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Is your chihuahua suffering from joint pain or arthritis? You’re not alone. Members of our I Love My Chihuahua Facebook community recently shared their insights on the following question: What food would you recommend for a Chihuahua with arthritis? We received hundreds of helpful replies, and below we have compiled some of the best responses.
Best Dog Foods for a Chihuahua with Arthritis or Joint Pain
I cooked for my chihuahua, Spanky, once he hit around 14 and started showing arthritis. Added fish oil, and glucosamine helped a bunch. Funny story, about 2 weeks after I started him on that routine, he showed the first sign it was helping. He lifted his leg to pee for the first time in a couple of months. He was so happy and excited about it. Even though that was basically the last function I wanted him to regain, we still went to the dog park to celebrate.
Author: Deborah N.
Likes: 27
I would recommend Restorapet. You can find it on Amazon. Absolutely fantastic. I get the bacon flavor for my chihuahua, and I give her half a dropper full a day via mouth (not on food). Also, dasuquin or cosequin. It’s like for arthritis. I would do the chews if the baby would take them.
Author: Teirza T.
Likes: 4
The “fresh pet” in those little fridges at Walmart. My chi became a better dog, healthier too, and she loved the taste.
Author: Bridget P.
Likes: 4
I cooked a concoction of ground lean beef and turkey, ground and carrots, a few potatoes diced and boiled, and added to it with canine CBD oil added in for good measure. My veterinarian said it probably gave him another 3 years of pain-free life. Was so glad I did it for him to have a good quality of life for his last years
Author: David L.
Likes: 2
Hills Mobility. I have worked at Olive Branch Pet Hospital for 21 years, and it’s the only food we carry.
Author: Cheryl P.
Likes: 3
I have been adding Charlotte’s web CBD chews, all chopped up for the cour guy. Omg, it has made a big difference. He is a 17-year-old Chihuahua. Its has a good chicken taste. Try it. It’s for seniors’ hips and joints. It was this or drugging him up, which we did not want to do.
Author: Shawnna R.
Likes: 3
I switched my 14-year-old Chihuahua to Wellness Small Breed Senior, and I saw the results almost immediately. My Chi was limping from a torn ACL that the Vet told me there was really no guarantee she would get better after surgery. She has not limped since I switched her. It has Glucosamine and Chondroitin Support. I am so thankful for Wellness.
Author: Manzano J.
Likes: 0
We usually have our dogs (especially our husky, we also have a chi, used to have 4 chi’s total), CBD oil, which really helped them with their pain, especially bc the one did have arthritis, at least just for the pain. Although I’m honestly not sure what food brand bc we never needed a specific food brand, our dogs did well with just the oil
Author: Maggs D.
Likes: 0
Science Diet Healthy Mobility small bites it has glucosamine and chondroitin in it
Author: Diana M.
Likes: 12
I feed my 14-year-old Chihuahua Hills sensitive stomach for morning feeding, but cook for him at night. I cook brown rice, chicken & veggies. He is allergic to dry dog food.
Author: Eugene-Carolyn J.
Likes: 2
Eukanuba has a dog food that is Chihuahua-specific, and I have a friend who uses the CBD. She puts 3 drops of food in her dog’s food for his hip discomfort, which is a joint too, and it is amazing what it has done for that dog
Author: Elizabeth W.
Likes: 2
I also cook my own dog food. Dice up sweet potatoes, shred carrots, can kidney beans, can green beans, “low sodium” chicken broth in a box, manager’s special chicken, ground turkey, chicken livers, chicken gizzards, hamburger, crack a few eggs, and stir and brown rice. Throw this in an electric frying pan or crockpot at 200-250°F for 30 minutes. Add rice to soak up chicken broth. Simmer 30 more or less till rice is cooked, allow to cool for a few hours …. bag up, freeze for later or use. They absolutely go crazy for this, and my 5 chihuahuas look fantastic!
Author: Tom F.
Likes: 0
My mini schnauzer and my 12-year-old chihuahua both eat Purina Pro Plan for small breed for morning and fresh Pet for dinner.
Author: Cheryl H.
