All Categories
  • Dogs
    • Equipment
      • Dog Beds
      • Dog Accessories
      • Dog Bowls & Feeders
      • Dog Carriers & Travel Equipment
      • Dog Cleaning & Potty Equipment
      • Dog Crates & Pens
      • Dog Grooming
      • Dog Leashes & Collars
      • Dog Technology
      • Dog Toys
    • Dog Food
      • Dog Food By Brand
      • Dog Food By Breed
      • Dog Food By Condition
      • Dog Treats
    • Breeds
    • Health
      • Dog Dental Health
      • Dog Flea & Tick Treatment
      • Dog Health Conditions
      • Dog Health Products
      • Dog Supplements
      • General Dog Health
    • Puppies
    • Training
      • Dog Behavior
  • Cats
    • Cat Breeds
    • Cat Equipment
      • Bedding
      • Carrier & Travel Equipment
      • Cat Accessories
      • Cat Grooming Equipment
      • Cat Leashes & Collars
      • Cat Litter Equipment
      • Cat Toys
      • Cat Trees, Condos & Scratchers
    • Cat Food
      • Cat Food By Brands
    • Cat Health
      • Cat Dental Health
      • Cat Flea & Tick Treatment
      • Cat Health Conditions
      • General Cat Health
    • Cat Training
      • Cat Behavior
    • Kittens
  • Fish
    • Food Treats
    • Aquariums
  • Birds
    • Bird Food
    • Cages Accessories
    • Care
  • Small animals
    • Gerbils
    • Guinea Pigs
    • Hamsters
    • Rabbits
    • Rats
    • Reptiles
  • News
logo
  • Home
  • Dogs
  • Dog Food
  • Dog Food By Breed

The Best Dog Food For Chihuahuas in 2022

Last Updated: January 4, 2022
featured-image
PetSide may earn a small commission from affiliate links in this article. Learn more
author-image
By Petside
Published 08:28 am
Show Contents
Contents
  • The Best Dog Food For Chihuahua
  • 1. Taste of The Wild Grain Free Dog Food for Chihuahuas
  • 2. Wellness Core Natural Dog Food for Chihuahuas
  • 3. Fromm Gold Adult Dog Food Small Breed
  • 4. Canidae Pure Small Breed Real Chicken Dry Dog Food
  • 5. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula for Chihuahuas
  • 6. Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food for Chihuahuas
  • 7. Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Chihuahua Dog Food
  • 8. Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Small Breed Dry Dog Food
  • 9. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Rocky Mountain Chihuahua Food
  • 10. Merrick Lil’ Plates Small Breed Grain Free

We all want the best for our pets – and that includes buying the right food. If you have a small breed, such as a chihuahua, it can be a little difficult trying to choose the right chihuahua dog food for their needs. After all, a smaller animal will have very different needs to larger breeds.

Below, we take a look at the best chihuahua food on the market. Not only that, but we give you all the information you could possibly need, so you make the right choice in dog food for your chihuahua – including the answers to your most frequently asked questions. Read on to learn everything you need to know about small breed dog food for your chihuahua.

The Best Dog Food For Chihuahua

1. Taste of The Wild Grain Free Dog Food for Chihuahuas

product-image
Check Price on AmazonCheck Price on Chewy
offer-image
Taste of The Wild Grain Free Dog Food for Chihuahuas
Check Price on Amazon

It’s no secret that we’re big fans of Taste of the Wild and we’ve found that this dog food for chihuahuas is another fantastic offering from the brand. Hitting our Top Spot as the best dog foods for chihuahuas, this small breed dog food has been designed to keep your toy breeds in top shape.

Using a healthy amount of protein, which is sourced from real venison, as well as being packed with antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, this is a chihuahua food that will keep your dog in the best shape of their life. Just be mindful that fakes are shipped out from time to time, so only buy from the brand itself, online. For more information on the brand, check out our Taste Of The Wild Dog Food Reviews.

    Pros

    Real venison provides optimal amino acids as the number one ingredient

    Packed with antioxidants, vitamins and minerals

    Made in the USA

    Cons

    Recently suffered from a bad batch

2. Wellness Core Natural Dog Food for Chihuahuas

product-image
Check Price on AmazonCheck Price on Chewy
offer-image
Wellness Core Natural Dog Food for Chihuahuas
Check Price on Amazon

Free of grains and designed for high-energy dogs, such as chihuahuas, Wellness Core have done a fantastic job of creating a quality dog food for small breeds. The small kibble size is ideal for toy breeds while the added nutrients help maintain a healthy body.

