⌛ How Long do Chihuahuas Live? (+ Common Chihuahua Health Issues)

If you're a dog owner, you've probably wondered how long your furry friend is going to live. 

And if you're lucky enough to have a Chihuahua, you may be especially curious! These pint-sized pooches typically have a lifespan of 12-14 years, but there are plenty of things you can do to help them live even longer. In fact, it's not rare to see Chihuahuas that live up to 20 years old! 

Keep reading for tips on how to make sure your Chihuahua enjoys a long and healthy life.

On average, Chihuahuas live between 12 and 14 years. 

However, it is not uncommon for Chihuahuas to enjoy much longer lifespans, with some Chihuahuas living well into their twenties.

That's one of the reasons why many dog owners choose to own chihuahuas: they are a great choice for those who are looking for a loyal companion that they can count on for many years to come.

The general rule is that 1 human years equal 7 Chihuahua years. Chihuahuas are smaller dogs, and therefore they age slower than big dogs. 

This Chihuahua lifespan in human years chart to determine how old your Chihuahua actually is:

Officially, Megabyte was the oldest Chihuahua in the world. Born on April 11th, 1993, Megabyte sadly passed away on January 1, 2014, at the tender age of 20,5 years old.(according to the Guinness World Records).

If Megabyte was officially the oldest Chihuahua to ever live, there have been many reports of Chihuahuas living to 22 years old. These were never verified, it's not "on record" which means the paperwork or evidence that prove the dates is lacking. (that's not always possible to provide these things with rescue Chihuahua). 

One of them is Maverick, a Chihuahua owned by actor Dermot Mulroney, who is believed to have lived to 22 years old.

If you scroll the internet, you will find few reports of 30-year-old Chihuahuas, but it’s difficult to believe these without any proof.

The bottom line is that many Chihuahuas reach 20 years of age, and some of them may live longer than that. It’s just hard to prove!

There is no real secret to Chihuahua longevity; it's simply a combination of genetics and environmental factors. 

Fact: Smaller dogs typically live longer than larger breeds, mostly due to having slower metabolisms and fewer health conditions.

Among the various factors that contribute to Chihuahua longevity, none may be more important than their small size. At only a few pounds, Chihuahuas are not weighed down by the sluggishness and sluggish circulation of larger dogs, allowing them to move about and stay active for longer periods. 

Although Chihuahuas are often thought of as fragile and small, they actually have many characteristics that make them uniquely suited to long life. For starters, chihuahuas are incredibly tough and resilient despite their small size. Their compact bodies help them weather changes in temperature and humidity with ease, making them very robust and hardy animals.

Chihuahuas have lower exercise requirements than bigger dog breeds, which help to prevent excessive strain on their joints. Whereas large dogs are constantly on the go and may require several hours of physical activity per day, Chihuahuas can get by with much less vigorous play. As such, Chihuahuas experience far fewer orthopedic issues than other breeds, resulting in longer lifespans overall. 

The lifespan of a Chihuahua typically falls between 12-14 years, but can vary dramatically depending on a wide range of factors. 

Chihuahuas are generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they are susceptible to certain health problems. 

Some of the most common Chihuahua health issues include:

If you have a Chihuahua, you may be familiar with the term "luxating patella." This condition occurs when the kneecap slips out of place, causing pain and lameness. Luxating patella is a relatively common problem in Chihuahuas, and it can be caused by a number of factors, including genetics, injury, or even obesity. 

Symptoms of luxating patella in Chihuahuas include skipping, hopping, or limping, and the condition can range from mild to severe. If you suspect that your Chihuahua has luxating patella, it's important to seek veterinary care as soon as possible. 

With early diagnosis and treatment, most dogs with luxating patella can manage their condition and enjoy a good quality of life.

Hypoglycemia is a condition characterized by low blood sugar levels. In Chihuahuas, hypoglycemia can be caused by a variety of factors, including diabetes, pancreatitis, andcertain medications. Hypoglycemia can also be idiopathic, meaning that the cause is unknown. Hypoglycemia is more common in small breeds of dogs, such as Chihuahuas. 

Symptoms of hypoglycemia include lethargy, weakness, tremors, and seizures. If not treated promptly, hypoglycemia can lead to coma and death. Treatment for hypoglycemia generally involves administration of glucose or other sugar-containing fluids IV. Chihuahuas with hypoglycemia should be closely monitored by a veterinarian to prevent recurrence of the condition.

