Chihuahua dog food recommendations

Chihuahuas: Small but mighty

Chihuahuas are one of the smallest, but also oldest dog breeds ever. Around a thousand years ago, four-legged animals that came very close to today's standards lived in the northern Mexican region of the same name.

However, they have only been known worldwide for a relatively short time: Zur strong spread of the breedTheir mini size probably also contributed to this – some specimens weigh just one and a half kilograms when fully grown. Due to their large public presence – Chihuahuas are often seen in advertising and as companions to many celebrities – they have become a kind of fashion dog for many.

There is initially little objection to this. Because Because of their temperament, Chihuahuas are ideal as family dogs and also as entry-level dogs. However, the needs of the breed should definitely not be underestimated.

Anything but lap dogs

Despite their very compact size, they are anything but lap dogs. Chihuahuas need a lot of exercise, love to run around and also want to be mentally challenged. If a dog is only kept in the apartment and otherwise only carried around, this would not be species-appropriate.

Before you buy a representative of this breed, you should be very clear about what kind of creature you are bringing into your home. A good Chihuahua book can also be worthwhile when preparing.

Health factors that play a role in Chihuahuas

Like many breeds, Chihuahuas have certain genetic predispositions that make them… prone to certain health problems make. There are also sufferings that occur due to the often typical, but not ideal, posture of the little four-legged friends.

However, it is often possible with one Nutrition tailored to the needs of the animals to take preventive action.

Overweight

The Chihuahuas' exercise needs is often underestimated. Instead, unfortunately, people who think that a miniature dog doesn't actually need exercise are bringing a representative of the breed into their home.

Then complications inevitably arise. That's how it is Obesity in Chihuahuas unfortunately rather common. Above all, the mixture of lack of exercise, suboptimal feed composition and portions that are too large contribute to this.

Due to their very small mass, conventional calculation formulas for the ideal weight are only rarely applicable to Chihuahuas. Instead, it is advisable to have the dog to feel the ribs regularly – if you can easily feel them through the fur, this means that the dog is in good shape. If this is not the case, you should definitely counteract this with more activity and an adapted diet.

diabetes

Otherwise is common diabetes As a result, unfortunately this disease is rather widespread among Chihuahuas. Here the insulin level is unbalanced, which in turn causes blood sugar levels to fall dangerously out of the norm.

The main way to control diabetes is to eat a lot sugar and starch omitted from dog food. Above all quickly released carbohydrate sources such as wheat and barley should then be avoided – solutions such as rice, millet, pseudo-grains such as amaranth and quinoa or grain-free options such as potatoes or sweet potatoes are better.

Partially weakened immune system

Unfortunately, Chihuahuas often become one as small a size as possible bred: Some specimens only reach a maximum weight of just over one kilogram. Although some dog owners like this, it often results in health problems for their four-legged friends.

A common consequence is then weakened immune system, which can be at least partially strengthened with a good diet. These include, in particular, antioxidants such as vitamin E.

Joint problems

Chihuahuas actually have a well-developed musculoskeletal system, but this is still observed again and again, especially among older dogs Joint problems. The reason for this is often frequent, excessive loads such as larger differences in height that the very small four-legged friends have to overcome with jumping movements.

To prevent this, it is advisable to keep the animal real to load appropriately and to use dog stairs or, if possible, level entrances in the house. It is also worthwhile to better prepare for and relieve signs of wear and tear such as osteoarthritis or arthritis additives in feed, e.g. chondroitin, glucosamine or green-lipped mussel.

Dental diseases

Compared to other breeds, the Chihuahua's head is relatively large and results in a noticeable different tooth position. Malformations of the teeth are quite common, and the position of the teeth makes tooth wear more difficult. Consequences are then common Bad breath, plaque and more persistent over time Tartar.

Urinary stones

Unfortunately, a breed-related genetic defect means that Chihuahuas are born disproportionately often urinary stones, more precisely, urate stones. These are caused by urine that is too acidic and manifest themselves in painful inflammation of the urinary tract, which is unfortunately often noticed far too late.

In chronic cases, permanent damage can also occur.