Chihuahuas: What to Feed Them and How to Keep Them Healthy and Disciplined

Owning a Chihuahua comes with a lot of responsibilities. One of the most important things you need to do as a Chihuahua owner is to ensure that your dog is getting the right nutrition. That means feeding them a healthy diet and ensuring they get all the nutrients they need. But for many first-time Chihuahua owners, the question arises: why do Chihuahuas eat grass?

You might have seen your Chihuahua nibbling on some grass from time to time and wondered why they’re doing it. After all, the grass isn’t exactly the most nutritious food out there. Read on to find out why your Chihuahua might be eating grass and how you can ensure they’re getting the nutrition they need.

Daily Needs of Chihuahuas

Before telling you how to make sure your Chihuahua is getting the right nutrition and why does a chihuahua eat grass, it’s important to know what their daily needs are. It will help you understand how to properly feed your Chihuahua and what other things you need to do to keep them healthy. Here are some things you need to know about a Chihuahua’s daily needs:

➣Exercise

Like all dogs, Chihuahuas need to get plenty of exercise. But because they’re such small dogs, they don’t need as much as some other breeds. A good rule of thumb is giving them about 30 minutes of exercise daily. That can be a combination of walking, playing fetch, and running around in the yard.

The type of exercise your Chihuahua gets is also important. They’re not built for long-distance running, so it’s best to stick to shorter walks or play sessions. And because they’re small dogs, they can get cold easily, so make sure to dress them in a sweater or coat when it’s chilly outside.

➣Nutrition

Chihuahuas need a diet that’s high in protein and low in fat. That means their food should be mostly meat, with some vegetables mixed in. You can either feed them commercial dog food or make your own dog food at home. If you’re going to make your own dog food, make sure to talk to your veterinarian first to make sure you’re doing it right.

You can’t just feed your Chihuahua any food, though. Their stomachs are sensitive, so they need to eat a diet that’s easy on their digestive system. That means avoiding things like table scraps, which can be hard for them to digest. You should also avoid giving them bones, as they can splinter and cause internal injuries.

➣Dehydration

Chihuahuas are also prone to dehydration, so it’s important to ensure they’re getting enough water. A good rule of thumb is to give them about one ounce of water per pound of body weight per day. So, if your Chihuahua weighs four pounds, it should be getting four ounces of water a day.

You can either give them water from a bowl or bottle, or you can add it to their food. Wet food has more moisture than dry food, so it can help keep your Chihuahua hydrated. Just ensure not to overdo it, as too much-wet food can cause diarrhea.

➣Toys

Like all dogs, Chihuahuas need to have plenty of toys to keep them entertained. But because they’re small dogs, they need toys that are the right size for them. That means avoiding things like tennis balls, which can be a choking hazard.

The best toys for Chihuahuas are ones they can chew on, like Kongs or Nylabones. Chew toys not only help keep your Chihuahua entertained, but they also help keep their teeth clean and their gums healthy.

➣Accessories

You might not think of it as an accessory, but a collar is an important part of a Chihuahua’s wardrobe. Their necks are very fragile, so they need a collar that’s soft and comfortable. You should also look for a collar that’s adjustable, so you can make sure it fits your Chihuahua properly.

You might also want to consider a harness instead of a collar. A harness can help distribute your Chihuahua’s weight more evenly, which can help prevent neck injuries. And because they’re small dogs, they can sometimes slip out of collars, so a harness can help keep them safe.

➣Safety

When it comes to safety, small dogs like Chihuahuas can sometimes be overlooked. But because they’re so small, they’re actually more at risk for injuries than larger dogs. That’s why it’s important to take some extra precautions to keep your Chihuahua safe.

One of the best things you can do is get them microchipped. That way, if they ever get lost, you can quickly and easily find them. You should also keep them up-to-date on their vaccinations, as small dogs are more susceptible to diseases like parvovirus.

