Shih Tzus are beloved for their charming personalities, long, flowing coats, and affectionate nature. However, feeding them the right food is crucial for maintaining their health and happiness. As small, active dogs, they have specific dietary needs to support their energy levels, coat health, and overall well-being. Understanding what foods a Shih Tzu prefers can help owners choose the best diet to keep their dogs satisfied and healthy.
In this article, we’ll explore what Shih Tzus enjoy eating, their nutritional needs, and some tips for ensuring they get the most balanced and nutritious diet.
Nutritional Needs of a Shih Tzu
Before diving into the specific foods that Shih Tzus enjoy, it’s important to understand their nutritional requirements. Like all dogs, Shih Tzus need a balanced diet with the right blend of protein, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.
Protein: Shih Tzus need protein to maintain muscle mass and support overall body function. High-quality protein sources such as chicken, lamb, beef, or fish are essential.
Fats: Healthy fats provide energy and support coat health. Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids are particularly important for maintaining their shiny, long coats.
Carbohydrates: While not as crucial as protein or fats, carbohydrates provide energy and help maintain healthy digestion. Whole grains like brown rice or oats are good sources of carbohydrates.
Vitamins and Minerals: Shih Tzus need a variety of vitamins and minerals to support their immune system, promote healthy skin, and keep their bones strong. A complete and balanced dog food typically provides all the necessary nutrients.
Water: Shih Tzus are prone to dehydration due to their small size, so fresh water should always be available.
What Foods Does a Shih Tzu Enjoy?
Shih Tzus can be picky eaters. Some enjoy a variety of foods, while others may be more selective. Here are some foods that Shih Tzus typically enjoy and can benefit from:
High-Quality Commercial Dog Food
Many Shih Tzus enjoy eating high-quality commercial dog food. These foods are designed to be balanced and provide all the essential nutrients they need. When selecting a commercial dog food for your Shih Tzu, look for formulas that are rich in protein and fats, with whole grains or grain-free options depending on your dog’s sensitivities.
Most Shih Tzus enjoy kibble or wet food with flavors like chicken, lamb, or beef. The texture of kibble can also help maintain dental health by reducing plaque buildup, while wet food can be more palatable for Shih Tzus that prefer softer textures.
Here are a few brands that Shih Tzus tend to enjoy:
Royal Canin Shih Tzu Formula: This food is specially formulated for Shih Tzus, with nutrients to support coat health and a kibble size that’s easy for them to chew.
Hill’s Science Diet: This brand offers a range of options, including small-breed formulas that cater to the nutritional needs of smaller dogs like Shih Tzus.
Blue Buffalo: Known for its high-quality ingredients, Blue Buffalo offers grain-free and limited ingredient diets that some Shih Tzus may prefer.
Cooked Chicken and Turkey
Cooked chicken or turkey is a favorite treat for many Shih Tzus. These lean protein sources are easy to digest and are often more enticing than kibble or canned food. You can offer small, bite-sized pieces of boiled or grilled chicken as a treat or mix it into their regular food to enhance the flavor.
When feeding your Shih Tzu chicken or turkey, it’s important to ensure that the meat is plain, without added salt, seasoning, or sauces. Seasonings like garlic or onion are toxic to dogs and should be avoided.
Carrots and Sweet Potatoes
Many Shih Tzus enjoy vegetables, particularly carrots and sweet potatoes. These vegetables are rich in vitamins and fiber, making them a healthy and tasty snack for your dog. Carrots can be served raw or cooked and are particularly good for dental health as they can help clean your dog’s teeth when chewed.
Sweet potatoes are another excellent option because they are rich in vitamins A and C, which support skin and coat health. You can boil or bake sweet potatoes and serve them in small, mashed portions as a treat or a supplement to your dog’s regular food.
Cottage Cheese
Cottage cheese is a treat that many Shih Tzus enjoy. It’s a good source of protein and calcium, which helps support strong bones and teeth. Cottage cheese is also relatively easy to digest, making it suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
When feeding your Shih Tzu cottage cheese, opt for a low-fat version to avoid unnecessary calories, and serve it in small portions. Mixing a spoonful of cottage cheese into your Shih Tzu’s regular meal can add variety and make their food more appealing.
