As the most beloved dog breed in the U.S., Chihuahuas hold a special place in our hearts and homes. Their loyalty, spunk and intelligence make them more than pets—they’re irreplaceable family members who deserve the best.
For those of us who are lucky enough to have a Chihuahua as our furry companion, we know just how much love and care these tiny treasures deserve. It’s not just about giving them food; it’s about providing the right nutrition for their spirited, affectionate nature. With so many dog food options, finding the perfect meal for our pint-sized pals can feel overwhelming.
Discover how Open Farm’s responsibly sourced meals are carefully crafted to meet the nutritional needs of Chihuahuas.
Chihuahua Nutritional Needs
Like many other toy breeds, Chihuahuas have some unique dietary needs because of their small size and naturally high energy levels. However, it is important to provide your pup with enough calories according to their weight and life stage to maintain optimal health.
When they’re puppies, they need a diet packed with protein to support rapid growth, which means they should eat about 50 calories for each pound of body weight. As adults, they need around 40 calories per pound of body weight to keep them energized and healthy with a well-rounded mix of protein, fats and carbs. Once they reach their golden years, they still need plenty of protein but fewer overall calories, around 30-35 calories per pound, to help them stay in shape and manage their weight.
Chihuahuas that are active and enjoy walks and running around require more calories than those who prefer lounging. Therefore, ensuring that their meals align with their activity level is crucial to prevent them from gaining extra weight.
Common Health Issues in Chihuahuas
Although they are a generally healthy breed, Chihuahuas are susceptible to a few health conditions that may be affected by their diet, including:
Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Due to their small size, Chihuahuas are prone to fluctuations in blood sugar, particularly if they miss meals. Choosing food containing complex carbohydrates, which release energy slowly, can help regulate their blood sugar levels.
Dental problems. Chihuahuas have small jaws and many retain their baby teeth, which can lead to severe tooth overcrowding. This can, consequently, cause plaque and tartar buildup, and eventually decay and tooth loss. Regular brushing and a diet low in sugars and carbohydrates may help protect your Chi’s teeth.
Allergies and sensitivities. Some Chihuahuas may suffer from food allergies or sensitivities that can manifest as skin issues or digestive problems. Choosing a limited-ingredient diet or food with novel protein sources can help ease these symptoms.
Key Ingredients to Look for in Chihuahua Dog Food
When choosing the ideal dog food for your Chihuahua, focus on high-quality ingredients that cater to their specific requirements:
High-quality protein sources. Seek out ingredients such as chicken, turkey, salmon or lamb, as they offer vital amino acids necessary for healthy growth, muscle development and energy
Balanced fats and carbohydrates. Healthy fats provide energy and support vital functions, while complex carbohydrates offer sustained energy. Choose foods with natural sources like omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil and whole grains like brown rice or quinoa.
Essential vitamins and minerals. Ensure the food you choose includes essential nutrients like calcium for strong bones, vitamins A and C for immune health and antioxidants to reduce inflammation.
Best Chihuahua Dog Food
At Open Farm, we know your Chihuahua deserves optimal nutrition. That’s why we prioritize sustainable, high-quality protein sources and fully traceable, non-GMO whole grains and vegetables to create a delicious and nutritious diet for your pet. Our offerings include nourishing dry dog food, freeze dried raw dog food and supplements.
Small Breed Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
This nutrient-dense kibble is packed with protein from humanely raised chicken and turkey to fuel your Chihuahua’s high metabolism. Functional ingredients like chicory root and green-lipped mussel support gut and joint health, making it a well-rounded choice. Our kibble also comes in a smaller size, making it perfect for your Chi’s tiny mouth.
Small Breed Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food
This bite-sized recipe features a combination of humanely raised chicken, turkey and ancient grains like millet and quinoa. Free of peas, potatoes and legumes, it’s ideal for dogs with dietary sensitivities.
Farmer’s Table Pork Freeze Dried Raw Food
Looking for a complete and balanced meal or a tasty topper? This freeze dried raw food contains 95% humanely raised raw pork meat, organs and bone combined with organic vegetables and superfoods. It’s a delicious and nutritious option for every meal or as a special treat.
Calming Supplement Chews for Dogs
Does your Chihuahua experience anxiety? Our delicious Calming Chews are formulated with 100% traceable and vet-recommended ingredients to help soothe an overactive nervous system and may reduce anxiousness, making car rides, vet visits or even separation from you a little less stressful for your Chihuahua.
Feeding Tips and Guidelines for Chihuahua Owners
For the best results with your Chihuahua’s diet, follow these feeding tips:
Meal sizes and frequency. With their tiny size and high metabolic rates, Chihuahuas benefit from frequent, portion-controlled meals. Split their daily calorie intake into three or four smaller meals to prevent hypoglycemia and keep energy levels consistent.
Transitioning to a new food. Introduce a new food gradually over 7-10 days. Begin by blending a small portion of the new food with their current food and incrementally increase the proportion of the new food each day until they have transitioned fully.
Incorporating treats and supplements. While occasional treats can be enjoyed in moderation, they should make up no more than 10% of your Chihuahua’s daily calorie intake. However, supplements like probiotics for dogs can support digestive health and overall well-being.
Support Your Pet’s Health With Open Farm
Help your Chihuahua grow strong and healthy with Open Farm’s premium selection of responsibly sourced dry and wet dog foods. Our range includes nutrient-dense kibble, protein-packed wet options and freeze dried raw recipes that prioritize quality ingredients to support your pup’s overall health and vitality.
This article is meant only as an example meal with fully balanced nutrition, please reach out to our customer experience team if you have any questions about your pet’s own unique circumstances! To ensure these products are a good fit for your pup, we also recommend consulting your pup’s vet about any new supplement or diet changes, especially if there is a medical concern. They should be able to help as you and your vet know your pup’s medical history best!
