The Best Dog Food for Chihuahuas
Chihuahuas are the world’s tiniest dog breed. They do, however, have enormous personalities. Their appetites are also very big, so their owners need to be careful about what they eat. That’s why we looked into the most OK dog food for Chihuahuas.
Quick Picks: The Best Dog Food for Chihuahuas
Product Name | Product Image | Store |
|---|---|---|
 |  | |
 | | |
 | | |
 | |
The 10 Best Dog Foods for Chihuahuas
1. Purina Pro Dry Dog Food
Purina Pro Plan is good food for your Chihuahua because it is made with all-natural ingredients. It is also explicitly formulated for small breeds and their dietary needs. It means that your Chi will have a complete and balanced diet. Purina Pro Plan also does not have any fillers or preservatives. It is rich in protein and Omega-6, which helps keep your dog’s fur healthy and shiny.
Some dogs have stomachs that are sensitive to rich food. But for most dogs, Purina Pro Plan 17010 Adult Dog Food is a good brand of dry dog food to feed your Chihuahua.
Pros
Cons
2. Rachael Ray Little Bites Dry Dog
Nutrish Little Bites Dry Dog Food by Rachael Ray is prepared with farm-raised chicken and provides a lean protein source ideal for toy breeds like Chihuahuas. This brand contains antioxidants that can help your dog’s brain function. The kibbles are crispy and bite-sized, making it easy for your Chihuahua to eat.
Rachel Ray Nutrish is a good, affordable option for small dog food brands. It does contain corn and soy, which some dogs may not be able to eat. If your dog can handle grains, this is the best food for Chihuahuas that you can find for the money.
Pros
Cons
3. The Farmer’s Dog Fresh Dog Food
The Farmer’s Dog is a good food product for your Chihuahua that you can get delivered to your house. The food has ingredients that are fit for human consumption and is a healthy option for dog owners. When you sign up for a subscription, the company will send food customized to your dog’s breed, weight, and activity level. This way, you can be positive that your dog is getting enough nutrition.
It is a new food option for your dog, so you’ll need to ensure it stays fresh. It means you’ll need more freezer space to keep it. The Farmer’s Dog is significantly more expensive than other subscription services for fresh dog food. Still, we think it’s worth it because the company takes care to meet your dog’s unique requirements.
Pros
Cons
4. Royal Canin Chihuahua Dog Food
The Royal Canin Chihuahua Puppy Dry Dog Food is the same as the adult Chihuahua food. Nonetheless, it is explicitly designed for Chihuahua puppies. This brand contains nutrients and vitamins that will help your Chi puppy thrive. Because Royal Canin Chihuahua Puppy kibble is small, your puppy can safely consume it. Royal Canin Chihuahua Puppy kibble is small, so your puppy can safely eat it. The puppy version of this brand likewise starts with brown rice. This kibble also contains by-products and fillers, which harm a puppy’s diet.
The Royal Canin 513825 Chihuahua Puppy Dry Dog Food is higher than the price of competing brands. A young Chihuahua puppy full of energy may struggle with this issue. If you’re looking for kibble of better value and higher quality, we suggest looking into other brands first.
Pros
Cons
5. Hill’s Science Dry Dog Food
Science Diet by Hill’s Food for Dry Dogs is a high-quality dog food designed for little dogs with sensitive stomachs. The food contains Vitamin E and Omega-6 to help keep your dog’s coat and healthy skin, but it may cause some dogs to have moderately itchy skin. The kibble size is small, making it suitable for all breeds of toy and small dogs. Hill’s Science Diet is a famous brand of dog food, but some people believe that their recipe contains soy and a preservative, which makes their claims a bit large. Another problem is that most dogs dislike Hill’s Science Diet, so we recommend trying other brands first
Pros
Cons
6. Royal Canin Chihuahua Dog Food
Suppose you are looking for dry dog food specific to a particular breed. In that case, the Royal Canin Chihuahua Dry Dog Food might be a good option. This brand is designed for adult and senior dogs, and it is easy to chew when it is dry and rehydrates easily. Additionally, it has a flavor that most dogs like. Still, because Chihuahuas can be fussy eaters, this may not be the ideal option for them.
