Many owners brush off their Chihuahua’s obesity as a non-concerning issue that doesn’t pose a real threat. In addition, there are even some people that laugh or poke fun at their weight problem. The fact is, however, that that obesity is just as dangerous to canines as it is to us. It can lead to heart disease, diabetes (yes, Chihuahuas can become diabetic too), premature wearing of the joints, arthritis, and it lowers their overall life expectancy. If you believe your Chihuahua is obese or on the verge of becoming obese, you need to take the necessary action to get them back to a healthy weight.
While the exact number is unknown, some studies suggest that as much as 40% of all pet dogs in the U.S. are overweight. This number is certainly shocking, but what’s even more alarming is the fact that over half of their owners didn’t even notice a problem. If you want your Chihuahua, or any other type of dog for that matter, to live a long and healthy life, you must keep an eye on their weight and make the necessary adjustments when required.
First and foremost, you must identify IF your Chihuahua actually has a weight problem or if they are just big-boned. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC) standards, Chihuahuas should weigh less than 6 pounds. Of course this is just a general rule of thumb to follow and isn’t a 100% accurate way of determining if your Chihuahua is overweight. A more practical approach is to take your hands and gently rub them along the sides of your Chihuahua’s ribcage. If you’re unable to noticeably feel the bones because of excess fat and tissue, then they are overweight.
Why Obesity is Dangerous For Chihuahuas
If more owners took their Chihuahua’s weight and overall health more seriously, obesity wouldn’t be such a problem. Unfortunately, far too many owners either overlook their Chihuahua’s weight problem or choose to ignore it. Either way, it opens up a whole new world of numerous health issues that places your Chihuahua’s well-being at risk.
Here are some of the main problems associated with obese/overweight Chihuahuas:
- The extra weight places excessive pressure around their joints and bones, which in turn may cause them to develop arthritis at an early age. Obese Chihuahuas are at risk for developing a number of bone and joint problems, all of which can lower their quality of life.
- Significantly increases their risk of developing Type II Diabetes (mellitus) as a result of the body’s need for more insulin. In some cases, diabetes may require your Chihuahua to receive daily insulin injections just to keep up with their body’s demand; otherwise, it can cause their body to go into shock.
- Back and spinal problems are yet another issue that’s commonly associated with obese Chihuahuas. When they put on more weight than their body can handle, it weighs down the sensitive areas on their back. This may cause their spinal discs to slip, bones to fracture or ligaments to tear.
- Obese Chihuahuas are at greater risk of developing high blood pressure (AKA hypertension), and this is just as dangerous to them as it is to us. High blood pressure places a greater strain on all of the organs and tissue inside the body, which increases the chance or organ failure and numerous diseases.
- Arguably the greatest risk that comes from a Chihuahua being overweight is heart disease. The extra fat and tissue inside their body forces the heart to pump extra blood so it can reach the vital organs. Combined with the extra pressure placed on the organs, there’s an overall greater risk at developing heart disease.
Stop Feeding Table Food!
If you were on a fly on the wall at a home with an overweight Chihuahua, you would probably see their owners frequently feeding them table food. Whether it’s straight from the dinner table or just eating a snack in the living room, Chihuahuas are oftentimes fed leftovers that owners don’t want to throw away. After all, it’s nearly impossible to deny them with those sad begging eyes looking patiently up at you. However, the problem in doing so is that it leads to obesity much faster than eating dog food alone.
It may only be a piece of chicken here or a burger scrap there, but those little pieces can slowly add up and take a toll on your Chihuahua’s health. You have to remember that a Chihuahua’s digestive system isn’t meant to process most of the food we eat. In fact, the only table food that’s acceptable to feed them is boneless, skinless chicken breast, and even that should be given as an “occasional” treat.
In addition to their bodies not being able to process it properly, feeding a Chihuahua table food can also be quite dangerous. We talk a little bit about common foods that are dangerous to Chihuahuas here, and some of the ones on the list may shock you. While most owners are aware of the threat chocolate poses, things like garlic, grapes and onions can be equally as deadly. Check out the link previously mentioned for a list of some of the most common table foods that pose a danger to a Chihuahua’s health.
Increase Their Activity Levels
It should come as no surprise that exercise and increasing your Chihuahua’s overall activity levels can help them lose weight. Because of their small size, many owners overlook or simply underestimate the exercise needs of their Chihuahuas. They assume that keeping them locked up in a small house or apartment only to take them outside to use the bathroom is acceptable when it’s not. Like all dogs, Chihuahuas need plenty of time each day to run around and play. If you don’t give it to them, their muscles will shrink, bones will become weaker, and they will naturally gain more weight.
Overheating and over-exhaustion is something that you need to be aware of when allowing an obese Chihuahua to exercise. If they are overweight and their bodies aren’t used to the proper exercise, they may run themselves tired. Keep exercise sessions short at first and then gradually increase the amount of time you allow them to stay outside. And as always, never leave your Chihuahua to play outside unattended, as there are simply too many potential dangers that can harm them.
