Have you ever wondered how many Chihuahua Puppies are in a litter? Chihuahuas are increasingly popular recently with their cute faces, miniaturized size, and spunky personalities. For prospective owners, it is crucial to understand this breed’s traits and know what to expect regarding litter size. Keep reading to find out the average number of Chihuahua puppies in a litter!
The Average Litter Size of Chihuahua Puppies
Chihuahuas are known for their curious and mischievous personalities. While they may be small, they make up for it in numbers; the average Chihuahua litter can range from three to six puppies. The number of puppies born in each litter can vary drastically depending on factors such as the age and health of the mother-to-be and her previous housing situation. If she is relatively young and healthy, she has a greater chance of producing a large litter than an aged and unhealthy female.
Compared to other breeds, Chihuahua puppies tend to be born in a smaller litter. Chihuahuas can also have a lower success rate when delivering puppies, as they are more prone to problems during the birthing process. Chihuahua puppies produced naturally are often relatively small and weak, so owners and breeders must take special care to ensure that all born Chihuahua puppies in a litter reach their full potential.
Factors Influencing Chihuahua Litter Size
Many factors can affect how many puppies your beloved Chihuahua will have. An insight into these aspects is key to understanding the process and helping your pup produce healthy litters.
🐶Age
One factor that affects litter size is a female chihuahua’s age when she has her first heat cycle. Generally speaking, a female will produce more offspring if her first heat cycle occurs before 6 months of her age. Additionally, if your female waits too long to have her first heat cycle (over 1-year-old), it can result in smaller litters or even no puppies at all!
🐶Size & Weight
Another factor that influences litter size is the size and weight of both parents. Generally, larger dogs tend to have larger litter than smaller ones, while heavier dogs tend to have fewer puppies than lighter ones. Also, the gene pool may become too tiny if you breed only two small chihuahuas together, increasing the likelihood of health problems and malformations in the offspring. Therefore, you should breed large and small chihuahuas together for healthier pups!
🐶Health & Nutrition
Breeders should ensure that female Chihuahuas are healthy before breeding, as any health conditions may cause complications during pregnancy or delivery of the puppies. Additionally, providing good nutrition before mating ensures that your female has enough nutrients to sustain her throughout the gestation and lactation periods which helps increase litter sizes naturally!
🐶Genetics
Some breeds are known to have larger litters than others, so if you know your pup’s ancestry, consider that when trying to predict how many puppies you might get in a single delivery. Furthermore, certain genetic diseases can lead to smaller-than-average litters or even miscarriages, so all breeding should be done responsibly and with the help of an experienced veterinarian.
🐶Environmental Factors
The temperature can hugely impact the female Chihuahua’s reproductive cycle and litter size, as puppies born in colder weather have a lower birth weight than those born during warmer months. Since exposure to high temperatures might reduce the average number of chihuahua puppies in a litter, it is crucial to consider Mother Nature when examining the prospective litter size.
Additionally, stress can also cause Chihuahua litters to be smaller than expected. If your Chihuahua feels anxious or scared, it could lead to complications during labor or even a miscarriage. Therefore, ensure that your Chihuahua feels safe and secure throughout her pregnancy.
Popular Breeds of Chihuahuas That Often Have Bigger Litters Than Average
Some Chihuahua breeds are more likely to have larger litters than others due to their genetic makeup and size. Knowing which breeds are most likely to have bigger litter can help you decide which type of Chihuahua is right for you.
🐕The Long Coat Chihuahua
The Long Coat Chihuahua is one of the most popular breeds due to its luxurious coat and sweet personality. These dogs usually have between five and seven puppies in each litter, making them ideal for those who want a big family of furry friends. This breed tends to have larger litter than average because the female’s body is better suited for carrying puppies. The Long Coat breed also has a high fertility rate, meaning the female will likely become pregnant with her first litter after only one breeding cycle.
🐕The Applehead Chihuahua
The Applehead Chihuahua is another popular breed that often produces larger litters than other breeds of Chihuahuas. This breed has a thicker, more muscular body than some different types, making it easier for them to carry more chihuahua puppies in a litter. This breed’s litter size is usually between 5 and 7 puppies.
