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September 18, 2024

Hairless Chihuahua Dog Breed: Info, Pictures, Care, & Facts

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The Hairless Chihuahua is a genetic variation of the breed, giving the animal a unique appearance. The origin of this pup is unclear. The scientific literature provides excellent information on how the trait may have occurred and spread within the breed. Hairlessness is not specific to the Chihuahua. It exists with many dogs to varying degrees, but the Chihuahua gives it a different twist.

Breed Overview

Height:

5–8 inches

Weight:

Up to 6 pounds

Lifespan:

14–16 years

Colors:

Pink, brown, gray, black

Suitable for:

Families with older children looking for a playful and loyal dog

Temperament:

Loving, feisty, protective

The Chihuahua is a delicate animal. However, don’t let their small size fool you. This pup has a feisty, independent streak but is, at the same time, charming and irresistible. They have prominent personalities to make up for their little bodies. Chihuahuas have always been companion animals with a history of being worshipped in some societies.

Hairless Chihuahua Puppies

Three hairless Chihuahua dogs are sitting and looking at the camera — Image Credit: Eric Isselee, Shutterstock

True Hairless Chihuahua puppies are rare, and the trait occurs from a genetic mutation. The parents contribute one copy or allele of the specific gene. It is a dominant trait, so puppies only need one allele from one parent for it to be present. This physical expression or phenotype is called canine ectodermal dysplasia (CED). It also occurs in Chinese Crested Dogs and Mexical Hairless Dogs or Xoloitzcuintlis.

Sadly, research has shown being hairless is a vulnerability in Hairless Chihuahuas; they have a higher mortality rate than those with hair.¹

Hairless Chihuahua Breed Origin & History

Charles Darwin reported the existence of hairless dogs. The hairless gene is also present in the American Hairless Terrier and Scottish Deerhound, albeit with different genetic origins. It’s unclear whether breeders propagated the Hairless Chihuahua or any other dogs, except for the handful of recognized breeds we’ve mentioned.

It’s worth noting that the hairless trait isn’t recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) or the parent club’s official breed standard. The AKC only considers the short- and long-haired variants of the Chihuahua. The Chihuahua Club of America also believes the teacup size is “…incorrect and misleading.” That raises a red flag for would-be buyers without the protection of the animal’s legitimacy.

Offspring of the Hairless Chihuahua with a pup with hair would likely be a 1:1 ratio of having or not having the trait. Any puppy inheriting the allele from both parents would perish. That’s partly due to other conditions a hairless dog may inherit, which can adversely affect the animal’s quality of life and longevity.

Temperament & Intelligence of the Hairless Chihuahua

The Hairless Chihuahua is just as feisty and sassy as the dog’s namesake. This attitude is typical in small breeds, and scientists theorize the pups compensate for their size with this temperament. They may be more defensive and reactive. However, you must also consider the pup’s role as an animal companion. The Chihuahua defends their space and caregiver, and they’re known for their protective nature.

Are These Dogs Good for Families?

The Hairless Chihuahua can make an excellent family pet in households with older children. Parents should instruct the little ones not to pick up their dogs and must supervise playtime. Research has shown the Chihuahua can be aggressive, making early socialization and training imperative.²

They are sensitive and not tolerant of being alone, and when they’re left alone for long periods, they can suffer from separation anxiety.

Peruvian Hairless and Chihuahua crossbreed dog wearing leash in a city park — Image Credit: Linas T, Shutterstock

Does This Breed Get Along With Other Pets?

The Hairless Chihuahua can get along with other pets if introduced to other dogs when young. Nevertheless, you should monitor playtime if that includes time with bigger pups. An active social life is an excellent way to prevent fearfulness, which can spur aggression when meeting other animals.

Exposing your Chihuahua to cats and dogs when they are young and taking them on short trips to meet friends will reduce the chance they suffer from stress or fear in unfamiliar situations.

The Chihuahua has a moderate prey drive and may chase small animals, but they can get along with cats if they grow up with them.

Things to Know When Owning a Hairless Chihuahua:

The Hairless Chihuahua isn’t cold-tolerant, which is a primary concern for pet owners. It can be an issue if you want to housebreak your dog and you live in a northern climate. Booties and clothing are essential for the hairless Chihuahua if you take them outside in frigid weather. Below, we’ll discuss the factors to keep in mind when you want to adopt a hairless Chihuahua.

Food & Diet Requirements

Hypoglycemia or low blood sugar is an issue with the Chihuahua. You should feed your puppy four times daily with a high-quality commercial formula. Royal Canine produces a breed-specific formula suitable for these pups.

You should transition your dog to a twice-a-day schedule when they reach adulthood. Hairless Chihuahua has a moderate tendency to gain weight, and it’s vital to portion their meals carefully and monitor their weight.

