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7 Facts About Senior Chihuahuas

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Whether you have just adopted a senior chihuahua (and bless you if you have!) or have had your little fur ball for most of their life, there are questions you may have about this stage in your chihuahua’s life.

7 Things To Know About Senior Chihuahuas

We do have a more in depth article on senior chihuahuas but this post is good for a quick read.

Check out our main post that showcases all our chihuahua facts articles!

1- At what age is a chihuahua considered a senior?

Chihuahuas are considered a senior when they reach 10.

This is much later than other breeds who reach senior citizen status at around 7 or 8 and in the case of giant breeds 5 to 6.

2- How long does a chihuahua live?

12-20 years but they have been known to live into their early 20’s.

older chihuahua

3- Any health advantages to being an older chihuahua?

Yes, there is a neurological condition called GME which is becoming more and more common.

It is believed to caused by over vaccination and targets mostly small breeds.

For some reason, dogs over 8 years of age do not develop this disease.

4- What are common health problems in elderly chihuahuas?

Many are the same issues other dog breeds, and even people get as they age including:

  • cataracts
  • glaucoma
  • dementia
  • arthritis
  • gum disease and dental problems
  • cancer
  • diabetes
  • hearing loss
  • congestive heart failure

sleeping senior chi

5- Does my older chihuahua need clothes?

Most likely yes. Chihuahuas in general tend to be cold natured.

Just like people tend to get cold more often in their senior years, well chis do too.

So do keep a few cuddly sweaters on hand for your dog along with lots of soft blankets.

senior fawn laying down

6-Will my chihuahua’s personality change?

It may change as they age.

Of course, they won’t be as active as they were when they were younger.

Some chihuahuas get a little crotchety as they enter their senior years and don’t handle stressful situations as well as they did when they were younger.

Sometimes things that didn’t bother them when they were younger, suddenly scare them such as thunder storms.

And sometimes dementia sets in and changes their personality drastically.

If you notice signs of dementia such as confusion, staring into space for long periods of time or other personality changes, get your dog to your vet as soon as possible.

There are drugs available that can help with dementia and for some reason, they have a better success rate with dogs than humans do with their drugs with dementia.

7- What else should I do to keep my senior chihuahua happy?

  • Keep an eye on your fur baby for any health problems that need veterinary care. If you can afford it, you might want to switch to vet visits every 6 months instead of once a year.
  • A good joint supplement can help a lot with arthritis.
  • Your dog still needs some exercise, just not as much as when he was younger. Do try to take him for a daily walk for 15-20 minutes. If you like to go for longer walks, bring a pet stroller with you and just put your dog in it when they get tired.
  • Don’t move the furniture around as it can be confusing and frustrating for dogs that are losing their site or are developing dementia.
  • Keep a check on your chihuahua’s weight and don’t over feed them.
  • Don’t let them jump from high distances such as from the bed or couch. Get them pet steps and teach them how to use them.
  • Keep them away from crowds,  (unless you have them secure in a stroller or sling) as they can be scary or too much stimulation for an older dog.
  • Keep small children away from them as much as possible.

Leave a comment and tell me about your oldster.

Lds Faneite

Friday 10th of March 2023

I have a Chorky and he's turning 10 years in April. He is my very special boy. I noticed changes years back and was blessed to find a great Vet for him. We are having to watch what he eats because weight gain comes easy for him. Eating vegetables he likes helps. Anyway I enjoyed reading this.

Cathy

Saturday 11th of March 2023

I'm glad you enjoyed it!

Susan Gaster

Wednesday 8th of March 2023

I am so sorry. My last sentence should have read,please do not forget our older furbabies,you will not regret it.

Susan Gaster

Wednesday 8th of March 2023

I adopted an 10 yr.old chi mix last yr.He is now 11.When I adopted him he had very bad skin issues,but that did not stop me.I have lost many fur babies over many yrs.which left me heartbroken and I still grieve for them,but one look in that precious face and I knew he was the one.,skin problems and all.He follows me everywhere and I love him so much!Please do not forget our older turns bird you won't regret it!

Cathy

Wednesday 8th of March 2023

God bless you for taking on a precious senior that most would walk away from.

Christina

Sunday 12th of February 2023

My potty trained Chi is 11 and suddenly pees in her enclosure all the time now, no matter how frequently I take her out.

Cathy

Monday 13th of February 2023

I would get her checked by your vet. She may have a UTI or other physical issue or she may be at the beginnings of dementia.

Lisa Lambert

Sunday 29th of January 2023

My 19 Chihuahua Zoey just passed today . I found her in her bed. She must have passed in her sleep. Yesterday I just gave her a bath and put a clean sweater on her. Breaks my heart got her when she was 6 weeks old. She had 11 babies, 4 litters long ago was a good mama and a great wife to her mate Tiny will miss her. He was upset and kissing her. She was my sweet baby and towards the end a little spicy sassy bossy girl. Rip Zoe Zoe💜

Cathy

Sunday 5th of February 2023

I'm so sorry Lisa! She sounds like an awesome girl!