Nutritional Tips for Chihuahuas

by Ian Germann

April 24, 2023

in Uncategorized

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One of the most popular dog breeds in the world, chihuahuas are full of personality and make great companions for all types of owners. However, when it comes to their diet, Chihuahuas require specific nutritional considerations to ensure they stay healthy and happy. In this article, we’ll cover some essential nutritional tips for Chihuahuas.

Portion control

Chihuahuas are small dogs with small stomachs, which means they require smaller portions compared to larger breeds. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, which can cause a plethora of health problems such as joint issues, heart disease and diabetes. Usually no bigger than 6 pounds, overfeeding your chihuahua can happen quite easily if you’re used to feeding bigger dogs.

While the amount may differ based on age, weight and other factors, chihuahua owners should aim to feeding their adult chihuahua 1/4th to a half a cup of dog food per meal.

High-quality protein

Chihuahuas require high-quality protein to support their muscle development, overall health and small frames. Look for dog foods that list meat as the first ingredient, such as chicken, beef, or fish. Avoid dog food that contains fillers such as corn, wheat, and soy, as these are low-quality protein sources and can be difficult for Chihuahuas to digest.

Due to their high metabolism and small size, a chihuahua’s diet should consist of 20 to 30% of protein. Note that protein also helps chihuahua’s feel full and satisfied, preventing overeating and potential weight gain.

Limited carbohydrates

While carbohydrates are essential for providing energy, Chihuahuas require limited amounts compared to larger breeds. Excess carbohydrates can lead to weight gain and digestive issues. Look for dog foods that contain whole grains such as brown rice, quinoa, and oats. Avoid dog foods that contain high amounts of simple carbohydrates such as corn, wheat, and soy.

Furthermore, Chihuahuas are prone to dental issues such as tooth decay and gum disease. High-carbohydrate diets can contribute to these problems, as carbohydrates can stick to teeth and feed bacteria, leading to plaque buildup and eventually dental issues. By feeding a low-carb diet, Chihuahuas can maintain a healthy weight, prevent dental issues, and avoid potential digestive issues.

Essential fatty acids

Essential fatty acids such as omega-3 and omega-6 are vital for Chihuahuas’ coat and skin health. They help to maintain a shiny coat and healthy skin, preventing dryness and itching.

Secondly, fatty acids play a vital role in supporting a chihuahua’s immune system. They help to reduce inflammation in the body, which can help to prevent a wide range of health problems, including allergies, arthritis, and heart disease. Fatty acids are important for supporting a chihuahua’s cognitive function and overall brain health. They are crucial for the development and maintenance of healthy brain cells and can help to reduce the risk of cognitive decline in older chihuahuas.

Look for dog foods that contain natural sources of essential fatty acids such as fish oil, flax seed and sunflower oil.

For the perfect food to feed your chihuahua, Evanger’s has a wide variety of high-quality dog foods filled with unique recipes perfect for chihuahuas. Their wet food is perfect for portion control since they come in 100% recyclable and BPA free steel cans that are easy to measure, and since they’re proteins are locally sourced and high-quality, your chihuahua is less likely to overeat.

For those looking for a healthy kibble option, our Grain Free Whitefish And Sweet Potato Recipe With Salmon Meal For Dogs comes with fish oil to help support your chihuahua’s coat, brain health and immune system.

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