Exercise

The Hairless Chihuahua is moderately active. A couple of walks and a few play sessions will provide adequate exercise and opportunities for mental stimulation. This pup is intelligent and undoubtedly nurtured by the time they spend with people. You can use this time to hone your pet’s leash manners and meet new human and canine friends for additional enrichment.

If you adopt a puppy, keep the exercise light and don’t let them jump from high places. They have a delicate frame, but they can be energetic, and you have to be more careful when they’re young.

Training

Positive reinforcement is the best approach for training the Hairless Chihuahua because of their sensitive nature. They are eager to please and will shun harsh words and punishment. We recommend using treats as training aids for added motivation.

Due to their intelligence, hairless Chihuahuas are relatively simple to train, but they can be stubborn at times.

Peruvian hairless and chihuahua mix dog outdoors — Image Credit: Rosa Jay, Shutterstock

Grooming

Grooming the Hairless Chihuahua is much easier than other breeds. You can bathe the dog monthly, but in between baths, you can wipe down their fur with doggy wipes to keep it healthy and clean. They’re unlikely to wear down their nails quickly, and you’ll have to trim them every 4 to 6 weeks.

You should also brush your Chihuahua’s teeth, and your vet can show you how to do so. Chihuahuas are vulnerable to dental problems, and it’s crucial to maintain veterinary appointments and dental cleanings to protect their teeth and gums. Manufacturers make palatable toothpaste to make your task easier. Your pup may even beg to get their teeth brushed!

Health and Conditions

The hairless Chihuahua is relatively healthy, but a few issues, like dental disease, are more likely to affect them. Reputable breeders conduct the recommended pre-breeding health screening to prevent them from passing health conditions on to the offspring.

We strongly urge you to buy from sellers who offer a guarantee. Some conditions may not show up until later in the animal’s life. Breeders should provide a medical history, including vaccinations and deworming.

Minor Conditions

Epilepsy
Molera
Heart murmur
Hypoglycemia

Serious Conditions

Dental disease
Luxating patella
Heart disease

Male vs. Female

The size difference between male and female Hairless Chihuahua is minimal. We can say the same about the animal’s temperament. The environment and how they’re raised are the main drivers of a pet’s temperament instead of genetics. We suggest discussing neutering or spaying with your vet. The procedure can increase some pet’s risk of other health conditions.

3 Little-Known Facts About the Hairless Chihuahua

1. The Aztecs Worshipped Hairless Dogs.

The Aztecs believed these animals were guides to the challenges of the afterlife and had to accompany their owners on their journeys.

2. The Brain Weight of the Chihuahua Is on Par With the Weight Ratio of Humans.

The brain weight of a human is about 2% of their body weight. Research has shown that the Chihuahua is right up there, with the organ weighing about 3.03% of the animal’s weight.

3. The Chihuahuas Inspired the Name of a Minor League Baseball Team.

El Paso saw the personality of the Chihuahua as an asset and named their minor league baseball team after them.

Does the Hairless Chihuahua Make a Good Pet?

If you want a dog you can cuddle, look no further than the Hairless Chihuahua. They love people! They demand attention from their owners, perhaps because of their size and cold intolerance. They can make an excellent pet for an individual or family who can give them the love they need.

The hairless Chihuahua is intelligent and trainable and is a good choice for novice pet owners. However, they’re not recommended for owners who travel frequently and are rarely at home. They also aren’t suitable for families with infants since the dogs can easily be injured by rough play.

Peruvian Hairless and Chihuahua mix dog sunbathing — Image Credit: Rosa Jay, Shutterstock

Conclusion

The Hairless Chihuahua is a unique canine that requires a loving owner who can spend plenty of time with them. They’re vulnerable to some health issues but are relatively healthy overall. However, they will make an ideal companion for the devoted dog owner. Regular veterinary care is vital for their health and well-being, and you must also provide adequate enrichment for the dog’s mental health.

The hairless Chihuahua’s charming personality and feisty behavior are sure to win you over, and you may not be satisfied by just adopting one.

Sources

Featured Image Credit: Eric Isselee, Shutterstock

The post Hairless Chihuahua Dog Breed: Info, Pictures, Care, & Facts appeared first on PangoVet.

September 10, 2024

Do Male Dogs Know Their Puppies? You’ll Be Surprised to Learn

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Why Don’t They Know Their Puppies?
Do They Know When They’re Born?
Do They Get Attached?
Male Dogs Reactions

We can’t exactly ask if a male dog knows who their puppies are. Therefore, it’s hard to answer this with tons of certainty. However, based on what we do know, male dogs don’t generally recognize their puppies. They lack parental instincts, which means that they don’t participate in the care or rearing of their puppies.

For this reason, there is a good chance they just don’t know who their puppies are! There is also the possibility that they do know who their puppies are, but they may not express any parental instincts.