References:
https://www.petobesityprevention.org/
https://archive.nytimes.com/well.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/04/20/paying-the-price-of-a-fat-pet/
My chihuahua mix is 35 pounds with a birth defect. She only has three feet. She also has a lower heart rate then she should have. I was told by a vet that she has a thyroid defect. She is approx 9 years old. I never feed her human food! I’m not sure how to help her lose weight but time is not on our side. Please advise
My Chi is right at a year old and very over weight. It started when he was 4 months old. That was last June and the cicadas were out as well as the little bits and pieces of walnuts the squirrels dropped. If he ate one he ate a thousand of both. He went from 2.7 pounds to 6 pounds in a month. He gets a 1/4 cup of food a day and I never give him table food. He was the runt of the litter and the first to go. He eats everything, and I’m not talking about teething. He chews and swallows everything that goes in his mouth. I’ve seen him eat bark off a tree. He eats the little sticks he picks up outside. I don’t understand how he is continually gaining weight. He’s fixed and the vet said it would change his metabolism but this is like his little body turns everything he eats to fat. Any suggestions as to what I can feed him to help lose weight?
this is the same as my little girl. she was chubby at 9 months when I adopted her from the humane society, she will eat anything including poop if she gets the chance. I also feed her just Farmers dog. 1/4 cup in morning 1/4 cup evenings she runs and plays with the cat all day but hasn’t lost an ounce. I am thinking she might have some other breed mixed in that is stocky like a bull dog breed? just guessing. her shoulders are broad and she is overall stocky. None of my dogs have ever been overweight even though I am. I watch everything they eat to keep them healthy as long as I have them.
My chihuahua is 13 years old, and suddenly has gained a lot of weight within a month. We don’t feed him table food, never have. I came to this site hoping to find what I can feed him that might help him lose weight, and instead I have to read past all this stuff that I consider common sense. I know being overweight is bad, duh! I just want to know what I can feed him, besides vegetables, because he hates vegetables.
My Chihuahua is 6 years old and has a knee cap problem and i have tried to get weight off her and cant she is 11 pds.. she is on deer meat and green beans cause shes allergic to other meats. Any help would be appreciated. I need to get weight off her soon cause its causing breathing problems for her. She should weigh 6 pds the vet said.
Got a 4 year old male, who had a yeast infection, he’s white and his fur was pinkish. He also had whip worms and was very slender. He would not mate. We got him dewormed, then got the yeast eliminated over time with probiotics, coconut oil and organic apple cider vinegar. He packed on the weight after we got rid of the worms. I happened gradually but rapidly at first so I think his body was storing up after the trauma of the worms. Now he’s about 8 pounds. I am working on less food now and walks 2x a day. See what happens.
I have a 4 yo chi. She weighs 9.5 lbs, vet says she should be 4.5. I bought fat dog, dog food. Vet says 1 cup a day. She didn’t like it dry so I blended it and doubled the quantity by adding cooked carrots. Is this a bad idea? She has a torn acl from her weight. Will acl get better with weight loss? Don’t have the 3k to fix it right now. She favors the leg but still bounds up and down stairs (I carry her as much as possible).
My dog is 10 years old and he’s been gaining weight since we got him fixed and it’s getting really bad and I don’t feed him much but he refuses to be active at all
MINE TOO, SHE’S A FEMALE AND IT’S SO HARD ,I DON’T KNOW WHAT TO DO ANYMORE. I LOVE HER TO DEATH AND I WANT HER TO STICK AROUND AS LONG AS POSSIBLE,SHE’S MY BEST FRIEND.❤❤❤
Chihuahuas should not be more than 2.5 kilos anything over and your dog is overweight. Feed them no more than 60g of dry food a day and obviously have its exercise.
My deer chi weighs 20lbs can barley walk she is 14 years old how much food should I feed her and what kind?
My chihuahua is 6 yrs old, he is overweight 9.5 pounds .. I don’t know to make him drop some weight in 3 months plan
There are applehead and deerhead Chihuahua’s. I have a deerhead and she is 5 kilo’s. I have read they should be between 10 and 12 pounds. people often mistake her for a Jack Russell, but she was born to two applehead’s.
My chihuahua now 6 yrs old, I just tried to walk him everyday once at least for 30 mins.. he loves it. Finally he dropped 1 pounds from Sep 28th. Not bad ! I’ll continue to do this for him until his goal 7 pounds vet suggested. 🙂
Whitey (my chihuahua) needs help. Obese is taking over.
I adopted an old lady. 15 or 16 no teeth and very arthritic, vets helping because she is overweight and no teeth. she weighs 8.4lbs needs help.
Hi my long haired chihuahua is 4 about to be 5 and I’m just a little worried cause she weights 9.2lbs. She’s playful a little, not like before, but she still plays. I’m just a little worried with her weight even though we take her out for walks sometimes. I don’t know if I should be concerned which I am already.
My chihuahua is 8 and she is 20 lbs I think. She moves very fast and doesn’t seem to let her weight wear her down. She does get a 1/4 of every meal. It’s so hard to resist her, as she thinks she’s one of my kids, she sort of is. She won’t eat dog food, and never has. She does eat Cat food with my cat for some reason. When I adopted her she was a big, and white so we named her Snowball. She doesn’t seem to suffer from any problems, but she’s my best friend and I wanna keep her around, and healthy. Any ideas for me to ease her back to dog food or lose some weight?
Cat food has more fat and protein in it because cats require more fat. Cats couldn’t survive on dog food and a dog might eventually get fat eating cat food. They are different because cats and dogs require a different diet.
Do not let her eat cat food. Cat food has much more fat due to cats needing more than dogs.
I found out cat food is way too fattening, as mine liked the cat food better and it was easier to give them both it. But turns out cats can get away with dog food but not the other way round. Try stopping cat food x
I have a 3year old chihuahua that recently tore his CCL ☹️ I’m looking for help on what to feed him to help him lose weight before he may need surgery. He’s almost 13 pounds now which is just too heavy! I’m already sad for him because he was such an active pup and now he shouldn’t even be walking much! Please help!
