Category: <span>Grooming</span>

Apple cider vinegar for dogs. Is it really that…

August 15, 2019May 31, 2022
by Louise Kirby

Apple Cider Vinegar for dogs

Apple cider vinegar for dogs has become very trendy and it seems to be an all-round good guy with lots of health benefits for everyone, including our chihuahuas. I’ve had reason to investigate it a bit more because Minnie has started her seasonal itchy skin issues and if it is allowed to escalate, she will start to chew and pull out her fur. I was looking for alternatives to chemicals and long-term medication.

What is Apple Cider Vinegar?

Apple cider vinegar is just apples and water. I’ve read different accounts of its nutritional value. Some saying it is rich in vitamins & minerals with others saying there are only trace amounts to be found. Everyone agrees it is rich in potassium.

The apples and water have been allowed to ferment until it turns into acetic acid which is the main component of vinegar. It is this acetic acid that gives the ACV it’s health benefits.

Like everything there are different qualities of ACV and you need to look for raw, unpasteurised vinegar that contain the ‘mother culture’.

The ‘mother culture’ floats around giving it a cloudy appearance. It is this mother culture that contains good bacteria, enzymes, pectin, proteins and minerals. If the liquid is clear, then it has likely been pasteurised and won’t contain this important addition.

Is Apple Cider Vinegar for dogs really helpful?

There does seem to be some actual research suggesting that, yes, apple cider vinegar can help dogs with a variety of health issues.

It can help regulate insulin
Be used to alleviate joint pain
Help with digestive issues by encouraging good gut bacteria
Relieve itchy skin complaints by taking it internally and using topically in a 50/50 solution as a rinse or spray.
Alleviate gunky ears and stinky ‘corn chip’ paws by killing the yeast that causes this.
Help clean teeth by stopping plaque forming
Repels ticks and fleas by making blood more acidic and using it as a topical spray

There are some wild and outrageous claims online about how ACV can cure cancer. I would take this with a massive pinch of salt and in the interest of balance there are some who don’t agree that ACV should be given to dogs at all, suggesting it can throw out a dog’s PH levels so it’s always important to do some proper research.

How much AVC should you give a chihuahua?

Like anything it’s important not to overdose and get over excited using ACV. Overdose can lead to vomiting and long-term overuse can damage teeth and bones. A small dog dose is about one teaspoon daily, if your chihuahua is tiny then I would halve it. Watch for any adverse reactions and if your chihuahua vomits stop using it.

Has it worked for Minnie?

Minnie has flea allergy dermatitis, a flea only needs to wink at her, and it will send her into crisis. Then a vicious cycle of chewing begins until she has painful hotspots and bald patches.

I had applied a wash of neem oil to help sooth her skin and kill any fleas that might be present. We are huge neem oil fans, but it has downsides in that it stinks and makes her fur look awful. Plus having to keep applying it is a drag.

So, I put a teaspoon in her dinner not really expecting much but that night there was visibly less chewing, and scratching and we all got some sleep.

In the interest of a fair test, I didn’t put any more neem oil on her and continued with the ACV. I’ve got to say so far, I’m very impressed. At time of writing we are four days in, and she has stopped mauling herself.

I could be imagining it, but her tear staining seems less noticeable as well.

This does make me wonder if some of her skin issues could be yeast based. But hey she’s stopped eating herself and that is a real result.

Grooming

How often should you bath your chihuahua?

September 30, 2018October 8, 2022
by Louise Kirby

Does your chihuahua run around like a nutcase once he’s had a bath? This is unofficially called the ‘zoomies’ and can be comical to watch, but the reason they do it is to relieve the stress of being bathed. How often you need to bath your chihuahua is a question we often get asked and opinion is divided.

Most chihuahuas will tolerate a bath, but few really enjoy the process. Some will allow you to blow dry them as well, Mika loves the hairdryer and will happily sit while you dry him, but Minnie just has to see it and she’s gone.

There are a few things that will affect how often you need to bath your chihuahua, so there is no definitive right and wrong. The general rule of thumb seems to suggest once a month is about right and once every three months is the minimum.

A good reason for bathing your chihuahua is the opportunity to check for skin abrasions, lumps, fleas and bites. They are much easier to see when their fur is wet. Pest-Help.com has a good resource on the types of bugs you can often find on your pets, and how to tackle them.

Chihuahuas are not known for their off-roading and probably will require fewer baths than the average dog. But just because they are cute, doesn’t mean they don’t love to roll in fox poo and other disgusting substances so on occasions an emergency bath is inevitable.

Can you bathe your chihuahua every week?

Most people would suggest that every week is too often, unless there is a medical need for it. Over bathing will wash out the natural oils in your chihuahua’s coat and could make his skin dry.

