How long do Chihuahuas live? Chihuahuas live between 15 to 20 years. Although different authorities quote varying average lifespans, it is true that chihuahuas live longer than other dog breeds. Megabyte, the oldest chihuahua, lived for 20 years and 265 days.
The chihuahua is known to be from a small dog breed (20lb or 9kg less), weighing between 2 and 8 pounds and about 6 to 9 inches tall. Chihuahuas have fat bodies that are robust, stocky, and slightly longer than tall. However, they appear to be flexible, strong, and muscular. It takes its name from the Mexican state of chihuahua.
A Chihuahua is perfectly at home in a house or even an apartment. They’re also relatively simple to care for, requiring little exercise and food. But don’t skimp on the attention: Chihuahuas seek affection and friendship to the point of resorting to attention-getting tactics.
Table of Contents
Why do Chihuahuas Live So Long?
The precise reason is unknown. Some people believe they can live a long life since they are not prone to significant illnesses, and small dog breeds often live longer than larger dog breeds such as German shepherds.
7 Factors That Impacts a Chihuahua’s Lifespan
Hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia occurs when a dog’s blood sugar levels remain lower than normal. Hypoglycemia can cause a variety of symptoms, some of which are modest.
Many dogs with hypoglycemia, for example, are lethargic or sleep excessively, and they regularly shake or tremor. Visit your veterinarian regularly to catch the sickness as soon as possible.
Vaccinations
Chihuahuas require immunizations and booster doses to protect them from potentially fatal infections such as Leptospirosis, parvovirus, bordetella bronchiseptica, distemper, canine influenza, and rabies.
Weight/Obesity
Weight has an equal impact on a Chihuahua’s longevity. Obese Chihuahuas are predisposed to several health problems that shorten their longevity, including diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Parasites
Worms and pests of many kinds can infiltrate your chihuahua’s body, both inside and out. Fleas, ticks, and ear mites can all infest his skin and ears. Hookworms, roundworms, heartworms, and whipworms can enter his system through various routes, including drinking contaminated water, eating or stepping on droppings, or being bitten by an infected mosquito. Some of these parasites can be passed on to you or a family member and are a severe health problem for everyone.
Cardiovascular Disease / Heart problems
A twenty-year study of canine mortality conducted by the University of Georgia indicated that 18.5 percent of Chihuahua mortality could be ascribed to heart-related disease, ranking the breed among the top five most vulnerable.
Dental Issues
Chihuahuas are prone to dental disorders, partly due to their long lifespan. Dental disorders can have a negative impact on a dog’s quality of life, so it’s critical to take proper care of your pup’s teeth and consult your doctor at the first indication of trouble.
Gender
Females live their male counterparts in terms of longevity. Although the specific explanation of this greater average lifetime is uncertain, studies indicate that female Chihuahuas can live 1 to 2 years longer than males.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis develops as the cartilage in a dog’s joints deteriorates over time. This causes bone-on-bone contact, which is both harmful and excruciatingly painful. Arthritis can develop for many reasons, the most common of which are obesity and repeated activities (especially those with a high impact).
8 Tips to Help Your Chihuahua Live a Long and Healthy Life
• Go to the veterinarian. Frequently
• Take your pet for a walk regularly.
• Always provide nourishing food.
• Offer vitamins and supplements
• Consistent dental care/brushing
• Always keep your chihuahua happy.
• Do not let it run around unattended.
• ·Keep a close eye on parasites growth
How Long do Chihuahuas Live? Human Life vs Chihuahua’s life Comparison Chart
| Age in Human Years | Age in Dog Years |
| 1 | 15 |
| 2 | 22 |
| 3 | 26 |
| 4 | 30 |
| 5 | 34 |
| 6 | 38 |
| 7 | 42 |
| 8 | 46 |
| 9 | 49 |
| 10 | 54 |
| 11 | 58 |
| 12 | 62 |
| 13 | 66 |
| 14 | 71 |
| 15 | 75 |
| 16 | 79 |
| 17 | 83 |
| 18 | 87 |
| 19 | 91 |
| 20 | 95 |
Conclusion
A good diet and frequent exercise to protect them from becoming overweight are the keys to a healthy, long-lived chihuahua.
Make sure your dog goes to the vet on a regular basis for exams, tooth cleanings, and vaccines. Give your chihuahua a healthy lifestyle, and you’ll have a furry pal companion for at least two decades. We hope this answers all your concerns about how long do chihuahuas live.
References
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/j.1939-1676.2011.0695.x