The issue with this brand is that it is not as clean and healthful as other brands, as it contains rice as the first ingredient rather than a meat protein. It also includes by-products and fillers like corn and wheat, which are undesirable for dogs with dietary sensitivities. Royal Canin has a premium price tag. Therefore it may be more expensive than other brands.
Pros
Cons
7. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Dog Food
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Dog Food is a well-known premium dog food brand. It has many different recipes and selections, all made with natural ingredients. Your Chihuahua will love the great taste of this food, but you should be aware that some dogs only eat the bigger flavored kibbles. It means your Chihuahua won’t get a balanced diet if they only eat the smaller “life bit” kibbles.
This brand of food has a stronger odor than most others. The larger flavored kibbles are also larger and may be difficult for your Chi to chew on.
Pros
Cons
8. Nutro Essentials Dry Dog Food
Nutro Wholesome Essential Dry Dog Food is small-breed food made with farm-raised chicken. This dog food has no fillers or preservatives, but the quality tends to be more inconsistent than higher-quality brands. The issue with Nutro is that the smell is strong and overbearing, and it appears to remain in your dog’s coat for hours afterward. It’s also made with a rich recipe, which may give your Chi an upset stomach.
Pros
Cons
9. Halo Natural Dry Dog Food
Halo Dog Food is made with natural ingredients, including whole chicken. It is small and dense with nutrients, which is easy for your Chihuahua to eat. However, many dogs do not like the flavor and will not eat it. This dog food recipe contains a preservative, which makes it less natural than it claims to be. It also costs more than other premium brands. Nonetheless, it falls short of the excellent quality and taste of more popular brands.
Pros
Cons
10. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Dog Food
Wellness Natural Complete Health Dog Food is a premium, all-natural brand with a lean, protein-rich formula to fulfill your Chihuahua’s nutritional demands. This brand contains no fillers or preservatives. However, the quality is uneven and inferior to that of other brands. However, the rich flavor of Wellness Natural Dog Food may induce indigestion, especially in dogs with delicate stomachs. Another difficulty was that most dogs disliked the taste, with some refusing to eat it. Finally, the odor is intense and appears to cling to your dog despite appropriate grooming.
Pros
Cons
Best Dog Foods for Chihuahuas
The Chihuahua is the smallest dog breed. One of the oldest breeds is this one. This breed is from Mexico. People think that the Chihuahua comes from a different breed called the Techichi. But no one knows for sure where this breed comes from.
Some ancient artifacts, like handmade pottery from 300BC, have pictures of dogs. Some people think that this means that the Chihuahua breed is very old.
The Chihuahua is a breed of dog that is known for its energy and personality. They are often described as having the energy and character of a much larger dog but in a tiny body. Toy breeds include the Chihuahua, which is why it is so small that an adult Chihuahua will not exceed 5 inches in height and will not weigh more than 6 pounds.
These dogs are very active and need lots of exercises, but their needs are lower than you might think. They need human interaction and playtime. They are also intelligent dogs – sometimes, they can be too bright, leading to stubbornness or willfulness. That’s why it’s important to socialize and train them early to prevent any problem behaviors from developing.
Despite their small size, Chihuahuas can be a difficult breed to care for. These dogs necessitate a lot of attention and training. They also have some health problems that you need to be aware of. Modifications to one’s diet and prescribed medicine may alleviate some health issues. Still, you should consult your veterinarian about what is best for your dog.
Your Chihuahua needs a lot of energy to support his fast metabolism. You can accomplish this by ensuring that he receives the appropriate nutrients correctly. Giving him a small-breed or toy-breed formula is an excellent way to achieve this. Continue reading to learn more about the nutritional requirements for Chihuahuas and to get recommendations for quality dog food brands for this breed.
The Best Diet For Chihuahua Puppy, Adult, And Senior Dogs
These toy breeds are the most popular. Chihuahuas are one of these breeds. They are small, but they are very active and intelligent. They need your time, attention, and a healthy diet to grow and stay fit.
Essential Considerations for All Life Stages
Chihuahuas usually weigh around 6 pounds when they are adults. It means that they don’t need a lot of food. Choosing dog food of good quality is crucial to provide your pet with the essential nutrients they require. Look for foods with a lot of animal protein and trim fat from healthy sources. Puppies will need more protein and fat for growth than adults.
