Ideal Diets For Chihuahua Dogs
Chihuahua dogs are unique. Their smallness makes them an ideal pet for homes and families of all sizes. Beyond their looks, these dogs are known for their fiery personalities.
In general, this breed is overflowing with energy and character, as they can be very stubborn and have the bravado of a dog five times their size.
While the Chihuahua does not need a large amount of food, it certainly requires a high-quality food to meet its needs. To accomplish this, understanding what your little one needs nutritionally is the first step. Here we will delve into your tastes and needs.
Gourmet canines
Raising a Chihuahua can lead to some unusual problems. The drawbacks your guardian faces are not normally experienced with other breeds:
- Chihuahuas are known for their picky appetites. Unlike other dogs that will devour anything you place in front of them, these dogs are a bit more selective.
- It’s not uncommon for Chihuahuas to turn down a meal just because they don’t like the taste. In addition, the diet in Chihuahua dogs can affect other biological processes in their body.
How to deal with the lack of appetite of Chihuahua dogs?
There are a number of reasons why your Chihuahua may not enjoy food. The simplest may be that they don’t like the taste.
Contrary to popular belief, dogs have personal preferences. Some love all kibble flavors, while others stick with a specific formula and don’t change it in their entire lives.
However, in most cases, there is a bigger problem to be aware of: Chihuahuas tend to have weaker digestive systems.
Because they are so small, everything they eat has a major effect on their body. For that reason, if they do not want to eat a food, it is necessary to change it, until they find the food they adore.
How is your metabolism?
Small dogs burn more calories as they have a faster metabolism than large breed dogs. However, Chihuahuas have a digestive system according to their sizes, so they cannot eat much at one time.
This is why it is important to feed your Chihuahua a diet rich in protein and carbohydrates. It is also important to feed them small portions, and several times a day.
What makes up an ideal diet?
When planning your Chihuahua meals, start with the essentials. These foods are necessary to achieve a balanced diet.
Protein
Protein is the most important food your dog will consume. At a minimum, your Chihuahua’s diet should consist of 40% protein.
This comes from chicken, lamb, beef or fish. For home-cooked meals, choose lean, low-fat meats. For commercial kibbles, the meat should be the first item on the ingredient list.
Fruits and vegetables
A wide variety of fruits and vegetables are a must. These provide your dog with the essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients they need to thrive.
To help with their sensitive stomachs, high-fiber vegetables like peas and green leafy vegetables are ideal. Healthy fruits like raspberries and apples are great too, because they contain beneficial antioxidants.
Proper plant-based foods make good treats, like carrot dice. Like protein, your dog’s diet should be 40% fruits and vegetables.
Complex carbohydrates
Complex carbohydrates include ingredients like sweet potatoes, peas, beans, and a host of vegetables. These foods provide energy throughout the day. Unlike simple carbohydrates, complex varieties are absorbed slowly.
Fats
Fat is necessary for a balanced diet. Especially recommended are omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Given the small portions, your Chihuahua will burn the fat he eats , as long as you don’t overdo it. For this reason, low-fat kibbles are not recommended unless the animal is overweight.
Antioxidants
Foods that provide antioxidants are beneficial for small breed dogs, such as Chihuahuas. The antioxidants in the daily diet will protect your little one from free radical damage, keeping him healthy throughout his life.
Food allergies
Dogs of all breeds can develop food allergies, and Chihuahuas are no exception.
If your little one shows symptoms of a food allergy like diarrhea, vomiting, and itching, see your vet. He may advise you not to eat treats, stop taking medications, or remove toys that may be causing or contributing to the allergic reaction.
To determine the cause of the allergic reaction, your vet may need help identifying the problem foods. To deal with these dilemmas, dog foods with alternative protein sources such as duck, rabbit and venison are offered.
In short, to keep your little bouncer healthy and happy, feed him the best food you can find. He will appreciate it, and you will feel better knowing that you are feeding him a nutritious and well-balanced diet.
