How to increase Shih Tzu appetite

By Isabella Storyclaire

last updated September 17, 2024

Contributions sourced from

When a Shih Tzu is Always Hungry

Top 6 Reasons a Shih Tzu May Always Act Hungry

#1 Misguided serving sizes.

What happens:If a Shih Tzu is underfed, they'll constantly feel hungry, and if overfed, they may overeat just because food is available, as many dogs eat what they're given regardless of need.

What to do:Check if the amount you're feeding your Shih Tzu aligns with the recommended serving sizes on the dog food label, typically found under 'Feeding Guidelines'. These guidelines, based on age and weight, provide a fairly accurate estimate within a 10% range.

To ensure proper feeding, know your dog's weight (your vet can help with this, often at no charge) and refer to these feeding instructions. Remember, the listed serving size is usually for the entire day, not per meal, so divide it by the number of meals you provide (usually three for most Shih Tzu dogs).

#2 Offering too many snacks.

What happens:This follows suit with the previous reason for eating too much in that some dogs will eat to no end as long as the food is supplied. And, some will even beg for treats when they're not even really hungry; it's just habit.

What to do:

Maintain a feeding schedule. Until 3 months old, Shih Tzu puppies should be free-fed (food is available at all times). After that, both puppies and adults should have 3 meals per day plus several

wholesome snacks

to keep them satiated between meals and to help prevent hypoglycemia (a rapid drop in blood glucose levels that is not uncommon with toy breeds).

Training treats can be given as needed; but other than that,

do not give in to begging for food

or offer any extra tidbits just out of habit. If your Shih Tzu was previously given lots of extra snacks, they may miss the attention, however this can be substituted with pets, kisses and perhaps some extra one-on-one play time.

#3 Their food contains fillers.

What Fillers Are: Fillers in dog food are low-cost ingredients used to add bulk to kibble without providing significant nutritional value. These ingredients, typically devoid of essential nutrients like proteins and vitamins, offer only temporary satiety, as they pass through a dog's system without being properly digested.

Examples:Common fillers include corn and its derivatives (such as corn meal and corn gluten meal), various types of flour (including wheat and rice flour), and soy products. Even in popular brands like Purina One Natural and Royal Canin Health Nutrition, these fillers often appear among the top ingredients. For instance, Purina One Natural lists rice flour and corn gluten meal high on its ingredient list.

Consequences: A diet high in fillers can lead to a cycle of constant hunger and potential malnutrition in dogs. Symptoms include coat issues (such as hair loss), digestive problems (like flatulence and irregular stools), vomiting bile, lethargy, depressive behavior, poor skin health (likeoverly dry skin), and in severe cases, tooth loss, weakened bones, vision problems, and coprophagia (eating feces).

What to Do: If you find that fillers are among the top five ingredients in your dog's food, it's advisable to switch to a better-quality diet. Look forquality foods for Shih Tzu dogs that prioritize real meats, vegetables, and fruits as their main ingredients, and avoid those containing wheat, corn, or soy as key components. This shift can significantly improve your little guy or gal's overall health and well-being.

Why is My Shih Tzu Not Eating?

What To Do When Your Shih Tzu Is Not Eating

BY MOLLY | EVERYTHINGSHIHTZU.COM

When your Shih Tzu leaves her food bowl untouched, especially for more than one or two meals, you probably worry that something isnt quite right.

After all, when you cant eat or you lose your appetite, its usually because youre not feeling well or something is bothering you. But is it the same case with your canine companion?

If your Shih Tzu does not eat a mealor two in a particular day, theres likely no cause for concern, she may just be tired, not very hungry, or hasan upset stomach and should return to normal eating the next day. However, if it's been a couple of days, and your pup is still not eating, its time toinvestigate.

A few reasons your Shih Tzu is not eating could include:

an illness
stress, or anxiety
the food doesnt agree with them
they don't like the taste, or
possibly a loose or hurting tooth

Your first step is to check the food to ensure itsnot expired or spoiled.

If the food is not spoiled, the next step may be a vet visit to pinpoint theexact reasons for your dogs appetite loss so that you can address it properly.

Check Your Shih Tzus Food

First, you need to figure out why your pup isnt eating so you can fix the problem. Before jumping to unpleasant conclusions, check your dogs food.

There is a chance something could be wrong with it; it might have expired, or something could have gotten into your dogs bowl. This possibility could be especially true if your dog otherwise seems happy and healthy.

If you believe this is the case, dump the contents of the dish, wash the bowl thoroughly, and give your pup some fresh food. If she starts eating, then youve solved the problem.

To avoid this issue in the future, make sure to wash your pups food and water dishes every day, keep her food in an airtight container and toss it when its expired.

