The particular best for the dog – relating to this saying, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and profession, but above all, of course, food. The meals is crucial to ensure that the dog is supplied with all the important nutrients and remains in health to live a long dog’s life. But it is often not so simple to find the right food for your own dog. Similar to humans, it is also important to consider a balanced diet. In addition, the wide variety of offers in the trade can cause confusion. Numerous questions arise: What nutritional requirements will the dog have and in what quantity? Which usually food is appropriate at which age? Is dry or damp food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And how much should the dog be given? What causes deficiency symptoms?
Inside the following best dog food for older chihuahua, we present 10 products. You can expect information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which dogs the products are suitable. Within our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the constituents and clarify how much food a dog needs. In addition, you will understand which foods dogs cannot tolerate and exactly how you can recognise a food allergy.
Below is a list of the best dog food for older chihuahua:
- Pets Purest Natural Dog Treat Chews - 100% Healthy Air-Dried Pork & Beef... — £8.99
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Wellness CORE Small Breed Original Dog Food Dry, Grain Free - Turkey with...
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£9.99
£11.99 - Edgard & Cooper Natural Wet Dog Food - Grain Free, High in Protein & Healthy... — £11.19
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Cesar 10+ - Wet Dog Food for Senior Dogs Chicken, Beef, Lamb and Turkey in...
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£12.00
£16.36 -
James Wellbeloved Complete Wet Puppy Dog Food Pouches Turkey in Gravy, 10 x...
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£12.99
£13.90 - ROYAL CANIN Chihuahua Adult Dog Food,12x 85 g — £13.42
- Royal Canin Dog Food X-small Adult Dry Mix 1.5kg — £15.75
- ROYAL CANIN Dog Food Chihuahua 28 Dry Mix 1.5kg — £15.99
- ROYAL CANIN Chihuahua Adult Dry Dog Food 3KG — £26.07
- Amazon Brand - Lifelong Complete pet food for adult dogs - Meat in Gravy...
After hours researching and comparing all models on the market, Life my Dog finds out the Best dog food for older chihuahua of 2024. We would recommend using ROYAL CANIN Chihuahua Adult Dry Dog Food 3KG as it is our top pick for you.
Top 10 Best dog food for older chihuahua
Best dog food for older chihuahua
ROYAL CANIN Chihuahua Adult Dry Dog Food 3KG
Features
| Size | 3 kg (Pack of 1) |
ROYAL CANIN Chihuahua Adult Dog Food,12x 85 g
Features
- Adult
- Chihuahua
- Wet food
- Model number: 9003579001509
ROYAL CANIN Dog Food Chihuahua 28 Dry Mix 1.5kg
Features
- For Chihuahuas over 8 months of age
- Superior attraction
- Stool and odour reduction
- Tartar reduction
- Special miniature jaw
Wellness CORE Small Breed Original Dog Food Dry, Grain Free - Turkey with Chicken Recipe, 1.5 kg
£9.99
Features
- ORAL HEALTH: Our small and crunchy nibbles reduce the build-up of plaque and are perfect for dogs with smaller mouths.
- HIP AND JOINT SUPPORT: Our Wellness CORE Small Breed Adult Original dry dog food supports the hip and joint of your small breed dog with glucosamine hydrochloride and chondroitin sulphate. For an optimal body condition!
- HEALTHY DIGESTIVE SYSTEM: Our Wellness CORE dog food is easy to digest and contains prebiotic fibre and probiotics, providing your furry friend with a healthy digestive system!
- FRESH MEAT AS MAIN INGREDIENT: Our dry dog food contains fresh turkey and chicken. For a tasty meal with every bowl!
- LOW CARBS AND NO FILLERS: Our recipes are grain-free, supporting a high-protein and a meat-rich nutrition for your small breed dog.
Pets Purest Natural Dog Treat Chews - 100% Healthy Air-Dried Pork & Beef Sausage Meat Treats for Dogs, Puppy & Senior. Grain & Gluten Free Low Fat Raw Protein Dog Food Snack (200g)
Features
- RAW & HEALTHY DOG TREATS: Treat your canine to a delicious reward snack that isn't associated with the problems of unhealthier dog chew products. Pork & Beef are the only ingredients making it a perfect pet safe alternative for a good boy or girl
- JUNK FREE: There are no additives, colourings, preservatives, sugar or grain in our all natural dog chews. Itching, digestive pain, obesity and allergic reactions are all symptoms that can be associated with unhealthy doggie treats, but not ours
- 100% NATURAL: Unlike rawhide chews that use chemical based air drying for reduced drying times, we use a chemical free air drying process that is better for furry best friends. You can have total peace of mind with our dog friendly healthy treats
- PET HEALTH & TRAINING: Our beef and pork sausage meat munchies contain only two ingredients making them a grain, gluten & lactose free option for any dog on a raw food diet. These hypoallergenic dog gift treats are also suitable training treats too
- PREMIUM QUALITY: Our sausages for dogs are expertly dried using low temperatures to lock in vitamins, minerals and goodness along with an enhancing aroma.