Tracheal collapse is a condition that affects the trachea, or windpipe of the Chihuahua. The trachea is made up of a series of cartilage rings that hold it open. In Chihuahuas with tracheal collapse, these cartilage rings weaken and collapse, causing the trachea to narrow. Tracheal collapse is most commonly seen in small breeds of dogs, such as the chihuahua. 

Symptoms of tracheal collapse include a dry cough, trouble breathing, and exercise intolerance. While there is no cure for tracheal collapse, many Chihuahuas can live a long life with medication and weight control. Surgery may also be an option in some cases. With proper treatment, many Chihuahuas with tracheal collapse can enjoy a good quality of life.

Tooth disease is a common problem in Chihuahuas, and it can lead to a number of serious health problems. Tooth disease is caused by the buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth, and it can eventually lead to tooth loss. 

Tooth disease in Chihuahuas is also associated with an increased risk of gum disease, oral infections, and even heart disease. therefore, it is important to brush your Chihuahua's teeth regularly and to visit the veterinarian for regular dental checkups. 

Symptoms of dental disease in Chihuahuas include bad breath, excessive drooling, difficulty eating, and pawing at the mouth. If you suspect that your Chihuahua has dental problems, take them to the vet for an evaluation and treatment. 

Hydrocephalus is a medical condition that results from an abnormal accumulation of fluid in the brain. The fluid, known as cerebrospinal fluid, surrounds and cushions the brain and spinal cord. In hydrocephalus, the usual flow of cerebrospinal fluid is disrupted, causing the fluid to build up. This can lead to an increase in intracranial pressure, which can damage the brain of the Chihuahua. 

Chihuahuas are particularly prone to hydrocephalus, with estimates suggesting that up to one in every five chihuahuas born will develop the condition. 

Hydrocephalus symptoms in Chihuahuas can vary depending on the individual, but may include headache, vomiting, seizures, and developmental delays. If left untreated, hydrocephalus can be fatal. Hydrocephalus has a variety of possible causes, including genetic abnormalities, infections, and head injuries. 

Treatment typically involves surgically placing a shunt in the brain to drain the excess fluid away from the brain. With treatment, most Chihuahuas with hydrocephalus live normal lives. However, Hydrocephalus can cause long-term complications such as cognitive impairment or learning disabilities.

Chihuahuas are small dogs, and as such, their spinal cord is relatively unprotected. A spinal injury can occur if the spine is suddenly jarred or twisted. This can happen if the Chihuahua falls from a height or is involved in a car accident. 

Symptoms of a spinal injury include paralysis, loss of sensation, and weakness in the limbs. If your Chihuahua shows any of these signs, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately. Spinal injuries can sometimes be fatal, but prompt treatment can often improve the chances of a full recovery.

Obesity is a medical condition that occurs when a Chihuahua is carrying an excessive amount of body fat. While you might think a little extra weight is not a big deal, it can in reality have a significant impact on a Chihuahuas's lifespan. 

Obesity puts stress on the skeletal system, leading to problems such as joint pain and lameness. It can also cause respiratory difficulties and increase the risk of developing diabetes. In addition, obesity makes it harder for Chihuahuas to exercise and can lead to overheating during warm weather. 

Chihuahuas are small dogs with big problems when it comes to their urinary tract health. Many Chihuahuas suffer from bladder and kidney stones, which can cause a great deal of pain and discomfort and sortent their lifespan. Stones can form when the urine becomes too concentrated, due to a lack of water intake or other factors. Chihuahuas are particularly susceptible to this condition because of their small size and anatomy. 

The most common symptom of bladder and kidney stones in Chihuahuas is bloody urine. Other symptoms may include straining to urinate, crying out in pain when urinating, and urinary accidents in the house.

Treatment for bladder and kidney stones typically involves surgery to remove the stones. In some cases, medication may also be necessary to help dissolve the stones. Prevention is the best way to protect your Chihuahuas from this condition, so make sure to provide plenty of fresh water and take your dog for regular checkups with the veterinarian.

Scleritis is a condition that can affect any dog breed, but Chihuahuas seem to be particularly prone to it. The exact cause of scleritis is unknown, but it is thought to be an autoimmune reaction in which the body attacks the tissues of the eye. 