Likes: 1
I found a brand called Fromm. Grain Free variety, I opted for the Salmon style & love the teensy kibble. I also add bone broth (chicken) w/warm water for natural glucosamine intake. I have 1 elderly Parson Russell Terrier & 2 Chihuahua mixes, one of whom is morbidly obese.
Author: Dee M.
Likes: 0
Author: Monique G.
Likes: 2
I use Hill’s Science for joints for my older chi’s who have arthritis after about 30 days. I have seen a Huge change in using it for 7 years, now 2 of my babies are over 20 yrs old, so at 10 I have started all mine on it, and everyone is happy, healthy, and playful
Author: Lorrie D.
Likes: 0
Author: Loretta Schneider M.
Likes: 1
Author: Lynne Van Horn C.
Likes: 0
Author: Katrina Proctor V.
Likes: 0
Bil Jac food. And Butcher Shop Gollagen chews. I used to have chihuahuas; they all loved Bil Jac.
Author: Shannon N.
Likes: 0
I feed my chi-dog & two other dogs Dr. Marty Nature’s Blend. My chi-dog really likes it.
Author: Carolyn S.
Likes: 0
Raw beef, every day, and Rachel Ray dry, all they want…
Author: Michael M.
Likes: 0
Dr. Marty’s Natural Blend. All natural, healthy ingredients. Order online little costly but great
Author: Sugar W.
Likes: 1
Royal Canin (not sure of the spelling, but you get it) is the best food out there. My 9-year-old is just like a puppy since we switched about 9 months ago
Author: Vicki F.
Likes: 2
Stay away from foods that are inflammatory. (e.g., red meat) Try turmeric or cinnamon added in. Also, there are CBD treats and oils for pooches to help with the pain. Epsom salt baths regularly would help with pain. When it comes to arthritis, it’s so much more than the “brand” of food. Omegas added to the food help with inflammation, to…good luck.
Author: Cristina D.
Likes: 0
Frequently Asked Questions About Foods for Chihuahuas with Arthritis
1. What is the best food for a Chihuahua with arthritis?
The best food is one that supports joint health, often containing omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and high-quality protein. Many owners also use senior or mobility-support formulas.
2. Can diet help improve arthritis in Chihuahuas?
Yes, a proper diet can help reduce inflammation, support joint function, and improve mobility when combined with supplements and veterinary care.
3. Are supplements important for joint health?
Supplements like glucosamine, chondroitin, and fish oil are commonly used to support joints and may help reduce stiffness and discomfort.
4. Is fresh or homemade food good for arthritic dogs?
Fresh or homemade food can be beneficial if properly balanced, as it allows you to include nutrient-rich, anti-inflammatory ingredients.
5. What ingredients help reduce inflammation?
Ingredients like fish oil, turmeric, antioxidants, and bone broth may help reduce inflammation and support joint health.
6. Should I consider prescription joint diets?
Prescription diets designed for joint health can be very effective, especially for dogs with moderate to severe arthritis.
7. Can CBD oil help dogs with arthritis?
Some owners report that CBD oil may help manage discomfort and improve mobility, but it should be used under veterinary guidance.
8. How important is weight management for Chihuahuas?
Maintaining a healthy weight is very important, as excess weight puts additional strain on small joints and can worsen arthritis symptoms.
9. Should I avoid certain foods?
Foods high in fillers, artificial additives, and inflammatory ingredients may worsen joint discomfort and should be limited.
10. When should I take my Chihuahua to the vet?
If your dog shows signs of stiffness, limping, or reduced activity, it’s important to consult your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.
11. Can exercise help along with diet?
Yes, gentle, low-impact exercise combined with a proper diet can help maintain mobility and reduce stiffness in dogs with arthritis.
Improving Your Chihuahua’s Mobility Through Diet
Managing arthritis in chihuahuas requires a holistic approach that emphasizes a well-balanced, anti-inflammatory diet. Integrating ingredients rich in fish oil for dogs, antioxidants, and natural supplements like glucosamine for dogs and chondroitin can significantly improve joint health and mobility. Consult with a veterinarian to personalize your chihuahua’s dietary plan, accounting for breed, size, and specific health requirements. By incorporating these food recommendations and maintaining a healthy weight, you will not only alleviate your dog’s arthritis symptoms but also boost their overall well-being, ensuring a happier, more comfortable life for your chihuahua.
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