Edgard & Cooper Natural Wet Dog Food - Grain Free, High in Protein & Healthy (Multipack, 100g (Pack of 6))
Features
- Pet Things - Fur, Hair, Fins & Feathers!
Amazon Brand - Lifelong Complete pet food for adult dogs - Meat in Gravy Selection, 2.4 kg (24 pouches x 100g)
Features
- Pack contains 24 pouches: 6 x chunks with beef & vegetable in gravy; 6 x chunks with chicken & vegetable in gravy; 6 x chunks with poultry & lamb in gravy; 6 x chunks with beef & chicken in gravy
- Food for adult dogs: 100% Complete and Balanced Nutrition. Developed by pet Nutritionists and checked by Veterinarian
- Meat and Animal Derivatives 38% (including a minimum of 4% of the named protein). All meat ingredients and derivatives come from animals fit for human consumption
- Products contains ‘Various Sugars’ - this is from caramel syrup used as a source of natural colour (0.15%), no other sugars are added
- With fibre (Inulin) to support digestibility
Cesar 10+ - Wet Dog Food for Senior Dogs Chicken, Beef, Lamb and Turkey in Delicate Jelly, 16 Trays (16 x 150 g)
£12.00
Features
- Cesar 10+ Senior range contains succulent recipes your dog will love, specially crafted for their needs, being gentle on the stomach for easy digestion
- Each meal consists of a tried and tested dog-friendly recipe with mouth-watering moist selected meats, tasty vegetables, vitamins and minerals, for a flavour that dogs just can't resist
- This wet dog food locks in the freshness of our ingredients and has no artificial colours or flavours; just great tasting, gently cooked, natural food that your dog will crave more of
- Happy dogs make happy homes and with Cesar wet dog food your four-legged friend will look forward to mealtimes like never before; We recommend feeding a mix of Cesar complete wet food and a dry food
- Items delivered:Pack of 4 x 4 x 150 g trays of Cesar 10+ 100 per cent complete tasty wet dog food for senior dogs, Chicken, Beef, Lamb and Turkey in Delicate Jelly
Royal Canin Dog Food X-small Adult Dry Mix 1.5kg
Features
- Coat Condition
- Improves urinary tract health
- Helps reduce tartar formation
- Very palatable
- Very small kibble
James Wellbeloved Complete Wet Puppy Dog Food Pouches Turkey in Gravy, 10 x 150 g
£12.99
Features
- This product contains the following special ingredients and benefits to care for your dogs' health and wellbeing
- Turkey - made with 100 percent natural turkey
- Hypoallergenic - no beef, pork, soya, eggs, wheat or dairy
- Seaweed - Rich in iodine and other trace elements
- Balanced minerals - To support bone development
Only the best for the dog – regarding to this motto, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and occupation, but above all, of course, food. The meals is crucial to ensure that the dog comes with all the important nutrients and remains in good health to live a long dog’s life. But it is often not so easy to find the right food for your own dog. Similar to humans, it is also important to consider a balanced diet. In addition, the wide variety of offers in the trade can cause confusion. Different questions arise: What nutritional requirements will the dog have in addition to what quantity? Which food is suitable where age? Is dry or moist food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And how much should the dog be given? What can cause deficiency symptoms?
In the following dog food comparison, we present 14 products. You can expect information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which dogs the products are suitable. In our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the ingredients and clarify how much food your dog needs. In addition, you will understand which foods dogs cannot tolerate and exactly how you can recognise a food allergy.
The different types of dog food quickly
Simply as every person has their own nutritional needs, every dog’s preferences are different. The choice of food that moves into the dog’s bowl should be produced according to various factors. These include the breed, activity and health of the dog. Age group also plays a role.
Puppies are growing and need special nutrients. In addition, their digestive tract is not yet as efficient. An adult dog needs carbohydrates, fats, oils, healthy proteins and minerals. His dog food should be balanced. More mature dogs have a slow metabolism and are no longer as active. As a result, they require less energy, i. e. calories. However , the dog food should be easy to digest and include a great deal of proteins. In addition, the types of food fluctuate in phrases of composition, way of development and consistency.