🐕Toy Fox Terrier
The Toy Fox Terrier is a mix between a Smooth Coat and a Long Coat Chihuahua, making it an ideal choice if you’re looking for a dog that consistently produces a big litter of puppies. If you’re looking for a Chihuahua with a bigger-than-normal litter size, the Toy Fox Terrier is a great option. Litters typically range in size from 4 to 7 puppies. This breed is also known to be relatively healthy and robust, making them great family pets.
🐕Teacup Chihuahuas
Teacup Chihuahuas are smaller than the average breed but still tend to produce a larger litter. They usually have 4 or 5 puppies in each litter and are known for their calm and gentle nature. Teacup Chihuahuas also have a very small frame, meaning they can usually carry and deliver large litter without any medical complications.
How to Encourage a Healthy Size Litter in Chihuahuas
If you’re a proud Chihuahua parent, you know how vital having a fit and robust litter size is. It can be challenging to ensure that your pup’s litter will be healthy, as many factors can influence the outcome. Luckily, there are some best practices to follow regarding encouraging a healthy size of Chihuahua puppies in a litter. Let’s look at what you can do to give your pup the best chance at having an optimal litter size!
✔️Healthy Diet & Exercise for Moms-To-Be
Proper nutrition and exercise can help encourage a healthy litter size in your Chihuahua. Before mating, ensure your female Chihuahua gets all the nutrients she needs by maintaining a balanced diet full of lean proteins, complex carbohydrates, and essential fatty acids. Regular exercise before mating is also helpful in getting the best possible shape for pregnancy.
✔️Providing Proper Nutrition
Nutrition is one of the most critical elements when encouraging a healthy-sized litter in Chihuahuas. Give your pup access to high-quality food with plenty of nutrients so that its body can support pregnancy and lactation periods. Supplement its diet with vitamins and minerals specifically designed for pregnant dogs since this helps pups get all the essential nutrients needed during gestation. Additionally, provide the chihuahua mom with small meals throughout the day rather than one or two large meals since this will help keep her energy levels up while pregnant.
✔️Ensuring Adequate Exercise
Exercise helps keep the Chihuahua body healthy and strong, supporting a larger litter size if necessary. It’s best if you can take your chihuahua mom on walks at least twice a day—in addition to playing fetch or any other game that gets her moving—so that she can get some fresh air and stay active during her pregnancy. Additionally, if possible, try taking your pup out for some playdates with other dogs for socialization purposes so that she doesn’t become too stressed out leading up to delivery time.
✔️Mental Stimulation
Mental stimulation helps keep your pup relaxed and happy, leading to healthier pregnancies and litter overall. One way you can give your dog mental stimulation is by introducing new toys every once in a while so that it can stay energized and interested in playing. Additionally, puzzles or treat dispensers are great options since they require more than just looking at an object; they need problem-solving skills which can help keep your pup engaged throughout the day!
✔️Avoid Unnecessary Stress
It’s common knowledge that stress affects us physically and emotionally – this applies to dogs too! Excessive stress or anxiety before birthing can cause disruption or even death in puppies due to hormonal disturbances or poor nutrition while they are in utero. To avoid potential health issues, limit exposure to unfamiliar people and animals before mating and throughout pregnancy. Additionally, ensure your pup has plenty of rest during pregnancy to stay relaxed and comfortable.
✔️Find an Experienced Breeder
If possible, it’s always best practice to find an experienced breeder who specializes in breeding Chihuahuas. An experienced breeder will have years of experience helping litters come into the world safely and healthily. They’ll also be able to offer advice on how best to care for your pup before conception and throughout her pregnancy. Do your research beforehand to know exactly what kind of breeding program they run before making decisions about trusting them with your pup’s well-being!
Preparation for Chihuahua Puppy Litter
Chihuahuas typically give birth anywhere from 49-65 days after mating and usually deliver between 3-6 puppies per litter. Chihuahua puppies tend to be very fragile and require special care during the first few weeks of life. Prepare your Chihuahua before she gives birth by providing her with a safe and comfortable birthing area that is warm, quiet, and well-ventilated.
▶Necessary Supplies
Having the necessary supplies on hand is critical when it comes to caring for your Chihuahua and her litter. Before delivery, ensure you have plenty of towels, heating pads, thermometers, scissors, and other essential items to provide the best care for your Chihuahua. Additionally, prepare enough puppy formula and bottles just in case the mother Chihuahua cannot nurse her puppies.
