There are many people who love Chihuahuas, and there are also many people who hate them. There seem to be two schools of thought when it comes to these little balls of fur you either think they’re the cutest things in the world, or you believe they are ugly and yappy.
This article will discuss some of the disadvantages of having a Chihuahua. Whether you’re thinking about getting one or you already have one, it’s important to be aware of these things before making your decision.
Need To Use Caution Around Small Children
One of the disadvantages of owning a Chihuahua is that you need to be careful around small children. These dogs are so small that they can easily be injured by a child who knows no better. If you have young children in your home, it’s important to supervise them closely when they’re around your Chihuahua.
Can Bark A Lot And Can Be Noisy
Another disadvantage of owning a Chihuahua is that they can bark a lot. If you live in an apartment or condo, this may not be ideal for your neighbors. In addition, Chihuahuas are generally quite noisy dogs, and they tend to yap and whine when they’re excited or nervous, which can be annoying for some people.
Prone To Health Issues
Unfortunately, Chihuahuas are prone to a variety of health problems. These include:
- Dental problems
- Heart conditions
- Luxating patella (dislocated kneecap)
- Hydrocephalus (excess fluid on the brain)
- Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
- Collapsed trachea
- Legg–Calvé–Perthes disease joint)
Fragile And Easy To Accidentally Step On Or Sit On
Chihuahuas are tiny dogs, which means they’re fragile and can easily be injured if they’re stepped on or sat on by accident. This is something to keep in mind if you have young children or clumsy adults in your home, and this can lead to a lot of vet bills if your Chihuahua is frequently injured.
Can Be Difficult To Housetrain And Stubborn
Chihuahuas can be difficult to housetrain and may be stubborn about it. They’re also known for being escape artists, so you’ll need to make sure your home is secure and that there’s no way for them to get out. If you live in an apartment, this may not be the best breed for you. Chihuahuas can also be yappy and bark at everything, which can be annoying to your neighbors.
Chihuahuas Are Picky Eaters
Chihuahuas can be picky eaters and may not want to eat the food you’re giving them, which can make it challenging to get them the nutrition they need. You may also have to try different foods until you find one that your Chihuahua will eat. Your chihuahuas can lose weight quickly if they don’t eat, so it’s essential to make sure they’re getting enough food.
Chihuahuas Are Sensitive To Cold
Chihuahuas are sensitive to cold weather and may not do well in colder climates. If you live in a cold environment, you’ll need to take extra care of your Chihuahua to make sure they’re comfortable. You may need to get them a sweater or coat to wear when it’s cold outside.
Chihuahuas Require A Lot Of Attention And Affection
Chihuahuas require a lot of attention and affection from their owners. If you’re not prepared to give your Chihuahua the time and attention they need, they may become anxious or stressed. This can lead to behavioral problems such as barking or chewing on furniture. Although there is an initial investment when you first get a Chihuahua, they require less exercise than some other breeds of dogs. This means they’re well suited for apartment living or homes with small yards.
Chihuahuas Are Very Bossy
Chihuahuas are very bossy and have a tendency to be nippy. If you have small children in your home, a Chihuahua may not be the best choice as their temperament can be too much for young kids to handle. It’s important to socialize your Chihuahua from an early age so they learn how to interact appropriately with other people and animals.
Chihuahuas Are Prone To Separation Anxiety
Chihuahuas are prone to separation anxiety and can become very anxious when left alone. This means they’re not the best choice for people who work long hours or are away from home often. If you do get a Chihuahua, it’s crucial to provide them with plenty of attention and companionship.
Chihuahuas Are Prey
As prey animals, Chihuahuas are hardwired to be on the lookout for predators. This can make them very skittish around strangers and other animals, which isn’t ideal if you’re looking for a laid-back companion. It’s important to socialize your Chihuahua from an early age so they feel comfortable around other people and animals.
Chihuahuas Are Prone To Some Behavior Issues
Because of their small size, Chihuahuas can be prone to some behavior problems. For example, they may develop a fear of being left alone and become anxious or stressed when separated from their owner. Additionally, some Chihuahuas may display aggressive behaviors towards other animals or people.
Chihuahuas Can Be Aggressive
While not all Chihuahuas are aggressive, some may display aggression towards other animals or people. This is usually a result of fear or mistrust and can be challenging to change. If you’re considering adopting a Chihuahua, it’s important to do your research and choose an animal that has a calm and gentle personality.
Some Chihuahuas Are Not Family Dogs
While Chihuahuas can make excellent companion animals, not all can be suitable for life in a family home, and this is often due to their small size and delicate nature. If you have young children or other pets, choosing a Chihuahua that is good with kids and other animals is important.
Conclusion
We want to conclude by saying that, as with any pet, it is essential to do your research before adopting a Chihuahua. While they can make great companions, they may not suit every family. Consider your lifestyle and home environment before deciding to adopt one.