Wash paws after a muddy walk

All our pups get a dip in the washing-up bowl after a muddy walk. I have a bowl of warm water with a hint of dog shampoo and just dunk their paws. You will be amazed at the amount of dirt that comes out. Mika is a paw licker and washing them seems to help with this. It’s also helpful as you can see any cuts or ticks that they may have collected out on the walk.

It’s also helpful to wash or wipe down paws after a walk even in the summer if your dog has hayfever or seasonal allergies.

When can you bath after flea treatment?

If you are using spot on flea treatments, then you need to avoid over washing your dog. Certainly, don’t wash your chihuahua within a week of applying or you could just be wasting your money. I keep use of these products down to a minimum, but Minnie has developed a severe flea allergy, so we have had to go with it over the summer and autumn flea seasons. But I don’t apply it every month.

Bath your chihuahua to kill fleas

If your chihuahua has picked up fleas, they will be cat fleas. (Even if you don’t have a cat they live in the grass.) Bathing is an effective way to get rid of them. Make sure the first thing you do is put a ring of soap around your chihuahua’s neck. This will prevent the fleas from running up your chihuahua to avoid the water.

We use neem oil shampoo if fleas are a problem; neem oil is a naturally occurring insecticide that comes from the Neem tree in India. Read more about neem oil. You need to leave it on for around 10 minutes for it to work. So, take some treats into the bathroom with you!

Go through your chihuahua’s fur with a nit comb to make sure you get rid of all the eggs as well. Remember that you need to clean all the dog bedding as well as carpets if you are going to rid your house of fleas.

What shampoo should you use to bathe your chihuahua?

A dog specific shampoo is always best, but you can use baby shampoo if you find yourself in an urgent situation. Make sure you rinse out really well.

Should you use conditioner on your chihuahua’s fur?

Bathing your chihuahua can be a pain and it’s easy to forgo the conditioner just to get the process done. But, adding a conditioner after the wash will help seal the hair cuticle. If your chi has a long coat, it helps de-tangle. We like Wild Dog conditioner as it is suitable for dry skin.

When all the bathing is done, wrap your chihuahua up in a nice fluffy towel for a well-earned cuddle.

Is flea shampoo OK?

Once upon a time, when I wanted to run a completely ‘au natural’ lifestyle (I blame Gwyneth) I would have been dead against anything like this. But with five chihuahuas in the house you have to jump on a flea sighting very quickly and you learn to be more realistic. If I don’t have neem oil soap, I figure the occasional bath in flea shampoo is better than regular use of spot on treatment which I only use reactively. That said of course, any shampoo will kill a flea, but I want to catch any eggs as well.

About the author

Louise Kirby

My name is Louise Kirby and I’m a freelance writer and certified Pro Dog Trainer. I adore and train all breeds but have a special interest in chihuahuas and their rehabilitation. Chihuahuas are awesome little dogs, spunky, full of joy, loyal and tenacious. But some present with behaviours that make them a challenge to manage. I’m on a mission to restore the relationship between owners and their dogs. To help you get back the dog you always dreamed of. That’s why dog training is a happiness project!

Get help with chihuahua behaviour

Join the happiness project now!

Your chihuahua transformation starts with a free discovery chat to see how I can best help you. Please get in touch I look forward to hearing from you. Together we can get back the dog you always wanted.

Allergies

Help my chihuahua has dry itchy skin!

April 22, 2018November 11, 2022
by Louise Kirby

My chihuahua has dry itchy skin, what’s causing it?

If your chihuahua has dry itchy skin, it’s probably driving him crazy. Making him scratch and nibble at different areas and rubbing himself along the furniture to try and get some relief. (This can also be an indicator that a he has compacted anal glands so never ignore this type of behaviour.) He may find it hard to settle at night and possibly display some behaviour changes.

If the itching and scratching gets out of control your chihuahua may scratch so much he causes skin damage and hot spots. Hot spots are raised red patches of skin that ooze and are intensely irritating and if left untreated can get infected.

You can also see the dry skin by parting the fur. Like dandruff in people, you will see little flakes of skin sitting at the base of the hair. (If the flakes look like they are moving around, you’re not seeing things, you have a different problem. See below:

What causes dry itchy skin?

There are several reasons that your chihuahua has dry itchy skin.

#1 Grooming

It is essential to have a good grooming routine and to get your chihuahua used to being brushed as a puppy. Brushing helps distribute the oils over your chi’s skin and fur. Your chihuahua should enjoy being brushed (Minnie loves it and will roll over the second you get the brush out). As well as maintaining a good healthy coat, it is a lovely bonding exercise.

Shampoo, make sure you use dog appropriate shampoo. Human shampoo can be too acidic and contain too much fragrance. Use a shampoo that contains humectants or moisturizers. Natural humectants are aloe and honey. If your chihuahua is prone to dry skin avoid the blow dryer. Pat him dry after a bath and let him shake and run about to get dry. Be prepared for the zoomies after a bath, It’s how dogs deal with the stress of the situation. Don’t over bath your chi chi either as it can wash out the oils in his fur.