Symptoms of scleritis in Chihuahuas include redness and swelling of the eye, pain, and sensitivity to light.

If left untreated, scleritis can lead to glaucoma and even blindness. 

Treatment for scleritis in Chihuahuas typically involves steroids and other immunosuppressive drugs. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the affected tissue. With prompt treatment, most dogs with scleritis make a full recovery and do not experience any long-term effects. However, Chihuahuas with a history of scleritis should be monitored closely by their veterinarian to help prevent recurrence.

One of the most common eye problems in Chihuahuas is cataracts. A cataract is a clouding of the eye's lens, which leads to a decrease in vision. Cataracts are usually gradual in onset and can occur in one or both eyes. In Chihuahuas, cataracts typically begin to form around 3-5 years of age. 

The exact cause of Chihuahua cataracts is unknown, but they have been linked to genetic factors. Treatment for cataracts usually involves surgery to remove the cloudy lens and replace it with an artificial one. With appropriate treatment, Chihuahuas can often regain good vision.

Symptoms of cataract in Chihuahuas include cloudy or blurry vision, sensitivity to light, and difficulty seeing in low light. 

It is believed that Chihuahuas are predisposed to heart problems due to their small size. 

The most common type of heart problem in Chihuahuas is a condition called patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), which occurs when the ductus arteriosus - a blood vessel located in the heart, does not close by itself after birth. This can cause blood to flow backwards through the heart, leading to congestive heart failure. PDA is treated with surgery, and most Chihuahuas make a full recovery. 

However, if left untreated, PDA can be fatal. If you suspect that your Chihuahua may have a heart problem, it is important to take them to the vet for an evaluation as soon as possible.

Symptoms of heart problems in Chihuahuas can include difficulty breathing, coughing, and fatigue.

It is not possible for the owners of Chihuahuas to protect them from every kind of ailment, but many can be prevented or their severity limited thus ensuring your beloved Chihuahua leads a fairly healthy and long life.

When it comes to going to the vet, most Chihuahuas aren't big fans. 

These tiny pups tend to get nervous around unfamiliar people and loud noises, and the trip to the vet often involves both of those things. 

However, even if your pup hates going to the vet, it's important that you take him once a year for a health checkup. This appointment will include a thorough examination of your Chihuahua's body, as well as vaccinations and flea/tick/heartworm prevention treatments. 

Keeping up with these annual appointments will help to ensure that your Chihuahua stays healthy for many years to come.

Chihuahuas, like all dogs, need to exercise to maintain their health and well-being. Exercise helps to keep their muscles and bones strong, helps them to maintain a healthy weight, and can help to reduce the risk of developing certain health conditions such as obesity, joint problems, and heart disease. A good exercise regime for a Chihuahua should include at least one daily walk, and some Chihuahuas may also enjoy playing fetch or going for a swim.

Chihuahuas are a particularly active breed of dog, and so they may need more exercise than some other breeds. It is important to make sure that they get enough exercise, but not too much, as this can lead to problems such as obesity and joint problems. 

A good way to ensure that your chihuahua gets the right amount of exercise is to take them for a daily walk of at least 30 minutes. This will help to keep them fit and healthy, and will also give you some quality time together.

When it comes to dogs, it is essential to practice good portion control. This is especially true for Chihuahuas, as these tiny canines are particularly prone to obesity if their diets aren't carefully regulated. 

Overfeeding your little pup could lead to a number of health problems, including obesity and joint issues.

It's also important to focus on feeding them a diet that is rich in protein and healthy fats, while being mindful of sugar, starch, and dog food that contain fillers. Sticking to nutrient-dense foods throughout the day will help your Chihuahua stay healthy and strong. 

So if you're looking for the best way to meet your Chihuahua's unique nutritional needs, be sure to pay close attention to the quality and quantity of its food.

Chihuahuas can live anywhere between 12 and 14 years depending on their specific breed, health, and lifestyle. 

Applehead Chihuahuas are relatively long-lived with a life expectancy of around 14-16 years, with some healthy adult Appleheads living closer to 20 years! 

We are often asked how long do Chihuahuas live for in human years. If Chihuahuas were humans, they would have a life expectancy of about 69-96 years.

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