Feeding your Chihuahua
Most veterinarians will recommend the following schedule for feeding puppies from six weeks and older:
While this is the standard for most Chihuahuas also love special treats. A small treat each day or an extra one for special occasions is acceptable. These treats should be very small and not be given more than once or twice a day.
Too often, Chihuahuas are overfed by owners that love them so much that they do not want them to be deprived. However, having an overweight Chihuahua is dangerous to its health. This breed of dog is more susceptible to obesity than other dogs for a number of reasons.
First, they usually stay indoors and don’t get much exercise. Second, because they are so small, owners baby them, carrying them from place to place and feeding them excessive snacks or scraps from the dinner table.
If you notice your dog gaining extra weight, it is probably time to go on a diet! Start by cutting out excessive treats (especially those that come from your plate), and stick with quality dry food, mixed as written about.
Develop a regular schedule for feeding your Chihuahua and measure the right amount of food. Rather than guess a one-quarter cup feeding, measure it. Now some puppies can be trained not to overeat by keeping food down at all times. They know there is food available, if hungry and will often eats less. However, if you see that your puppy eats all the food quickly when left down, you may have a puppy that needs its feedings managed.
And finally, when buying dog food, take time to read the ingredients to ensure your dog is getting the proper nutrition!
Chocolate is usually thought of as a good tasting sweet or delicious candy bar. This is just the opposite when you bring Chihuahuas into the mix, as chocolate is toxic to them. More specifically, a naturally occurring compound found in chocolate (called theobromine) is what makes chocolate so dangerous to dogs.
To make matters worse, the smaller the dog, the more pronounced the side effects. Your Chihuahua may experience epileptic seizures, heart problems (and in some cases) internal bleeding. Unfortunately, in the worst case scenario, too much chocolate could even kill your beloved pet.
No matter how cute or persistent your Chihuahua may be, never give in and feed it some chocolate (whether it be a small or large amount)!
Also, be extra careful around holidays to make sure your Chihuahua doesn't munch on any chocolate containing treats. With a bit of effort and a watchful eye, you can keep your Chihuahua safe from this potentially deadly threat.