Not all chi are the same, tea cups to standard, and the size difference is considerable. My 11yr old boy is currently 7.8pds, he needs to be (according to vet) between 5&6pds. He did, at one time, top the scales at 10.7pds. Enough that the vet had the dreaded “talk” with me about his chubba chubba. Their direction was to restrict him to ONLY his dog food and not to “free feed”. No ppl food and let me tell you, he is the MASTER at begging and conning his way into someone else’s food. If not, he will be VERY VOCAL about it! But I stuck to my guns and he lost weight. He wasnt happy about his new diet but he was running around more and jumping up on the couch without help. 1 more pd to go.. If you love your furbaby, you’ll do whatever it takes to keep them happy, healthy and with you as long as possible!
What did you feed him and how much a day. My chihuahua is about 5 and is about 10.5 lbs.
He has Addison’s disease so I believe the medication makes him put on weight since it is a steroid but I cant really exercise him because for one he wont move on the leash but the disease is where is body doesnt produce enough adrenalin so I worry he will pass out.
What food did you use??
Hi I have a nine yr old applehead Chihuahua Tinkerbell she is gaining more weight I believe it is because of the treats and she doesn’t like to walk outside I add chicken and juice to her food but I think I am not measuring I know she is probably 10 lbs I think I need to cut back on treats and measure her food better but I was wondering if adding peas and carrots would help she has had dental work and it bothers her to chew her dry food any suggestions
You can purchase dry food & just add water to desired consistency. Juice is not good for them. Make sure to get an all around diet food with vegetables & meats already mixed in, as most dog foods that brag about this with big names are overpriced. Best of luck!
My chihuahua is 8yrs old and struggles eating her dry food as well so I started filling a tupperware container half way and filling it with water. I mix it up so every piece is covered and I store it in the fridge for her and it last a week before I have to make another batch. I feed her Blue buffalo for small adult breeds.
I have a little dog that is a mix chihuahua with yorkie, is a little lovely one, the problem is that he does not like purine, and I usually give the same food I eat. I’m worried he is getting so fat.
I have a chihuahua who is 19 pounds which I am so ashamed to say. She is 8 1/2 years old. My parents feed her table scraps a lot, and she doesn’t get much exercise. I have told my parents time and time again to stop feeding her human food, but she is a begger. She will bark and cry until they just give in to her. We have a big yard for her to run around in but she typically doesn’t want to be outside longer than it takes to do her business. She has never been interested in taking walks, she freaks out and wants to be carried right away. I am desperate to figure out how to help her slim down. I know she absolutely needs her diet changed, but in terms of exercise I really don’t know how to make her since she won’t go for walks and doesn’t like to play in the yard. Any tips would be greatly appreciated.
I cut down on his treats I give him one a day and I feed mine that new simply crafted chicken and chicken and green beans he really loves it and he was on table food he gets 1 in the morning and1 at night and it seems to be working for my boy I hope this will help you Becky Williams
What is the simply crafted chicken and green beans ? Please let me know.
I just rescued 2. One is 19 libs 10 yo n the other is 15 lbs 3yo
Very very picky eaters. Evidently they were fed table scraps. What do u suggest I feed them. Right now they wl only eat boiled chicken. Help
N how much excerise a day. Tks to anyone who can respond
Tell them to give her green beans with no salt added or a tablespoon of 100% canned pumpkin. It makes them feel full without a lot if calories. No more than 1/3 of dry kibble aday. Tell them they are slowly killing their dog. They are causing all sorts of health problems for her. Wellness complete from Amazon is what they should feed it. They need to be taking it for walks also.
My Chihuahua weighs 19 pounds also. She will be 6 Oct 29 and I vow here and now to exercise her every single day and cut back on table food. I love her sooo much and I’m going to get a recipe for healthy homemade dog treats and make them for her this weekend. No more beggin strips no more sugar no more fatty foods.
I have a 9 year old chihuahua and she weighs 13 pounds. How can I put her on a diet ? She is too heavy for me to carry ?
I have had a few Chihuahuas and I have one now. Unfortunately my boy5feeds her table scraps when I’m not around. As far as exercising yours, a good way for her to get what she needs is for you if possible to go out and run her around with you in the yard and play with her. That’s what I do. Start with 5 minutes and build up her routine.
My chihuahua mix is 6 years old. She is about a solid 14 pounds now. When first rescued 5 years ago she was about 7 pounds and looked terrible.
She has been on a diet food for over a year and has gained about 3 lbs (from 11 to 14). Not very active, very short walks twice daily (due to my health).
She is very alert, eats about a 1/2 cup of food a day, has a very low calorie treat once a day, sleeps good, moves. bowels & urinates with no problems.
Absolutely loveable, loves people, but not other dogs. We know she was abused, from scars she has.
So my concern is her weight.
I have a 5 Y.O. chi that has been fixed and he weighs 20lbs. He can and does go outside any time he wants with doggy door. I am guilty of overfeeding him. I would love to have that recipe for the homemade dog food of oats,rice, chicken breast. If someone would email me please. My Rex needs help.
1 1/2 cups brown rice.
1 tablespoon olive oil.
3 pounds ground turkey.
3 cups baby spinach, chopped.
2 carrots, shredded.
1 zucchini, shredded.