Let’s take a deeper look at why male dogs (probably) don’t know their puppies.

Why Don’t Male Dogs Know Their Puppies?

Again, this sort of behavior is very hard to study. However, there are a few possibilities that might explain a male dog’s lack of instincts:

Evolution: Despite what some dog food advertisements claim, dogs are not wolves. They’ve been domesticated for thousands of years. In that time, they’ve evolved next to people to be pretty different from their wolf ancestors. For instance, humans have taken over the responsibility of providing food and shelter, while dogs often perform more niche roles. Therefore, male dogs don’t need to contribute to a litter’s success, as there are typically several humans doing so.
Limited Interaction: In the modern world, male dogs are not often around the mother during the birthing process and during the early weeks. This lack of bonding time may help contribute to their lack of parental instincts later. However, male dogs can exhibit jealousy and may accidentally injure the puppies. Therefore, there is a good reason most breeders do not allow the male dog around during these early weeks.

That said, none of these reasons mean that a male dog won’t exhibit any affection towards puppies. In many cases, they may be playful towards puppies, but this doesn’t necessarily mean that they know the puppies are their puppies. A well-socialized dog is more likely to exhibit good social skills around puppies.

Many male dogs are very good with puppies and can help socialize them at an early age. However, it’s important to supervise any interaction between a male dog and new puppies to ensure safety. Otherwise, accidents can occur.

American Pit Bull puppy following his dad — Image Credit: everydoghasastory, Shutterstock

Do Male Dogs Know When Their Puppies Are Born?

Most modern breeders separate pregnant females from other dogs when they are in labor and for the weeks following birth. This time is very sensitive for both the female and puppies, so the presence of other dogs often does more harm than good.

Furthermore, unlike humans who understand pregnancy stages, dogs rely solely on instincts and physical cues. There is no way for a male dog to recognize that the female is in labor unless the male dog is with the female. Plus, even if the male was with the female, there is a good chance he would not know what was going on.

(Like many humans, the distress of the female may even frighten him.)

The female dog will typically exhibit behavioral changes before giving birth, but we don’t know if the male dog picks up on these. Pheromones may also be present, but no research has shown that males respond to these hormones in any particular way.

Of course, there are some cues that the male may pick up on that make it pretty clear a litter of puppies has been born. For instance, if he hears and sees the puppies, then he’ll obviously know that the puppies are there.

Do Male Dogs Get Attached to Puppies?

Male dogs don’t generally form attachments to their puppies the way humans do. They don’t have strong parental instincts, so they don’t attempt to care for or protect the puppies in any way. However, this doesn’t mean they can’t develop a bond with the puppies the same way they bond with any other dog.

Many dogs like puppies, for instance. They may be particularly gentle, which may stem from an older instinct. However, this doesn’t mean that the male dog is particularly attached to puppies. Some male dogs may try to play with the puppies, as well, especially as they become older and more energetic.

Some male dogs just don’t get along well with puppies. Sometimes, the puppies may be too energetic and “annoying.” Other times, the male dog may become jealous of the attention the puppies are getting.

Either way, it’s important to supervise closely, even if the interaction seems to be going well. Puppies can quickly become injured by larger dogs. Puppies also don’t have very good social skills and may be unable to get away if the interaction turns sour.

If you want your male dog to interact well with puppies, socialization and training are important. Don’t assume everything will go well just because the puppies are genetically related to the dog. Often, that doesn’t mean much when it comes to interactions.

dachshund dog and puppy — Image Credit: Liliya Kulianionak, Shutterstock

How Do Male Dogs React to Puppies?

Male dogs can react to puppies in tons of different ways. Again, it depends a lot on a dog’s personality. Here’s a quick breakdown of some potential possibilities:

Curiosity and Playfulness: This is a frequent reaction. Most of the time, dogs will be playful and curious around puppies. They often sniff them and try to “figure them out.” If the puppies are playful and energetic, they often feed off the older dogs, causing them to become more energetic and playful, too. It’s important to remember that puppies cannot tolerate rough play, though.
Neutrality: Some male dogs don’t react in any particular way. They may ignore the puppies, potentially even leaving the area if the puppies start trying to interact. In this case, it’s important not to force interaction.
Jealousy: Sometimes, male dogs may not like puppies. Male dogs can become possessive, and some don’t understand that puppies are puppies. They may think puppies are trying to steal their resources, like toys or food.
Anxiety: Many dogs get anxiety around puppies. They’re unpredictable and have very poor social skills. Many dogs just don’t know what to do with them! Lots of puppies may overwhelm an older dog quickly, especially if he isn’t well-socialized with puppies when younger. Watch for signs of anxiety and remove the older dog if he seems to be anxious.

