How Long Do Chihuahuas Live? Tips To Help Extend Their Lifespan

Chihuahuas are among the most popular dogs under 10 pounds. They're also the smallest dog breed in the world, weighing roughly 6 pounds and reaching only 5 to 8 inches in height when fully grown. It's widely known that small dogs tend to live longer than large ones, but just how long do these tiny pooches live? Their lifespan ranges from 14 to 16 years, on average, meaning some might not make it to 12 years while others can hit or exceed 20. In fact, a Chihuahua named Spike became the world's oldest living dog at 23 years of age in 2023.

Twenty-three is far from the norm for any dog, hence the Guinness World Record that Spike received. However, with an intentional, strategic approach involving diet, exercise, and veterinary care, you can extend your Chihuahua's lifespan and get it as close to the high end of the life expectancy range. Perhaps your dog will even outlive the record holder and snatch the title of the world's oldest Chihuahua.

Just as with any other mammal, eating a healthy diet plays a vital role in overall health, and Chihuahuas are no exception. Feed your Chihuahua a food made with high-quality protein, healthy fats, and natural carbohydrates. To simplify your dog food search, limit your purchases to those that meet the AAFCO guidelines, which are indicated by a nutritional adequacy statement on the package label.

In addition to choosing an appropriate food for your Chihuahua, you should make sure you're feeding the correct amount of food. Overfeeding can lead to obesity and other problems that can shorten your pup's life. The exact amount of food you give your dog depends on their age, weight, and lifestyle, and whether the food is wet or dry. Many food labels provide guidance in this area, but feel free to contact your veterinarian if you have any questions.

To supplement the health benefits that an appropriate diet provides, your dog needs adequate exercise. Aim for 30 minutes of physical activity a day, which can be in the form of neighborhood walks, a visit to the dog park, swimming, playing tug of war, or just trotting around the backyard. Throwing fetch toys for your dog and hiking with your dog are also great means of exercise. Sufficient daily physical activity can help with healthy weight maintenance while keeping your dog healthy, enhancing their overall quality of life.

Although we all wish they were, Chihuahuas are not immune to health problems. Even the healthiest of them can develop conditions like heart disease, luxating patellas, and tracheal collapse, but many conditions can be diagnosed and treated in their early stages. This is why it's so important for Chihuahuas to see a veterinarian at least once a year for a comprehensive wellness exam, or twice a year for seniors.

During these visits, a veterinarian will examine your dog from nose to tail, including all vital signs, and update any required vaccinations. They may also perform a blood test, urinalysis, fecal exam, X-rays, or other tests, depending on your pet's age, condition, or your personal requests. If any abnormalities are detected, a treatment plan can be discussed. In some cases, catching and treating a health problem early can help your pet enjoy more healthy years while preventing the condition from worsening.

Scheduling separate annual visits to the vet for dental cleanings can also help lengthen your Chihuahua's life. More than 80% of all dogs over the age of 3 develop dental disease, which can lead to other problems if not addressed. Unfortunately, Chihuahuas and other small breeds have a greater risk of developing the disease than larger dogs due to dental crowding, but annual cleanings, combined with an at-home teeth-cleaning routine, can lower the chances. Ultimately, taking care of your Chihuahua from head to toe can help ensure they spend a long, and happy, time as part of your life.

Always consult your veterinarian before making changes to your pet's diet, exercise, or care. To find an accredited veterinarian in your area, you can search the American Animal Hospital Association's online database.