The 10 Best Dog Foods for Chihuahuas

Diet and Nutrition for Chihuahuas

Feed your Chihuahua a high-quality dog food. To make sure it fits the bill, look for a statement on the package that says it meets nutritional standards established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). When feeding dry dog food, look for a smaller-sized kibble to fit in their smaller mouths. They also may benefit from a food formulated for Chihuahuas (like Royal Canin Chihuahua dry dog food) or small-breed dogs in general because those are designed to meet their specific needs. A common problem with very small dogs like the Chihuahua is overfeeding. Be careful not to overdo it—especially when it comes to treats—and, again, make sure they are being fed a healthy, complete diet. A 6-pound dog, ideally, should receive about 225 calories per day (including treats); if 50 calories of that are not nutritionally appropriate, that's about one-quarter of the dog's food. It's best to talk to your veterinarian who can recommend the best food, portion size and feeding schedule for your pet, based on their individual weight, activity level and age.