How to feed a dachshund: suitable recipes

What do dachshunds eat?

Dachshunds require a balanced diet that provides them with the right amount of protein, healthy fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Unlike other breeds, dachshund food must be carefully controlled to prevent weight gain, as this breed tends to gain weight easily if proper guidelines are not followed.

For daily feeding, it is best to opt for quality food, either specific feeds for small breeds or ingredients that are part of a natural diet for dogs, such as BARF diets. However, this should always be under the supervision of a veterinarian.

Dachshund feeding tips

As a brand for small dogs specializing in the health and comfort of your pet, we offer some key tips to ensure that your dachshund's diet is the most appropriate:

High-quality proteins

Proteins are essential for maintaining your dachshund's musculature and energy. Choose dachshund food that contains high-quality proteins, such as chicken, turkey, lamb, or fish. Proteins help maintain a healthy weight and are essential for muscle development.

Fruits and vegetables

Fresh fruits and vegetables are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals that can complement your dog's diet. Some safe options for your dachshund's diet include carrots, apples without seeds, zucchini, and blueberries. These help improve digestion and provide antioxidants that strengthen their immune system. Keep reading to find out which vegetables and fruits are foods forbidden for dachshunds.

Appropriate food quantity

Controlling the amount of food is vital to prevent overweight in dachshunds. Consult your veterinarian for the exact daily amount your dog should consume according to its age, weight, and activity level. Generally, adult dachshunds should eat between 1/2 and 1 cup of dry food per day, divided into two or three meals.

All commercial pet foods indicate specific amounts for each dog's size. Check the table on the package.

What not to feed a dachshund? Forbidden foods

Not all foods are safe for dachshunds. It is essential to avoid certain ingredients and products that can be harmful to their health. Some foods are forbidden for dachshunds because they are difficult to digest, while others can be directly toxic and harmful to their health, causing everything from digestive discomfort to serious organ problems. Here is a list of the most common foods you should avoid:

Chocolate

Chocolate contains theobromine, a substance that dogs cannot metabolize correctly. It can cause vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, cardiac arrhythmias, and even death if ingested in large quantities.

Onion and garlic

Both onion and garlic contain thiosulphate, a substance that destroys red blood cells in dogs and can lead to severe anemia. This includes raw, cooked, powdered, or dehydrated onion.

Grapes, raisins, and nuts

Both grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs. Even small amounts can be dangerous. Regarding nuts, we should not let them try any—these nuts are highly toxic to dogs and can cause tremors, hind leg weakness, vomiting, and fever.

Avocado

Avocado contains persin, which in large quantities can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs. Additionally, its high fat content can be harmful to their digestive system.

Alcohol

Any amount of alcohol is toxic to dogs. It can affect their central nervous system, causing dizziness, vomiting, diarrhea, respiratory problems, and, in severe cases, death.

Cooked bones

While raw bones are safe in some cases, cooked bones splinter easily and can cause choking or perforations in the digestive tract.

Coffee, tea, and caffeine

Caffeine can be lethal to dogs. It affects their nervous and cardiovascular systems, causing restlessness, vomiting, elevated heart rate, and, in extreme cases, seizures or death.

Xylitol (sweetener)

Xylitol is an artificial sweetener found in many products such as chewing gum, candies, and baked goods. It can cause a rapid release of insulin in dogs, leading to dangerous hypoglycemia. Symptoms include weakness, vomiting, loss of coordination, and even liver damage.

Dairy products

Many dogs are lactose intolerant, which can cause digestive problems such as diarrhea, gas, and stomach upset.

Processed foods and artificial ingredients

Avoid giving your dachshund processed foods or those with artificial additives. Preservatives and colorings can irritate the dog's digestive system and, in the long term, harm their health. It is better to opt for natural products free of artificial ingredients.

Saturated fats and sugars

Excessive saturated fats and sugars can lead to weight problems and metabolic complications in your dachshund. Avoid giving them human treats or foods rich in these ingredients. Instead, opt for healthy fats such as those found in fish oil or coconut oil, which benefit skin and coat.

How much should a dachshund eat per day?

The amount of food a dachshund should consume varies depending on its size, age, and activity level. On average, an adult dachshund should consume between 250 and 400 calories per day, divided into two portions. It is important to adjust this amount if your dog is more sedentary or needs to lose weight. If you want to know more, don't miss our post on food for adult dogs.

Remember that weight control is fundamental for this breed, as dachshunds are prone to back problems if they become obese. Regularly monitor their weight and adjust their diet according to veterinary recommendations.

In summary, feeding a dachshund correctly is key to ensuring a long and healthy life. Make sure to offer them quality proteins, safe fruits and vegetables, and avoid foods forbidden for dachshunds such as chocolate and grapes. It is also crucial to control the amount of food they consume daily to avoid overweight problems. Your dachshund will thank you with a life full of vitality and joy!