For wet dog food, once opened, store it in the fridge in a sealed container and serve it within three days.

There could also be a possibility that your dog doesnt like her food anymore. You can try new food to see if this helps, but this process takes some time.

You cant simply switch to a new food, you need to gradually transition to new food over a few weeks to avoid stomach upset.

Instead, offer your pup a few bits of the new food, just to see how she reacts. However, whether she seems interested or not, its best to see your vet first, just to rule out other possibilities.

Check Your Shih Tzus Teeth

If your pup has a loose or broken tooth, shes not going to feel like eating, at least not dry dog food.

If your furry friend isnt showing any other symptoms of distress and her food is fresh, a hurt tooth or sore gums could be to blame.

Of course, the only way to know for sure is to schedule a dental check-up with your vet. Your pet can check your dogs teeth and do dental x-rays to see what the potential problem might be and look for any signs of dental disease.

Sometimes, older dogs might be missing teeth, which makes it difficult for them to eat certain foods.

Whatever the case may be, if your vet finds an issue with your dogs teeth, she can help fix the problem. For example, if its a broken tooth, she can pull the tooth; if its sensitive or missing teeth, your vet might recommend that you give your pup softened dog food.

You can simply put some warm water over your pups dry food and let it sit for a few minutes before serving it to your pup.

This way, your dog can continue to eat the same food (which helps avoid stomach upset or transitioning to something new) but without the pain to her teeth and gums.

Check for Underlying Issues

If all looks good with your Shih Tzus teeth, then your vet will dig deeper to find the cause of your dogs shift in her eating habits.

Loss of appetite is a symptom of several health conditions, including diabetes, kidney disease, cancer, and heart or liver disease.

Your pup could also be experiencing some type of gastrointestinal issues or discomfort, or even problems swallowing food.

There are several possibilities, which is why you need to schedule a vet appointment as soon as possible.

Your vet will run a series of tests, including a physical exam, bloodwork, x-rays, and other diagnostic tests as needed.

If your Shih Tzu suffers from any health problems, your vet will go over treatment options and provide recommendations for what is best for your canine companion.

Depending on the condition, your dog may need medicine or surgery, and the problem might be short-term and curable, or it could be a long-term condition that youll need to treat for your pets lifetime.

Either way, once you start the proper treatment, you should see an improvement in your dogs appetite.

Changes in Your Dogs Environment Can Affect Appetite

Your vet will rule out any underlying health issues and dental problems first. If your vet doesnt find any physical reasons for your Shih Tzus appetite loss, then its time to turn to alternative possibilities.

Just like people, a dogs mood can change based on her surrounding environment.

Think about any recent changes in your dogs life or schedule.

For example, moving to a new home, a family member moving out (whether because of divorce, a child going off to college, etc.), shifts in the weather, or perhaps youve started working longer hours.

Sometimes, dogs have trouble adjusting to these changes, leading to stress and anxiety, which can lead to a decreased appetite.

If your dog stops eating because of behavioral issues, changes in the environment, or shes just a picky eater, try these tips:

Put your pup on a regular feeding schedule, typically twice a day, and make sure you feed her the appropriate amount of food each time.
Limit the number of treats your dog gets. Think about it, how much do you want to eat at dinner if youve snacked all day long?
Try out other food bowls or alternative ways of serving your dogs food. For example, you could try a slow-feed bowl, an elevated bowl, or simply placing a few bits of food on a lick-mat or a plate on the floor. It could be that your dog needs a more comfortable way to eat. Plus, sometimes, just the different techniques can make mealtime more appealing and exciting for your pooch.
Take your dog for a walk before mealtime.
Sprinkle a little bit of wet food on top of your dogs dry food to add some extra-tasty temptation. Another option is to sprinkle a small bit of stinky cheese to engage their sense of smell.

How Long Can Small dogs go without food

When it comes to how long a small dog can go without eating, it can vary from dog to dog.

Butmost experts agree that most dogs can go a couple of days without eating but recommend keeping a close eye on them

Also, your dog must have access to fresh, clean drinking water throughout the day. If your dog has refused to drink for more than two days, promptly schedule an appointment with the vet.

Once you learn why your Shih Tzu isnt eating, youll be able to determine the best way to fix the problem. Then, you can tell your precious pup, Bon apett!

Why Isnt My Shih Tzu Eating: 6 Reasons & What To Do

It can be concerning when your shih tzu refuses to eat or stops consuming food altogether.

This is a common problem that can occur due to several reasons, some serious and other not so much. Nevertheless its a behavior thats important to pay attention to.

In this article, Ill explain everything you need to know about why your Shih Tzus isnt eating, and most importantly, how to help them as soon as possible.