#2 Fleas, Mites & Mange

Fleas: When a flea bites your dog, he is going to bite at it to get some relief. Nibbling towards the tail area can be an indication of fleas. A bath in neem oil shampoo will kill all fleas and mites without dousing your chihuahua in harmful chemicals. But if the greater good is served by using a spot on product then I would use it. Itching will be driving your chi nuts and also contribute to reactive behaviour. It is possible that your chihuahua has flea allergy dermatitis, this is likely to need medication from the vet.

Mites: Mites can be misery for your dog. This is where you may see the ‘dandruff’ (Cheyletiella mites) walking around on its own, or tiny red patches of dots (harvest mites). Cheyletiella mites or ‘walking dandruff’ is highly contagious so jump on this PDQ.

Mange: This will present as scaly patches of dark skin and dandruff. This is also caused by a mite (Sarcoptes scabiei) they burrow into the skin and cause appalling itching. Your chihuahua will scratch frantically and could damage himself. It is also highly contagious.

Fleas, mites and mange can be treated with neem oil and neem oil shampoo. Read: neem oil and why you can’t live without it.

#3 Allergies

Dogs like people can have allergies to pollen, grass, and VOC’s from household cleaners. Read: Household products that can cause allergies in dogs. The symptoms will be irritable skin, runny nose, eyes and itchy paws. You need to eliminate the allergies from your chihuahua’s environment. For that, consider keeping your indoor areas clean to reduce the chance of allergies in your furry friend. For starters, get your carpets and rugs cleaned thoroughly. Contact a professional from Brown Family Chem-Dry and get the task done as soon as possible. Also, test your indoor air quality so that both you and your chihuahua do not develop respiratory allergies.

Keep in mind that if you still find the symptoms of allergies in your pet, after doing all this, then you need to consult a vet near you quickly. He can suggest you what to do about the problem. For instance, he an suggest you to administer a small dose of antihistamine to dampen down the symptoms. Read: Human medicines I can give my dog. I use a 1/4 a tablet twice a day. But check the does with your vet.

#4 Diet

Poor diet, loaded with carbohydrate and grains can play havoc with your chihuahuas skin. Dogs have no need of either of these ingredients in their diet, but low-quality kibble will be full of both. Owners have been inadvertently feeding this to their dogs for years because they trust the big brands to deliver the best nutrition. Even grain-free will be loaded with carbs because they are needed in the cooking process.

Yeast Infection: Carbohydrate will turn to sugars that your dog can’t process and as well as making your chihuahua fat, could cause a yeast infection. Read: Has your chihuahua got a yeast infection?

Leaky Gut: Grains and rice can cause an allergic reaction and contribute to ‘leaky gut syndrome’, leaky gut is a major contributor to food allergies. Read: Why you must stop feeding carbohydrates to your chihuahua.

The best bet is to switch your dog’s food to a good quality wet food or fresh home cooked. Like humans, dogs need a variety of good quality protein and fats to keep them healthy. Remember expensive doesn’t always mean quality. You are looking for a good quality protein food. Mix the proteins up, fish, meat, offal and eggs. Add a little bit of sardine to their nosh once or twice a week as it’s better to get the oils from source. You could also feed them a lightly fried egg twice a week. Keep the yolk runny so you don’t destroy the long-chain-fatty-acids. Add a probiotic to their food to address any gut flora imbalances, what’s going on in your dog’s gut has a massive impact on health and behaviour.

#4 Thyroid disease

Thyroid disease or hypothyroidism can cause a dry brittle coat, thick scaly scabs and dark patches of skin. You would need to discuss treatment with your vet.

How to help with dry itchy skin

Colloidal Oatmeal Bath

So if your poor chihuahua has dry itchy skin, you can make up this soothing bath. Colloidal oatmeal bath sounds complicated than it is. Colloidal means very small particles that are suspended evenly in a medium, in this case water. You can make this yourself if you can grind oats down to a fine powder.

Buy some organic oatmeal (not instant) and grind it down to a very fine powder.
Add 2-3 cups to lukewarm water and swish it around until it has dissolved.
Get your chihuahua to soak in the bath for about 10 minutes. Gently tip some over his back.
If your chihuahua is very sticky afterwards, then rinse him lightly with warm water.
Pat dry with a towel and let your chi air dry.

Be careful as the bath will be very slippery.

Do this 2-3 times a week until you see an improvement in his condition.

The oatmeal should be very soothing and draw out the irritation in his skin.

If you have any remedies for dealing with dry itchy skin we would love to hear from you. Please post in the comments below.

Louise Kirby

Grooming

Are spot on flea treatments bad for your chihuahua?

