looseness or abnormal movement of the kneecap. 
• X-rays – Imaging helps us evaluate the severity of the condition and check for signs of arthritis or bone changes. 
• Treatment planning – Depending on the grade of the luxation, we may recommend joint supplements, weight management, or surgical correction for long-term relief and mobility. 

4. Collapsed Trachea (Windpipe Weakness)

Chihuahuas are especially prone to collapsed trachea, a condition where the windpipe becomes weakened and starts to flatten, making it harder for air to pass through. This can lead to a distinctive “honking” cough, especially when your dog is excited, pulling on the leash, or after activity.

While it can be managed in many cases, untreated tracheal collapse can worsen over time and lead to breathing distress. Early diagnosis helps us reduce symptoms and keep your ChiChi more comfortable. 

How we can help: 

• Physical exam – We listen to your dog’s breathing and gently check for signs of coughing or throat sensitivity. 
• X-rays – These can help us identify signs of tracheal narrowing or collapse. ● Fluoroscopy – This real-time moving X-ray shows us how the trachea behaves during breathing, helping confirm the diagnosis. 
• Ongoing care – Depending on severity, we may recommend medications, weight management, cough suppressants, or lifestyle changes to reduce airway irritation. 

5. Eye Problems (Dryness, Injury & Pressure Issues)

Chihuahuas have large, prominent eyes that can easily become irritated, dry, or injured. Their eyes are more exposed than most breeds, making them prone to scratches from rubbing, bumping into objects, or even dust and debris. Common signs of eye trouble include squinting, pawing at the face, redness, discharge, or swelling. If left untreated, some conditions can lead to pain, vision loss, or even permanent eye damage. Regular eye checks can help catch issues early and protect your Chihuahua’s eyesight. 

How we can help: 

• Fluorescein dye test – We use a gentle, eye-safe dye to detect scratches or ulcers on the surface of the eye. This helps us choose the right treatment to promote healing and prevent infection. 
• Tear test – This measures tear production to screen for Dry Eye, a common condition in small breeds that can lead to chronic discomfort and infection. If diagnosed, we can prescribe long-term medications to manage it. 
• Eye pressure test (Tonometry) – We check the pressure inside the eye to screen for glaucoma, a painful condition that can lead to blindness. If diagnosed, it often requires daily medication to reduce pressure and preserve vision. In severe cases, surgery may be needed. 

We’re here to care for your Chihuahua like one of our own. These tiny pups have big personalities, and they deserve top-quality care to stay happy, healthy, and thriving. Give us a call at (954) 748-2002 or book online here.