Introduction
Shih Tzus are a popular breed of dog, known for their long, flowing hair and affectionate personalities. However, like all dogs, they need to be fed a healthy diet in order to stay happy and healthy. This article will discuss some of the foods that you should avoid feeding your Shih Tzu, as well as some general tips for feeding a healthy diet.
Toxic Foods
There are a number of foods that are toxic to dogs, and Shih Tzus are no exception. Some of the most common toxic foods include:
Chocolate. Chocolate contains theobromine, which is a toxic substance for dogs. Theobromine can cause a number of symptoms in dogs, including vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and even death.
Grapes and raisins. Grapes and raisins can also be toxic to dogs, and they can cause kidney failure. Even a small amount of grapes or raisins can be harmful, so it is important to keep them away from your Shih Tzu.
Onions and garlic. Onions and garlic can cause a condition called hemolytic anemia in dogs. This condition occurs when the red blood cells are destroyed, and it can be fatal.
Macadamia nuts. Macadamia nuts are toxic to dogs, and they can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, and hyperthermia.
Coffee, tea, and soda. Caffeine and other stimulants can be toxic to dogs, and they can cause symptoms such as restlessness, anxiety, and seizures.
Other Foods to Avoid
In addition to the foods listed above, there are a number of other foods that you should avoid feeding your Shih Tzu. These include:
Raw meat. Raw meat can contain bacteria that can make your Shih Tzu sick.
Raw eggs. Raw eggs can contain a bacteria called Salmonella, which can cause food poisoning in dogs.
Bones. Cooked bones can splinter and cause internal injuries in dogs. Raw bones are generally safe, but they should be large enough that they cannot be swallowed whole.
Salty foods. Salty foods can cause dehydration and other health problems in dogs.
Sweet foods. Sweet foods can cause weight gain and other health problems in dogs.
General Tips for Feeding a Healthy Diet
In addition to avoiding the foods listed above, there are a number of other things you can do to feed your Shih Tzu a healthy diet. These include:
Feed your Shih Tzu a high-quality dog food. There are a number of high-quality dog foods available on the market, so you should be able to find one that is right for your Shih Tzu.
Feed your Shih Tzu the right amount of food. The amount of food you feed your Shih Tzu will depend on their age, weight, and activity level.
Don’t overfeed your Shih Tzu. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, which can increase your Shih Tzu’s risk of developing a number of health problems.
Don’t give your Shih Tzu table scraps. Table scraps are often high in fat and calories, and they can contribute to weight gain.
Make sure your Shih Tzu has access to fresh water at all times. Water is essential for your Shih Tzu’s health, so make sure they have plenty to drink.
Conclusion
By following these tips, you can help your Shih Tzu stay healthy and happy. By avoiding the foods listed above and feeding your Shih Tzu a high-quality diet, you can help ensure that they live a long and healthy life.
Additional Information
If you are unsure about what foods are safe for your Shih Tzu to eat, it is always best to consult with your veterinarian.
If you think your Shih Tzu has eaten something toxic, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately.
There are a number of resources available online and in libraries that can provide more information about feeding a healthy diet to your Shih Tzu.