March 4, 2018July 30, 2019
by Louise Kirby

Dealing with fleas is an annoying problem, but are spot on flea treatments bad for your chihuahua?

Monthly plans

A lot of chihuahua parents believe they are doing the best for their chihuahua by using monthly ‘spot on flea treatments’. By spot on flea treatments I mean any chemical flea treatment that is applied topically to your dog’s skin.

It is so ingrained in us that this is the right thing to do that many of us are on monthly plans at the vets that include flea & worm treatments and ‘booster’ vaccinations.

Firstly, booster vaccinations are not required read ‘Are we Over Vaccinating Dogs?’ But this article is about chemical flea control, so I’ll move on.

How do spot on flea treatments work?

The insecticide in spot on flea products blocks the adult flea’s nervous system and the flea should die within 24 hours. This reduces its opportunity to lay eggs.

The insecticide is mixed with a carrier oil that spreads over the skin and is absorbed into your dog’s bloodstream, it also kills intestinal worms and lungworms. If this doesn’t work, it may be worth checking out 25 Incredibly Easy Home Remedies for Worms in Dogs. It’s best to treat the issue before it becomes life-threatening.

Given the job it does, it is easy to see why so many pet owners will reach for their monthly flea control without giving it another thought.

The downside

I stopped using these products some time ago when I noticed an adverse reaction in Mika after the application. He would be unwell, vomit and shake.

Research shows that this is a common reaction to the chemicals in these flea control products, along with redness of the skin where it is applied. Reactions vary in intensity, but it has caused fatal seizures in dogs.

There are three main chemicals Fipronil, Imidacloprid and Pyrethrins in spot on flea products. According to Dogs Naturally Magazine these chemicals have arrange of side affects on your dog, from liver and kidney toxicity, thyroid cancer, heart disease. It was a long list, so I have put a link to the article below.

According to experts, topical chemical flea control contributes to the rise in canine cancer. It also contributes to allergies in dogs.

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Why chihuahuas & small dogs are more at risk

The application of topical flea control products can cause an immediate adverse reaction in your dog, one of the main reasons being that the dosage parameters are so wide and vague. The under 5 kgs dose instruction can be way over the top for a dog that weighs half that.

Do short coats even get fleas?

I have noticed something strange since we had Arlo who is a short coat. He never seems to pick up fleas. The other two, Mika and Minnie do pick the occasional jumper. But Arlo, never. Looking at his coat it is so much denser that the long haired dogs it is so thick at the base. So is this just not hospitable for a flea. I would love to know your thoughts.

Healthy Pets Mercloa writes:

Most adverse reactions were seen in dogs weighing between 10 and 20 pounds. (4.53 -9.09 kg)
Reactions in mixed breed dogs were most commonly reported, however, the Chihuahua, Shih Tzu, Miniature Poodle, Pomeranian, Dachshund, Maltese, Yorkshire terrier and Bichon Frise seem particularly at risk.
Products containing cyphenothrin and permethrin were especially problematic for small breed dogs.
Most incidents occurred in dogs under three years old, likely at their first exposure to a spot-on product.
Adverse reactions for both dogs and cats were primarily skin, GI tract and nervous system related. Skin reactions included redness, itching, hair loss, sores and ulcers.
Gastrointestinal symptoms included vomiting, diarrhoea and salivation.
Reported nervous system symptoms included lethargy, nervousness, ataxia (movement problems), tremors and seizure.

Only dealing with mum

Fleas are a nuisance and need to be dealt with, but the other problem with many spot on flea treatments is they are only dealing with the adult.

The adult flea is the tip of the iceberg. Killing the eggs before they hatch must be the target. Because once they are in the carpet or dog bedding, as soon as the product wears off they will hop straight back on again.

But again, don’t reach for the chemicals and spray them all over your house, they can be bad for you and your family contributing to migraines, asthma and eczema.

Go natural

We have several articles on dealing with fleas in the home and natural ways to keep your dog flea free.

But essentially, neem oil, diatomaceous earth, a good steam cleaner, apple cider vinegar and a hot wash for bedding should get you started on the path natural to flea control.

Article from Dogs Naturally Magazine

Please be aware that putting canine flea products on a cat can kill your cat.

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Allergies

Tear stains in chihuahuas and how to deal with…

February 15, 2018October 8, 2022
by Louise Kirby

Tear stains in chihuahuas can be very upsetting to see . Especially if your chihuahua has light coloured fur. But the good news is tear stains can be dealt with.

What are tear stains?

Tear stains are the natural overflow from your chihuahua’s eyes. They go brown when the normally clear tears react with the natural bacteria on your dog’s fur. People often believe that giving filtered water will help cure tear stains in chihuahuas. It is a good idea to give your chihuahua filtered water, but it will have little impact on tear stains.

Why do they occur?