Why Does a Chihuahua Eats Grass

Now that you know a little bit more about what Chihuahuas need, you might be wondering why does a chihuahua eat grass. You might think it’s because they’re hungry, but that’s not always the case. Sometimes, Chihuahuas will eat grass because they’re:

1️⃣Bored

If your Chihuahua is bored, they might start chewing on the grass to relieve their boredom. It’s important to ensure your Chihuahua has plenty of toys and activities to keep them entertained. Otherwise, they might start looking for something else to do—like eating grass.

2️⃣Anxious

Some Chihuahuas will start chewing on grass when they’re feeling anxious or stressed. If you think your Chihuahua is doing this, it’s important to talk to your veterinarian. They can help you figure out why your Chihuahua is feeling anxious and give you some tips on how to help them feel better.

3️⃣Sick

Sometimes, Chihuahuas will eat grass because they’re sick. If your Chihuahua is vomiting or has diarrhea, eating grass can help them feel better. But if your Chihuahua is eating grass more than usual, it’s important to talk to your veterinarian. They can help you figure out why your Chihuahua is sick and give you the best course of treatment.

Vitamins And Minerals That Chihuahuas Need

Chihuahuas are small dogs, but they still need a well-balanced diet. That means getting the right mix of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Here are some of the most important nutrients your Chihuahua needs:

◼Proteins

Proteins are essential for every dog, but they’re especially important for small breeds like Chihuahuas. That’s because proteins help build and repair muscles, bones, and tissues. They also help boost the immune system and support growth.

The best sources of protein for Chihuahuas are lean meats like chicken, turkey, and fish. You can also give them eggs, cottage cheese, or yogurt.

◼Fats

Fats are an important source of energy for Chihuahuas. They also help support the immune system, keep the coat healthy, and absorb vitamins.

The best sources of fat for Chihuahuas are omega-3 fatty acids like salmon oil and flaxseed oil. You can also give them chicken fat or beef fat. But avoid giving them too much fat, as it can lead to weight gain.

◼Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for Chihuahuas. They also help maintain healthy blood sugar levels and support growth.

The best sources of carbohydrates for Chihuahuas are whole grains like brown rice and oats. You can also give them sweet potatoes, squash, or pumpkin. That’s why it’s important to take some extra precautions to keep your Chihuahua safe.

◼Fiber

Fiber is an important nutrient for Chihuahuas. It helps with digestion and prevents constipation. The best sources of fiber for Chihuahuas are fruits and vegetables like carrots, broccoli, and apples.

You can also give them whole-grain bread or cereals to get their daily dose of fiber. That’s why it’s important to take some extra precautions to keep your Chihuahua safe.

◼Vitamin C

Vitamin C is an important antioxidant for Chihuahuas. It helps boost the immune system and protect against cell damage. The best sources of vitamin C for Chihuahuas are citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruit.

They contain a lot of sugar, so it’s important to give them in moderation. You can also give your Chihuahua a vitamin C supplement.

◼Vitamin A

Vitamin A is an important nutrient for Chihuahuas. It helps maintain healthy skin and eyesight. The best sources of vitamin A for Chihuahuas are dark leafy greens like spinach and kale. You can also give them carrots, sweet potatoes, or squash.

You can’t give your Chihuahua too much vitamin A, but too little can cause health problems. That’s why it’s important to talk to your veterinarian about the right amount of vitamin A for your Chihuahua.

Water for Your Chihuahua

Now that you know the essential nutrients your Chihuahua needs, it’s important to make sure they’re getting enough water. Small breeds like Chihuahuas are especially prone to dehydration, so it’s important to keep an eye on their water intake. The best way to do this is to give them fresh, clean water every day.

You should also avoid giving them sugary or caffeinated drinks like soda or coffee. These can dehydrate your Chihuahua and cause other health problems.

If you’re ever concerned about your Chihuahua’s hydration levels, talk to your veterinarian. They can help you figure out how much water your Chihuahua needs and make sure they’re getting enough.

Chihuahua Health Concerns

When it comes to Chihuahua health, there are a few things you should be aware of. Some of the most common health concerns for Chihuahuas include:

●Heart Disease

Since Chihuahuas are a small breed, they’re prone to heart disease. The most common type of heart disease in Chihuahuas is congenital heart defects. This is a birth defect that affects the structure of the heart.