▶The Whelping Box
A whelping box is essential for providing your new puppies with a safe space after birth. The whelping box should be large enough that your Chihuahua can comfortably move around in it but small enough that she can easily keep track of all her pups. It should also have low sides so puppies can easily climb in and out when necessary. Line the bottom with blankets or towels — these will help keep your puppies warm and comfortable during their first few weeks of life!
▶Veterinary Care
Provide adequate veterinary care for your Chihuahua before she gives birth and her entire litter afterward. Schedule regular check-ups with your vet leading up to delivery so they can monitor her health. After delivery, bring all puppies to the vet for exams within their first week to immediately rule out potential health issues. You should also vaccinate them against common canine diseases such as parvovirus or distemper — this will help ensure they stay healthy throughout their lives! Additionally, deworm them from birth until at least 8 weeks old (or longer if your vet recommends).
Difficulties That May Arise from Smaller Litters of Puppies
Smaller litters often have higher rates of health issues than larger litters. This is because they may not get the same nutrition as puppies in a bigger litter, leading to weak immune systems and other problems. Additionally, smaller puppies might not be able to compete for food as well as their larger siblings, leading to malnutrition or injury from competing for it too hard.
Moreover, puppies in a small litter are more susceptible to stress due to their lack of companionship and support from siblings. As such, owners must provide extra attention and love, so the pups feel secure in their environment. Watch out for signs of stress, such as excessive barking, whining, or hiding away from other people or animals. If you notice these behaviors, try providing extra comfort and reassurance by talking softly or petting your pup gently.
In addition to providing emotional comfort, puppies from small litters must get plenty of socialization opportunities with humans and other animals to help them become confident adults later in life. Socializing them early can help prevent behavior issues from developing later on down the line, so it’s best not to wait until their adult years before introducing them to new environments or situations with other animals or people.
Early Care to Maximize the Health and Well-Being of Your Chihuahua Puppies
Owning a Chihuahua pup is a major responsibility, and taking care of them early in their lives can help them grow into healthy, happy adult dogs.
📌Nutrition
Your Chihuahua puppies need to get adequate nutrition to develop properly. Even when they are young, you want to ensure that their diet contains all the vitamins and minerals necessary for healthy bone and muscle growth. Invest in high-quality puppy food designed to meet their specific nutritional requirements. Also, remember that small breeds like Chihuahuas require more calories per day than large breeds, so make sure their diet is adjusted accordingly.
📌Preventive Healthcare
From the time they are born, your Chihuahua puppies must continue receiving preventative care until adulthood. This includes getting all of their vaccinations on time and regular check-ups with a veterinarian familiar with the breed’s unique needs. Preventive care also includes regular dental care, such as brushing their teeth once or twice a week and trimming their nails every two weeks.
📌Creating a Safe Environment
Chihuahuas are small dogs with notable personalities, so providing them with ample opportunities for physical activity is essential for their health and well-being. You’ll want to ensure their environment is safe by dog-proofing your home before bringing them in—this means checking for potential hazards like exposed wiring or loose objects that could be swallowed or chewed on if left unattended.
📌Exercise
Chihuahuas are known for being energetic little dogs with lots of personalities — but they don’t need much exercise. A few short daily walks should be enough to keep them healthy and happy. However, only take them out when it is safe outside (e.g., not too hot or cold). Also, keep an eye on your pup while outside as they can easily wander off due to their small size — so be sure to have them leashed at all times when outdoors!
📌Socialization
Pay attention to the importance of socializing your pup, which is a crucial aspect of early care. Taking time out each day (or several days a week) can help ensure your puppy gets used to different people and environments while still young. It would be easier for them to meet new people or visit unfamiliar places later in life. It will also help reduce anxiety and fear as they grow up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How many puppies are ideal in a single birth?
A healthy litter size for Chihuahuas is typically between 2 and 4 puppies. Any more than that, and the puppies may not get enough nutrition or space, which can lead to health issues. Additionally, larger litters increase the risk of stillbirths or miscarriages in small dog breeds like Chihuahuas. Therefore, it is best to stick with smaller litters if you want to breed a Chihuahua.
Q. Are larger litters in Chihuahuas considered a desirable trait?
Although it is generally preferred to have 2 or 4 Chihuahua puppies in a litter, larger litter does happen in the breed. On the surface, this might seem desirable as more puppies mean more potential money for the breeder. While it’s true that some mothers can handle the stress of birthing a large litter without suffering any ill effects, it’s important to remember that having a lot of puppies poses risks for both the mother Chihuahua and her offspring. This can cause concern among vets as they may not be able to provide adequate healthcare so that each puppy gets what they need to thrive. When it comes down to it, larger litters might not be desirable for Chihuahuas, and those who love them should endeavor to ensure their health and safety regardless of how many puppies come into the world.