1/2 cup peas, canned or frozen.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=7P85BMCCboI
There are several Chihuahua groups on Facebook dealing with home cooking for them. One of them is Chihuahua Chew. You can also do a search for the others.
My long haired chi is 16 lbs, should be 8 lbs. had him checked for thyroid and it is normal. I feed him the lowest caloric natural balance fat dog. Not losing anything. I’m thinking of switching to wet, not sure what the best fastest way to lose his weight but we’re desperate, any advice on the best Lowe’s test fat/ca;price way?
I fed my 13 lb chi natural balance fat dog and she ended up with an enlarged liver. She was malnourished from so much fiber in the food. She would poop 5 times a day but never lost a lb.
My 4 year old long haired chi Elijha is 7.15…. he’s so over weight and is on thyroid tablets I’m struggling to know how much food to feed him. I give him wet food … any advice would be appreciated. Thankyou. Zara from the isle of man UK
I show my smooth coat chihuahua and I’ve been told to feed him no more than a coffee scoop of food daily and if hes still hungry to put out non salty green beans with about 3-4 kibbles on top.
My mother has a mini Chi that is now 8 years old and he weighs a whopping 18.5 lbs. He has a fatty tissue deposit on his chest that causes him to waddle when he walks. I have asked her to get him on a diet but she says that it is too hard.
Does anyone have any suggestions that would be helpful for her. She does have 3 other dogs as well. The English Bulldog is also severely overweight at 80 lbs.
I just adopted my little guy (named him Gubble) from a local animal shelter. Now he is a little chubby but we do have one hour of outside play time (in addition to the 3 20 minutes outside time for bathroom breaks). I know he will warm up to me eventually but, he has not eaten very much since I brought him home (but he does the begging eyes when he sees me eat) and I don’t really know what to do. He also like to roll around in my clothes which I don’t know what that means either. Advice?
Maybe he doesn’t like the food you’re feeding him? Also, make sure to close the kibble bag to keep it from getting stale. Try not to cave when they beg for food. It creates bad habits.The rolling around in your clothes means he likes your scent and is trying to mark your clothes with his smell so other dogs will know that you are claimed by him.
Start feeding him a small amount of baked chicken with rice and a veggie. The easiest is peas and carrots. Feed him after you eat. My Chihuahua hated what vets recommended the most palatable. We ended up having to get something that resembled people food with dried veggies etc… They don’t make it anymore but when she gets sick it’s back to chicken and rice. It’s the simplest, cleanest food. If worst comes to worst get a nutrient dense paste from your vet while you search for the right fit.
My chihuahua covers himself up. That’s what YOUR dog is doing. I have heard of other chihuahuas who do this. Just leave a blankie on the floor for him.
I have a 3 year old female chihuahua that is over weight. I have had her for about 5 months now and she was over weight when I got her from my brother who passed away. shes weights 20 pounds. I know she needs to loose weight but not sure on how to do that . Need help fast .
Exercise with your doggo and give it small portions of food ;-;
To anyone with fat,overweight Chihuahuas, Get a blood panel that includes T4. My chi was just diagnosed with Hypothyroidism. His weight is coming down finally! His energy is coming back. Now,when we get ready for a walk,he does this cute little run to the door! What a difference!
Hello I have a 4 year old long haired Chi and last time at vet maybe a month ago she was a whopping 11 pounds. Heaviest Shea ever been. Making piggy snorting sounds and pants alot at walks and I know she needs to lose weight. I was always giving snacks hear and there ..like small amounts of cheese or chicken or veggies. Enough is enough and I need her to lose weight bit not sure sizing amounts of her food and how much per day. My dogs are on a high quality food called Ziwipeak. Comes in lamb, venison and beef. I fees lamb and beef. I really need help as I’m so stressed out with her weight it’s killing me. I would like her to lose least 3 pounds if that’s at a healthy weight for her. Any help greatly appreciated!!! My dogs are my life xo
I’m sorry but this goes to everyone that has an over weight dog… You the owner are getting them to much! Exercise is only 15% and calories in (feeding) is what is the cause. Cut their food in by 1/4 if after 2 weeks they still haven’t lost all the great, cut it again by another 1/4. They won’t starve, your not being mean if they want more. They have been trained to over eat! Note it’s time to be a responsible dog owner!
yes you are right. us the dog owners are to blame because we trained them to overeat . I am going to feed them alot less now
Jessica,I was reading that Chi’s shouldn’t have a lot of red meat. They do better on Chicken. Red meat is too rich for a tiny dog. It should only be given sparingly every once in a while.
My Chihuahua was overweight and my Vet told me not to feed her over 200 calories a day. Never thought I would be weighing her food and counting calories for her the same as I do myself when I want to lose weight. When the vet saw her on 4/6/18 she weighed 11.8 lbs. and after a month of feeding her the 200 calorie diet on 5/3/18 she weighted in at 10.4 lbs. a total weight lose of 1.4 lbs. She is not a really small Chi and the vet says her ideal weight should be 10 pounds. I’m waiting to hear from her vet how many calories she can have to maintain her ideal weight.
Lois. What did you feed your Chihuahua? Dry dog food does not tell you how many calories are in it. My Chihuahua also weighed 11.8 pounds today at the vet visit. I would appreciate your help.
Hello ! My Chihuahua Teddy is about 13 lbs . he was 8 lbs when i adopted him 3 years ago. I am no longer going to give him table food . Really want him to be healthy . He is my sweet fur baby !