Formula – complete or complementary food?
A complete feed contains all the nutrition the dog needs every day. The proportion of proteins, fatty acids, vitamins and minerals varies depending on the product. The ingredients should be adapted to the age, activity and possible allergies of the four-legged friend. An entire food can be dry or cast food. Supplementary meals are not sufficient in themselves to provide the dog with all the vital nutrition. These can be flakes that the dog owner blends into the food or treats. The declaration shows what.
Type of production
– Dry food and wet food available in family pet shops and grocery stores usually comes from industrial production. This is the most typical form of dog food. Industrially produced wet food is often filled in cans or small aluminium trays. Together with the latter, one dish is sufficient for one portion. However, some manufacturers of business dog food use genetically modified raw materials and additives.
Industrially produced dog food has a long rack life. With a few exceptions, this dog food can be stored unopened for quite some time without any loss of quality.
– Natural dog food only uses raw materials that come from herb, animal or other natural sources – unaltered or highly processed. The food must not contain any chemically synthesised additives. Nevertheless , certain synthetic nutritional supplements are permitted. In words of packaging, there is often hardly any difference compared to professional food: natural dog food is packaged in cans or as dry out food.
– Organic and natural dog food must comply with harsher guidelines regarding ingredients. For example, the product must not contain numerous substances such as genetically modified ingredients, hormones and pesticides. There are differences between the various natural dog foods: “100 per dollar organic” means that no undesirable substances have been highly processed. With all the claim “organic”, the ingredients in the organic and natural food are 95 per dollar organic. Whether it says “made with organic”, the product consists of 70 per dollar organic and natural ingredients. Organic food is available as dry and wet food.
– Meanwhile, vegan and vegetarian dog food is available too on the market. This dog food does not contain meat but still provides the dog with the important nutrients. Yet , vegetarian and vegan dog food contains a lot of fruit and vegetables and grains, which can issues if the dog is intolerant.
– A special form of dog food is BARF. The abbreviation stands for “biologically species-appropriate natural feeding”. This species-appropriate method of nourishing raw food is based on the dog’s ancestor – the wolf. When barfing, the dog is fed uncooked fresh meat, often along with raw, pureed fruit or vegetables. Whether this method is actually more healthy is debatable. Since the meals are merged individually, barfing much more suited to experienced pet owners who have analyzed the diet of their four-legged friends in detail.
There are manufacturers who advertise that their dog food is of food quality. This is a declaration that should be treated with caution. There is no such thing as food-grade dog or cat food. This also applies to dog food. You should also watch out for attractants and flavour enhancers in dog food. These are supposed to supply the food an improved smell and flavor. Some dog enthusiasts also avoid family pet food/dog food from factory farming.
Big difference between extruded and cold-pressed dried fodder
Dried dog food is produced by the cold-pressing or extrusion process:
1. Cold-pressed dog food is made by first drying the uncooked materials and then grinding and mixing them. A roller presses this mass through the spaces of a drum wall. Shaped and compacted chunks of feed come out the other aspect. Through the dog food production process, temperature ranges of about 90 degrees Celsius are generated, which obviously contradicts the word cold hitting. Yet , temperatures are still significantly lower than those employed in extrusion.
2. In the extrusion process, the ingredients for the dog food are exposed to great heat. Many nutrients are lost during this manufacturing process. These kinds of have to be artificially added to the foodstuff after processing. During control, the dough-like extruded feed is presented through nozzles at high pressure. Nourish produced in this way swells significantly when liquid is added.
Both methods have advantages and disadvantages: Because the nutrients have not yet been damaged down, a dog can digest the cold-pressed food naturally, slowly and gradually. In addition, the food consists of more natural substances. If the four-legged good friend has problems with the gastrointestinal tract and an annoyed digestion, extruded dog food can be more tolerable for him. In this dog food, the starch has already been broken down during heating. However, the manufacturing process is merely an extra factor in determining the tolerability and quality of the food. The most important thing is the quality of the raw materials.
Which is better – wet food or dried out food?
There exists damp and dry dog food on the market. The two types of dog food differ in their water content.
Dry food contains hardly any water and therefore has a longer shelf life – often several years. Dogs that are fed dry food have to munch more and thus train their teeth. Ingesting dry food is practically like brushing your dog’s teeth. Intended for dogs that drink little, feeding dry food can be a disadvantage. They can become dehydrated if they are given only dry food. Therefore, it is important to provide the dog with enough water. The huge benefits and disadvantages of dry food at a glance:
Pros
- Long shelf life
- Less costly than damp food
- Easier to feed on the go
- Easy to store
- Almost germ-free due to heating system during production
- Even more eco-friendly than processed food
Cons
- Frequently less acceptable to the dog
- The dog’s body is deprived of water, so it has to drink significantly more.