To get carbohydrates, you should use products with digestible carbs and fiber. You will receive a well-balanced combination of vital vitamins and minerals, including calcium and phosphorus for healthy bones, and vitamin E to support the immune system.
Like other toy breeds, Chihuahuas can be prone to health issues and dietary challenges. They have a speedy metabolism, making them susceptible to hypoglycemia. It would help if you offered them multiple meals daily to keep their energy levels steady. You should also avoid overfeeding them because they can gain weight quickly and become obese if you’re not careful.
Some common health problems are eye, dental, joint, and heart problems. Older individuals should consume meals and supplements containing glucosamine, chondroitin, taurine, beta-carotene, and vitamin A to maintain their body’s systems.
Daily Calorie Requirements
Chihuahuas have different caloric needs as they grow older. Puppy food is good for puppies, and adult food is good for adult Chihuahuas so they can get the right balance of nutrients.
Puppies: Chihuahuas need about 50 calories per pound to power their growth and everyday activity.
Adults: Adults who engage in the typical activity require about 35–40 calories per pound.
Seniors: Your dog will begin to slow down around the age of eight years. The need for energy in a 120-pound dog is roughly 30 calories per pound of body weight.
Feeding Quantity & Frequency
Puppies: Start newly weaned puppies by giving them 85% wet food. Transition to all kibbles by 12 weeks or three months old. Puppies this age should have four evenly-spaced meals per day. You can reduce the number of feedings for infants between the ages of three and six months to three per day. See the feeding suggestions on the product label to determine how much to feed your dog.
Adults: Chihuahuas mature after about a year. Now is the time to gradually transition to adult food. Your dog will typically consume 1/4 to 1/2 cups twice per day. The recommended portion size for your dog can be found by reading the package instructions.
Seniors: For senior dogs, you can still feed them twice a day. But you should switch to old dog food for their age. Follow the package directions for how much food to give them each time.
The Right Nutrition For Common Health Issues In Chihuahuas
Some health conditions are more common in Chihuahuas than in other dog breeds. It doesn’t mean that your dog will get these conditions. Still, it does mean that Chihuahuas have a higher chance of getting them than other breeds.
Chihuahuas can get sick, but there are ways to help prevent this. You can reduce their chances of getting sick by feeding them the proper nutrients. Choosing dog food of good quality is crucial to provide your pet with the essential nutrients they require.
If you see your dog may be suffering from one of these ailments, take him to the vet. You should also follow these dietary recommendations even if your dog is healthy. It might help prevent future problems. Before altering your dog’s diet, speak with your vet.
Eye Problems
Chihuahuas are susceptible to two eye diseases that can result in blindness. Glaucoma is an eye disease that affects the optic nerve. It causes a lot of pain, and the eyes may look bulging. Progressive retinal atrophy is an eye disease where the photoreceptors in the eye slowly die.
A varied diet and high-quality food should be provided to promote good vision. You can also feed a fresh or raw food diet to promote good ideas and healing. The following are essential ingredients to look for:
Beta-carotene-rich foods include orange vegetables such as carrots and pumpkin.
Blueberries and other foods high in antioxidants
Green vegetables high in phytonutrients, such as broccoli and kale
Sardines and other oily fish are rich in omega fatty acids. It is necessary to avoid eating foods that are bad for your eyes. For example, don’t eat foods high in carbs, artificial ingredients, or other unhealthy things. These foods can make your eyes weepy and crusty and trigger allergic reactions.
Joint Health
Chihuahuas can suffer from several hereditary joint diseases as a toy breed:
The knee joint is too shallow in people with luxating patella, and the kneecap is prone to popping out of the joint socket.
Hip dysplasia and Legg-Calve-Perthes disease are both degenerative diseases that affect the hips.
If your dog has a musculoskeletal system disease, its weight and muscle mass are essential. You should provide them with a diet high in protein and digestible carbohydrates. It will help to maintain their muscle mass and avoid obesity.
For strong bones, look for formulas that contain a well-balanced combination of calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium. These nutrients can be found in foods like glucosamine and chondroitin, which support the health and repair of cartilage. If your dog has a common illness, you can feed them omega fatty acid-rich foods like flaxseed, salmon, tuna, and fish oil. These are the nutrients that are required to reduce inflammation.
