What are the Best Dog Foods for Chihuahuas?

As one of the smallest dog breeds, Chihuahuas have very specific nutritional needs that need to be taken into consideration when selecting the right dog food for your beloved pet. These loyal little lap dogs can live a long, healthy life with proper feeding and care!

AKC Classification: Toy
Exercise Required: 30 minutes/day

Ideal Weight
Healthy Adult Weight: 4-6 lbs

Breed Summary

Made famous across America by the “Taco Bell dog”, Gidget, Chihuahuas are known for being fiercely loyal – and often protective. Though their bark is much larger than their bite, Chihuahuas seem to not realize their own small size when defending themselves or their loved ones. Despite their small stature, most Chihuahuas have big hearts and personalities. Depending on individual temperament, dog owners are mixed on whether Chihuahuas are ideal for families with small children or not; but with proper socialization and plenty of care in a loving family, a Chihuahua can be your loyal and friendly companion for many years to come. These little lap dogs make the perfect pet for city living and apartment dwellers as they are perfectly content to snuggle up to their owners most of the day.

Physical Traits
Tiny body, erect ears, round head

Personality Traits
Energetic, loyal, friendly

Health Considerations for the Chihuahua

As one of the smallest registered dog breeds, Chihuahuas can experience a variety of health conditions common in toy dogs. Joint, eye, and dental problems are common due to the structure and stature of the Chihuahua’s tiny body, large eyes, and small skull. In addition, serious heart problems can develop over time and worsen with age. However, in general, Chihuahuas have a very long lifespan - especially when compared to larger breeds. To ensure your family pet is with you for many years, it is important to provide your Chihuahua with proper nutritional support at every stage of their life. Many health conditions can be prevented or even healed with the right diet including plenty of protein, antioxidants and other crucial vitamins.

Eye Problems

Because of their large, protruding eyes, Chihuahuas are susceptible to many common eye conditions. We look to get these ingredients into their diets:

Joint Issues

Like many smaller dog breeds, Chihuahuas are highly susceptible to a condition of the kneecap, Luxating Patella, which can be partially prevented or helped with the following nutritional support:

Dental Disease

Due to their small mouths, Chihuahuas are especially likely to experience dental problems, including Bad Breath, Gum Disease and Infections, so we like to see these attributes in their food or treats. Learn more about how to take care of your dog's teeth.

Heart Conditions

Chihuahuas can develop serious heart issues, such as Patent Ductus Arteriosus and Mitral Valve Disease, so to mitigate this risk their food should contain:

Foods We Recommend: Chihuahua Puppies

How long do Chihuahuas need puppy food?
12 months old

Small dogs mature faster than larger breeds, and Chihuahuas will need a specially formulated puppy food with lots of nutrients to facilitate this rapid growth. The right ingredients also help with brain function and development. In addition, chihuahua puppies have more energy and need more calories than adult dogs.

Royal Canin
Breed Health Nutrition Chihuahua Puppy Dry Dog Food

This diet is available at:

Wellness
Small Breed Complete Health Puppy Turkey, Oatmeal & Salmon Meal Recipe Dry Dog Food

This diet is available at:

Purina®
Pro Plan Dry Puppy Food

This diet is available at:

CANIDAE
Petite Salmon Formula Small Breed Puppy Limited Ingredient Diet Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Dry Dog Food

This diet is available at:

Foods We Recommend: Chihuahua Adults

When do Chihuahuas become adults?
12 months old

While adult dogs may not need as much specialized support as a growing puppy, proper nutrition is still key to keeping your pet happy, healthy, and within an ideal weight range. A high-quality dog food like these products below will also protect against future health risks.

Blue Buffalo®
Chicken & Brown Rice Toy Breed Adult Dog Food

This diet is available at:

Natural Balance
Limited Ingredient Diet Lamb & Brown Rice Small Breed Dry Dog Food

This diet is available at:

Purina®
Pro Plan Adult Toy Breed Chicken & Rice Formula Dry Dog Food

This diet is available at:

The Farmer's Dog
Fresh, Personalized Ingredient Meal Plan

+ Custom, human-grade diet
+ More expensive than kibble

This diet is available at:

The Farmer's Dog | Save 20%

Foods We Recommend: Chihuahua Seniors

When do Chihuahuas become seniors?
7-10 years old

Chihuahuas, like most smaller dog breeds, have a long lifespan and can live up to 20 years, but it is important to select a dog food with the right ingredients to keep your senior dog healthy and support their lower activity levels. In addition, metabolism slows down with age and it is important to select a lower calorie food.