A high level of protein means that this option is only really suitable for those dogs who use a lot of energy during the day. So, if you find yourself out at work all day or live in an apartment, you may notice your chihuahua becoming a little bit too energetic, when using this food. Read our in-depth Wellness Core Dog Food review here.

    Pros

    Completely grain free and therefore ideal for sensitive stomachs

    Smaller kibble size is perfect for smaller mouths

    Packed with antioxidants, vitamins and minerals

    Cons

    A few customers mentioned that their small dogs did not like the taste

3. Fromm Gold Adult Dog Food Small Breed

product-image
Check Latest Price
offer-image
Fromm Gold Adult Dog Food Small Breed
Check Latest Price

A highly rated option that customers love, this small breed Gold dog food for adult chihuahuas from popular brand Fromm is one of the best quality options that money can buy. Unfortunately, it is more expensive than our other choices, especially when considering the smaller bag.

The added taurine and alfalfa root do a great job of keeping the high-risk areas of chihuahuas extra safe, by helping to maintain a healthy heart and bones. Meanwhile, the chicory root helps to reduce the risk of worms in your dog, making this product a little unique in its offering.

    Pros

    Added chicory root helps to reduce the risk of worms

    Added taurine and alfalfa to help maintain healthy bones, heart and eyes

    Made in the USA

    Cons

    One of the more expensive options

4. Canidae Pure Small Breed Real Chicken Dry Dog Food

product-image
Check Price on AmazonCheck Price on Chewy
offer-image
Canidae Pure Small Breed Real Chicken Dry Dog Food
Check Price on Amazon

With no added nasties in its recipe, the Canidae Pure is an ideal choice in dog food for chihuahuas. It plays host to a healthy level of protein, and has added probiotics to help promote a healthy digestion. It also comes with added antioxidants and has been proven to be very popular with buyers, who say that their dogs love this dog food. For a wider selection of choices, check out our Canidae Dog Food review.

    Pros

    Limited ingredients mean no nasty by-products or allergens

    Added probiotics and antioxidants to promote healthy digestion

    Very popular with buyers

    Cons

    Bag can be very dusty

    Kibble breaks down considerably in transit

5. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula for Chihuahuas

product-image
Check Price on AmazonCheck Price on Chewy
offer-image
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula for Chihuahuas
Check Price on Amazon

Blue Buffalo are known for producing excellent quality food with added “Lifesource Bits”. These pieces of kibble can be a little tough for smaller dogs, but they are worth a little extra effort as they are packed with healthy nutrients that keep your dog at their best.

Meat is the primary ingredient here, with the kibble itself made up of grain, soy and wheat-free ingredients – making it ideal for dogs with a sensitive stomach. To see how it stacks up to the competition, see our article on the best dog foods for sensitive stomachs.

    Pros

    Added “Lifesource Bits” are packed with healthy vitamins, mineral and antioxidants

    Uses real meat as primary ingredient

    No corn, wheat or soy

    Cons

    Kibble can be too small for some dogs

    Very small bag can cost more over time

6. Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food for Chihuahuas

product-image
Check Price on AmazonCheck Price on Chewy
offer-image
Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food for Chihuahuas
Check Price on Amazon

Another slightly expensive option but perfect for the growing chihuahua, this option from Hill’s Science Diet is the best food for chihuahua puppy. It uses smaller kibble sizes to help meet their needs, while also being packed with plenty of vitamins and minerals to promote healthy growth in your pup.

It has been known to use more fillers than others on the market, however it has been formulated to meet the needs of young dogs. Thus, the fillers can be forgiven a touch, here, given the quality of the ingredients overall. If you want to find out more about their company, product lines, and recall history, read our review of Hill’s Science Diet Dog Food.

    Pros

    Designed specifically for puppies

    Added antioxidants and minerals

    Cons

    An expensive option

    Uses more fillers than other options on the market

7. Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Chihuahua Dog Food

product-image
Check Price on AmazonCheck Price on Chewy
offer-image
Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Chihuahua Dog Food
Check Price on Amazon

Created specifically for chihuahua puppies, this dog food is perfect for meeting the exact needs of the growing chihuahua. The protein is at an ideal range for your chihuahua puppy, while the added vitamins and minerals do a great job of promoting healthy growth.