- Can lead to overweight faster if it is not a food items for deiting
- Risk of mould or temperato formation if stored incorrectly
Wet dog food has a high water content. The wet food is usually portioned in tins or small bowls. Generally one package of wet food corresponds to one meal. Many dogs like damp food much better than dry food. In contrast to dry food, wet food for dogs – once opened – can only be kept for a few days and nights. It should be used up within 2 days and nights of opening. Under we have summarised the huge benefits and drawbacks of wet food:
Pros
- High popularity by most four-legged friends
- Packed in handy portions
- Mainly because of the high water content in wet food, your dog does not need so much additional liquid.
- If necessary, medication can be administered with the wet food.
Cons
- After opening, wet food cannot be stored very well
- Good sized dogs need more space for storage
- More difficult to transport and feed on the move
- Wet food smells more extreme
- Costs more than dry food
- Creates more waste
This is not possible to make a general statement about which type of dog food is suited to your dog. The dog in the end makes a decision which dog food it likes and which variety it prefers. To find out which type of dog food your pet likes better and which this individual tolerates better, you should try out both types.
Some dog owners switch between wet and dry food. The following pertains to both types of food: It should be given as a primary meal, never as a treat in between meals. This can lead to overfeeding of your dog.
How much various meats and exactly how many carbohydrates and nutrients are supposed to be in dog food?
The quality of the dog food plays a major role in a balanced and healthy diet. It is important that the dog food includes healthy ingredients and nutrients – irrespective of whether it is wet food or dry food. The proper composition of your canine food is also crucial for good digestion and the health of the four-legged friend.
Just how much meat should the food contain?
Dogs are descended from wolves – that is why their digestive area is similar to those of predators. Therefore above all, the resource of meat is important. Nevertheless , this is not the only thing that matters. Unlike the wolf, the dog was domesticated by humans, as well as its needs and genetics have changed. This also applies to digestion. For example, the dog’s digestive enzyme are now able to break down starch, which means that the four-legged friend can also digest plant food in smaller quantities.
Above all, various meats provides the dog with protein. The four-legged friend needs protein for their muscles, bones, strong tissues, healthy the teeth and nerves also to provide energy for its activities. As a result, senior dogs have a lower proteins requirement because they are not as active as young or adult animals. In general, experts say that dog food should contain between 50 and 70 per cent meat. But other ingredients are also important. If dog owners feed only meat with their four-legged friends, this can lead to an issue with digestion, stress on the kidneys and liver due to excess protein and deficiency symptoms.
Vitamin supplements, minerals and sugars in dog food?
A well-balanced dog diet also contains nutrients that are not found in meat – for instance , vitamins and nutrients found in fruits and veggies, or fatty acids from healthy herbal oils. The four-legged good friend also needs carbohydrates. Wolves, for example, eat the belly and intestinal material of prey animals, now and then also berries and grass.
Dogs convert starch from rice, potatoes and cereals into energy and need it for their intestinal flora. However, the need for carbohydrates is low. Fillers from plant waste such as press residues from oil production, sections, husks or hay in many cases are added to the feed. Top quality carbohydrates are located in rice, potatoes, millet, maize, amaranth or buckwheat.
Animal fat provide the dog with twice as much energy as proteins. To prevent overweight, the meals should contain these substances only less often. How much should maintain the dog food depends on how much the pet moves. Lamb and poultry fats are saturated fatty acids. They are stored in the body as emergency ration and are meant as a reserve for bad times. Meat and vegetable oil contain saturated omega-6 fatty stomach acids and unsaturated fatty acids. Omega-3 oils, which are found in fish, are extremely valuable for cell metabolism.
What should maintain the dog food? Dog food should include 50 to 70 per cent lean meat or muscle meat or fish with high-quality proteins. In addition, there ought to be about 20 to 50 per cent high-quality carbohydrates for energy production and fruit, vegetables or herbs for the necessary minerals and vitamins. The proportion of offal should be a more 10 percent. Offal provides valuable nutrients such as vitamin h or iron. Good quality oils such as salmon oil or linseed fat improve nutrient absorption and ensure a functioning cardiovascular system, a shiny layer and healthy skin.
How could i recognise high-quality dog food?
