When I google: what do chihuahuas eat?
938,000 web results come up.
TL;DR: Chihuahuas eat protein (meat), food with real high-quality ingredients.
Sounds easy enough… but there are THOUSANDS of different types of dog foods. Overwhelming right? Allow me to break down exactly what to look for in the food you buy for your furry friend.
Your chihuahua’s lifespan is a lot longer than the average pup (15+ years) you want to pay attention to what they’re eating every day. Because they live so long, chihuahuas are way more vulnerable to health problems. Like us humans, nutrition is SO important.
In 1961 veterinarians around the globe established the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WASAVA). In the 2000s their focus shifted to developing global nutrition guidelines by organizing the Global Nutrition Committee (GNC). These guidelines were first published in 2011. The main goal of the GNC is to help pet owners decipher pet food company messaging.
The FDA doesn’t regulate words like “holistic” “premium” or “human grade”,
so pet food companies will add them to labels for marketing value. If you’re on the fence about trying a new brand the WSVA suggests contacting the manufacturer of the dog food company and asking them these questions.
The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) regulates the sale and distribution of animal feeds and animal drug remedies. If your dog’s food is made in America make sure the label reads: “[name of food] is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for [specific life stage]”. That means the AAFCO has completed a nutritional analysis of the food.
Because they have such small teeth and jaws you want to buy smaller kibble or wet food. Check to make sure the kibble you buy is specific to small breeds.
Chihuahuas are exceptionally prone to dental issues. Some say chewing kibble helps strengthen their teeth, but no actual studies prove it. Try giving your dog dental treats every day, and let them gnaw on a bone that will scrape off the plague from their teeth and gums. You want to make sure you are brushing their teeth!
Check to make sure that meat is the first ingredient listed on the food you buy.
Look for foods with added fatty acids like Omega-3 or Omega 6 as they promote a healthy coat.
You want to make sure your chihuahua has a high-quality protein source, ideally, look at foods with at least 30% protein content. Chihuahuas burn energy quickly; they have a very fast metabolism (ever notice your little one shake?) They need lots of protein so they can play!
Adult chihuahuas need 200 calories per day. They are actually prone to canine hypoglycemia— most breeders suggest feeding smaller, more frequent meals (3-4 times per day) or even leaving food out for them. Puppy chihuahuas (under 3 months) should always have food left out.
There is a great deal of debate about grain vs. grain-free foods so I figured I’d give you information on both options:
Grain-free foods are high in fiber and other nutrients and help maintain a low glycemic index. These diets are beneficial for pets who have food allergies, digestive issues, or difficulties with weight management-all common among chihuahuas.
Grains themselves however are high in essential vitamins and nutrients (including selenium, B vitamins, fiber, iron, magnesium, and phosphorus). Ancient grains are also a great source of plant-based protein. (such as chia, quinoa, teff, spelt, kamut, millet, and amaranth)
In 2018 the FDA began an investigation into pet foods that may be the cause for a cardiac muscle disease called Canine Dilated Cardiomyopathy. Many of these case reports included breeds of dogs not known to have a genetic predisposition to the disease. For more information see (this link). The FDA compiled a list of the foods suspected of causing this disease which you can find here.
With all this information in mind, try a variety of foods. Every chihuahua has a unique palate. Most stores offer a refund if your dog doesn’t like a new food or has a negative reaction to it. Invest in a couple of good brands and keep an eye on your pup’s poop (I’ll elaborate in a future post). After a few weeks make sure their coat looks shiny and their weight stays at the amount your vet recommends. If your pup is a little older talk to your vet about the extra nutrients required to keep them healthy.
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