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

How long do Chihuahuas live for? Let’s explore together the average lifespan for a Chihuahua and how to make your Chihuahua live longer. 

Chihuahuas generally live a very long life. However, like all breeds, they may be subject to certain health conditions that can affect their lifespan. 

Some common health problems seen in Chihuahuas include heart disease, eye problems, and dental issues. Regular vet checkups and screenings can help catch these problems early and give your chihuahua the best chance at a long and healthy life.

How long your Chihuahua lives will pretty much depends on its breed and health. A completely healthy Chihuahua can live up to 20 years (with standard-sized breeds) so long as you are willing to care for him properly and give them everything he needs to stay healthy.

Bringing a Chihuahua into the family requires commitment over the long term. Regular visits to the vet, 30 minutes of running and playing, and nutritious food should see the Chihuahua living a good healthy life for 15 years or more. 

Before a Chihuahua is brought into a home you must ask the question if one is ready to be committed to doing what is necessary to keep your Chihuahua healthy and give them a long and happy life. 

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 iman 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!

The lifespan of a Chihuahua typically falls between 10-20 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. If you suspect that your chihuahua may have tooth disease, please contact your veterinarian as soon as possible.

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 injuryinclude 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 a little extra weight may not seem like a big deal, it can actually 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. 

Fortunately, obesity is a condition that can be effectively managed through diet and exercise. By working with a veterinarian, pet owners can develop a weight-loss plan that is tailored to their dog's individual needs. With proper care, obese Chihuahuas can enjoy a happy and healthy life.

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. 

Chihuahuas are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world, but they also suffer from a higher than average rate of heart problems. While the exact cause is unknown, 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 that normally closes shortly after birth - fails to close properly. 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.

Vaccinating your Chihuahua is one of the most important things you can do to keep them healthy. There are a variety of vaccines available for Chihuahuas, and your veterinarian will recommend a vaccination schedule based on your dog's age, health, and lifestyle.

Core vaccines are those that are recommended for all dogs, regardless of their lifestyle. These include vaccines for rabies, distemper, adenovirus, and parvovirus. 

Non-core vaccines are those that may be recommended based on your dog's lifestyle and risk factors. These include vaccines for Bordetella bronchiseptica, Bordetella pertussis, Canine Parainfluenza Virus (CPiV), and Leptospirosis.

Fitting your Chihuahua with a tagged dog collar is also important as they may run off chasing another dog or small animal such as a squirrel whilst you have your back turned if they have a particularly unruly personality streak. For similar reasons, it would be advisable to keep them on a leash. Chihuahuas can get distracted or excited easily by many things while being walked and there could be a chance of it being run over.

Chihuahuas should always wear identification tags and be on the leash while outdoors. They are small dogs and can easily get lost or hurt if they are not kept safe. Chihuahua might run away because they are small and can easily hide. They might also run away if they feel threatened or scared. If your chihuahua does run away, it is important to stay calm and call them by their name in a soft, reassuring voice. You should also try toblock their escape route so they cannot run further away.

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.

The best dog food for Chihuahuas will provide them with adequate protein to ensure full muscular recovery after an active day, as well as provide the correct level of protein for proper muscle development. 

The food will also contain fiber to encourage healthy digestion and a plethora of vitamins and minerals to boost various areas of your Chihuahua’s body such as the immune system, sight, hearing, joints, digestion, cognitive function, and much more. 

Without the proper diet, a Chihuahua’s life expectancy can be significantly reduced as it can result in the onset of various conditions that can affect their ability to move freely. This will have a knock-on effect on their exercise regime. Additionally, a lack of vitamin and mineral content in a Chihuahua’s diet can stunt their growth and potentially cause permanent damage. 

Chihuahuas can live anywhere between 10 and 20 years depending on their specific breed, health, and lifestyle. In this article, we have gone into better detail about the various ways in which a Chihuahua’s lifespan might be affected. 

Though they may have an unusual appearance and look deceptively frail, Chihuahuas are a resilient breed originally bred, not only as companions but as rodent hunters. 

As a result, they know how to be quick on their feet, avoid danger, and seek safety in areas that are otherwise unavailable to larger predators. 

Their natural instinct for self-preservation can be a big help in keeping them alive for longer. That and the fact that they are generally much healthier than you might think.

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.