Doggie food sold in UK must be labelled with certain mandatory information. These types of include:
– Talk about and name of the manufacturer
– Date of produce or best-before date of the dog food
– Name of the meals
– Net weight
– Moisture content for canned food
With regard to the ingredients of the feed, various statements are permitted: A closed declaration only indicates ingredient groups. These are, for instance , statements such as “with cereals” and “vegetable by-products”. A semi-open declaration data the individual raw materials, however, not their percentage. The open declaration provides formula in % and the respective sources of raw materials. When reading the food label, dog owners should also note the following:
1. Many manufacturers split the term materials into individual groupings. The reason for this is that the large total quantity appears smaller. For example, maize becomes maize starch, maize feed meals, maize flour, maize gluten or feed. The cereal components provide carbohydrates and saturate well, but must not be included in too large quantities.
2. The substances in the give food to are listed in descending order relating to their quantity. The further forwards an ingredient is listed on the label, the better its proportion. On the other hand, this implies: Only a tiny proportion of an ingredient that is listed far down the list is contained in the feed.
Other aspects by which dog owners recognise the quality of the food are:
– Meat content of 50 to 70 per cent
– Grain and veg content between 25 and 50 percent
– Balanced substances with all the necessary vitamins and minerals
– Zero use of taste enhancers
These nutrition make a good dog food
The dog’s organism has no trouble digesting good dog food. Indications of this are almost odourless faeces, high vitality and a shiny coat. The proportion of nutrients in a dog food is outlined under the term “analytical ingredients”. We now have summarised these in the table:
| Component | Quantity required | Tasks | Information and special features |
| Crude protein | 20 to 25 percent in dry food 8 to 10 percent in wet food | Builds the body’s own tissue such as muscles and bones Strengthening skin and organs Enzymes, blood and hormones also need protein | High-quality protein comes mainly from muscle meat. Low-quality protein is found in slaughterhouse waste |
| Crude ash | 5 to 8 per cent or a maximum of 10 per cent for dry food. Less than 2 percent for wet feed | Supply of inorganic substances such as magnesium, calcium, zinc or silicic acid | Formed after combustion of the feed Proportion should be balanced Sometimes cheap but unnecessary bone meal products are added |
| Crude fibre | 2 to 3 percent for dry food 0.2 to 5 percent for wet food | Support of digestion Stimulation of intestinal activity Strengthens healthy intestinal flora Influences consistency and shape of dog faeces | Proportion of dietary fibre Too high a proportion can lead to flatulence and large quantities of faeces Rumen is filled with raw fibre Otherwise in the form of vegetables and fruit |
| Crude fat | At least 15 percent in dry food for active dogs 12 to 15 percent for dry food for dogs with normal to less exercise 1 percent for wet food | Provides energy Ensure healthy skin and shiny coat | High-quality products include salmon oil, linseed oil, cod oil, pumpkin seed oil and hemp oil. |
The other possible ingredients in dog food are explained below:
1. The value for meat and pet by-products indicates the meat content in your dog food. Companies often do not declare exactly what is engaged. It could be high-quality muscle meat or offal as well as low-quality offal. The latter includes, among other things, jerky, rumen or chaps. Animal by-products include, for example , hair, bone fragments, hooves, blood or beaks.
2. Fish and its by-products include fish fillets, our bones and fish heads.
3. Plant by-products include, for example, vegetables, cereals and pulses and essential oil fruits. They may be partly health- and digestion-promoting food components.
4. Technological additives are preservatives, separating and binding agents, stabilisers, thickening and solidifying agents and acidity regulators. Some of these are important. These include, for instance , emulsifiers and natural antioxidants. Emulsifiers ensure an uniform regularity of oil and water. Natural vitamin antioxidants are to prevent rancid fat.
5. Nutritional additives are intended to support the health of the four-legged good friend. They should be contained in the right formula, for example as vitamins, provitamins, amino acids and trace elements.
6. Zootechnical additives can be added to the feed to effect the dog’s performance and health – such as stabilisers for the intestinal tract flora or digestive enzymes.
7. Sensory additives are employed to influence the appearance and taste of your dog food. They will include flavourings and colourings.
Overweight puppies suffer! Obesity is an expanding problem in dogs with serious health consequences. That can lead to diseases of internal organs, puts stress on bones, joints and the cardiovascular system, and promotes swelling. Additionally, it may shorten the life expectancy of the animal. Often , too much food is the reason for overweight. Yet age, sex and breed also may play a role. Especially Cocker Spaniels, Labrador Retrievers and King Charles often become overweight. Occasionally the use of diet food should be considered.
How much food does my dog need?