I have 2 Chihuahua’s and one is very over weight. I feed them Fresh Pet wet food and give them 1/2 pound each daily and actually give them 1/4 pound twice a day. This is what the package states they should be given daily. Should I cut back on this?
Linda,Look at the weight/food chart. Go with the weight that your dog should weigh and feed that amount daily. If you are giving treats throughout the day,that also adds to the daily calorie count. Adjust the treat level. I give my dogs small bits of treats thru the day instead of giving the full treat. They still feel “treated” ha!
Also I would recommend getting a full blood panel that includes thyroid testing. Hope it helps.
Hi, my chi Hunter is 5kg. He’s put on a lot of weight. He was 870gms at 8weeks and was told that he was a teacup! He kept growing, he’s now just turning 2 in October. I do feed him steak and veggies with me, or raw chicken, sometimes boiled. I admit I give him many treats through out the day, so I guess that’s somewhere to start. Can you possibly give me a good menu on what is best for his daily meals. Thanks Kelly, regards Wendy Hardham 😊
Yes not all labels are Correct in the amount of portions for dogs…your vet should help you. Again age and activity makes a big difference.
I just laugh and laugh when i hear the term ‘people food’ which was invented by the dog food industry to shame people into buying special food for their dogs. the little nuggets we feed our dogs are the equivalent of fast food for dogs. kibble does not occur in nature. in fact if you just think about it for 2 minutes, kibble is by definition ‘people food’. not that you shouldnt feed your dogs kibble. its just interesting to me how well the dog food industry has done in propagating that myth of ‘people food’ being bad for dogs. a far better approach would be to say if it doesnt grow or walk at some point, neither you or your dog should eat it because its ‘corporate food’.
I agree with you! I prefer to make my dogs their food, so it’s hard for me to follow these instructions. I have read SO many articles that discuss the harm of processed “ kibble” type food. I make mine with rice or oats as a base and I add brothe/gravy, vegetables, and a meat ( usually canned white chicken, tuna, or salmon)….
I have 5 dogs ( three smal and two large) and I have compared the cost of kibble to bulk rice and canned meat/veg…it’s so much more affordable, not to mention the health benefits ( that I thought I was helping my dogs health with- but this ad contradicts that theory).
Well said.
AMEN Joey!!!
I agree totally , I feed my dogs what I cook ,so I know what goes into there bodies.
good point! and also, things like that are probably why we as dog owners ‘have to’ get our dogs anal glands expressed every now and then, dogs dont ‘naturally’ have to have their ‘butt glands’ squeezed. in a dog’s totally natural environment, they would never need expressed, they would just do what they were intended to do in the first place….help lube the poo-poo when the dog has to go….well….poo-poo. 🤣 its because of all the ‘junk’ we feed them, the ‘people food’ AND the ‘kibble’! neither of those is ‘really’ what dogs (or wolves really) were meant to eat. ☺️👍
Papper, my pet chihuahua used to weigh 11.6 lbs and she was a fatty. After walking down a 15ft hallway, she would be breathing very heavy, sometimes begin a congestive cough as well. She was extremely overweight and getting worse, so I decided to change her diet.
We were feeding her Beneful brand dog food; we replaced this food with a glorious mixture of peas/carrots mixed with brown rice and grilled chicken breast. She instantly began dropping weight at 0.2lbs per week. Fast forward a year and a half, we have stabilized her diet, still feeding her the same food, and she now weighs 7.6lbs, down from 11.6lbs (she has lost 34% of her body weight).
I cannot describe enough how much this has changed her entire life, she no longer gets tired walking down a hallway; she runs around, no more hack-coughing, she is a bundle of energy that had been missing, she does things physically that she hasn’t done in a long time, the ‘love of life’ look that is in her eyes is absolutely undeniable. Getting my dog to drop pounds is one of the greatest things we have ever done for our dog, I sincerely believe it has prolonged her life, and provided a much better quality of life for her.
I want to try your peas and carrots meals for my Oreo. She is getting huge. It is my fault I feed her everything! So what amounts do you feed? How many times a day and will it spoil if you make a week’s worth. Help needed soon. 😀
I would like to know how much you fed of the peas and carrots rice and chicken to your overweight doggy and how often please my little Chihuahua needs help
I have a 14 yrs old apple head. Obese, cataracts, coughing, snoring, shortness of breath. Please send the recipe for peas/carrots, chicken, rice. And the amount per day.
Robert, my chihuahua weighs 15lbs. She is having breathing problems. I seen your post & wondered if you would share how you made the chicken, peas & carrots mixture with me. Also what amount do you feed your chihuahua daily? She is not that old & I had to take her to the vet last week because she could not breathe. Thank-you,Cheryl
I’m having the breathing problems with mine to I’m literally in tears cuz I’m so scared I’ve taken her to the vet to many times and been charged out the ass for them just to look at her and say she needs to lose weight well duh and that sh has a collapsing tranche but there’s only the sugary that usually has a bad outcome so for her to lose weight well I live in the city the river fire is in and I can’t get her enough air and she keeps coughing I’ve done eVery thing for her to lose weight but I feel so helpless right now I might lose my home because this fire but all I reAlly carE about is her 😢 I’ve got 2 air filters in my room but not having tHe fresh air is killing her any advice
Please send me your recipe
I make my own dog food and fill 8 small storage containers and put them in the freezer. Every time I finish using one container I set another container into the fridge for the following day.
I use diced yams or carrots, chopped broccoli, kidney beans, brown rice and add small bites of chicken or beef each time.
Please send me your recipe.
