All About Newborn Chihuahua Puppies
Newborn Chihuahua puppies are extremely delicate and tiny, generally weighing only a few ounces at birth. They are very vulnerable to injuries and sickness and require a great amount of love and special care. These pups are almost always born through a C-section because their large heads are just too big for a safe, natural birth.
Health Risks
The only breed that is not born with a completely developed skull are newborn Chihuahua puppies. Their skull does not actually reach its developed state until they are around four months old so they are extremely susceptible to water on the brain which will usually result in the puppy dying before it reaches six months old. It is not confirmed if this defect is congenital or not.
They are also at high risk for hypoglycemia, which is low blood sugar and if left unnoticed, it can lead to a coma and sometimes even death.
General Care
Newborn Chihuahua puppies need extra care and special attention. You should always keep them off of any high surface such as a bed, couch or virtually anything else that is up off the ground. The puppy's eyes will be closed still, making them extremely vulnerable to falling off of whatever they are on and being severely injured. It is best to keep them at floor level.
These tiny pups are prone to catching a cold or other illnesses if they are not kept warm so be sure that the floor where they are sleeping is warm enough and is not receiving a draft at all. Also, you should let them sleep as much as they need to. It may be tempting to wake them up to play because they are so adorable but it is essential to their health that they receive plenty of sleep.
Occasionally, a mother will abandon one of her newborn Chihuahua puppies or she may be having trouble nursing. Sometimes there are simply too many pups and not enough nipples so you will need to help feed the one left out. Puppy formula is available at most pet stores and due to their tiny size you may need to just use a type of syringe for feeding.
Temperament
So, what kind of dogs are those adorable newborn Chihuahua puppies going to grow up to be? A very charming and intelligent one! They are extremely devoted to their owners and usually will only have one or two special people that they remain loyal to. They demand affection but are also willing to give just as much love in return. Due to their curious nature, they are always able to find a way to get your attention and keep you entertained.
This breed is valued for their courageousness and loyalty and are often extremely suspicious of strangers, which makes them extremely good watch dogs. They are said to portray “terrier-like” qualities in the protective department, as they are very observant, alert, saucy and bold.
Households with older children are preferred for newborn Chihuahua puppies rather than ones with young children. Even when they mature, they are still so small that they can be easily injured by young children trying to play with them.
At maturity, Chihuahuas often love to sun bathe, laying in one spot for hours, this should be monitored to prevent heat strokes. They are also happy to lay in bed with your all day on a rainy day or when you are sick and never leave your side.
Chihuahuas are known to be a bit of excessive barkers if they are left alone for long periods of time. Some can be a bit high-strung and insecure which can lead to separation anxiety. If you are someone who is gone from home a lot, this may not be the breed for you. However, if you are looking for a loyal, loving, energetic companion and you have plenty of time to devote, then this may be the perfect dog for you.