Choosing the best dog food for Chihuahua pups, adults and seniors has never been easier. Below, we have written a no-nonsense, jargon-free guide to feeding your Chihuahua. After all, there are so many different types of dog food out there – so, finding the right one for your pooch feels a little challenging. Don’t worry, we’ve found some great kibble to get your dog’s tail wagging with glee, thanks to the guidance of Dr Linda Simon – resident Veterinary Surgeon at Pooch & Mutt.
So, what is the best food for a Chihuahua? Dr Linda Simon prefers owners to feed small dog kibble to Chihuahuas over wet food. This breed is “prone to dental disease, especially in the 2nd half of their life”, so a doggie diet of dry kibble is best. Believe it or not, dry dog food can help your pooch with some dental issues – as it can reduce plaque and tartar build-up. For this, ensure the doggie kibble “isn't too large, due to their smaller jaw size.” Size does matter, folks.
Best dog food for Chihuahua at a glance:
• Best dog food for Chihuahua: Lily’s Kitchen Small Breed Chicken + Duck Dry Food 2.5kg – view at Lily's Kitchen
• Budget dog food for Chihuahua: Bakers Complete Small Dog Chicken & Vegetables Dry Food 1.5kg – view at VioVet
• Best dog food for Chihuahua puppies: Scrumbles Natural Dog Dry Food with Fresh Chicken, for Puppies and Adult Toy Breeds 2kg – view on Amazon UK
• Best wet dog food for Chihuahua adults: Royal Canin Chihuahua Adult Wet Dog Food 12 x 85 g - view on Amazon UK
However, it's not as simple as just wet or dry. Throughout the doggie chow market, there are recipes to help with sensitivities. If your Chihuahua is paw licking excessively or has red skin, Dr Linda Simon recommends dog food for itchy skin (or allergies). We’re not the only ones who suffer from intolerances. Hopefully, with a little time, and a sensitive, grain-free recipe, free from any pesky allergens, your dog may seem like themselves again.
So, we’ve found the best dog food for Chihuahua puppies, adults and grumpy seniors. From dry kibble for smaller bites to wet foods, we’ve sourced the highest-quality canine chow to ensure a healthy diet. Plus, we've snapped up some Chihuahua food FAQs and answered them, with the help of Dr Linda Simon. What food do chihuahuas eat? Below, our picks cover a wide range of dog food brands, allergies and budgets.
Best dog food for Chihuahua
Best dog food for Chihuahua
Lily's Kitchenwww.lilyskitchen.co.uk
A firm favourite, Lily's Kitchen Countryside Casserole recipe has been resized. The Lily’s Kitchen Small Breed Chicken + Duck Dry Food 2.5kg is delicious, full of goodness and has been made with real meat. Plus, it's grain-free, complete and balanced to ensure your Chihuahua is comfy and happy as a clam.
Customer review: "My dog loves this food and while we wouldn't necessarily have considered her a small breed (she's 10kg), we've realised she's able to eat this kibble much easier!"
Pros
- Made with natural ingredients and real meat
- A grain-free, complete and balanced recipe
- Full of goodness and tailored for small mouths
Cons
- Only one small food flavour at Lily's Kitchen
| Ingredients | 42% Chicken & Duck: Fresh Chicken (31%), Freshly Prepared Duck (8%), Chicken Liver (3%). Sweet Potatoes (29%), Whole Peas (6.5%), Whole Lentils, Pea Protein, Flaxseed, Egg, Potato Protein, Chicken Gravy, Minerals, Botanicals & Herbs* (1%), Salmon Oil, Prebiotics (Mannan Oligosaccharides 1.3g/kg, Fructooligosaccharides (0.8g/kg), Carrots, Apples, Joint Care Mix (Glucosamine 175mg/kg, Methylsulfonylmethane 175mg/kg, Chondroitin Sulphate 125mg/kg), Cranberries, Spinach. *Botanicals & Herbs: Alfalfa, Chickweed, Cleavers, Goldenrod, Nettles, Seaweed, Dandelion Root, Celery Seeds, Milk Thistle, Burdock Root, Marigold Flowers, Rosehips. |
| Quantity | 2.5 kg, only. |
| Preparation | Dry |
| Suitability | Small dogs, from 4 months+ |
Best dog superfood for Chihuahua
Pooch & Muttwww.poochandmutt.co.uk
With added prebiotics to help aid healthy digestion, alongside a calming supplement to promote physical and mental health, plus glucosamine for joint support, this recipe is full of goodness. The Pooch + Mutt Small Dog Complete Superfood 1.5kg has been made from fresh, natural ingredients for supreme health. Plus, it's been made with real meat, which gives it a high protein content. Perfect.