Intervertebral Disc Disease
Chihuahuas are one of the dog breeds that are more likely to develop Intervertebral Disc Disease. It is a condition where a spinal cord disc may bulge or rupture, causing pain, limb weakness, or paralysis.
If your dog has IVDD, there are many things you can do to help keep them healthy. It includes keeping them on a high-protein, low-fat diet with moderate carbs. You can also give them products that contain glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega fatty acids, which can help support their joints and manage inflammation.
Heart Disease
Chihuahuas’ most common cardiac issues include:
Pulmonic Stenosis – When the pulmonary artery narrows as it leaves the right ventricle, this can cause someone to become intolerant of exercise or may even lead to heart failure, congestive
Mitral Valve Syndrome– The edges of the heart’s valves can degenerate and can cause a heart murmur and potential congestive heart failure.
When considering heart-friendly foods:
Your four-footed friend’s health is essential to you, so start with a product that helps maintain their weight and heart health.
Pick protein-dense meal plans from high-quality, animal-based sources to give your body the nutrients it needs for healthy muscle mass.
You can help prevent fluid retention by looking for food that is low in salt or has restricted sodium levels.
Choose goods that contain supplements to promote heart health.
a. Omega 3 fatty acids
b. Taurine
c. Q10 CoenzymeHypoglycemia
Due to their rapid metabolism, chihuahuas are susceptible to low blood sugar. It can make them act dizzy or disoriented or make them very sleepy even when they’re playing.
If your dog shows signs of hypoglycemia, it is essential to take immediate action and give them some food. Try feeding them a regular meal. You can offer them honey or corn syrup if they are not interested in food. If they are too weak to help themselves, rub the honey or syrup on their gums or the roof of their mouth. Feed them a regular meal as soon as they start to feel better. Call your veterinarian immediately to rule out underlying diseases for a checkup.
To help prevent your dog from having episodes of hypoglycemia, feed them high-quality food that is rich in protein and has real meat. It will help to keep their blood sugar levels stable. It would help if you also considered providing them more often throughout the day. It will help to give them more consistent energy instead of a few large spikes.
Canine Epilepsy
Another condition that can affect Chihuahuas is epilepsy. Dogs with epilepsy have seizures that happen over and over again. If your dog has seizures, you must work with your veterinarian to give your dog anti-seizure medications.
If you’re giving your Chihuahua epilepsy medication:
Feed your rabbit with B vitamins, high-quality proteins, EPA, and DHA to aid brain performance.
Choose low-salt foods because chloride may dilute the medication’s effects. Foods to avoid include soy, complex carbohydrates, corn, gluten, and dairy since they might induce seizures.
Studies suggest that dogs eating a diet that is either high in fat and protein or relies on whole-food ingredients may help manage seizures.
Respiratory Problems
Chihuahuas can get respiratory infections like bronchitis and pneumonia. These infections are typically simple to treat. Contrarily, diet can support your dog’s body in fighting off illness and preventing it. Many vegetables and fruits are high in phytonutrients and antioxidants, which help to maintain cellular health and immunity. Certain yellow-orange and leafy-green vegetables may aid in the fight against cancer. A high-fiber diet aids digestion and boosts overall immunity.
Collapsing Trachea
Another health problem that affects this type of dog is tracheal collapse. Dogs with this condition will have difficulty breathing and may cough a lot. They may also get tired quickly when exercising. This problem is often worse in overweight dogs.
Diet is a significant way to help manage your pup’s condition. You can prevent obesity by feeding them a diet high in protein, low to moderate in fat and carbohydrates, and rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids. Make sure your pup doesn’t gobble up his food too quickly- you can try using a slow-feed dog bowl if he tends to inhale his meals.
Mouth and Teeth Problems
Chihuahuas can have problems with their teeth if they are overcrowded or if their mouths don’t fit together correctly. Tooth decay and gum disease can result from this. You can help prevent these things by feeding your Chihuahua a healthy diet that includes a balanced mix of minerals to keep his teeth and bones strong. Vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acid-containing products can also help boost immunity and fight inflammation. In addition, feeding your Chihuahua a rigid diet instead of soft food and providing regular dental care will help keep their teeth and mouth healthy.
