Chihuahua Puppy Head Wobbles

by Deborah
(Alabama)

2 of my 4 week old puppies are unsteady on their feet and one holds its head towards the left and has slight unsteady feet. The smallest one wobbles its head and is unsteady on its feet.

I suspect blindness and other possible problem with coordination. Will a blind puppy have this type of problem if it is blind?

Vet said after the all 6 were wormed that it was too soon to tell. Said it could be possible blindness or something like a nerve disorder.

Would a puppy that is blind have coordination problems such as what I described?

I don't want to put the puppies down. I already have about 8 more Chihuahua's that are all healthy and content. I don't know what to do, but know I don't want to destroy them. Want to find a special home for them that will allow them one on one. I have too many already and fear i will not be able to give both of the the amount of training and care they are going to be in need of.




Hi Deborah
I'm sorry to hear you're having problems with your puppies, I know how difficult a situation than can be.

I'm not sure about the blindness aspect, and unless their actual eyes seem to be cloudy, unfocused etc., I wouldn't assume that it's their sight that is the problem just yet.

Tiny breeds like chihuahuas are prone to some neurological problems such as hydrocephalus, and they can also suffer from something called 'atlantoaxial instability'. Basically this is a malformation of neck vertabrae which cause an instability in the neck and spinal column, causing the head to 'wobble'. In more severe cases, weakness in the legs or paralyis can occur. It sounds to me as this may be what is causing your puppy's problems.

I am not a vet though, and you need your own veterinarian to make the diagnosis. There are various treatment option for this condition including steroid treatment, neck braces or surgery.

Whatever the issues these puppies face, I think with patience and persistence you should be able to find loving homes for them with people who are willing to give them the extra care and attention they need. I understand how difficult the thought of euthanizing them is, and unless your vet says that their problems are so severe as to seriously affect their quality of life, or cause them horrible pain, I think you're right to explore the other options. Also, don't be afraid to get a second opinion from another vet if your own vet can't make a diagnosis or give you the information you need to take care of these little guys.

Best of luck.