Q. Can Chihuahua litter size be predicted or controlled?
While predicting the exact size of chihuahua puppies in a litter can be difficult to ascertain, certain factors will influence the number of puppies born. The dam’s physical health and age significantly impact litter size — large females with good vitality may give birth to more puppies than smaller females or senior dogs. In addition, studies have shown that providing better nutrition before and during pregnancy results in a larger litter. If controlling litter size is desired, breeders should speak to their veterinarian regarding the best options for spay surgery — this can significantly reduce potential complications and increase the chance that all puppies survive the birthing process.
Q. Can over-breeding impact the size of a Chihuahua litter?
Yes. Overbreeding can lead to decreased litter sizes due to in-breeding and poor-quality nutrition. The result is that Chihuahuas usually only produce a handful, typically 3-5 puppies, instead of larger litters which are more common in some breeds. Breeding responsibly is essential to ensuring the health and happiness of all animals involved, especially in cases where the litter size is small.
Q. Is it probable that a chihuahua can only have one puppy in a litter?
It is technically possible for a Chihuahua to have only one puppy in a litter, although single-puppy litters are not very common. The average litter size of a Chihuahua is approximately two to three puppies, but some healthy female Chihuahuas can become pregnant and give birth to a single pup. In most cases, however, if only one puppy is born, it may indicate inadequate care during pregnancy or nutritional deficiencies. It might be wise to take the mother and the puppy to the vet just to be safe.
Q. How many times can I breed my Chihuahua in a year?
Breeding a Chihuahua more than once or twice a year is generally not recommended. Overbreeding can increase the risk of complications during pregnancy and birth and weaken the dam’s health over time. Additionally, breeding too frequently can lead to inbreeding, increasing the likelihood of genetic disorders.
Moreover, consider the dam’s age and overall health, as older dogs or dogs in poor health may not be able to handle frequent breeding. A veterinary evaluation before each breeding can help determine if the dam is healthy enough to take another pregnancy.
Final Words
No matter what size your Chihuahua’s litter is – big or small – caring for each puppy requires dedication and love. Observe ethical breeding procedures to protect the mother and her puppies’ health and safety. By understanding these variables and providing appropriate care, you can help to ensure a successful and healthy litter of Chihuahua puppies.
I Love Chihuahua
Here at ILoveChihuahua, we share our personal experiences as owners of this feisty breed. We talk about recommended methods, dog supplies picks, and advice on common Chihuahua problems. Our goal is to promote responsible dog ownership, so there would be fewer Chihuahuas in shelters.
FAQs
How many puppies are in a Chihuahua litter? ›
On average, a Chihuahua will give birth to three puppies in a single litter. However, some Chihuahuas can give birth to only one puppy. So, when it comes to the average Chihuahua litter size, you can expect anything from one to three puppies per litter.
What is the largest Chihuahua litter? ›A Kansas chihuahua recently gave birth to 11 puppies. The Olathe dog gave birth to the puppies last week on National Puppy Day. “One came out, one more came out – two, three and four more came out,” said Josie Brown, who is fostering the puppies. “She was still round and obviously there were more puppies in there.”
What is the maximum puppy for a Chihuahua? ›Chihuahuas can have about 1 to 3 puppies on average the first time around or in their first litter. When Chihuahuas get older, they may have larger litters of up to 5 to 6 puppies. So the general rule is: The younger the Chihuahua when she is having her first litter, the smaller the litter size.
What 2 dog breeds make a Chihuahua? ›While many historians believe the Chihuahua is a descendant of the Techichi, others believe it's a cross between the Techichi and a small hairless dog known as the Chinese Crested.
How many puppies is a good litter? ›A normal litter size can range from 1 to 12 puppies, with 5-6 puppies being average across all dogs. But just as every breed of dog differs by size, function, and personality, they also differ when it comes to litter size, according to AKC registration data.
Can Chihuahuas give birth naturally? ›Due to their tiny size, Chis often have high-risk pregnancies and end up giving birth via a cesarean section. And while Chihuahuas can deliver puppies on their own, you should know what to expect from your dog's pregnancy so you can help in a case of emergency.