My chihuahua needs to lose weight
and you onviously have found the aswer!
Robert I would also love to know the quantities you’re feeding and how often. My 1 1/2 year old Chihuahua is way too heavy. She is 4 pounds overweight and I can’t seem to get it down. I feel her Orijen along with my other dogs, but I think she might be sneaking their food. They aren’t heavy… She is. They would all love to be on the diet you just said I’m sure. But I have no clue on amounts.
What amounts of food did you feed?
Hi Robert, Just wanted to know what kind of measurements you use for feeding your chihuahua. We rescued two and the one is really obese and really needs to loose some weight. How much of each ingredient did you use? Please let me know as we have always had large dogs so these two little ones are all new to us. Regards, Paula Rose
Hi Robert. Can I ask how much a day of the homemade food you were giving your dog?
Please could you let me know the quantities I should feed my overweight chiowowa . Many thanks Tia
What kind of Dog food did you end up putting him on after you took him off of Beniful ?
Robert
Please tell me how much and how often to feed my 12 pound Bella who is over weight. And your recipe of chicken peas carrotts and brown rice.
Thank you Carmela.
Robert. Please share your recipe for your peas and carrots and chicken for chihuahua with me. I have a teacup chi and she is 3 yrs and weighs 10lbs + I am worried about how bloated she looks and feels. We only feed her less than half a cup of dog food each day. And very little tastes of what we eat. (Have cut this out). Please share your meal quantity with us. Want the best for our little Minnie Mouse. Thanks and God bless.
Is this food you made if so could I please get directions on how to make my baby gizmo is at 13 pounds and I want him to be healthy please.
Can you tell me how you made food and how much did you give daily?
Thank you
Hi Robert my I rescued a Chi mix about five months ago along with his mother who has a full bred Chi and A German Shepherd yes I rescued three dogs in one day I think I lost my mind that day but anyways the chai mix he has gained 5 pounds in five months he was somewhere between 16 and 20 pounds when we got him and now he’s 25 pounds he’s quite active has lots of playtime with the other dogs in the backyard has no trouble getting around yet but I know it’s coming would you please send me your recipe for the peas and carrots and chicken and rice to help me with my Charlie Brown Right now he’s eating members mark lamb and rice recipe and he’s open fed other dogs are eating it to you and not having any problem just my Charlie Brown turn in the fat boy
Please send me your recipe for the chicken and rice for dogs. My chi is over weigh at least 10 lbs.
Thank you so much.
I have an 11lb standard Chihuahua. The vet said her weight is perfect for her. I say this because there are different kinds of Chihuahuas and not all should be 6lbs. My little girl would be skin and bone if she was that small.
I agree with you not all Chihuahuas are going to be 6lbs or less I took my wall-e to the vet and for his size 17lbs is his weight and shouldn’t go over that so there’s no way he would be healthy at 6lbs
Mine is about four pounds overweight. she gained a lot of weight when our older dog (who has passed) was still alive, he would walk away from his food a lot and she would sneak over to it and eat it all. we found out she was doing this after we installed a “doggie cam”. everyone at the park points and laughs at her. I think it’s so rude! it makes me want to point and laugh at them. we have her on some weight loss food and bring her into the vet every month to get weighed. it’s been a long road as she’s only lost 1.5 pounds in five months. it’s very discouraging and especially since i have a husband who will feed her too much still. so frustrating!
I have an overweight chihuahua and it is mostly that I feel like she feels denied and I don’t want her to be unhappy. I need to be stronger for her sake. She’s gained a significant amount of weight since our lab passed away and she constantly steals the cat’s wet food. I guess caring enough to suffer through what is probably my issues not so much her’s and get her healthy again.
Don’t let anyone make you feel bad… just love your dog. Ignorance is everywhere– don’t stoop to their level!
🙂
Hi put my 14lb chi on pro plan om..hes lost a pound in 2 weeks..you just feel sorry..keep your dog active and diet them down you will be glad u did
I have a 3 yr old male Longhaired Chi. He was 6.8 lbs until last Oct when we got a female. It’s my fault I wouldn’t watch them when they were eating and apparently he got some of her puppy food. They eat Fromm which is a high quality dog food but she was on the puppy and he was on the small breed adult. He now weighs 10 pounds and the vet says he has to lose 2. He’s allowed 1/2-1 1/2 cups per day I only feed him 1/2, I usually add a little bit of boiled skinless chicken breast or sirloin to it. I’m more than willing to cook for him but my vet says home cooking isn’t that good which I don’t believe Where we live he cannot go outside however we have a three-story home and the third level is 500 ft.² empty I take him and my female up there every night to play, just before he hit 10 pounds he would run around and play with her now he may only run around for about five minutes if that. Please help
I appreciate all the info. Thank you all so much! I will report back on my pooch’s progress!
My chihuahua is standard size and she’s overweight. I’ll take some of the advice given here. I believe exercise is the best bet. She’s so mellow and her only form of exercise has been sitting in my bike basket while I take her for a ride by the beach. Not very effective. So now I’ll be locking the bike up and taking her for a little stroll at our Dog Beach. I’ll also start monitoring her food intake. I have another smaller chi/doxie and I think my chihuahua is pilfering her sister’s food. She’s a stout little dog now, and I need to get a handle on it. Her legs are thin and don’t want them giving out on her!
We have a chihuahua we have to constantly monitor to stop her from becoming obese. Fortunately, we went through this with a Labrador Retriever.