Obesity
It is easy to overfeed a pup that tops out at 6 pounds. However, your pet’s health may suffer from obesity, such as arthritis, back problems, and heart disease. It is probably overweight if you can’t feel your pal’s ribs when you touch him.
You may assist your dog in losing weight in numerous ways. For starters, don’t give them treats from the table. Instead, offer them food that has more protein and less fat and carbs. It will help their weight loss. You also want to feed them a quality product with whole foods, essential nutrients, antioxidants, and digestible fiber.
Ensuring High-Quality Nutrients
They know the fundamental nutritional requirements of Chihuahuas and how to adjust their diets. We can discuss dog food after going over a few common ailments.
Kibble Size
Small dogs need small bites of food. So look for a kibble that is sized to fit your dog’s mouth and is easy to chew.
Age Appropriate
Different life stages have different nutritional needs. Puppy food is for Chihuahuas that are under one year old. Adult food is for fully-grown dogs. As your dog gets older, his energy needs will go down. Senior nutrition is made to help prevent obesity and has supplements for the heart and joints.
The Main Ingredient is Whole Protein
Chihuahuas need protein-rich food to stay healthy. Actual muscles are the best source of this, as they contain essential amino acids. Choose lean meats like salmon, chicken, and lamb.
Contains Low to Moderate Fat
Chihuahuas have a rapid metabolism, so they need healthy fats for energy. Look for omega fatty acid sources that benefit the heart, brain, skin, and coat. The content should be low to moderate in nature.
Has Whole Food Ingredients
Whole foods are easy to digest and high in nutrients. In the ingredients, look for whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Superfoods provide antioxidants and various essential minerals and vitamins for a well-rounded diet.
Ingredients to Avoid
Meat and animal derivatives mean that the animal was used for meat. It includes all parts of the animal, even parts unsuitable for human consumption. Animal by-products can also have beaks, hooves, and feathers. Soy, cereals, and corn are some other ingredients to avoid. These products lack the nutritional value of meat and whole grains.
Free of Chemical Preservatives
Aside from the ingredients listed above, avoid chemical preservatives such as BHT, BHA, Ethoxyquin, propylene glycol, and nitrates/nitrites. Some cancers have been linked to these substances. Look for natural preservatives such as tocopherols and herbs instead.
No Artificial Additives, Colors, or Flavors
Look for products that have natural ingredients. It is essential because artificial ingredients can cause allergies or other health problems in your dog.
Includes Useful Supplements
Look for foods that include beneficial supplements to suit your furbaby’s age and general health:
Glucosamine and chondroitin to support healthy joints
Taurine for the heart, B vitamins, EPA, and DHA for brain health
Omega fatty acids for skin, hair, and brain support.
Vitamin E for immune support
Probiotics to promote digestive health
Probiotics to Help With Gut Health Limited Ingredients
There are Chihuahuas with food sensitivities and allergies. Choose products with a small number of whole food ingredients to avoid problematic substances. Avoid corn, wheat, soy, dairy, and fillers, as they are common allergens.
Meets AAFCO nutritional requirements – The AAFCO is an organization of scientists establishing dietary requirements for various pet foods. Check the product label for a statement indicating that the food complies with these guidelines.
Produced in a Restricted Number of Countries: You want to ensure that you feed your dog a high-quality item. Check the product’s label to determine where it was manufactured. Good manufacturing practices are used in many European nations, the United States, Canada, and Australia to guarantee dog food safety.
5 Best Dog Foods for Chihuahuas
1. Wellness Toy Breed Complete Health Dog Food
This formula is designed specifically for toy breeds like Chihuahuas. The small kibble pieces provide 502kcal/cup to give your pup enough energy. The high protein, high-fat composition of 30% protein and 17% fat provides these calories. Quality protein from chicken ensures that your pup’s diet meets his energy needs.
This food contains extra-healthy ingredients such as sweet potatoes and flaxseed. These ingredients provide small dogs with healthy fiber sources to aid digestion and nutrient absorption. Oats and other whole grains are excellent sources of digestible carbohydrates, which are essential for hypoglycemic toy breeds. Some dog owners may select this food for Chihuahuas with heart problems because of its low sodium content. However, some fussy eaters may not like the taste of this formula.