In the event that the four-legged good friend gets more energy than he utilizes, he can become overweight. Therefore, it is very important to give puppies the right amount of food. How much pet food a dog needs depends on various factors. In addition to the breed, the subsequent aspects are relevant, for example:
Activity level: How much the four-legged friend moves determines the amount of energy it burns. A dog that moves a lot burns more calories. If the dog is not so active, it burns fewer calories and has a slower metabolism. Consequently, he needs less food.
Age: Young dogs remain growing and are often more curious and active. They usually have a higher energy requirement than older dogs. It truly is recommended to reduce the quantity of food a little annually. For old dogs, there are senior foods that are reduced body fat and contain important additives. For smaller dogs you need to change at the age group of 10 to 12 years, for large dogs around 7 to 8 years.
Diseases: Some diseases influence a dog’s food or energy requirements. These kinds of include cardiovascular problems, thyroid disease, joint disease and diabetes. When dogs are recovering from illness, they need more pet food.
Hormone balance: A dog’s hormonal levels can rise or fall, changing energy needs. For instance , dogs have different energy needs when they are with child or change their coat.
To find out what amount of food is right for your dog, look at the calorie content of your canine food. A higher calorie content means a lower amount of food is needed. Additionally, pet owners can use the following guidelines as a guide:
– The daily amount of food for an adult and healthy dog with a normal activity level should be about two to three per cent of the dog’s weight.
– If the dog is older and does not exercise as much, a daily food amount of 2 % of the body weight is usually sufficient.
– A dog that moves a lot or is coping with an illness should be fed more. His necessary food amount per day is up to 5 % of his body weight.
– Snacks should not exceed 10 % of the daily food requirement.
Anyone who is uncertain about the right amount of food should talk to a vet and a nutritionist.
How can I recognise a food allergy?
The most typical allergies in dogs are flea allergy and food allergy. Possible triggers of the allergy are, for instance , stress, parasites and pollen. In addition, the protein-containing substances in a feed can result in allergic reactions. Things that a dog might be allergic to include, for instance , soy, animal proteins from poultry, pork or beef, and grains.
What is the between an allergy or intolerance and an intolerance?
– An allergy is a hypersensitivity reaction by the dog’s immune system. This reacts strongly against a certain material. A real food allergic reaction rarely occurs in dogs. Mostly it is an intolerance. This is not triggered by the immune system.
– Likely symptoms of allergies and intolerances
– Possible symptoms of a food allergy or food intolerance include irritation, vomiting, belly pain, flatulence, diarrhoea, lack of fur, redness and frequent scratching.
– Symptoms may not show up soon after feeding the food. Sometimes they only appear a few hours or days later.
Nevertheless, the symptoms do not really have to indicate an allergic reaction or intolerance. They can even be caused by another disease. In the event that your dog has these symptoms, you should have the cause clarified with a vet. The vet can also determine an allergy or intolerance or an intolerance, for instance , through an allergy test. On the other hand, it is possible to carry out an different diet. However, this involves a number of effort.
What is an exclusion diet?
In an exclusion diet, the owner feeds the four-legged friend only one special source of protein and sugars. These sources must be ingredients that the four-legged good friend have not eaten before. Pet owners should change the dog food bit by little. Following the food change, your dog is fed the new food for several weeks.
When the dog’s condition enhances and the symptoms will no longer occur, a provocation test is performed. Here, the dog owner has to feed his four-legged friend one substance at a time, that could be the trigger for the allergic reactions. More than time, a list is made of substances that the dog can endure or that cause allergic reactions in him. An elimination diet is something that dog owners can do themselves. Nevertheless, it is advisable to talk to a professional or speak to the vet in advance.
Consistent action is crucial during an exemption diet. The dog should not be given chews, treats or left over spots during this time.
What should I do if my dog has an allergy?
If this turns out that your four-legged friend has a food allergy or food intolerance, the dog should no longer eat the allergy-causing chemicals. The selected family pet food must therefore not contain any substances that your canine cannot tolerate. The same goes to treats and dog snacks between meals.
If absolutely nothing changes, patience is called for: sometimes it takes a little while until the symptoms of an intolerance or allergy or intolerance no longer take place. Sometimes they only disappear completely a few months after the change in food.
What is grain-free dog food?
Doggie food often contains grains. Included in this are wheat, barley and rye, for example. Embryon have an important function: they are a source of carbohydrates and energy. However, an excessive amount of it leads to obesity and sometimes to an issue with digestion. There is also grain-free dog food. Instead of grain, it contains alternate ingredients such as potatoes and dried beans, which also provide carbohydrates to the dog.