Peanut Butter
Peanut butter is a favorite snack for many dogs, including Shih Tzus. It’s rich in protein and healthy fats, and most dogs love its taste. You can offer peanut butter as an occasional treat, use it to fill a treat-dispensing toy, or mix it with your dog’s food to add flavor.
When offering peanut butter, it’s crucial to choose a natural variety without added sugar or artificial sweeteners, particularly xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.
Eggs
Eggs are another excellent source of protein and are often enjoyed by Shih Tzus. Eggs provide a range of vitamins, including vitamin A, riboflavin, and folate, which support your dog’s overall health. You can scramble or boil eggs and offer them as an occasional treat or mix them into their regular food.
Ensure that eggs are fully cooked, as raw eggs can lead to biotin deficiency and may carry bacteria like salmonella.
Pumpkin
Pumpkin is a favorite among many Shih Tzus because of its naturally sweet flavor. It’s also great for digestion due to its high fiber content. You can serve plain canned pumpkin (not the spiced pie filling) or cook and mash fresh pumpkin as a treat or meal supplement. A spoonful of pumpkin added to your Shih Tzu’s food can help keep their digestive system healthy.
Fish
Shih Tzus, like many dogs, often enjoy fish like salmon or sardines. Fish is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which support skin and coat health and provide anti-inflammatory benefits. Cooked salmon, without bones, or canned sardines in water can be served in small portions as a treat or mixed into your dog’s regular meals.
Avoid feeding raw fish to your dog, as it may carry parasites, and ensure that any fish you serve is free of bones to prevent choking.
Foods to Avoid
While Shih Tzus can enjoy a variety of foods, some foods should be avoided because they can be harmful or toxic to dogs.
Chocolate: Contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs.
Grapes and Raisins: Can cause kidney failure in dogs.
Onions and Garlic: Can damage red blood cells and cause anemia.
Avocados: Contain persin, which can be harmful to dogs.
Alcohol: Can cause severe poisoning and should never be given to dogs.
Fatty Foods: Foods that are high in fat can lead to pancreatitis in dogs, so avoid giving your Shih Tzu fatty meats, fried foods, or butter.
Bones: Cooked bones can splinter and cause choking or intestinal blockages. Always provide safe, chewable treats made specifically for dogs instead.
How Often Should I Feed My Shih Tzu?
Shih Tzus have small stomachs and should be fed multiple times a day to keep their energy levels steady. As puppies, Shih Tzus should be fed three to four times a day. Once they reach adulthood, you can reduce the feedings to twice a day.
Here’s a general feeding schedule:
- Puppies (up to 6 months): Three to four meals a day
- Adults (over 6 months): Two meals a day
Shih Tzus can be prone to obesity, so it’s important to measure their portions and avoid overfeeding. Use the feeding guidelines on your chosen dog food to determine the appropriate portion size for your dog’s age and weight.
Using Treats for Training and Bonding
Treats are a great way to bond with your Shih Tzu and reward them during training. However, treats should be given in moderation to prevent weight gain. Choose low-calorie treats or offer small pieces of fruits and vegetables like carrots, apple slices (without seeds), or green beans.
Avoid giving your Shih Tzu too many commercial dog treats, which are often high in fat and artificial ingredients. Instead, opt for healthy, natural treats that complement their regular diet.
See also: How Often to Feed a Miniature Schnauzer Puppy
Conclusion
Shih Tzus have a range of favorite foods, from high-quality commercial dog food to fresh, whole foods like chicken, sweet potatoes, and carrots. The key is to provide a balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs while offering variety to keep them interested in their meals. Avoid foods that are toxic or harmful, and consult with your veterinarian if you’re unsure about any food choices. By offering your Shih Tzu a healthy and nutritious diet, you’ll help them maintain a happy and energetic lifestyle.
