As a proud Shih Tzu parent, you want your puppy to be as healthy and happy as possible. But did you know that certain foods can be dangerous and even fatal for your pup? Knowing which foods are toxic for your Shih Tzu is essential to keep them safe and healthy. This blog will discuss the seven worst foods for Shih Tzu dogs and offer alternatives to keep your pup happy and healthy!
Introduction to the Shih Tzu Breed
The Shih Tzu is a toy breed of dog, originating from Tibet hundreds of years ago. These dogs were bred as companion animals and are known for their long coat, big eyes, and friendly personality.
Shih Tzus are usually around 9-10 inches tall and weigh between 9-16 pounds. They are incredibly loyal and loving, making them an excellent choice for a family pet.
Benefits of a Balanced Diet for Shih Tzu Dogs
A balanced diet is essential for keeping your Shih Tzu healthy and happy. They will help keep their coat shiny and their skin healthy.
A balanced diet should consist of high-quality dog food, mainly protein, carbohydrates, and fat. Vitamins and minerals are also crucial for a balanced diet.
Feeding your pup the right amount of food will help them maintain the perfect weight for their size and breed. You should monitor your pup’s diet and adjust their food intake according to their activity level and age.
7 Worst Foods for Shih Tzu Dogs
While a balanced diet is essential for your pup’s health, certain foods can be dangerous and even fatal for your pup. Here are seven of the worst foods for Shih Tzu dogs that you should avoid:
1. Chocolate
Chocolate is one of the most dangerous foods for Shih Tzu dogs. Chocolate contains theobromine, a toxic substance that can cause serious health issues in dogs.
Even small amounts of chocolate can be fatal for your pup. It is hazardous for smaller breeds like Shih Tzus, so avoiding giving your dog any chocolate is best.
2. Milk and Dairy Products
Milk and dairy products, such as cheese and yogurt, are unsuitable for your pup. While these foods may seem like a treat or a snack for your dog, they can harm their health. Dairy products can cause digestive issues, such as gas, bloating, and diarrhea.
3. Grapes and Raisins
Grapes and raisins can be toxic for your pup, so it is best to avoid giving them to your Shih Tzu. While the exact cause of toxicity is unknown, it is believed that the toxins in grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs.
4. Caffeine
Caffeine is another dangerous food for Shih Tzu dogs. Caffeine can cause increased heart rate, vomiting, seizures, and even death. If your pup accidentally consumes caffeine, it is essential to seek veterinary attention immediately.
5. Onions and Garlic
Onions and garlic are two foods that are toxic for your pup. The toxins in these foods can cause anemia and even be fatal for your dog. It is best to avoid giving your pup any onion or garlic, including cooked, raw, or powdered.
6. Nuts
Nuts are not recommended for Shih Tzu dogs, as they can be a choking hazard. Additionally, some types of nuts can also be toxic for your pup. Macadamia nuts and walnuts are especially dangerous and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and even pancreatitis.
7. Raw Meat or Fish
Raw meats and fish can contain harmful bacteria, such as salmonella and E. coli. These bacteria can cause severe health issues in your pup and even be fatal. It is best to avoid giving your dog any raw meat or fish.
How to Monitor Your Shih Tzu’s Diet
Monitoring your Shih Tzu’s diet is an important part of maintaining their health and well-being. The right diet can help them stay active and alert while avoiding potential health issues.
The amount you feed them should be based on their age, size, and activity level. Puppies need a nutrient-rich diet to support their growth, while adult dogs may need fewer calories and more fiber to maintain their weight. For very active dogs, you may consider a higher-calorie diet with more protein to support their activity level.
In addition, it’s important to monitor your Shih Tzu’s weight and ensure they are not gaining or losing too much weight. If you notice sudden changes in their weight, you should consult your veterinarian to see what might be causing it.
What to Feed Your Shih Tzu in an Emergency
In the case of an emergency, you should always have a supply of high-quality pet food on hand. You can also keep some canned and dry food in your pantry if you need to feed your pup in an emergency.
It is also a good idea to keep some treats on hand for your pup, such as carrots, apples, or bananas.
Healthy Foods for Shih Tzu Dogs
A healthy diet is essential for these small breed dogs. The diet should include all the essential nutrients such as proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals, and water.
Vegetables like kale, broccoli, carrots, squash, and spinach are packed with vitamins and minerals that are essential for a healthy diet.
Fruits like apples, bananas, and strawberries provide a good source of antioxidants and other nutrients. Lean meats such as chicken, turkey, and fish are excellent protein sources.
Water is essential for a healthy diet for Shih Tzu dogs. It helps to keep them hydrated and helps to flush out toxins from the body. It is important to provide fresh and clean water for them daily.
How to make homemade dog food for Shih Tzu?
Making homemade dog food for your Shih Tzu can be a great way to provide your pup with the balanced nutrition they need while also giving them something they will love. It may take some time and effort, but it can be worth it in the end!
Shih Tzu needs a diet high in protein, low in fat, and moderate in carbohydrates. This can include lean meats, fish, eggs, and dairy. You will also want some vegetables and fruits for vitamins and minerals.
Once you have determined what ingredients to use, you must decide how to prepare the food. You can make homemade dog food with either cooked or raw ingredients.
If you choose to cook the ingredients, you can boil, bake, or grill them. If you decide to go with a raw diet, you will need to ensure that all ingredients are fresh and properly handled.
When it comes to serving size, you should give your Shih Tzu around one cup of food daily. You can divide this into two or three meals, depending on the size of your pup. If your dog is still growing or is very active, it may need more food than usual.
Finally, ensure that the food you provide is balanced and complete. Many pet stores sell supplements or vitamins that can help provide additional nutrition for your pup.
