Homemade Dog Food Recipe for Senior Chihuahuas With Cod & White Potato

Zack Keithy, our author, is a certified veterinarian technician (UC Blue Ash) for over 6 years (contact him here). The articles written here are based on his expertise and experience, combined with a review by our expert vet reviewers including Dr M. Tarantino. Learn more about us here.

Does​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ your old Chihuahua have a hard time digesting food or is he/she being choosy with eating?

You must be thinking a lot about whether they are getting the right nutrition as they grow old.

It can really break your heart to see them losing their appetite for the food that you usually give them, and most of the time, the products that are from stores are full of fillers which can make their already sensitive systems even more upset.

Which is why this homemade dog food recipe for Chihuahuas is gonna be the perfect solution.

Recipe Overview

This homemade Cod and White Potato recipe is a gentle, nutrient-rich meal perfect for senior Chihuahuas. It’s easy to digest and uses wholesome ingredients to support their health.

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 30 minutes
• Serving size: Varies based on dog’s weight (see feeding guidelines)

Ingredients

• 1 pound cod fillets (estimated cost: $5.00)
• 1 pound white potatoes, peeled and cubed (estimated cost: $1.00)
• 1/2 cup cooked, unseasoned brown rice (estimated cost: $0.25)
• 1/4 cup cooked, finely chopped carrots (estimated cost: $0.20)
• 1 tablespoon unsalted chicken broth (low sodium, estimated cost: $0.10)
• 1 teaspoon fish oil supplement (estimated cost: $0.50)
• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon ground flaxseed for omega-3s (estimated cost: $0.05)
• Estimated Total Cost: $7.10

Substitutions: You can swap cod for other mild white fish like tilapia or haddock. Sweet potatoes can replace white potatoes if your dog tolerates them well.

Cooking Instructions

• 1. Gently rinse the cod fillets and pat them dry.
• 2. Place the cod fillets in a pot with enough water to cover them. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
• 3. While the fish cooks, boil the cubed white potatoes in a separate pot until they are very tender. Drain the potatoes well.
• 4. Once the cod is cooked, carefully remove it from the water and flake it into small, bite-sized pieces, checking for any bones. Discard the cooking water.
• 5. In a bowl, combine the flaked cod, boiled potatoes, cooked brown rice, and chopped carrots.
• 6. Add the unsalted chicken broth and fish oil supplement to the mixture.
• 7. If using, stir in the ground flaxseed.
• 8. Gently mix all ingredients together until well combined.
• 9. Ensure the mixture is cooled to a safe temperature before serving.

Feeding Guidelines

• For a Chihuahua weighing 5-10 pounds, start with approximately 1/4 to 1/2 cup of food per day, divided into two meals.
• Adjust the portion size based on your dog’s activity level and body condition. More active seniors or those needing to gain weight might need a bit more.
• Puppies have different needs; consult your vet for puppy-specific guidance.
• Pregnant or nursing dogs require more calories and nutrients.
• For overweight dogs, reduce portion sizes slightly and focus on lean protein and non-starchy vegetables. For underweight dogs, increase portion sizes gradually.
• Always consult with your veterinarian before making significant changes to your dog’s diet, especially for seniors or dogs with existing health conditions. They can help you determine the exact portion size and nutrient balance for your individual dog.

Nutritional Benefits

• Protein from cod is vital for muscle maintenance and repair, essential for aging dogs.
• White potatoes provide complex carbohydrates for energy and are easily digestible, a great source of potassium.
• Brown rice offers fiber, aiding in digestion and helping to regulate blood sugar levels.
• Carrots contribute beta-carotene, which the body converts to Vitamin A for vision and immune health.
• Fish oil is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation, support joint health, and promote a shiny coat.
• Flaxseed adds more Omega-3s and fiber, further supporting digestion.

Storage and Serving

• Refrigerate any leftover food in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• You can freeze portions in small containers or ice cube trays for longer storage, up to 1-2 months. Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight.
• Serve the food slightly warmed, at room temperature, or even mixed with a small amount of their regular kibble to encourage picky eaters.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Is this recipe complete and balanced?

This recipe provides excellent nutrition from whole foods, but it’s designed as a supplement or a portion of a balanced diet. For a truly complete diet, especially long-term, it’s highly recommended to consult with a veterinary nutritionist. They can help ensure all micronutrients and ratios are perfect for your specific dog, possibly recommending a canine vitamin and mineral supplement.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, you can add other dog-safe vegetables like green beans, peas, or a small amount of cooked sweet potato. Ensure they are cooked and puréed or finely chopped for easy digestion. Avoid onions, garlic, and cruciferous vegetables in large amounts as they can cause digestive upset.

My dog is a picky eater. How can I encourage them to eat this?

Try warming the food slightly, as this can enhance its aroma and appeal. Mixing a small amount of this homemade food with their current kibble can also help them gradually accept the new taste and texture. You can also try topping it with a tiny drizzle of low-sodium chicken broth or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast (dog-safe variety).

Wrapping Up

Nourish your senior Chihuahua with this simple, wholesome Cod and White Potato recipe. It’s a loving way to support their health and happiness. Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe for later and follow us for more dog-loving tips!