Customer review: "Little kibble for little mouths which is just what I was looking for. My dog quite literally, gobbles this down in about 0.05 of a second - lol. I take that to mean that he loves it."
Pros
- A delicious, natural recipe with a high meat content
- Boosted with prebiotics to help aid healthy digestion
- Formulated without wheat, corn, rice, beef, dairy and soya
Cons
- No similar Pooch + Mutt product for small breed puppies
| Ingredients | Dried chicken (min. 26%), potato, sweet potato 17%, peas, chicken fat 9%, chicken gravy 4%, linseed 2%, salmon oil 2%, carrots, camomile, cranberry, seaweed, fructo-oligosaccharides, glucosamine, blackcurrant, kale, spinach, beetroot, rosehip, pomegranate, yucca schidigera, olive extract. |
| Quantity | 1.5kg and 7.5kg |
| Preparation | Dry |
| Suitability | Small dogs, from adults |
Best breed-specific dog food for Chihuahua
Royal Canin / AmazonPalatable for the fussiest of Chihuahuas, the Royal Canin Breed range has been formulated specifically for your special cutesy pooch. The Royal Canin Chihuahua Adult Dry Dog Food 1.5kg has been formulated exclusively for this breed with a specific size and shape kibble, flavour and more. Plus, it's perfect for overall health, reducing the risk of tartar in the mouth and reducing stool smells.
Customer review: "My chihuahua is 10 years old, she is super healthy and looks like she is about half her age. She’s always eaten only this. No need for wet food alongside it and this has everything you need. I think it’s great value for money and don’t mind paying more than the likes of the supermarket brands because it’s tailored specifically to my dog's breed requirements for their coat etc."
Pros
- Adaptable kibble size and shape, exclusive formulation and flavours
- Reduce the risk of tartar formation thanks to calcium chelators
- Made from a special formula, this food recipe reduces faecal smells
Cons
- Not free from wheat - which can be an allergen
| Ingredients | Rice, maize, dehydrated poultry proteins, wheat gluten*, animal fats, hydrolysed animal proteins, beet pulp, minerals (including penta-sodium triphosphate (0.35%)), vegetable fibres, fish oil, soya oil, fructo-oligosaccharides, borage oil, marigold meal, glucosamine from fermentation, hydrolysed cartilage (source of chondroitin). |
| Quantity | 1.5 kg, only. |
| Preparation | Dry |
| Suitability | Chihuahua breed, adult |
Best probiotic dog food for Chihuahua
Harringtons / Pets at Homewww.petsathome.com
A family-founded business from Yorkshire, Harringtons' mission to make the best, affordable, natural food for all is still going strong today. Their Harringtons Complete Small Breed Dry Adult Dog Food Lamb & Rice 1kg recipe contains lamb, a great protein source for energetic pups. Full of natural ingredients and balanced, this recipe is packed with Vitamin E, Yucca and FOS for overall health.
Customer review: "My dog loves these biscuits and Pets At Home had them at a great price, cheaper than the supermarket when on sale, I recommend."
Pros
- Great value kibble for smaller mouths
- Boosted with prebiotics for healthy digestion
- Supports a healthy immune system
Cons
- May not suit all small breed dogs
| Ingredients | Lamb and Meat Meals 26% (6.5% Dried Lamb*19.5% Meat Meals), Rice (21%), Maize, Barley, Maize Protein, Poultry Fat, Freshly Prepared Chicken (4%), Beet Pulp, Linseed, Poultry Gravy (0.5%), Minerals, Seaweed, Dried Chicory, Yucca Extract. |
| Quantity | 1 kg, only. |
| Preparation | Dry |
| Suitability | Small breeds, from 8 weeks |
Budget dog food for Chihuahua
VioVet / Bakerswww.viovet.co.uk
With meaty chunks and whole grains for tasty goodness, each Baker's meal contains the everyday nutrients your small dog needs. The fibre from the wholegrains helps to support digestion while the added quality protein supports muscle strength. It's also packed with antioxidants for a healthy immune system. We love the Bakers Complete Small Dog Chicken & Vegetables Dry Food 1.1kg.
Customer review: "Bear and Bella love this dry food. They have it every afternoon."
