Chihuahua Medical Outline
by Jennie Bullock

     Some medical conditions that exist within the Chihuahua breed can be genetically passed on to puppies, so it is important that anyone who is considering establishing a breeding program be aware of these conditions.

 Cleft Palate
        Occasionally pups can be born with an opening (cleft) in the roof of the mouth.  If the opening is tiny at birth, it may close on its own.  Most often in Chihuahuas this condition is genetic in nature.  In minor cases the cleft can be surgically corrected, although a pup that has had cleft surgery should never be bred.
For further information please see : Medical Index/Cleft Palate.

Hemophilia A
       This recessive genetic disorder is usually found in males, with females being the carriers. Commonly referred to as the "bleeders disease", hemophilia is due to insufficient levels of the factor VIII blood clotting factor. Usually accompanied by hematomas (pockets of blood under the skin), this condition is present from birth.
For further information regarding this condition please see (Medical Index/Hemophilia A).
Tracheal Collapse
        Tracheal collapse is due to a weakness in the windpipe.  This condition tends to occur more often in some family bloodlines, than others. In looking to purchase a Chihuahua pup, be sure that the "family" is healthy, sound and long-lived.
For more information please see: Medical Index/Tracheal Collapse.

Mitral Valve Disease (MVD)
        This heart condition is occasionally found in Chihuahuas.  It can lead to premature death or compromised quality of life. Major efforts are underway, both by the Chihuahua clubs and Chihuahua breeders to control and eventually eliminated this condition from their beloved breed.
For further information please see : Medical Index/ Mitral Valve Disease.

 Hypoglycemia
        Hypoglycemia is commonly referred to as low blood-sugar. Dogs that go into hypoglycemia suffer from weakness, they can collapse, and/or go into seizures.
For further information please see : Medical Index/Hypoglycemia.

Patellar Luxation

      The patella (kneecap) is a small bone which guards the knee joint.  The patella sits in a grove in the femur, and is held in place by a combination of ligaments and muscles.  This bone can slip out of position due to injury, poor alignment, weak ligaments, or insufficient grove in the femur.  Generally the dog will limp, carry the leg off the ground, or hop when running.  If the problem is severe it can necessitate surgery.

        Patellar luxation can be either hereditary or due to injury.
For further information please see: Medical Index/Patellar Luxation.

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