Feeding Chihuahua correctly: tips on nutrition
Wet or dry food: What is the ideal diet for your Chihuahua? And how much food does the little bundle of energy actually need? You can read all about this in the following guide.
To ensure that your beloved Chihuahua does not turn into a round, rolling ball of fur, an optimal diet is essential. Because even the smallest dog breed in the world can get a few grams too much on the ribs through too many treats – which then has a negative effect on their health. But what should be the best type of food intake?
Choosing the type of food
First of all, there is the question: should my Chihuahua rather get wet or dry food? The answer to this is quite simple: both types are suitable for the little four-legged friends – but not mixed. Avoid mixing both types of food in one meal, as wet and dry food are each digested differently. For example, give your Chihuahua a small bowl of wet food in the morning and some dry food in the afternoon. For the latter, make sure that your faithful friend always has fresh water to go with it.
The right amount of food for a Chihuahua
As a rule, you can follow the guidelines on the food package. The rule of thumb is that your dog should consume between two and four percent of its body weight in food. However, as with all dog breeds, the same applies here: Based on the age and activity level of the four-legged friend, there may be gradations. Dogs that are particularly fit and active can sometimes tolerate a little more food, while rather sluggish quadrupeds should shift down a gear when eating. In both cases, you should keep in mind: If your Chihuahua gets treats, you must deduct them from the normal food ration. Otherwise, it can quickly happen that your pelt nose gets overweight.
Do the rib test
You can easily check whether your Chihuahua is eating too much, too little or just the right amount by petting him: If you can easily feel your animal friend’s ribs, he is getting enough to eat. If you don’t feel them, you should put your furry friend on a diet in consultation with your vet. But even if you have the feeling that your four-legged partner is perhaps too thin, a visit to the vet is advisable.