Tear stains occur when the tears overflow and are not drained away through the tear ducts or ‘puncta’. Your chihuahua has these openings in the upper and the lower eyelid.

Some dogs are born with a condition called ‘unperforated puncta’ which means nothing can drain into the tear duct. This can be corrected with surgery if the hole tear duct system is present.

The shape of your dog’s eye can also have an impact on how much tear staining will occur and in some cases surgery can help here as well.

Chihuahua’s do have naturally protruding eyes that can make them vulnerable to foreign objects irritating the eye and making them tear-up.

Some tear staining is inevitable, but if the tear stains are excessive then you might need to check with your vet that your chihuahua does not have a problem.

Do dogs with longer muzzles have fewer issues with tear staining? I have no research evidence to support this theory apart from my own dogs. Arlo and Prince always have clear eyes, but the others, with the more traditional ‘apple shaped head’ all get some some tear staining.

Can you prevent tear stains in chihuahuas?

Keeping your chihuahua’s eyes clean and free from eye irritations is key. Chihuahuas don’t have a lot of facial fur but if they did keep it trimmed and out of the eyes. There may also be other reasons your chihuahua is getting tear stains.

Allergies

There is some suggestion that excessive tearing up can be the result of allergies. This makes sense when you consider that people will get a runny nose and eyes when they have an allergic reaction to something.

If the tear staining is seasonal, then it could be hay fever. Dogs are prone to this like people. Chihuahuas are close to the ground and with their protruding eyes they are going to be collecting pollen and dust. Antihistamines can help here. Read ‘Can dogs get hay fever?’ for more information on how to deal with this.

Food intolerance

They could also be having a problem with food intolerance, if your chi is tearing up all year around and it is not a physical reason then look at his diet. Especially if you are feeding dry dog food. How you store dry dog food is really important as it can grow moulds that cause allergies.

Diets with excessive grains and starches can contribute to tear stains in chihuahuas. All kibble, dry dog food, contains starch, (even if they are grain free) can cause all sorts of issues with your dog’s digestive system. This can result in ‘leaky gut syndrome’, which can in turn be the trigger for food allergies and intolerance. Our little Macy had issues with tear stains and chaining her diet to a fresher option, keeping her weight correct and adding a probiotic to her food daily has made a huge difference. She was also a poop eater and this approach has helped here as well. (Poop eating can also be the sign of digestive issues).

Household products

VOC’s or volatile organic compounds that are present in many household products from your scented candle, carpet freshener to floor cleaners can cause allergies. Read ‘ 5 Everyday products that cause allergies in dogs.‘

What’s the cure?

If the tearing is excessive then seek medical advice from your vet who will be able to advise if there is a physical medical cause. Once you have ruled out any physical reasons then look at the areas like diet or environment and see what changes you can make.

How to clean the staining

The staining that is brown or red-brown is the clear tears reacting with the normal bacteria on your chihuahua’s fur.

Chihuahuas with light fur are going to be prone to staining more than dogs with dark coats. You need a good tear stain remover. Products that contain colloidal silver are good as they have anti-bacterial properties.

Use a clean pad for each eye, so you don’t spread any infection.

The brown staining should disappear after a week or so of treatment, however you will need to maintain your cleaning routine to keep them at bay.

But to some extent, it is something you are going to have to live with and should be regarded as the natural colouring of your chihuahua’s eye region.

About the author

Louise Kirby

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Behaviour

Dressing up Dogs. Is it OK to dress-up my…

January 29, 2018September 1, 2021
by Louise Kirby

There is a huge movement and industry around dressing up dogs, not just chihuahuas, you name the breed people have designed outfits for them.

There has always been a need for functional clothes, to keep dogs safe, warm or waterproofed but in recent years the market for non-functional outfits is booming.

So, why do people love to dress up their chihuahuas, is it just harmless fun or is it bad for the dogs?

Chihuahuas are small, and they do feel the cold, so there is a legitimate reason to have a couple of warm jumpers and a coat that keeps out the wind or rain. And there is no reason why these coats and jumpers shouldn’t have the awww factor.

Hot spots

But, problems start to occur when the dog gets overheated or the clothing is rubbing. Your chihuahua can’t tell you he is too hot, or the coat is chaffing under his legs. Clothing can also cause skin allergies, red sore hot spots that can ultimately lead to bald spots.

Scares them

In an interview with the Mail Online the RSPCA advise against dressing up dogs suggesting that it scares them:

Dr Samantha Gaines, a pet behaviour and welfare specialist at the RSPCA, said fancy dress costumes or even the odd novelty item can leave animals feeling scared or confused, and stop them being able to express themselves. For some dogs being in a costume can be particularly scary, or worrying, especially if there are bits on the costume that the dog isn’t used to that are flapping around.’Dogs use signals to tell us what they’re feeling, they use their ears, their tails, body positions and their eyes.