Some congenital heart defects can be fixed with surgery, but others may require lifelong treatment. If you’re worried about your Chihuahua’s heart health, talk to your veterinarian.

●Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia is a condition that causes low blood sugar levels. It’s common in small breeds like Chihuahuas, and it can be caused by stress, lack of food, or strenuous exercise.

If your Chihuahua has hypoglycemia, it may seem tired, weak, or shaky. They may also have seizures or collapse. But don’t worry, there are ways to treat hypoglycemia, including giving your Chihuahua a sugar solution or special food.

●Dental Disease

Dental health problem is a common problem in small breeds like Chihuahuas. It’s caused by a buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth. It can lead to gum disease, tooth loss, and other problems.

The best way to prevent dental disease is to brush your Chihuahua’s teeth regularly. You should also take them to the veterinarian for an annual dental checkup.

●Patellar Luxation

Patellar luxation is a condition that affects the kneecap. In Chihuahuas, it’s usually caused by a dislocation of the kneecap. It can be painful and may require surgery to fix.

Some signs of patellar luxation include lameness, joint pain, and difficulty walking. If you think your Chihuahua has this condition, talk to your veterinarian immediately, as it can be painful and may require surgery to fix.

●Tracheal Collapse

Tracheal collapse is a condition that affects the windpipe. In Chihuahuas, it’s usually caused by a weakening of the cartilage that supports the windpipe. This can make it difficult for your Chihuahua to breathe, and it may require surgery to fix.

Some signs of tracheal collapse include coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. If you think your Chihuahua has this condition, try to check what the primary source of their wheezing is. If it’s tracheal collapse, your vet will be able to tell and may recommend surgery.

●Bloat

Bloat is a condition that affects the stomach. In Chihuahuas, it’s usually caused by overeating or drinking too much water too quickly. It can be painful and may require surgery to fix.

Some signs of bloat include a swollen stomach, panting, and restlessness. If you think your Chihuahua has bloat, make sure to take them to the vet immediately as it can be a life-threatening condition.

Dental Health for Chihuahuas

While all dogs need good dental hygiene, it’s especially important for small breeds like Chihuahuas. That’s because they’re more prone to dental problems like plaque and tartar buildup.

The best way to keep your Chihuahua’s teeth healthy is to brush them regularly. You should also take them to the veterinarian for an annual dental checkup. That way, you can catch any problems early and prevent them from getting worse.

Vaccinations for Chihuahuas

All dogs need vaccinations to protect them from diseases. But some vaccines are especially important for small breeds like Chihuahuas. That’s because they’re more susceptible to certain diseases, like kennel cough and parvovirus.

Some of the most important vaccinations for Chihuahuas include Bordetella, parvovirus, and distemper. These vaccinations are typically given by your veterinarian in a series of shots.

The best way to protect your Chihuahua from disease is to make sure they’re up-to-date on all their vaccinations. That way, you can help them stay healthy and avoid any serious health problems.

Chihuahua Exercise Needs

Aside from being one of the cutest breeds around, Chihuahuas are also known for their lively personalities. They’re active little dogs that need plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy.

Ideally, Chihuahuas should get at least 30 minutes of exercise every day. That can be a combination of walking, running, playing, or any other activity that gets them moving.

If you’re not sure how much exercise your Chihuahua needs, talk to your veterinarian. They can help you create an exercise plan that’s perfect for your dog’s individual needs.

Chihuahuas and Children

You might ask if Chihuahuas are good around kids. While every dog is different, Chihuahuas typically do well with children. That’s because they’re usually gentle and playful.

Of course, it’s always important to supervise your dog around children. And if you have small kids, Chihuahuas might not be the best breed for you. That’s because they’re so small that they could easily get injured by a child who doesn’t know how to handle them properly.

If you’re thinking about getting a Chihuahua, make sure to do your research first. Talk to your veterinarian and other dog owners to learn more about this popular breed.