Pros
- Vitamin D and minerals for healthy teeth and strong bones
- Vitamin A and Zinc to aid with skin condition
- Omega 3 and 6 help to make coat glossy
Cons
- Protein content is low
| Ingredients | Cereals (wholegrains 45%), Meat and animal derivatives (16%), Vegetable protein extracts, Derivatives of vegetable origin, Oils and fats, Glycerol, Minerals, Propylene glycol, Vegetables (0,3% dried pea and 0,3% dried carrot) |
| Quantity | 1.1 or 7.5 kg |
| Preparation | Dry |
| Suitability | Small breed, adults |
Best dog food for Chihuahua seniors
Barking Headsbarkingheads.co.uk
Even small seniors enjoy dog food with a tailored kibble size as they approach their twilight years, thanks to the Little Paws - Golden Years Dry Dog Food from Barking Heads. Your golden oldie will be chowing down on a recipe that provides slow-release carbs, essential vitamins, minerals and beta-glucans when they've got this in their bowl. This adapted nutrition will fuel your small senior's energy needs as well as support their immune defence and vital organ functions as they age gracefully.
Customer review: "My dog likes this. It is good to get both a senior biscuit in a small kibble where most brands you have to choose one or the other."
Pros
- Recipe ensures your senior has everything they need
- Supports joints and helps maintain a healthy weight
- Natural, whole ingredients for nutrition
Cons
- Although the kibble is small, one reviewer has said that the kibble has gotten bigger since Barking Heads changed its recipe
| Ingredients | Chicken 50% (23% Freshly Prepared Free Run Chicken, 23% Dried Chicken, 4% Chicken Gravy), Rice (26%), Barley, Potato, Peas (8%), Oats (6%), Lucerne, Minerals, Salmon Oil (1%), Yeast Products (1000mg/kg), Chicory Root Extract (FOS 1000mg/kg), Seaweed, Glucosamine (500mg/kg), Dried Carrot (500mg/kg), Mixed Herbs (Peppermint, Rosemary, Oregano & Thyme 500mg/kg), Beta Glucans (300mg/kg), Chondroitin Sulphate (150mg/kg). |
| Quantity | 1.5 or 6 kg |
| Preparation | Dry |
| Suitability | Senior, small breed |
Best hypoallergenic dog food for Chihuahua
James Wellbeloved / AmazonCombining wholesome, natural ingredients with tasty flavours, this James Wellbeloved Adult Small Breed Chicken and Rice 1.5 kg will help keep your pooch energised and in good shape. With chicken as a natural protein source, plus antioxidants and prebiotics, it's tailored to the needs of smaller canines to keep their coat glossy, their skin in good condition and their tummy healthy. Excellent.
Customer review: "My wee Yorkie likes the small bite and it's hard to get one that she eats. She seems to like this brand and she eats it all up. She is quite fussy. Better price on Amazon than at my vets. Haven't seen it in the shops like Tesco Asda etc. So glad I can order on here."
Pros
- A delicious source of protein with essential minerals
- Packed with Omega-3 and fatty acids for skin and coat
- Hypoallergenic with no added artificial nasties
Cons
- As it's made using natural ingredients, you need to store in an airtight container to keep its freshness and taste
| Ingredients | Chicken meal* (27.5%), white rice* (25%), naked oats, brown rice* (11.2%), chicken fat* (5%), sugar beet pulp, whole linseed, chicken gravy (2.9%), alfalfa meal, tomato pomace, carrots, seaweed, dried vegetarian stock, sodium chloride, fish oil, potassium chloride, chicory extract, calcium carbonate, cranberry extract, yucca extract. |
| Quantity | 1.5 kg |
| Preparation | Dry |
| Suitability | Small breed, adult aged 6 months - 10 years |
Best dog food for chihuahua puppies
ScrumblesIdeal for Chihuahuas, Pomeranians and other toy breeds, as well as puppies, this Scrumbles Natural Dog Dry Food with Fresh Chicken, for Puppies and Adult Toy Breeds 2kg is packed full of natural ingredients with added probiotics so it's gentle on digestion. This is a great choice for pooches with sensitive tummies as it's made without common allergens like gluten, wheat, potato, dairy, and eggs. It's also got salmon oil, which contains Omega 3 and DHA to support cognitive development.
Customer review: "Fabulous food and I always buy for my nervous girlie. Makes her stools firm and she is also a picky eater but eats every bit of this."
Pros
- Made using human-grade meat
- Hypoallergenic recipe with no gluten
- Packed in eco-friendly packaging
Cons
- Some felt the kibble was a little hard for their pooch to chomp on
| Ingredients | 65% Chicken 29% Dehydrated Chicken, 26% Freshly Prepared Chicken, 7% Chicken Fat, 3% Chicken Stock, 18.5% Rice, Oats, Dried Alfalfa, 1.5% Salmon Oil, Vitamins & Minerals, Whole Linseed, Dried Carrot, Chicory Extract source of Prebiotic FOS, Yucca, Dried Spearmint. |
| Quantity | 2 or 7.5 kg |
| Preparation | Dry |
| Suitability | Puppies and small-breed adults |
Best dog food for Chihuahua for weight management
Hills Science Plan / Pet Drugs Onlinewww.petdrugsonline.co.uk
A complete food for small and mini adult dogs who have trouble with their weight, this Hill’s Science Plan Small + Mini Breed Adult Light Dry Food with Chicken 1.5kg recipe is a fantastic choice. For weight management, consider Hill’s Pet Nutrition. For us, it's a go-to brand for specialised recipes, supporting doggie health. Committed to sustainability and pet welfare, this reliable, science-informed and low-calorie recipe contains L-carnitine to promote healthy weight, joint movement and heart function.