How long is a Chihuahua lifespan? › How long is a Chihuahua pregnant for? ›A normal dog gestation period (or pregnancy) is 63 to 65 days, regardless of the size or breed of the dog. For example, a Chihuahua is pregnant for the same amount of time as a Rottweiler. Though how long dogs are pregnant is shorter than humans, like humans, dogs also have three trimesters.
What is the lifespan of a purebred Chihuahua? ›The average Chihuahua lifespan was 8.2 years. Females (10.2 years) generally outlived males (6.9 years). The most common causes of Chihuahua deaths were heart disease (18.8%), lower respiratory tract disorder 16.3% and traumatic injury (13.8%).
What is the rarest Chihuahua? ›What Is The Rarest Chihuahua Color? There are a few colors that you won't come across very often in the Chihuahua, including merle, blue, and chocolate blue. All these, however, are more common than a pure white Chihuahua. The only way to get a snow-white puppy is to breed two white parents.
How smart is a Chihuahua? ›
Chihuahuas are extremely intelligent and are quick learners. They are eager to please and respond well to positive training methods. Make training fun and have plenty of treats on hand. They can successfully compete in dog sports, like agility and obedience trials.
What does owning a Chihuahua say about you? ›If you've chosen a Chihuahua to be your canine companion, you're likely smart, accepting and open to new experiences. And while people might think you're a bit high-maintenance, you're actually quite easy to be around, just like your little pooch!
What is the smallest Chihuahua ever? ›Ranging in size from 0.9-2.7 kg, the Chihuahua is the world's tiniest breed of dog. The smallest dog in history was a Chihuahua named Miracle Milly - she was 3.8 inches tall and weighed less than 0.5 kg.
How big is a purebred Chihuahua? ›Chihuahuas are the smallest dogs in the world.
They weigh as little as two pounds and seldom are more than six pounds (1 to 3 kilograms). They stand only about five inches high.
Selecting (or having the breeder select) the puppy who is neither first or last when called, is neither shy nor a bully with littermates, and is neither outstanding or underwhelming in the litter will often be the best match for a happy family: easy to train, travel with, manage, and adapt to your daily life.
Is it better to have 2 puppies from the same litter? ›Professional trainers like myself recommend against bringing home two puppies around the same age, let alone two from the same litter. While this sounds like a good plan in theory, in practice it often causes quite a bit of heartache and potentially some serious aggression trouble.
Do dogs recognize their birth mother? ›The results of these two experiments clearly show that young puppies recognize their own mother and littermates, and it also shows that this recognition is based upon scent cues.
What to do after a Chihuahua gives birth? ›After the birthing process, clean up the mother as much as possible without upsetting her using a warm water and washcloth. Do not use any soaps or disinfectants unless instructed to by your veterinarian. Remove any soiled newspaper or bedding from her whelping box.
Do Chihuahuas know your pregnant? ›“Your dog is smart enough to pick up on these changes during pregnancy, both in a physical way — which is how your body will be changing, your stomach, your smell — and in an emotional way, such as your feelings and your mood,” she says.
What is the leading cause of death in Chihuahuas? ›Heart failure is a leading cause of death of Chihuahuas in their golden years, and 75% of the heart disease is caused by valve deterioration. A valve that regulates blood flow slowly becomes deformed so that it no longer closes tightly. Blood then leaks back around the valve and strains the heart.
Do Chihuahuas attach to one person? ›
They are widely known to gravitate toward one person and reject new people, but that may be because dogs are more inclined to like those that are more in sync with their own personality. For example, high energy dogs are more likely to bond with a high energy person.
What is the oldest known Chihuahua? ›According to Guinness World Records, Spike, a 23-year-old chihuahua mix, has recently been given the title of the world's oldest living dog. A spokesperson for Guinness said Spike was certified in December 2022 to have been born at least 23 years ago and weighs about 13 pounds.
How long do Chihuahuas bleed after birth? ›A reddish-brown mucous vaginal discharge after whelping is normal for about three weeks. If the discharge looks like pus, becomes bright red, is of a large amount or lasts longer than three weeks, call the doctor.
Does Chihuahua need C section? ›Considering that Chihuahua dogs are at risk for dystocia, elective Caesarean sections are very often performed in this breed for the health of mothers and puppies.