Breaking the law!

In fact, under current animal welfare laws if your dog is considered unable to ‘express normal behaviour’ because clothing is restricting his natural movement you could find yourself being prosecuted by the RSPCA.

Instagram

Psychology Today magazine suggests: that the majority of people dressing up dogs is young women who have delayed having children. That babying and dressing their dogs gives them the same sense of pleasure that caring for a child might.

This might be true, or it could just be the Instagram generation that people are immersed in. Spending money on outfits and showing them off on social media is an expression of how much their dog means to them.

Fur

Everyone has an opinion about dressing up dogs and it’s hard to walk a diplomatic path. But in general, dogs have fur that is designed to keep them warm. So, unless you live in a draughty castle, your chi is very thin skinned or fur-less, it is unlikely they need to wear clothing indoors.

Sticking my neck out, dressing them for a quick photo is probably not going to cause any long-term physiological harm. But all day, every day is a different matter.

If you are going to dress up your dogs, make sure that it fits properly, does not rub and does not restrict his movement and that your dog does not get too hot. A stressed chihuahua is a bitey chihuahua!

Take an honest look at your dog’s body language when he has an outfit on and if he looks stressed then stop. Read signs that your dog is stressed.

Allergies

How to spot a yeast infection in your chihuahua.

October 10, 2017March 8, 2018
by Louise Kirby

How to spot a yeast infection in your chihuahua.

Is your dog itching and scratching or suffering with continual ear infections or gloopy eyes? You could be battling an undiagnosed yeast infection.

The most common yeast infection in your dog is Yeast Dermatitis caused by overgrowth of the ‘Malassezia’ or Candida species of yeast which is present in the skin, ears and gooey parts of your dog.

The symptoms of a yeast infection can be:

Itchy scaly skin
Changes in the colour of the skin. Red or pink in the early stages black & grey in chronic conditions.
Funky smell even after washing
Greasy skin & dandruff
Swelling and hot spots
Hair loss
Drooling if the infection is in the mouth.

You may notice you dog shaking his head, rubbing himself against the furniture, or excessively licking or scratching an area to relieve the itching.

Yeast is a naturally occurring fungus on your dog’s skin, and is part of the natural flora. They live happily in colonies on the skin and in the gut. Problems occur when the natural order of things is disturbed, maybe through medicines, chemicals or diet, and the yeast colonies can grow out of control.

How to prevent Yeast infections

#1Diet

A major contributor to out of control yeast is sugar. Yeast loves sugar and needs it to grow. But assuming you are not feeding your dog sweets, how is the extra sugar getting in to cause this disruption?

The answer is starch. Starch is found in abundance processed dog foods. It’s needed as part of the cooking process in dry dog food and will also naturally occur in some ingredients such as; grains, corns, potatoes and peas.

Dogs don’t need grain in their food’ and it can contribute to a host of health problems. Read 5 reasons not to feed kibble to your dog.

So, if you are feeding your dog kibble (dry dog food), even grain free types, you will be inadvertently feeding your dog the sugar that a yeast infection needs to bloom.

According to Dogs Naturally Magazine

In the wild, the foods your dog’s ancestors ate (as well as the foods that our human ancestors ate), contained about 4% starch.

Most commercial pet foods have ten times that amount! Even grain-free foods are usually full of potatoes, sweet potatoes or tapioca and have just as much starch as other kibbles.

#2 Antibiotics

Avoid antibiotic use if you can, like in humans, antibiotics can upset the flora balance in the gut and cause a yeast infection. Think penicillin’s free gift of thrush!

#3 Chemicals

Cut down on chemical treatments for fleas and worms as they put the immune system under pressure. You can support the control of fleas and worms with natural products and superfoods. Read about superfoods to keep your dog free from worms.

#4 Prebiotics

Feed your dog prebiotic and probiotics which can be brought as pastes and supplements. You could also feed a none dairy kefir or fermented veggies.

Treatment

Fight an infection topically with neem oil. Neem Oil has an antibacterial, anti fungal and anti-inflammatory properties. A little neem oil goes a long way, I mix with some coconut oil when applying. This will also add the benefits of coconut oil to the balm. We use neem oil for everything!

Melt some in a pot and apply 2-3 times a day. Read Neem Oil for dogs.

Apple cider vinegar is another wonder ingredient that sooth an itchy dog. Dilute it 50/50 with warm water and spray it on your dog. You can also add a teaspoon to your dog’s drinking water.

Take away:

So, if you suspect a yeast infection or your dog suffers from continual ear infections, sticky eyes and has constant itchy skin:
Change your dog’s diet from processed foods to raw or home cooked.
Support your dog’s gut with prebiotics and probiotics.
Use more natural ways to support flea and worm control.

If at any time you are worried about your dog’s health consult with your vet.