Customer review: "Excellent dog food, my dogs have been fed on Hills since they were puppies."
Pros
- Supports those who have a tendency to gain weight
- Specially designed small-size kibble for tiny breeds
- Contains L-carnitine to support weight, joints and heart
Cons
- Only suitable for overweight small breeds
| Ingredients | Chicken and turkey meal, wheat, pea bran meal, maize, maize gluten meal, digest, brewers' rice, cellulose, animal fat, dried beet pulp, vegetable oil, minerals, flaxseed, dried tomato pomace, dried citrus pulp, spinach powder |
| Quantity | 1.5 kg |
| Preparations | Dry |
| Suitability | Adult, small breeds |
Best wet dog food for Chihuahua adults
Royal Caninwww.petsathome.com
The Royal Canin Chihuahua Adult Wet Dog Food 12 x 85 g has been specially tailored for active Chihuahuas over eight months old. If your tiny pooch prefers wet food, this loaf-style recipe supports healthy digestion and skin. Not only that but it has been made to satisfy picky eaters. Royal Canin recommends combining this with our top pick, the dry food, for a complete and balanced diet.
Customer review: "My 4 little fur babies won't eat anything else its very filling and it is gone almost before I've finished putting the last bowl down it caters especially for there breed and they love it recommend this to all chihuahua owners."
Pros
- Contains nutrients to nourish your dog's skin and coat
- Ingredients help support a healthy intestinal transit
- Adapted texture to help satisfy your pooch's appetite
Cons
- Best paired with dry food for dental support
| Ingredients | Meat and animal derivatives, derivatives of vegetable origin, cereals, oils and fats, minerals, and various sugars. |
| Quantity | 12 x 85 g |
| Preparation | Wet |
| Suitability | Adult and mature Chihuahuas over 8 months old. |
Verdict: Which is the best?
Our favourite is the Small Breed Food from Lily's Kitchen. Though a little pricier than others on our list, it's a fan-favourite, inspired by a countryside casserole and has been sized especially for small mouths.
If you're looking for something a little more breed-specific, we recommend the Royal Cain range, whose Breed Range has been tailored for the fussiest of dogs. They never fail to disappoint us. Not only do they have wet and dry food for Chihuahuas, but they even have a Chihuahua Puppy Recipe.
FAQs
How much should Chihuahuas eat?
Putting together your newly adopted Chihuahua’s diet isn’t a mean feat. After all, this cutesy brand eats very little, meaning you can keep costs down with smaller portions.
Dr Linda Simon says to stick to the guidelines of your chosen kibble or wet dog food. Then, your petite pooch should stay within their ideal weight, which depends on size and shape. As Chihuahuas need smaller portions, Linda suggests using a scale for accuracy. She adds to limit treats and dental sticks as they “take up a large amount of their calorie allowance.”
Can a Chihuahua eat raw food?
Dr Linda Simon is not an advocate for raw diets for Chihuahuas.
After all, there is a risk of poisoning – to our pooches and us. Plus, Chihuahuas are prone to “fractured teeth, constipation and gut obstruction” which arise from bone consumption.
Why do Chihuahuas hide their food?
Most breeds hide food, says Dr Linda. It’s instinctual – as in the wild, this will ensure a “plentiful supply year round.” Chihuahuas are tiny – and some owners don’t realise they’re overfeeding them. So, Chihuahuas may not eat all their food, but take it from their bowl and hide what they don’t need.
She adds: “Remember, the average adult Chihuahua only needs about 200 calories a day.”
What are Chihuahuas not allowed to eat?
Chihuahuas, like all breeds, can't eat toxic foods, such as raisins, some nuts, chocolate and allium species (garlic, onion). And, due to their small size, “they're very sensitive to even small amounts of these toxic foods,” says Dr Linda. In fact, just a nibble of chocolate can make them unwell, and a few raisins could lead to something as serious as kidney disease.
Consult our dog feeding guide if you want a deeper look at the ideal doggie diet.
Piper Huxley is a Homes, Garden and Wellness Product Writer for Take a Break, specialising in pet health. When she's not barking about dog supplements, she's online devouring cat content.