Last Updated on August 24, 2022 by Cristina
Chihuahuas are among the most popular dog breeds found in the world. Because of the small size, they are a popular choice for city living. But then, just because they are small doesn’t mean they can do without the essential nutrients that dogs need.
Essential Vitamins For Chihuahuas
When it comes to vitamins for chihuahuas, there are a couple of things chihuahua parents or caregivers should be aware of. Firstly, because of their tiny frame, vitamins for chihuahuas must be specifically tailored to that size.
Secondly, chihuahuas are prone to certain health conditions, so vitamins for chihuahuas should help to prevent those problems. Generally, vitamins can help to improve the health and appearance of these mini-sized dogs.
There are a variety of vitamins that your chihuahua can take. However, you need to find the right mix. Let’s take a look at five essential vitamins for your furry pet.
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Vitamin A
Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that is responsible for fetal development, cell function, boosting of the immune system, general growth, and quite the most popular function, boosting of vision. Yes, the right proportion of Vitamin A can do all these for your chihuahua.
Moderation is key. Let’s explain how. A chihuahua that has a Vitamin A deficiency can suffer many things, including poor growth and vision-related problems. Conversely, too much Vitamin A can lead to bone deformities, hair loss, bleeding disorders, diarrhea, and nausea.
Some are of the opinion that Vitamin A should only be given to your chihuahua when they show signs of deficiency. However, you need the opinion of a well-trained expert; so seek counsel from your veterinarian. Your vet will help to strike the balance.
Common natural sources of Vitamin A include carrots, fish oils, sweet potatoes, dairy products, and leafy vegetables like spinach.
B Vitamins
B Vitamins are a group of essential vitamins for chihuahuas as they work to benefit the health of your canine pet.
A deficiency can cause fatigue, nervousness, hair loss, and skin damage. And a severe overdose can result in nerve damage. Quite thankfully, most excess B Vitamins are passed out in the urine.
Vitamin B1, Thiamine, is a water-soluble vitamin that regulates carbohydrate metabolism and energy and helps to treat certain nerve diseases. Vitamin B5, Pantothenic acid, helps in the metabolism of carbohydrates, protein, and fat.
Vitamin B6, Pyridoxine, is very vital for your dog, as it is responsible for the nervous system and red blood cell function, immune response, glucose generation, gene activation, and hormone regulation. Vitamin B9, Folic acid, is crucial in the formation of your dog’s red blood cells.
B Vitamins are responsible for improved energy levels and healthier coats. Common sources of B Vitamins include fish, eggs, chicken, liver, and whole grain cereals.
Vitamin C
When listing vitamins for chihuahuas, one mustn’t fail to mention Vitamin C. Just like with us, humans, Vitamin C boosts the immune system and energy levels of chihuahuas, and also keeps their gums healthy. A deficiency in your dog results in slow healing, swollen joints, and weak teeth.
While an excess may cause diarrhea, dogs tend to pass the excess out in their urine. Your furry friend will surely benefit from the right intake of Vitamin C. For one thing, it’s an efficient antioxidant that can protect your chihuahua’s body from damage.
Another amazing benefit is that it facilitates collagen production in the body to improve the skin and coat of your dog. Looking for good sources of Vitamin C? Check citrus fruits, broccoli, strawberries, and tomatoes.
Vitamin D
Popularly called the sunshine vitamin because of how much of it the sun provides, Vitamin D is essential for enhancing healthy bone growth in dogs, including chihuahuas. It equips your pet’s body to balance certain minerals, including calcium and phosphorus.
The presence of Vitamin D in the right proportion will result in your dog having strong bones and teeth, and healthy muscles. A deficiency can cause your pet to suffer vision problems and poorly developed bones.
An excess of this fat-soluble vitamin can lead to vomiting, nausea, and the calcification of muscles, and even the heart. So, again, moderation is key. The best sources of Vitamin D apart from the sun are fish liver oil and dairy products.
Vitamin K
Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin that activates your pet’s blood’s ability to clot. Blood clotting is essential in preventing excessive internal and external bleeding. And both Vitamin K1 and Vitamin K2 are able to produce the proteins that enhance blood clotting.
Any dog that is deficient in Vitamin K is at the risk of suffering excessive bleeding during an accident and for a pregnant female dog, miscarriage, as the bodies of Vitamin K-deficient dogs can’t produce the required proteins.
While excess Vitamin K is not known to do any harm to your dog, certain substances found in some rat poisons, if ingested, will stifle a dog’s ability to use the Vitamin K present in their body. And this can prove fatal if proper medical treatment is not gotten.
So, it’s important to keep rat poisons out of the reach of your curious canine friends. Good sources of Vitamin K include egg yolk, yogurt, and fish liver oil.
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Conclusion On Vitamins For Chihuahuas
As a bonus to wrap things up, another vitamin that’s beneficial for your chihuahua is another antioxidant, Vitamin E. It has an amazing anti-aging ability, makes for shiny dog coats, and boosts immune systems.
A Vitamin K deficiency usually leads to reproductive failure and bleeding disorders. But no known harm comes from an excess intake of the vitamin. Good sources of Vitamin K include meat, nuts, seeds, green vegetables, and vegetable oils.
Vitamins for chihuahuas should be selected and administered on a veterinary doctor’s recommendation. Chihuahuas need specific vitamins for their unique dietary needs. And because of their size, they need these vitamins in a particular proportion.
Reach out to your veterinarian and discuss the nutrition and vitamin intake of your chihuahua. Let us know how this article helps you in the comments below.
FAQ’s
Do Chihuahuas need vitamins?
All dogs need multivitamins! Yes, Chihuahuas need multivitamins to support all-around health. Ensure to liaise with your veterinarian to ensure you are providing the right set of multivitamins for your Chihuahua.
What is the best multivitamin for a Chihuahua?
A lot of brands are being sold and are on the shelf for your pup. However, you should consult with your veterinarian to ensure you are providing the right multivitamins for your best friend.
What is good for Chihuahuas to eat?
Keeping your furry bundle of joy happy by feeding you the best meals there should be your priority. Poultry, beef, and wheat are among the novel proteins that can be fed to your Chihuahua.
Since these little dogs suffer from dental disease, you might want to feed them more kibble and less wet food.
How do I know if my Chihuahua is healthy?
A healthy Chihuahua will have fresh breath, will be active and alert, and will have shiny coats. It is important to also get your pup checked out by the vet on a regular basis.