Safety Precautions with Chihuahuas

As with any dog, there are some safety precautions you should take when you’re around Chihuahuas. Knowing what these precautions are can help you avoid any accidents or injuries.

✔Be Gentle

Since Chihuahuas are so small, it’s important to be gentle with them. That means avoiding rough play and handling them carefully.

It’s also important to be careful when you pick them up. Make sure to support their back and avoid picking them up by their front legs. Doing so could cause them to injure their back or neck.

Be cautious around their tails as well. Chihuahuas have long, thin tails that can be easily broken. So, avoid pulling or tugging on their tails. Instead, support them when you pick them up.

✔Avoid Hot Weather

Chihuahuas are a breed that’s prone to overheating. That’s why it’s important to avoid hot weather and make sure they have plenty of shade and cool water when it’s warm outside.

Never leave your Chihuahua in a car, even for a short period of time. The temperature inside a car can rise quickly, especially on a hot day. And that can be dangerous for your dog.

If you’re going to be outside in the heat, make sure to bring plenty of water for your Chihuahua. And take breaks in the shade so they can cool off.

✔Don’t Overfeed Them

Chihuahuas are known for their small size. But that doesn’t mean they don’t need to eat a balanced diet. In fact, it’s important not to overfeed them. That’s because they’re prone to obesity, which can lead to health problems.

To avoid overfeeding your Chihuahua, talk to your veterinarian about how much food they need. They can help you create a feeding schedule that’s right for your dog’s individual needs.

You can’t go wrong with a healthy diet of high-quality dog food. But avoid giving them table scraps or other human food. That’s because some foods, like chocolate and onions, can be toxic to dogs.

✔Wear Them Out

One way to avoid behavioral problems with Chihuahuas is to make sure they’re getting enough exercise. That way, they’ll be less likely to bark or nip out of boredom.

So, take them for walks, runs, or play sessions every day. And if you can’t do that, make sure to give them plenty of toys and activities to keep them occupied.

You don’t want your Chihuahua to be too tired. But you also don’t want them to have too much energy. That’s why it’s important to find a happy medium when it comes to their exercise.

✔Train Them

Chihuahuas are smart dogs, which means they’re easy to train. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take the time to train them. In fact, it’s important to start training your Chihuahua as soon as possible.

One way to do that is to enroll them in a puppy class. That way, they can learn the basics, like sit, stay, and come. Puppy classes are also a great way for you to socialize your Chihuahua.

You can also do some training at home. Start with simple commands and rewards, like treats or praise. And be patient – it might take some time for your Chihuahua to learn.

Selecting the Right Chihuahua for You and Your Family

When you’re looking for a Chihuahua, it’s important to find one that will be a good fit for you and your family. Here are some things to consider:

⍰Do You Want a Male or Female?

One of the first things to think about is whether you want a male or female Chihuahua. Each has their own personality traits.

⍰Do You Want a Purebred or Mix?

Chihuahuas can either be purebred or mixed. Purebreds are more expensive, but they’re also less likely to have health problems.

⍰Do You Want a Long-Haired or Short-Haired?

Chihuahuas can either be long-haired or short-haired. Long-haired Chihuahuas require more grooming, but they’re also less likely to shed.

⍰Do You Have Other Pets?

If you have other pets, it’s important to find a Chihuahua that will get along with them. Otherwise, you might end up with a Chihuahua that’s always fighting with the other animals in your home.

⍰Do You Have Children?

If you have children, it’s important to find a Chihuahua that will get along with them. Otherwise, you might end up with a Chihuahua that’s always barking or nipping at the kids.

⍰Do You Have Allergies?

If you’re allergic to dogs, it’s important to find a hypoallergenic Chihuahua. Otherwise, you might end up with a Chihuahua that makes your allergies worse.

⍰Do You Live in an Apartment or House?

Chihuahuas can either live in an apartment or house. However, they do better in houses because they have more room to run around.

⍰Do You Have a Yard?

