chihuahua puppy food portions

Question
I have a teacup chihuhua puppy that is about 2 lbs. and is about 3 months old-her teeth are just coming in-she eats like a maniac the two spoons full of moist puppy chow that I feed her twice a day--Should I feed her more or more often and how much -she blows up like a blowfish tummy every time I feed her.I'm worried about her getting sick eating so rapidly and/or that I might be under feeding her-please advise--thanks

Answer
Hi Josie,

Feeding guidelines vary depending on the brand of puppy food. Since you didn't say what food you're feeding your puppy, look on the package for feeding suggestions as to how much, and how often to feed this specific food.

Generally, a Chihuahua puppy is fed 3-4 times per day until she is 6 months old. Divide your Chihuahua puppy's daily ration of food into three or four equal meals that you will feed her throughout the day. After she is 6 months old you can feed her twice or three times a day, depending on which feeding schedule your particular dog does better with.

A puppy's belly will naturally look nicely rounded after a meal. To slow her down, so she doesn't eat so fast put a tennis ball in her food bowl. She will have to slow down to eat around the obstacle. Just be sure to never put anything in your dog's food bowl that's small enough for her to swallow, which is why you'd use a tennis ball, not marbles! You can also buy special food bowls for dogs that eat too quickly, with obstacles built right in:

http://www.brake-fast.net/

As you might already know, Chihuahua's are prone to having bad teeth and gum problems. There are some dog foods (for adult Chihuahuas) which take into account the dental problems many Chihuahuas develop. One such food is "Chihuahua 28" by Royal Canin:

http://www.royalcanin.us/products/productdetail.aspx?ID=12

Since your puppy starting getting her adult teeth, you should consider brushing her teeth. This simple act can help keep your dog healthy, and will ensure she lives a long life. Your vet can show you how to brush your dog's teeth, and you can read about it here:

http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/teeth.htm

http://www.placervillevet.com/dog%20toothbrushing.htm


Best of luck,
Patti