Chihuahuas are loved for their personalities and their appearance. The small size of the chi has made it a favorite among many dog lovers that fancy toy breeds. Sadly, like other small dogs, the chihuahua is prone to certain health issues, and one of the most prominent is hypoglycemia.

Hypoglycemia is a condition characterized by abnormally low levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood. If not treated, the affected dog will become weaker and weaker until he succumbs to a coma and eventually dies. Thus, this is a very serious condition, and something you need to be aware of if you have chihuahuas or are interested in owning one.

Understand, it is likely that your chi will not experience hypoglycemia, but it is imperative that you learn about this health issue, check for signs in your dog, and visit your vet regularly. That being said, you should also know that low blood sugar is more common in puppies than adult chis, and those pups who have it, tend to outgrow the condition by 16 weeks of age.

Why are chihuahuas susceptible to this illness? The chihuahua dog has a very small fat reserve around his liver. Anytime he is stressed (I.E. going to a new home, separation anxiety, etc.), uses a lot of energy, or misses a meal, his fat reserve is depleted, and his body will then turn to blood sugar to obtain the energy it needs.

What signs should you watch for? Some symptoms include:

• A mournful or sad look on the face

• Inactivity

• Staggering

• Falling down

• Constantly laying down

• Sleep-like condition

• Seizures and spasms

• Coma

Note: You may not see any signs in your chi, and he may just become increasingly lethargic and lose coordination. Thus, as soon as you notice any unnatural change in your dog, seek the attention of your vet immediately.

Chihuahuas who are hypoglycemic need to be watched all the time. They should not be overly stressed or exercised. He should be fed a few times per day, and fresh food needs to be available to him when he is left alone. You should always have some form of sugar suitable to dogs on hand as well, so you can give your chihuahua a quick dose if he is showing signs of low blood sugar. An example of a quick remedy is to add a small amount of sugar to your pet's water. However, keep in mind that you should consult with your vet for the best recommendations.