Grain-free dog food usually makes digestion easier and is also also well suited for more sensitive dogs. Yet , it is not necessarily essential to use a grain-free dog food. Dogs are omnivores and are able to process vegetable protein. A few types of feed are also especially easy to digest. Such as maize and rice, for example. Sometimes, however, it makes sense or is necessary to use a dog food without grain. This is especially true if your canine is allergic to food containing cereals.
In the event that you want to give your dog a dog food with grain, you should make sure that the grain content is not too high and that the product has a balanced recipe.
What can dogs not tolerate?
There are a lot of foods that puppies can’t tolerate. Several of them are actually poisonous for canines. These include, for example, onions, raw cabbage and natural pork. Onions can be fatal, based on the size of the onion and your canine. For a medium-sized dog, even a medium-sized onion can be extremely dangerous. If the dog eats raw cabbage, it can get stomach cramps or flatulence. Raw pork could retain the Aujeszky computer virus, that causes fatal condition. Other foods and drinks that dogs should never eat include:
- Delicious chocolate
- Raw carrots
- Vineyard
- Sultanas
- Fresh fruit starts
- Raw signal
- Macadamia nuts
- Bitter almonds
- Raw ovum
- Some types of avocado
- Birch sugar and xylitol
- Cream and milk
- Caffeinated drinks, such as coffee
- Alcohol
Furthermore, nicotine is dangerous for dogs. As a result, caution is recommended in rain messes, for example: Cigarette residues are located in them. Ashtrays should always be placed in such a way that your dog cannot reach them.
If a dog has eaten food that is dangerous for this, you should contact the doctor and also the veterinary emergency service directly. At the same time, keep your dog in a safe environment. Nevertheless, despite all the concern for the dog’s life, the following applies: Stay calm and watch to signs of poisoning. It might be necessary to take the dog to a veterinary clinic or drive it to the vet. Symptoms that may occur with poisoning include:
- Excessive salivation
- Excessive desire
- Throwing up
- Diarrhoea
- Aches
- Uneasyness
- Shortness of breath
To prevent your dog from eating incompatible foods, dog owners should make sure that family and acquaintances do not feed them such foods. In addition, it is crucial to train the dog well so that it does not constantly eat anything off of the side of the street.
The best choice is the ROYAL CANIN Chihuahua Adult Dry Dog Food 3KG.
Video about best dog food for older chihuahua
FAQ – Common questions about dog food
Finally, we answer some important and frequently asked questions about dog food.
What should I actually look for in dog food for puppies?
Puppies need a different dog food than adult canines. Once they are weaned from their mother, puppy food is on the menu. This is usually the case after about 2 months. The components and ingredients of puppy dog food are specially designed for growing puppies. This is because a baby dog’s immune system, bones, muscles, coat and teeth first have to develop.
With pup dog food, the focus is on nutrient intake. Above all, the pup food must contain certain essential nutritional supplements. So that the puppy’s digestive system is not overtaxed, the food for puppies also has a lower food volume than your canine food for adult quadrupeds. In the beginning, young dogs should be given small portions several times a day, which are then gradually increased.
When should I start using dog food for adult dogs?
This depends upon the breed of dog: Small to medium breeds are viewed as grown ups from 9 to 12 months of age. For large breeds, it is recommended to give adult food to dogs from 12 to 15 months of age. For very large breeds, it is advised to give adult food a little later – from 18 to 24 months.
When should my dog be given food for older persons?
For small dogs, the difference in diet should take place between 10 and 12 years of age. For medium-sized dogs, it is time at 8 to 9 years. Large bread of dogs are considered older at 7 to 8 years old. In addition to era, the dog’s state of health is also an important criterion. It is advisable to discuss the change of food with the vet.
What is the best way to store dry food?
The dry food should be retained in an snug container. Glass or plastic containers without plasticisers are best. Packaging with a metal layer on the inside is also recommended for storing dried food. The container or packaging should be stored in a dry and not too warm place. Otherwise the food can become “sticky” and lose its flavor and nutrients. In the worst case, mould can develop.
What is barfing?
The abbreviation BARF comes from the English and means Born-Again Raw Feeder. The UK term means “biologically species-appropriate organic feeding”. The species-appropriate diet is dependent on the eating habits of wild dogs. Ready-made food plays no role in barfeeding. Instead, the dog is fed whole food such as meat, offal and bones, supplemented with vegetables, fruit, natural oils and carbohydrates for a balanced supply of nutrients. Meanwhile, chemical substance and freeze-dried BARF food and deep-frozen meat can be purchased in the shops. Pet owners can add the other necessary components. Yet , you should advise yourself well or consult with experts.
