Kitaco's Guide to Caring for Your Chihuahua

Kitaco Chihuahuas, owned by Veterinarian, Dr Tracey Tonkin BVSc (Hons) is one of the top Chihuahua Breeders in NZ, winner of the Best Long Coat Chihuahua Breeder of the Year from 2021-2024, and winner of the Best of Breed Long Coat, Best Dog, Best Bitch and Best Puppy at the 2024 NZ National Dog Show.

This handbook is designed to give Kitaco puppy owners a head start on their life together with their Kitaco Chihuahua so they can enjoy many happy years together with their new family member.The advice is specific to our Kennel, but can be applied across the board to other Chihuahuas or indeed many other breeds.

When you get a puppy, there are several steps you can take to ensure the transition is a smooth one so that your dog and your family blend together seamlessly.

The first few weeks in your home are critical for your puppy. The groundwork you lay at the beginning in this special time will pay big dividends down the road and we urge you to read this carefully after bringing your new puppy home.

This guide include:

• The Secret to Chihuahua Happiness
• Why dominance training is outdated and harmful
• HOUSING YOUR PUPPY
• Crate Training
• FEEDING
• How Often?
• How Much?
• What do I feed my puppy?
• Raw Diets
• Kibble or Wet Food
• What NOT to feed
• Can I feed my chihuahua a vegan diet?
• Is Puppy Getting Enough Sleep?
• Learning to Be Okay with Being Alone
• Bedtime and the Importance of Routine
• House Training
• Using the Litter Box
• Socialising your Chihuahua
• Critical periods in puppy development
• Securing your Yard
• Exercising your Chihuahua
• A note on extendable leads.
• Dog Parks
• Walking
• Age-Appropriate Exercise
• Exercise Duration
• Signs of Overexertion
• Traveling with your Chihuahua
• Grooming
• Common Medical Issues
• Hypoglycemia
• Anal Glands
• Bee Stings
• Dental Care
• Kennel Cough
• Luxating Patella
• Cardiac Issues
• Poisons
• Reverse sneezing
• Worms and Fleas
• Worming Schedule
• Vaccinations
• Pet Health Insurance
• The NZ Breed Standard
• Chihuahua (Smooth Coat)
• Chihuahua (Long Coat)
• What happens to your Chihuahua if something happens to you?