The kibble size is small enough to be eaten comfortably, while the exact fiber and protein content helps to lower the odors produced by stools. While this isn’t an essential part of their diet, it’s certainly a nice benefit.

    Pros

    Created Specifically for Chihuahuas

    Ideal kibble size for Chihuahua food

    Reduced stool odors

    Cons

    Made in China

    Comparatively expensive per serving size

8. Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Small Breed Dry Dog Food

product-image
Check Price on AmazonCheck Price on Chewy
offer-image
Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Small Breed Dry Dog Food
Check Price on Amazon

We love the way Nature’s Recipe cram in so many all-natural ingredients into their food as is possible – all of which are designed to keep your chihuahua at their healthiest. This option hosts a grain-free recipe (ideal for those with allergies or sensitivities) while also remaining an affordable option for long-term use.

Be aware that some dogs simply may not like this chihuahua food, so it’s worth purchasing a little wet food alongside this option, to keep their interest over a longer period of time.

    Pros

    Very affordable

    Grain-free recipe

    Cons

    Some customers have complained of allergic reactions

    Wet food is recommended by some, to use alongside this kibble

9. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Rocky Mountain Chihuahua Food

product-image
Check Price on AmazonCheck Price on Chewy
offer-image
Blue Buffalo Wilderness Rocky Mountain Chihuahua Food
Check Price on Amazon

Another great option from Blue Buffalo, this grain-free formula also hosts the Lifesource Bits that have proven to be so popular with owners. This particular option is chicken-free, which is perfect for those dogs who have developed allergies from chicken or it’s by-products.

It has a very high protein level, so it is perfect for the more active chihuahuas who are likely to get 30 minutes or more a day with walks and entertainment, such as additional training. However, as before, the lifesource bits can be a little too hard for some pups.

    Pros

    Added “Lifesource Bits” are packed with healthy vitamins, mineral and antioxidants

    Chicken-free formula, ideal for sensitive stomachs

    Cons

    Some dogs do not like the new formula

    Lifesource Bits can be a little too hard for some dogs

10. Merrick Lil’ Plates Small Breed Grain Free

product-image
Check Price on AmazonCheck Price on Chewy
offer-image
Merrick Lil’ Plates Small Breed Grain Free
Check Price on Amazon

If you want to use wet food alongside your kibble, this is the best wet dog food for chihuahua breeds. While more expensive, wet food is perfect for keeping your dog’s interest in food and therefore is most effective when used alongside dry food.

The majority of this food is moisture, so always remember that your dog may feel hungrier throughout the day if they aren’t given enough kibble alongside this. The measurements for both should also be more precise, so as not to overfeed your chihuahua. For a full list of our favorite options, see our round-up of Merrick Dog Food.

    Pros

    Grain and gluten-free variety pack offers plenty of healthy choice

    Pre-portioned sizes for quicker, easier feeding times

    Cons

    Very expensive option when compared to kibble

    Only 12 meals included

Best Dog Food for Chihuahua Buying Guide & FAQ

Ingredients to Look for When Feed Your Chihuahua

  • Meat and Protein

Easily one of the most important parts of the diet, good quality meat provides the main source of protein in dog food. Meat should always be the first ingredient in the list provided by manufacturers, as this will show you how protein is the main component of their kibble. Check out our guide on the best high protein dog food for more info.

  • Fiber

Without fiber, you’ll find that your chihuahua food can cause blockages and therefore digestive damage. Signs of this will usually include straining and constipation, vomiting and, in some severe cases, stomach problems which require surgery. Getting the right level of fiber can also help to stem diarrhea, so getting good quality ingredients is important.

  • Grains, Fruit and Vegetables

This is where a lot of the nutrients and vitamins will come from in your chihuahua food. All dogs need a good level of carbs in order to feed their muscles properly and produce energy. However, processed carbs can lead to lethargy and weight gain, which is why it’s important to get these from natural, healthy sources such as fruit and veg. Head over to our review of the best organic dog food for more alternatives.

Cute dog eating

What Food to Avoid Feeding Your Chihuahua

  • Fillers

Unlike healthy carbs, fillers offer no viable nutrients for your chihuahua. As they hold no nutritional value, they will often quickly make their way through your dogs’ system, leaving them feeling hungry again in a matter of hours.

With an increased appetite and no benefits, you’ll find that chihuahua dog food that is packed with fillers will often contribute to health and weight problems. It can also lead to an increased blood sugar, so look for food that is grain and soy-free.