If you have a yard, it’s important to find a Chihuahua that will be able to use it. Otherwise, you might end up with a Chihuahua that’s always barking because they’re bored.

⍰Do You Travel Often?

If you travel often, it’s important to find a Chihuahua that will be able to travel with you. Otherwise, you might end up with a Chihuahua that’s always home alone.

⍰Do You Work Long Hours?

If you work long hours, it’s important to find a Chihuahua that will be able to stay home alone for long periods of time. Otherwise, you might end up with a Chihuahua that’s always barking because they’re bored.

Leash Training Chihuahuas

Chihuahuas are notorious for being difficult to leash train. But it’s important to do your best to train them. That way, they can enjoy walks and other activities without pulling on the leash. Here’s how to leash train your Chihuahua:

👍Start With a Short Leash

When you first start leash training, it’s important to use a short leash. That way, your Chihuahua won’t be able to get too far ahead of you.

👍Use a Gentle Voice

When you’re leash training, it’s important to use a gentle voice. That way, you won’t startle your Chihuahua or make them nervous.

👍Reward Them

Remember to reward your Chihuahua for good behavior. That way, they’ll know that they’re doing something right. You can use treats, praise, or both.

👍Be Patient

Leash training takes time and patience. So, don’t get discouraged if it doesn’t happen overnight. Just keep working at it and be consistent with your training.

Crate Training Chihuahuas

One of the best ways to train your Chihuahua is to crate train them. That way, they’ll know that their crate is a safe and comfortable place. Here’s how to crate train your Chihuahua:

👍Start Them Early

The best time to start crate training is when your Chihuahua is a puppy. That way, they’ll be more likely to accept the crate as their home.

👍Make It Comfortable

You want your Chihuahua to feel comfortable in their crate. So, make sure to put a soft bed or blanket inside. You might also want to put some of their favorite toys inside.

👍Give Them Treats

When you first put your Chihuahua in their crate, give them a treat. That way, they’ll associate the crate with something positive.

👍Let Them Take Breaks

Crate training takes time. So, don’t leave your Chihuahua in the crate for too long. Let them out for breaks so they can stretch their legs and use the bathroom.

👍Be Patient

Crate training takes patience. So, don’t get discouraged if it doesn’t happen overnight. Just keep working at it and be consistent with your training.

Potty Training Chihuahuas

If you’re tired of dealing with accidents in the house, it’s time to potty train your Chihuahua. Here’s how to potty train your Chihuahua:

👍Start Them Early

The best time to start potty training is when your Chihuahua is a puppy. That way, they’ll be less likely to have accidents in the house.

👍Create a Schedule

One of the best ways to potty train your Chihuahua is to create a schedule. That way, they’ll know when it’s time to go outside. Take them out first thing in the morning, after meals, and before bedtime.

👍Use a Consistent Command

When you’re potty training, it’s important to use a consistent command. That way, your Chihuahua will know what you’re asking them to do. A common command is “go potty.”

👍Reward Them

Remember to reward your Chihuahua for good behavior. That way, they’ll know that they’re doing something right. Some common rewards are treats, praise, or both.

Chihuahua Barking Problems

Every dog barks, but some dogs do it more than others. If your Chihuahua is barking too much, it might be time to train them to stop. Here’s how to stop your Chihuahua from barking:

✔Identify the Trigger

The first step is to identify the trigger. That way, you can avoid the situations that make your Chihuahua bark. Some common triggers are strangers, other animals, and loud noises.

✔Teach Them to Be Quiet

Once you’ve identified the trigger, it’s time to teach your Chihuahua to be quiet. Start by asking them to be quiet for a short period of time. Then, gradually increase the amount of time.

✔Use a Consistent Command

When you’re training your Chihuahua to be quiet, it’s important to use a consistent command. That way, they’ll know what you’re asking them to do. A common command is “quiet.”

✔Use Treats

One of the best ways to train your Chihuahua is to use treats. When they obey your command, give them a treat. That way, they’ll know that they’re doing something right.

✔Be Consistent

The most important thing is to be consistent with your training. That way, your Chihuahua will know that you mean business. So, don’t give up and keep working at it.

