What Temperature Do Chihuahuas Like?
What temperature do chihuahuas like?
The Chihuahua dog is originally from Mexico, where the predominant climate is warm and dry, so it is a dog that lacks much hair because in its natural environment it did not need it, but due to the great popularity of this dog, it has spread to all parts of the world, including countries with very cold temperatures that are obviously not pleasant for a Chihuahua.
Apart from this, the Chihuahua dog considered the smallest dog in the world, is much more susceptible to cold because of its small size, its belly is much closer to the ground and its internal organs can cool down very easily.
The ideal environment for Chihuahuas is a room temperature of around 25°, this temperature is not cold, but it is not too hot either, it is a temperature similar on average to warm and tropical temperatures, a temperature where the Chihuahua dog undoubtedly feels comfortable.
In addition, the belly is the part of the Chihuahua dog with the least density of hair.
Optimal winter room temperature for Chihuahuas
As we have already explained, an ideal temperature in a room environment for a Chihuahua is around 25 degrees Celsius, it doesn’t matter if it’s a little more or a little less, in winter months you should pay attention to control the temperature of the room so that the dog feels comfortable.
You can use an electric heater, in addition to the air conditioning to maintain a pleasant temperature for the Chihuahua, it is also recommended to warm the dog so that the body temperature does not drop sharply when it goes outside.
There is a possibility that the Chihuahua dog will get sick in case the temperatures are very low and there is no temperature regulation in the room or means for the dog to keep warm.
In addition, we take 25 degrees on average as the optimal temperature, but this can vary according to the length and age of the dog, also if it has any disease. So the dog can feel comfortable if it has the possibility of making temperature adjustments.
One thing to keep in mind when controlling the room temperature in winter is that even if you turn on the air conditioner, warm air will collect near the ceiling. It can be cold near the floor where the Chihuahua is, so don’t just look at the air conditioner set temperature or the indoor thermometer numbers, but make sure it’s not actually cold.
In addition, it is said that the comfortable humidity for Chihuahua is 40 to 70%, and the combination of “room temperature 25 degrees” and “humidity 60%” is the optimum temperature and humidity. Use a humidifier or a wet towel to take proper measures against drying.
Dry air can damage the mucous membranes of the throat, causing respiratory illness and viral infections. Also, be sure to wash your hands and gargle thoroughly so that the owner does not bring the virus from outside the room.
How do you know if a Chihuahua is cold?
Chihuahuas are known for having little hair generally, so if you’re cold you’re sure to be able to do it with a simple observation. They tremble, they lie down huddled like little balls to maintain their body temperature. They also look for warm places. A room where the sun arrives or a place with heating will be of your preference.
When a Chihuahua dog is cold, you can appreciate certain details, usually, dogs will try to minimize their hydration, closing their mouths and stop panting.
It is also advisable to look at the areas most exposed to the environment, which are usually colder, such as the legs, ears, and tail. When a Chihuahua dog is cold, warm blood goes to the abdomen and chest, where the most important organs are.
You should also keep in mind that if your Chihuahua is very young or very old, it is much more susceptible to the effect of feeling cold.
The thermoregulation system in mammals develops over time. In other words, we are all born with it, but as we continue to grow, it is strengthened. That’s why puppies are more susceptible to temperature. The same thing happens with Chihuahuas.
The same thing happens with Chihuahuas. When they are very young or very old, these systems begin to decay and experience difficulties in regulating their body heat.
What temperature is too hot for chihuahuas?
Everything is extremely harmful, and just as too much cold can be harmful to the Chihuahua, too much heat affects it negatively.
Temperatures of 30 to 40 degrees are already considered hot for the Chihuahua, and at these temperatures, the dog requires constant bathing and water to keep it comfortable.
Hyperthermia in the Chihuahua, or heat stroke, is caused by a rise in body temperature above normal and this may be due to external factors such as prolonged exposure to a very strong sun.
The temperature of your Chihuahua will normally be between 38 and 39 degrees. Above 39 degrees, your Chihuahua’s temperature would be abnormal, but if your Chihuahua goes above 41 degrees, it’s already too much because its vital organs could start to fail.
Beware of Chihuahua hypothermia
When a Chihuahua is left in a cold environment for a long time, it loses control of its body temperature and can cause “hypothermia,” which is a lower than normal temperature. Be especially careful when you have a long answering machine in the winter.
When a Chihuahua has hypothermia, the first thing you should do is raise the room temperature. Then, warm the Chihuahua’s belly with a hot water bottle, and if it is conscious, give it some warm water to warm its internal organs.
If the body temperature does not return easily, the Chihuahua’s temperature may have dropped due to stress or other illnesses.
In addition, it is a very serious mistake to leave your Chihuahua outside for long periods of time during the cold winter months. Especially in the case of weak puppies and older dogs, it is a life-threatening problem. If you have a Chihuahua, be sure to keep it inside and try to protect it from the cold by wearing dog clothes when you go for a walk.
A good idea is also to put a heating pad on your Chihuahua if the temperatures in its environment are very cold. There are dog beds with a terminca pad.
A standard heating pad also functions fine, if you put a soft blanket over it. If you have controls, keep it at the lowest level of heat. If your Chihuahua is a puppy or has a tendency to chew on wires, a heating pad can be dangerous, but once Chihuahuas get past the teething stage, they won’t try to chew on it.