For us, the key is quality dog food [we change from one brand to another, but none of the foods we buy are available at supermarkets]. The good news is that it’s a lot less expensive to buy for a Chihuahua than a Labrador retriever!
But just as important, if not moreso–we measure it out. Our little chihuahua gets a bit more than one-eighth of a cup twice a day. Look at the 1/4 cup that is the smallest measurement most measuring cup sets have, and imagine half of it. And our dog is a larger chihuahua. At her best weight she might weigh 8.5 pounds.
But we also learned with our Lab that you supplement the high quality dry dog food with canned green beans, or some other ‘diet food.’ Our Chihuahua loves those green beans. She eats them before she eats her dog food.
Measure. Supplement with ‘doggy diet food’ which is really the same thing people would eat as diet food–low starch carbohydrates that they can fill up on if the dog food isn’t enough.
I admit that with my Lab and my Chihuahua that is a small sampling. But at the same time, our Blue Heeler [Australian Cattle Dog] has eaten the same way–with food measured diligently every day. She has never gotten overweight. And when we took her to get her teeth cleaned, the vet who did the work came out to meet us and tell us that she’d assumed our Bella was 3 years old until she’d read her paperwork.
Bella was 9.
The vet complimented us for keeping the weight off of her.
So, some dogs have hunger issues and you supplement with green beans or yellow squash or any other veggie that is pretty much calorie-less. And other dogs [like our Bella] don’t have weight issues and are totally satisfied with their measured amounts of dog food.
I have a 8 year old Chihuahua who is almost 11 pounds. She has got to lose this weight. I would just be devastated if she got hurt from her weight or if God forebid I lost her. My question is, what would you recommend for the green bean measurement? And if you also don’t mind me asking, what kind of food does your girl like? Maybe my Sophie would also like it. Thanks so much for ANY and ALL suggestions and help. Shannon
Baby girl is coming from a well uprooted family an what should I be aware of in behaves from her when taking her home with me an I’ve got 2 cats also do they get along with cats.
I’m getting a over weight baby in June when I move to new home om what all other than walks can I do to help her an she’s 5 so what all do I need to look out for down the road with a older dog an all
Hi my little chihuahua is eating way to much and he just likes to eat and I don’t know what to do.
My Chihuahua eats everything. He’s so heavyweight it’s hard for me to lift him what can. I do please help his name is jigs.
JoAnn Olthaus
my chihuahua dog just passed away few days ago I’m thinking that he had a heart attack. He weighed 13 lbs that was to much weight for him right or wrong I would take him for walks every day during the summer and in the winter every weekend he would keep up with me and my other dogs which is a chihuahua mix Boston Terrier he would run he jumped and he seemed happy but all of a sudden he fell on his back couldn’t get up we did cpr and he just didn’t make it. I feel very guilty because i feel that I let him down. Was the weight a factor for him passing?
Please Don’t beat yourself up! You’re suffering enough! The fact that you are researching this and asking this question shows how much you loved your pup! If anything this brought you awareness. Just trying to bring the positive. Im so sorry for your loss! #spreadlovenothate
Mila im sorry for your loss.. I hope you’re feeling better these days. anyway dogs don’t have typical heart attacks per se. what may have happened is that your dog may have had undiagnosed Congestive Heart Failure. it starts out when a dog has a heart murmur and gradually over time develops CHF. Coughing,restless panting esp at night,wanting to lay at elevated angle(head higher than rear-end,syncope aka fainting,lack of energy,acsites(bloated belly) are some of the major symptoms. It sounds like he fainted and his heart just stopped. I wouldn’t doubt if it was CHF. My jack-huahua passed away last Dec. He had been diagnosed with CHF when he was 10. When Milo passed,he fainted and just stopped breathing..
I recently adopted a 10yr old chihuahua. His name is poncho. He has advanced tracheal collapse, leaking heart valve, hall stones(which are tiny,not causing issues yet), heart murmur, enlarged heart, born with hip/joint deformities, and has BAD teeth. He’s a happy little guy and is cute!
Poncho weighs 12.4lbs. He will not eat any sort of dog food,wet dog food, fresh pet, etc. I make him homemade chicken noodle soup and he loves it. I can’t seem to get him to lose weight. If I can get him down to at least 8lbs that would help his tracheal issues a little. I have him on 3 different meds to prolong his life without them he wouldn’t be here right now. I’ve only had him for 2 months.
Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
hi sara, i have a very overweight longhaired chi that i rescued from a negligent home. they let him eat cat food and kept his bowl full. when i brought him to my home,he weighed a whopping 34 lbs! im not kidding. I started him on Orijen 6 fish and he is now on Acana Free-Run (both brands are same company) I give him enough food for a dog a few lbs less than he is now. That way he gets fewer calories and he can have a small snack 2x/day. So far he is down to 15 lbs since Christmas Day 2016! he also has a sparkle in his eyes and his coat is soooo shiny!
Exercise is kept at low level as he has CHF and going blind. He is 13 now. Before he could barely walk. he slept on his back and snored. Now he jumps up and down for his meals and plays.. The key is getting high grade nutrition in a small amt of food. Acana/Orijen is the best commercial food. its expensive but with small dogs its not bad at all. plus they sell small $5 bags too at all Natural Pet food stores..Good luck hope this info helps.
I have 20 lb chihuahua short haired named Rocky and he is only 5 yrs old. He is having trouble walking and have to carry him up and down the stairs. I would like to know if the food you purchased is the name Orijen 6 Fish and AcanaFree-Run. Where can I purchase it and what is the name of the company you bought it from. Please email me as soon as possible. Also I am not sure how I can get back into this website again. Could you please send me the website address. Thank you very much.