You can buy neem oil from Ekoneem here. But a reader from the blog suggested that Asda sell it at a good price as well.

No links on this page are affiliate. We recommend these products because we use them ourselves.

breeding

Albino chihuahuas; It’s not as clear as you think!

September 30, 2017March 29, 2019
by Louise Kirby

Please note the chi in the photo is not a full albino chi.

Albino chihuahuas; It’s not as clear as you think!

Albino is not just another name for a white dog. In a white dog the genetic marker for the dog is white, while in an albino dog has no melanin or pigmentation at all. If you wanted to be sure that your chihuahua is a true albino chihuahua you would need to get him genetically tested at the vet, but albino chihuahuas typically presents as; very pale eyes, pink around the eye sockets, pink nose and lips.

You could also part his fur and look at the skin. A white dog will still have some colour in his skin, but an albino’s skin under the fur will be pink.

True albino chihuahuas are rare

But very importantly be aware that it is possible for your chihuahua to present with these traits and not be a true albino. This is known as partial albinism.

True albino chihuahuas are rare. So, some breeders might feel this is a reason to charge you more for your puppy. But, as a white puppy can present as an albino it would be a good idea to resist paying extra. You could also be buying a partial albino chihuahua that may have additional health problems.

Health issues associated with albinism

Light Sensitivity

Melanin in the eyes will help filter light, so for your albino chihuahua, the lack of melanin will make him sensitive to light and cause pain in bright light situations.

Skin disorders

They can also be prone to sunburn and extra special care needs to be taken in the sunlight. Skin cancers can also be an issue for albino chihuahuas.

Not necessarily deafness

Deafness is not necessarily a symptom of being a true albino, this is something that is more likely to affect partial albino chihuahuas. A partial albino may have odd small swatches of colour. These colour patterns are known as “piebald” and “merle”.

” Piebald dogs have mostly white-coloured coats that display spots or patches of dark coloration. Merle-coated dogs exhibit splotches or patches of colour, not only on the coat, but on the skin as well.” (www.dogster.com)

The issue with deafness comes when you have a Mm breeding which is a double merle. Read the controversy over merles.

Also, merle is considered a genetic fault, this is the reason that merle chis are not eligible to be registered with the kennel club or enter formal shows.

Should be we breed albino chihuahuas?

Albino chihuahuas need just as much loving as any other chi. They are beautiful and unique. But as true albinism is rare the casual breeder is unlikely to know themselves and your puppy could be the result of a double merle (Mm) paring.

So, on top of the extra precautions an albino chihuahua needs over light and sun sensitivity they could be inheriting deafness and neurological issues associated with double merle gene.

Chasing designer colours

My advice is don’t pay extra and don’t take the word of the breeder that your puppy is a true albino chihuahua. Don’t go searching for an albino because it is unusual. You could end up with a world of problems and vet bills. Plus the breeding of designer coats weakens the breed.

Some breeders will try and engineer a litter of puppies with unusual coat marking because they believe they will be able to get more money for them. Sometimes without realising the health implications and some not caring.

A good breeder will not sell a puppy to just anyone and they are unlikely to risk the health of the puppies to get unusual or designer coat colouring. So, if you are going to buy a puppy rather than adopt make sure you go to a reputable breeder and you can see both the parents. Read how to spot a puppy farm chihuahua.

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Allergies

5 Household products that can make your chihuahua itch.

September 3, 2017November 21, 2021
by Louise Kirby

When you have dogs, especially if you are a multi dog household it is easy to become worried that your house has a certain ‘doggy smell’. You don’t notice it any more but it’s a worry that visitors might wrinkle their nose when you’re not looking. But, are the products you use to keep your house clean making your chihuahua itch?

Most of us reach for the air fresheners or scented candles to keep the house smelling sweet. Maybe you use textile fresheners on the furniture or carpets. Wooden floors are easy to mop and freshen up with disinfectants and fresh smelling floor wash.

The problem for our pets (and us) occurs because many household products contain VOCs or Volatile Organic Compounds. VOCs are organic compounds that easily become vapours or gases at room temperature. Many of these compounds are toxic and have been linked to cancers in humans and animals. Small dogs like chihuahuas are particularly at risk because they are close to the ground where residue from these products will collect or be directed. Getting the ventilation and HVAC systems maintained regularly could be one way to decrease the VOC accumulation in the home; visit this website or similar service providers’ websites to schedule a quick servicing whenever you think that indoor ventilation needs to be improved.

Air Fresheners

Air fresheners can contain phthalates, which have been linked to hormone problems. Some also contain formaldehyde and benzene. This can irritate the mucus membrane in your dog, especially in the brachycephalic breeds like chihuahuas and pugs. I was training at a clients house the other day and she had one of these plug in air fresheners going. It was so strong it made my eyes water. If it was like this for me I can’t imagine how distressing it would be for a dog whose nose is super sensitive. They are also a massive fire hazard so I would give them a serve.