What happens if a Chihuahua gets pregnant by a bigger dog? ›What happens if a Chihuahua gets pregnant by a bigger dog? Chihuahuas should only mate with dogs of a similar size – which often limits their possibilities to other Chihuahuas and toy-sized dogs. If they mate with larger dogs, they are prone to injury during the mating process and afterward.
How much is a pure Chihuahua worth? ›Chihuahuas are pretty popular, so it isn't difficult to find breeders that specialize in them. In general, the average professional breeder sells their puppies for about $800. Specialized puppies, like “teacup” Chihuahuas, usually cost extra. You can typically find puppies in most areas for around $375 – $2,420.
Do Chihuahuas like to be held? ›Known for their playful, affectionate, and heart-melting looks, the Chihuahuas love to cuddle with their beloved humans. They enjoy settling down in their owner's lap. As they are tiny in size, cuddling and snuggling provide them warmth and comfort, especially in cold climates.
What is the 1 rarest dog in the world? ›Norwegian Lundehund
Dating back to the Ice Age, the Norwegian Lundehund is recognised as one of the rarest dog breeds on the planet due to its unique characteristics, which aren't shared by any other breed.
What is a group of chihuahuas called? Well actually it's just called a pack because that's what a group of dogs is! But we think here at Chi Rescue HQ that these are a very special breed and so deserve their own name. I present this a “POWOW OF CHIHUAHUAS” can you come up with something better?
How many words can a Chihuahua understand? ›They can also understand more than 150 words and intentionally deceive other dogs and people to get treats, according to psychologist and leading canine researcher Stanley Coren, PhD, of the University of British Columbia.
What are Chihuahuas weaknesses? ›
Prone to health issues
As with many purebred pups, Chihuahuas are prone to some breed-specific health issues. These can include epilepsy, mitral valve disease, and patella luxation. If you are getting your puppy from a breeder, they should be testing the health of both parents and the puppies as appropriate.
Chihuahuas can understand about 160 spoken words.
They are also amazing at understanding the body language of the owner and react, appearing excited when the owners are pleased with them or contrite when they have done something not approved of.
Yes, dogs can sense when we are sad. They respond to sadness in different ways and you'll be glad that you have a furry friend who is there as your crying shoulder. Studies have revealed that owning a dog boosts our happy hormones.
Why do Chihuahuas ignore you? ›The reasons your dog may not be listening might be medical in nature, but most often, if your dog will not come to you or ignores you completely, it is because of a training or a behavioral issue. Once you feel you have ruled out potential illness, training and conditioning your dog will improve his recall ability.
Why do Chihuahuas stare at me? ›Just as humans stare into the eyes of someone they adore, dogs will stare at their owners to express affection. In fact, mutual staring between humans and dogs releases oxytocin, known as the love hormone. This chemical plays an important role in bonding and boosts feelings of love and trust.
How old can a Chihuahua get pregnant? ›Health to both dam and pups must be the first and more important goal. Age - The proper age to start breeding a Chihuahua female is 2 years minimum with 3 years old being preferred. Some sources will state 1 or 1.5 years, however at that young age, the Chi is not yet fully grown.
How long is a Chihuahua in labor? ›Labour normally lasts 3-12 hours, and happens in three stages. The cervix and uterus prepare for delivery with smaller contractions that may not be visible to you. Your dog's vulva will begin to swell in preparation for delivery.
Is it OK for a 1 year old dog to get pregnant? ›Even though most dogs can get pregnant between six and twelve months, this doesn't mean that it's best for the dog. The dog must be matured before getting pregnant and breeding, as it can lead to some behavioral or physical problems. Your dog should have a chance to grow up.
What happens if a 1 year old dog gets pregnant? ›Breeding and getting your dog pregnant on her first heat can also pose health risks for both your dog and her pups, like bad genes being passed on, and behavioral changes like aggression.
Do dogs feel pain when giving birth? ›In the first stage of labour the body is getting ready to start passing out puppies. Your dog's uterus will be causing some discomfort by contracting although you won't be able to see it. The first stage usually lasts for 6-12 hours.
How long does it take for a Chihuahua to push a puppy out? ›
Once your dog is ready to have her puppies, she will begin having strong contractions and feel the need to strain. The first puppy often takes the longest to be born; if contractions are weak it might take between two-four hours, but if contractions are strong, they should come within 20-30 minutes.