  • Toxic Ingredients 

Dogs are known to be very sensitive to their food and there is a considerable number of ingredients which are suitable for humans, that should never be given to your dog. Chocolate, grapes, garlic, onions and xylitol are some of the main culprits in creating severe health problems in your dog, ranging from liver and kidney failure to low sugar levels and anemia. It is therefore important that your dog food never holds any of these ingredients.

  • Artificial Ingredients

While they are necessarily toxic to your chihuahua, artificial ingredients, colors and preservatives can all have a negative effect on the health and wellbeing of your pup in the long-term. As well as being difficult to digest and offering no nutritional value, they can also cause a range of gastrointestinal issues such as vomiting or diarrhea – and they are more likely to cause an allergic reaction.

Common Health Problems in Chihuahuas - How Diet Can Help Them

  • Legg-Perthes Disease

Caused by a lack of healthy blood flow to the ball joint of the hip, Legg-Perthes is a condition that is known to affect chihuahuas. It’s usually found in smaller and younger breeds and a good diet can help to reduce the risk of this developing. This is because a healthy diet and a healthy level of exercise can maintain a good blood flow, which can ensure the hip joint receives an adequate supply of nutrients and oxygen.

  • Heart Disease

Popular insurance provider PetPlan have stated that chihuahuas are, unfortunately, twice as likely to require surgery on the heart than other breeds. As they are known for a range of heart problems – in particular with valve disease, in which the heart struggles to pump blood around the body - it is important to try and lower the risk level of your pup.

By opting for a diet which promotes healthy hearts, you can help to reduce the risk of heart disease in your chihuahua. It’s also important to maintain a healthy weight for your chihuahua, to lessen the strain on the heart and keep your pup at their healthiest.

Cute dog eating

FAQ

Q: How Often Should I Feed My Chihuahua?

A:

What you should feed your chihuahua is based on a number of factors. Firstly, their weight is a key factor – especially as many dog food manufacturers will give you feeding guidelines based on their weight. However, their lifestyle is also important, as a more active dog will require more frequent meals, while a lethargic chihuahua will naturally require fewer meals.

Finally, what food you give your chihuahua is important, too. This is because lower quality ingredients and more fillers will likely leave your dog hungrier over time, as they won’t be getting all the nutrients they require.

Overall, the general guidelines for feeding your dogs will likely follow a basic diet of having three meals a day (morning, noon and night), of between one and two cups per meal. Puppies, however, are better suited to free-feeding until around 3 months old, provided they weight at least two pounds or more.

Q: How Much Food Should I Feed My Chihuahua Puppy?

A:

Chihuahua puppies will naturally need less food than their adult counterparts. As they are less likely to be taken on longer walks (with short walks recommended after their inoculations to help build their stamina), they will use less energy and therefore require less food.

Your chihuahua puppy will need, roughly, 50 calories per pound of weight. Under the age of three months, they should be free-fed or given meals between 4 and 6 times a day. After this, you can increase the amount of food given but offer only 3 or 4 meals per day. Between 6 months and 1 year of age, they should be on their regular feeding pattern of 2 to 3 meals per day.

Q: What is the Best Dog Food for Chihuahuas?

A:

This dry food for small dogs from Taste of The Wild is a grain-free and nutrient-packed selection that provides your chihuahua with all the nutrients they need. It easily comes in as the best dog food for chihuahuas thanks to its recipe and commitment to quality ingredients. It’s also available at a great price and therefore means you can feed your dog on quality kibble without the concern of value for money.

Related Reads

The Best Dog Food for Beagles in 2022

The Best Dog Food for Boxers in 2022

The Best Dog Food for Cane Corso in 2022

The Best Dog Food For Cocker Spaniels in 2022

The Best Dog Food for German Shepherds in 2022

The Best Dog Food for Golden Retrievers in 2022

The Best Dog Food for Greyhounds in 2022

The Best Dog Food For Jack Russell in 2022

You May Also Like
  • Huskies
  • Pomeranians
  • Maltese
  • Corgis
  • Small Dogs
  • Dobermans
  • Yorkies
  • Dachshunds
  • Pitbulls
  • Labs
  • Weimaraners
image

PetSide ©2025

  • Privacy Policy
  • Affiliate Disclosure
  • Medical Disclaimer
  • About Us
  • Contact
  • Reviews
DMCA.com Protection Status