Very young puppies tend to trigger a nurturing response in other dogs, including some males. In many cases, males just know to be gentle with puppies. However, as puppies get older and more energetic, play becomes the primary interaction.

Final Thoughts

There isn’t any evidence that male dogs know when puppies are genetically related to them. Therefore, it’s very likely that male dogs just see puppies as puppies, not necessarily their puppies.

How male dogs interact with puppies depends on the exact dog and situation. Sometimes, male dogs may be nurturing and gentle with puppies. They may play with older puppies well. Other times, they may be worried about resource competition, anxious, or fearful. Socialization can help older dogs get along with puppies, but there is still a big individual variance.

Sources

Featured Image Credit: WilleeCole Photography, Shutterstock

The post Do Male Dogs Know Their Puppies? You’ll Be Surprised to Learn appeared first on PangoVet.

September 10, 2024

Taurine for Dogs: Usage, Benefits, Supplements & More (Vet Answer)

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What Is Taurine for Dogs?
How Is Taurine Administered?
What If You Miss a Dose?
Side Effects
FAQ

Taurine is often brought up when discussing heart health in cats, as they can develop a condition called dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) when eating a diet low in taurine. But what role does taurine play in a dog’s body?

The whole taurine situation in canines can be confusing, so let’s examine this amino acid and how it works for dogs and hopefully, make this issue a bit clearer.

What Is Taurine for Dogs?

Taurine has more of a spotlight role for felines, but a canine’s need for it can be just as important. For starters, taurine is one of 22 amino acids that dogs use to build the various proteins that are needed throughout the body. Amino acids can be divided into essential and non-essential, with essential amino acids being the ones that dogs need to get from their food. They can produce non-essential ones on their own.

Taurine is considered a non-essential amino acid because canines can typically make their own if given the proper building blocks for it in their food. However, that’s not the case for every dog. Certain breeds seem to be predisposed to taurine deficiency and may require supplementation. These include:

Dogs that don’t have enough taurine can develop DCM, a condition where the muscular walls of the heart thin and stretch, decreasing the efficiency of pumping blood. Supplementing their meals with taurine can help improve the output of the heart in DCM and may play a role in treating heart disease not linked to taurine deficiency. Taurine also helps protect against retinal degeneration.¹

Dalmatian dog eating dry food from a bowl — Image Credit: Sergey Fatin, Shutterstock

How Is Taurine Given to Dogs?

Taurine can be found under the names Dyna-Taurine and Formula V and may be part of many cardiovascular health supplements. It comes in a liquid, powder, or pill form that is typically given twice daily. Of course, the exact dosage and frequency will depend on your dog and the condition that your vet is trying to treat.

Taurine supplements can be given with or without food but are usually easier to administer if mixed in with a tasty meal.

What If You Miss a Dose?

Missing a dose of your dog’s taurine supplement typically isn’t a big deal. Just give it as soon as you remember it and adjust the time frame accordingly, or if you’re close to giving the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue on your regular schedule. Avoid giving two doses at once or giving more than one dose within the allotted time frame. For example, if your dog takes taurine every 12 hours, don’t give more than one dose within those 12 hours.

dog looking at the table with a clock — Image Credit: PongMoji, Shutterstock

Potential Side Effects of Taurine in Dogs

Since taurine is something that your dog makes normally or gets from their food, supplementation is generally well tolerated. However, some dogs may get a bit of digestive upset, especially if given the supplement on an empty stomach.

They may present with:

Vomiting
Diarrhea
Stomach pain

It’s generally better when taurine is given with food.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Dogs Really Need Taurine?

Most dogs will make the taurine that they need from the “building blocks” that they get from the meat in their diet. However, some breeds may be prone to taurine deficiency and will require supplementation. Studies show that supplementing taurine can also prevent other types of heart disease and retinal degeneration.

Can Too Much Taurine Hurt Dogs?

More research needs to be done, but it appears that toxicity to taurine is quite low, so your dog overdosing on it is unlikely. That said, speak to your veterinarian before offering it to your pet to make sure whatever issue they’re dealing with can be helped by giving them a taurine supplement.

How Do You Test for Taurine Deficiency in Dogs?

Taurine deficiency can be diagnosed with a blood test. This may require fasting your dog for a period of time before the blood draw, and the sample may need to be sent to an outside laboratory.

Conclusion

Supplementing with taurine is more commonly done in cats but can be necessary for dogs. Certain breeds are more prone to developing taurine-deficient dilated cardiomyopathy or other conditions that may require taurine supplementation. Your veterinarian will be able to advise you on the best product to use for your dog and how to offer it.

Sources

Featured Image Credit: Dmitriev Mikhail, Shutterstock

The post Taurine for Dogs: Usage, Benefits, Supplements & More (Vet Answer) appeared first on PangoVet.