Destructive Chewing in Chihuahuas

If your Chihuahua destroyed your favorite pair of shoes, it’s time to train them to stop. Here’s how to stop your Chihuahua from chewing:

✔Provide Them with Chew Toys

One of the best ways to stop your Chihuahua from chewing is to provide them with chew toys. That way, they’ll have something to chew on other than your belongings.

✔Make It Unattractive

If you don’t want your Chihuahua to chew on something, make it unattractive. That way, they’ll be less likely to chew on it. You can do this by spraying it with a bitter spray or covering it with tape.

✔Give Them a Time-Out

If your Chihuahua is caught in the act of chewing, give them a time-out. That way, they’ll know that it’s not acceptable behavior. Put them in their crate or another safe place for a few minutes.

Chihuahua Digging Issues

If your Chihuahua is digging holes in your yard, it’s time to train them to stop. Here’s how to stop your Chihuahua from digging:

✔Provide Them with a Digging Pit

For some dogs, digging is instinctual. If that’s the case with your Chihuahua, provide them with a digging pit. That way, they’ll have a place to dig without destroying your yard.

✔Don’t Leave Them Unattended

If you’re going to be away from home, don’t leave your Chihuahua unattended. That way, they won’t have the opportunity to dig. If you must leave them alone, put them in their crate or another safe place.

✔Give Them a Time-Out

If your Chihuahua is caught in the act of digging, give them a time-out. That way, they’ll know that it’s not acceptable behavior. Put them in their crate or another safe place for a few minutes.

Jumping Up on People by Chihuahuas

Some dogs like to jump up on people when they’re excited. While it might be cute, it’s not always appropriate. If you want to stop your Chihuahua from jumping up on people, here’s what you can do:

✔Teach Them to Sit

One of the best ways to stop your Chihuahua from jumping is to teach them to sit. When they jump up, ask them to sit. Once they’re sitting, give them a treat.

✔Ignore Them

If your Chihuahua is jumping up on you, ignore them. That way, they’ll know that it’s not acceptable behavior. Don’t give them any attention, even if it’s negative attention.

✔Use a Leash

If you’re having trouble getting your Chihuahua to listen, use a leash. That way, you’ll be able to control them better. If they start to jump, give them a gentle tug on the leash.

Nipping and Biting from Chihuahuas

Some dogs like to nip and bite, especially when they’re puppies. While it might be cute, it’s not always appropriate. If you want to stop your Chihuahua from nipping and biting, you can provide them with chew toys and give them a time-out when they’re caught in the act.

Puppy teething is another common reason why dogs nip and bite. If that’s the case with your Chihuahua, give them something to chew on that will help with the pain, like a frozen washcloth.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do Chihuahuas Bark a Lot?

Chihuahuas can bark a lot, but it depends on the individual dog. Some Chihuahuas are more laid back and don’t bark as much, while others are more high-strung and bark more often.

2. Do Chihuahuas Shed?

Chihuahuas can shed, but it again depends on the individual dog. Some Chihuahuas shed more than others. Long-haired Chihuahuas tend to shed less than short-haired Chihuahuas.

3. Do Chihuahuas Like to Be Held?

Chihuahuas can like to be held, but it depends on the individual dog. Some Chihuahuas are more independent and don’t like to be held as much, while others are more clingy and like to be held more often.

4. Do Chihuahuas Like to Be Played With?

Like most dogs, Chihuahuas like to be played with. However, some Chihuahuas are more active than others and need more exercise.

5. Do Chihuahuas Need a Lot of Exercise?

Since Chihuahuas are small dogs, they don’t need a lot of exercise. However, it’s still important to give them some exercise every day to keep them healthy and happy. A 30-minute walk is a good amount of exercise for most Chihuahuas.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right petfor you and your family is an important decision. There are a lot of things to consider, but if you take your time and do your research, you’ll be sure to find the perfect Chihuahua for your home. You’ll be glad you did! For more information on Chihuahuas, check out our other articles.