What do We have to consider when changing my dog’s food?
The change of food must be done slowly. In the event the changeover is abrupt, sensitive dogs in particular can easily suffer from digestive : problems, some of which can be considerable. A time of one week is usually recommended for your dog to get used to the new food.
The change of food should proceed as employs: On day 1 and 2, replace about an one fourth of the dog’s usual food with the new food. On the third and fourth day, replace half with the new food. On the fifth and sixth day, the proportion of the new dog food should be 3 quarters. On day 7, the move is complete.
In the event the dog responds sensitively and, for example , gets diarrhoea in the first few days of the food change, you should extend the adaptation phase and increase the addition of the new food only minimally. If your dog does not tolerate the new food in any way, it is obviously not well suited for him. In this case, you should look for an alternative.
What should I actually do if my dog would not like dry food?
Then it makes sense to soak the dry food. This kind of has several advantages: Dogs often eat the dry food beyond hunger because it swells up in the stomach first. This makes it easier for them to become overweight and feel full. If the food has already inflamed in water, it fills the dog up faster and is easier to break down. In addition, the dogs absorb more liquid with drenched dry food.
How fast do dogs process dry food?
Dogs usually need up to 14 hours to digest dried out food. The exact time depends, among other things, on the age and size of the dog and the caliber of the food. A young dog usually has a faster metabolism than an old animal. The number of food is important too. Little portions are digested more quickly than large amounts. In addition, insoluble fibres remain in the stomach for a shorter time than soluble fibres. Low-fat food also leads to faster digestion. Additionally , the more liquefied the foodstuff is, the shorter the digestion time. Wet food is digested within 6 to 8 hours in adult dogs.
Are animal tests carried out for dog food?
You will find quite a few manufacturers who carry out creature experiments to test the effects and tolerance of their newly developed types of food. PETA’s website publishes a set of manufacturers who do not test on animals.
Which manufacturers and brands produce dog food?
The best-known dog food manufacturers and dog food brands include, for instance , ROYAL CANIN, Josera and WOLFSBLUT. Other well-known manufacturers and brands are, for example:
– Bosch
– PRIMUM
– Pedigree
– RINTI
– Animonda
– MERA
When ever is i able to start feeding a puppy?
During the first weeks of its life, a puppy is given breast milk by its mother. Stable food is usually eaten by young puppies from the 3rd or 4th week of life. During this period, the mother is constantly on the feed her puppies with breast milk in parallel. To be able to accustom a puppy to dry food, it makes sense to moisten or dilute it which includes liquid – for example with puppy dog milk. From the 6th to 7th week of life, the puppy is normally will no longer fed with mother’s milk.
Experts recommend soaking your dry puppy food with a water until the pup is 5 or 6 months old. To get the puppy used to the harder food, blend more and more non-soaked food pieces over time.
Making dog food yourself – will it make sense?
Producing your own dog food takes more time and work than purchased food. However, it really does have some advantages:
– In the event you make the dog food yourself, you can make a decision for yourself which ingredients go into it.
– Puppy owners may include the special needs of their four-legged friend in the preparing and adapt the meals to these and the dog’s taste.
– It is possible to make the food more varied for the dog.
If, for example , the dog is overweight, has to take medication or is intolerant to various foods, it may be sensible or required to prepare the food yourself. Before preparing the meals, you should study the various ingredients. The food should be balanced and contain all the necessary nutrients. It is sometimes highly recommended to talk to a vet in advance. Recipe ideas for dog food can be found on the net, for example.
Certain foods are unhealthy or toxic for dogs. For example, onions and garlic should not be eaten by dogs.
Precisely what is hypoallergenic dog food?
Hypoallergenic dog food is especially suitable for dogs with allergic reactions. It really is adapted to the needs of such a four-legged friend and can be easily digested by your dog. There is hypoallergenic dried out food and allergies wet food on the market. It contains few or no substances that often cause allergic reactions in dogs. Consequently, a hypoallergenic food reduces the risk that your canine will not tolerate it and that hypersensitive reactions will happen.
Usually there is only one supply of proteins in such a product. This is usually an amazing meat, such as kangaroo or normal water buffalo. Normally, the protein source used very rarely causes an intolerance. However, it cannot be ruled out that even hypoallergenic dog food can lead to allergic reactions. This happens when there is a substance in the foodstuff that the four-legged friend cannot endure.
In addition to dogs with allergy symptoms, hypoallergenic food is ideal for four-legged friends with a delicate gastrointestinal system. For these dogs, such a product can offer prevention of digestive problems.