2. Nutro Natural Choice Small Breed Senior Food
Many Chihuahuas are susceptible to obesity, but some lose their appetite as they age, leading to weight loss. Owners recommend this toy breed formula for elderly Chihuahuas. The food contains 26% protein from real chicken meat. It also doesn’t have by-products, corn, wheat, or soy which can be harmful to sensitive stomachs. Beet pulp and other beneficial sources of fiber support the digestive health of your elderly Chihuahua.
Older dogs can be more sensitive to illnesses and have weaker immune systems. If your dog has problems with its joints, you might need to give them a supplement in addition to its senior food. Senior food does not have ingredients that help protect joints.
3. Diamond Naturals Small Breed Adult Food
This affordable brand offers formulas that include quality protein sources and superfoods.
This recipe calls for several nutrient-dense vegetables, including kale, pumpkin, blueberries, and chia seeds. Your Chihuahua will benefit from the concentrated source of vitamins and minerals provided by these nutrient-rich ingredients. Chicken, listed first on the ingredient list, has a protein level of 27%. Other inexpensive foods frequently have meat by-products as their main component.
All Diamond Naturals formulas contain a probiotic that helps improve digestive health when included in dry dog food blends. Dog owners report improvements in their dog’s bowel movements, likely due to the probiotic. However, this probiotic may not be suitable for the pickiest Chihuahuas.
4. Solid Gold Mighty Mini Toy Dog Food
People who want to give their Chihuahua a good diet like this premium dog food because it has many benefits. This grain-free dog food still gives toy breeds enough energy. It gets its complex carbohydrates from sweet potatoes and peas, which are accessible for Chihuahuas to digest. Probiotics support your dog’s digestive health with the fermentation products of several strains of healthy bacteria.
This holistic formula can improve the well-being of many dogs. Chicken is the first ingredient, providing a high level of crude protein. Other animal sources of lean protein include ocean fish meal, a source of healthy omega-3 fatty acids. However, a high portion of pea products in the recipe makes it unsuitable for Chihuahuas with pea allergies.
5. Merrick Lil’ Plates Mini Medley Wet Dog Food
Lil’ Plates Mini Medleys come in packs with different kinds of food, like chicken, beef, and turkey. These wet bowls are suitable for picky Chihuahuas. Some Chihuahua owners successfully fed their dogs this wet food when they couldn’t find food their pup would eat.
Wet food contains a lot of water. It makes the percentages of macronutrients (protein, carbs, and fat) look lower than they are. But the premium lean animal meats in these recipes provide a good source of protein for your toy dog.
These recipes include liver meat and other organs. Organ meats are a good source of nutrients, including vitamin A. They also have complex carbohydrates and quality protein, which provide plenty of energy without grains. Some owners find the grayish color off-putting, but nutritionists designed these recipes for optimal flavor.
Read more: How to Buy the Best Dog Food for Your Dog
Frequently Asked Questions About Best Dog Food for Chihuahuas
diet that includes muscle meat from chicken, turkey, bison, beef, lamb, or fish. They also eat organs, bones, eggs, and vegetables. They can get their fruit from kibble, wet food, or home-prepared raw or cooked meals.
Chihuahuas in this life stage are more prone to dental, bone, and joint health problems. Switching to a softer canned food is a good idea. There is also the option of selecting a formula designed specifically for the elderly or small-breed dogs. It guarantees that your Chihuahua receives the necessary amount of glucosamine and chondroitin to maintain strong bones and joints.
The most common food allergens in dogs are proteins. Dogs can get sick when they eat food that contains these substances. The antibodies in their system react to the antigens, making the dog sick.
Dogs should eat one 10 oz container per 10½ – 12½ pounds of body weight daily, divided into two or more meals. You might need to adjust this dosage to assist your dog in maintaining the appropriate bodily condition.
If you choose to cook sweet potatoes for your dog, add only a tiny amount (For a small dog, use one teaspoon; for a large dog, use one tablespoon). Adding too much extra fiber could lead to gastrointestinal problems.