Try increasing the number of houseplants you have. These do really help keep the air clean. Some plants are better than others. NASA have put together a list of 9 houseplants that not only clean the air but can remove some of the man-made toxins like ammonia, benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene.

House plants can make a significant difference to indoor air pollution

Scented Candles

We all like a scented candle, they create an ambience and smell great to. But the majority of cheaper candles are made from paraffin wax and release a cloud of toxic substances that can be problematic to health for you and your chi. Causing irritation to airways and skin. It pays to make sure you get the best quality scented candles that are made from Beeswax or Soy. These don’t cause the same problems.

Spray on Textile Freshener.

When you see these advertised they show people spraying them on pet beds, and we have all seen the ads about becoming nose blind to smell. But these products can have over 100 different VOCs. When your dog lies either on a treated sofa or carpet these chemicals are getting on their belly skin, in their airways, eyes and paws.

Disinfectants & Floor Cleaner.

Cleaning hard floors with scented floor cleaner is so common we all do it without thinking. Adverts encourage us with photos of smiling babies eating dropped food. But like spray-on textile freshener our dogs are close to the ground and inhale the toxins and get them on their paws and skin. If you look on the back of most floor cleaners they will tell you not to let your dog or cat walk on the floor until the floor has dried. this is because it can make their paws burn and they may lick them and ingest chemicals.

Try using a steam cleaner which cleans without any chemicals and is much quicker as it dries almost instantly. You can also use it to freshen up cushions and carpets.

Indoor House Paint

House hold paint can continue to gas-off VOCs for years after it has been applied. Obviously, it will be at its worst as it dries or cures. So, if you move into a freshly painted apartment and your chi starts itching and coughing this could be the reason.

The fumes from paints can cause all sorts of allergies, breathing problems’ and headaches. However, the good news is there are now a good selection of low VOC paints to choose from.

Louise Kirby

Allergies

Neem Oil for Dogs: Why you can’t do without…

September 1, 2017November 26, 2022
by Louise Kirby

What is Neem Oil ?

Neem Oil for dogs is a must have for your medical box. It is oil that has been pressed from the fruits and seeds of the Neem tree. An evergreen shrub that is native to India. It can vary in colour from golden yellow to light brown. It smells a bit astringent a bit like peanuts and garlic. Comes in tubs, sprays and as supplements.

Neem oil has a multitude of benefits for dogs, the oil has anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory qualities, it is an excellent product for dogs. There are so many reasons for using neem oil for dogs. Neem oil seems to be the product we have all been waiting for. Especially if your
chihuahua has been suffering with skin allergies or is aggravated with fleas.

Why we’re loving neem oil

I use it all the time direct from the pot. Dab it on cuts and sores. The only issue for us is Minnie just loves the taste and tends to lick it off.

Neem oil also helped clear up harvest mites. Nasty little buggers that bury themselves under the skin. Even when they’ve been eradicated they can have last issues with itchy skin.

What’s the miracle?

Neem oil works miracles on dogs with fleas, ticks, intestinal parasites and mange mites. Can help provide relief for you dog with persistent skin problems that have not cleared up with prescription medication. Potentially save you £100s in vet bills and save you dog from stressful medications and vet visits.

According to discoverneem.com:

People usually discover neem when struggling with a persistent condition that no nasty prescription drug could clear up. And then: a natural product resolves the problem seemingly overnight. It is not surprising that we forever read about the “miraculous” abilities of neem and neem oil.

Neem Oil as sunscreen and coat conditioner

We love Gerrard Larriett Neem & Coconut Sunscreen & Skin Conditioner. It works as a sunscreen and has the added benefit as it will repel fleas and ticks while you are out and about. This is not an affiliate link, we just love it!

I apply it to their bellies before a walk and on the tips of Mikas’ ears as he is blond. Spray it onto your hands then rub it in. The spray alarms the dogs.

As a flea and mite treatment and to heal itchy skin

Neem oil is a natural pesticide and miticide and can be used to treat flea and mite infestations, either buy (or make) neem oil for dogs shampoo and bath your dog regularly. To make a shampoo.

We buy our Ekoneem shampoo bar from https://ekoneem.com/products.html A lovely lady in Scotland UK who imports and makes the soap.

How to make Neem oil skin balm

Make a spray

You can make your own spray to use on walks and clean paws and to promote healing on itchy dry skin. Here is a recipe from Discoverneem.com. You will need to make a new spray daily as it doesn’t keep

You can also use it as a balm, as it comes in a pot.

Internal parasites

Neem can be give as a supplement to your dog’s diet to kill off internal parasites. Dried leaves or bark, but I am having trouble finding a supplier in the UK.