Frank and Geraldine
Yes,Acana and Orijen are made by the same company. I had my dogs on 6 fish but since my dogs are older *10&13 yrs old,i was advised to switch to Acana Free Run which is lower in protein for older dogs. They are thriving on it. Chewy.com or any local “Natural” Dog Food store carries it. We live in Rancho Mirage,Ca and we get it from Pet Oasis here in the Coachella Valley
Sorry I forgot to check this site until just today. I hope it helps Love,Kelly, Mrs Moo and Skittles too!
Sara,I re-read your comment today. I have been doing some research about how a saline gut causes gall stones and kidney stones. So your lil Poncho may have an alkaline pH. I would get a blood test at the vet to make sure. It is possibly related to the thyroid/Cushings Disease or maybe not. It could just be his food. I feed my dogs Acana and homemade organic food.My dog recently was diagnosed with Hypothyroidism and his pH was alkaline. So I have been adding a little vinegar to their food and his pH is coming down. (8.0 to 7.0) Going too alkaline is bad too. So a 6.5-7.0 is probably good,but Im not a vet. I just do a lot of research from time to time. Vinegar has been known to break down stones. So a little vinegar in the food or water will help. I was reading that wild dogs eat fermented fruit. Vinegar forms in this fruit and it is thought that it adds balance to a wild dogs gut. Something that domesticated dogs dont usually get because humans tend to think that eating fruit on the ground is a bad thing. Anyway XO to your lil Poncho :*
(Sorry for the long post)
My baby is over weight and is having a breathing issues she is retracting and u can see it in her belly what should I do and she only eats twice a day dog food I am just real concerned do I take her to the vet
Ramona, Im not a vet but I have had a lot of experience with dogs health due to health conditions of dogs that I have adopted. Anyway,if your dog is panting/having breathing issues,i would get your baby checcked for a Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) I had a Jackhuahua (jack russ/chi) and he was plump and always was out of breath. I knew he had a heart murmur but no one ever told me that it can develop into CHF.I did some research and found out. Took him to the vet sure enough CHF.. He was put on Lasix and he lost the water weight. It helped with his breathing. CHF is very common. It’s worth it to check it out so you know.Good luck. Let me know how it turns out 😀
I adopted a young (2 y.o.) but very obese Chihuahua from a shelter this July. He’d been owned by an elderly lady who could no longer care for herself let alone four Chihuahuas. She fed them nothing but table scraps and wet dog food so the guy I took home was a 16lb football with the worst breath in the world. He’s lost a ton of weight just from switching his diet over to a dry kibble, and walking him. I take him hiking with me now, he’s much more playful and active, his breathing is better, and now I can get him in to have his teeth fixed since he’s at a much healthier weight.
How do I potty train an obese 5 yrs old Chihuahua? And quickly, because he might be put down soon if not and i need advice on chewing.
What are you feeding your chi? How much exercise and playtime does your pup get?
he does not like to walk i play inside chasing his toys back and forth but only last about 3 min. i give him a baby carrot to help him hold on until dinner
Yogurt, carrots, peanut butter, and any meds, blend and then freeze in little balls. They will do anything for them.
Your little ball ingredients sound good. I may try to make them for my Chihuahua. I did want to call attention to those who might not know check the ingredients in the peanut butter you buy. If it contains Xylitol do not buy it because Xylitol is very toxic.
My chihuahua is overweight and everytime I try to take her out on walks, she barks a lot at people and gets into a defensive aggressive mode. This makes it hard for me to help her lose weight.
My vet recommended I feed her chicken, rice and veggies (I cook carrots, peas and grn beans). Usually skinless, boneless, chicken thighs. Is this okay?
Marianne,I would switch to organic chicken breasts-Boiled. I use thighs sparingly bcuz they are higher in fat than breasts. I also use boiled zucchini my dogs LOVE IT! Once water boils drop a couple slices *Halved down the center and boil with lid on for 2 1/2 minutes remove immediately and let cool with covered bowl. it will continue to cook more as it cools and it will be perfectly done when cool. I then slice it up in small cubes and mix with chicken breasts and small amt of organic white jasimine rice. If you use organic chicken,take s small amt of broth and pour it over the food. Let cool and serve! My longhaired Chi is losing lots of weight from this diet. I also supplement with a sprinkle of Acana/Orijen dog food. The food is so nutritionally dense that a dog needs a smaller amt. When I feed my dogs the homemade,I only sprinkle half the amt for the daily portions
my chihuahua is just a little overweight all i do is take her for a walk [which she loves] and try to trick and give her half a treat [which she has to have or she will keep you up all night until you do] and she is losing weight but not as fast as i want her to so i looked this sight up on google chrome and i will give it a try
I love my little girl who is 11 years, and the thought of her passing is horible. She is slightly overweight. Because I love her, quality dog food from now on, and only dog food. It has been fun, because she is so cute and funny, to share my food with her. The way she goes after some of it I swear she is starving. But no, it’s like me, who is diabetic enjoying ice cream. Sighhhhh. Such is life, we must work at staying alive. From now on, my little girl will be removed from our eating area during meals and snacks. Love my girl!
Honey I feel ur pain….I to have a long haired Chihuahua tht weighs 10 lbs n she is miserable..I am disabled and can’t walk her n excercise her n im kinda at a loss here..