Don't let the size fool you — Chihuahuas are one of the longest-lived dog breeds, and that long life means more years of dental cleanings, more chances for knee or heart issues to appear, and more total lifetime veterinary spend than their size suggests. Here's what Canadian owners should plan for.
Common Chihuahua health issues
| Condition | How common | Typical treatment cost (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| Dental disease (tiny crowded jaw) | Very common — the defining ongoing cost | Moderate per cleaning, recurring; extractions common |
| Patellar luxation | Very common in the breed | Moderate to high if surgical |
| Heart disease (mitral valve) | Common in later life | Lifelong medication; can escalate |
| Tracheal collapse | Notable in toy breeds | Moderate to high; chronic management |
| Hydrocephalus | Breed-associated, especially apple-head type | High — neurological condition |
| Hypoglycemia (especially puppies) | Common in very small/young dogs | Low to moderate; emergency in acute cases |
| Luxating patella–related arthritis | Common with age | Moderate ongoing |
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Our Recommendation
For a Chihuahua, comprehensive coverage with a wellness add-on, enrolled early, is the smart structure. The wellness portion offsets the frequent dental care; the comprehensive base catches knee surgery, heart management, and the rarer neurological issues. Because Chihuahuas live so long, a policy started in puppyhood typically delivers value over a 15-year-plus horizon.
Frequently asked questions
Are Chihuahuas cheap to insure?
Premiums are usually low to moderate because of their tiny size, but don't mistake that for low lifetime cost — their longevity and dental needs mean the policy gets used regularly over many years.
Why is dental care such a big deal for Chihuahuas?
They have a normal number of teeth packed into the smallest of jaws, which crowds teeth and traps debris. Periodontal disease is nearly universal without regular care, and untreated dental disease in toy breeds is linked to heart problems.
What is a luxating patella?
It's a kneecap that slips out of position. It's extremely common in Chihuahuas and other toy breeds. Mild cases are managed conservatively; more severe grades need surgery, which is where comprehensive coverage matters.
Does the long lifespan change the insurance decision?
Yes — a 16-year lifespan means more years of premiums but also far more opportunity for the policy to pay out on dental, knee, and age-related heart conditions. Early enrolment, before anything is documented, is key.