Top 6 Reasons Why Your Shih Tzu Might Refuse to Eat:

Not liking the provided kibble or diet
Overindulgence in treats or table scraps
Inconsistent feeding routine
Inadequate physical activity
Suffering from stress or anxiety
Presence of underlying health problems

Lets explain these in full detail and highlight the best solutions to get your Shih Tzu munching away again!

6 Reasons Your Shih Tzu Isnt Eating

Lets examine six common reasons why your Shih Tzu might not be eating. Below is a list, with the most probable reason listed first.

1. Disagrees With The Current Kibble/Diet

One of the most common reasons why dogs refuse to eat is due to issues with their kibble. This is a broad topic that falls into two categories:

The food is causing digestive problems or making the dog feel sick.
The dog simply doesnt like the food.

Dogs may have food intolerances to certain ingredients that can cause stomach issues, and this is quite prevalent. Shih Tzus are intelligent dogs that will quickly reject food that makes them feel unwell.

In addition, the wrong type of food may be the cause. The world of dog food is vast, with a wide range of quality levels. Cheaper brands often use low-quality ingredients and filler carbs, which can lead to stomach problems. Furthermore, each Shih Tzu is unique, and one kibble that works for another Shih Tzu may not work for yours.

In the next section, we will suggest a few good kibble options for Shih Tzus and explain why they are beneficial.

2. Consuming Too Many Treats or Tidbits

We all love to spoil our furry companions with treats and tidbits, but its crucial not to overdo it.

Unfortunately, feeding too many of the wrong types of treats or even human food can lead to more harm than good, despite the momentary pleasure of watching your Shih Tzu gobble down a tasty snack.

Overindulging in treats and tidbits can result in the following:

Decreased appetite due to too many treats
The perception that real food is bland and unappealing compared to table scraps and treats

These are two simple yet significant issues that can occur when dogs receive too many treats and human food.

3. Irregular Meal Times

If your Shih Tzu has an inconsistent feeding schedule and her meal times are frequently changing, its possible that she just isnt hungry at that particular time.

Shih Tzus, like all dogs, are at their healthiest and happiest when they have a consistent daily schedule and routine to follow, especially when it comes to eating.

If her body becomes accustomed to eating at a specific time, and you start giving her food an hour earlier, this might be enough for her to refuse the food.

In addition, day-grazing should be avoided. If your Shih Tzu has food in her bowl all day long, you wont know when shes nibbling on it or not, and you wont have a clear understanding of how much she is eating.

4. Insufficient Exercise

Shih Tzus may be small in size, but they still require a fair amount of exercise, and physical activity has an impact on their appetite.

Exercise contributes to digestion, regulates the metabolism, and maintains a healthy appetite.

Shih Tzus should receive approximately 60 minutes of exercise every day, ideally split into two sessions, one in the morning and another in the evening. Additionally, they will appreciate extra playtime throughout the day!

5. Anxiety or Stress

Shih Tzus can become stressed and anxious due to a variety of reasons, which can result in partial or complete food refusal.

Temporary nerves can be caused by stressful environments, moving to a new house, a change in scent, the presence of new people or neighbors, and more.

Although it may seem improbable that your Shih Tzus lack of appetite is due to anxiety, it is much more common than most owners realize. Stress and anxiety can affect dogs just as easily as they do humans.

6. Underlying Health Problems

Lastly, but certainly not least, several underlying health issues can result in a decreased appetite or complete food refusal.

If your Shih Tzu has not eaten for two days, you should consult your veterinarian for further advice and assistance. If your Shih Tzu is also refusing to drink, it is more severe, and you should contact your veterinarian within 24 hours if the problem persists.

In the beginning, fluid intake is significantly more critical than food intake. Dogs can go without food for a more extended period than water.

Getting Your Shih Tzu to Eat Her Food

Firstly, its important to note that if you observe any negative symptoms alongside food refusal, it could indicate an underlying health issue. In such cases, its best to contact your veterinarian immediately.

First off, its key to understand that if you see other negative signs along with your shih tzu not eating, it might point to a health problem. In such cases, its best to reach out to your veterinarian without delay.

Also, if you somehow feel that your shih tzu is sick, dont waste time trying to solve the issue yourself and contact your veterinarian right away. Checking for health issues should always come before trying different tips and tricks.

1. Think About Changing Kibbles

If you suspect that your shih tzus kibble might be the issue, it could be time for a change.

When changing kibbles, make sure to do it gradually over a week. Reduce the amount of old kibble while increasing the new kibble, until youve fully transitioned to the new food.

Switching kibbles too quickly might upset her stomach, even if the new kibble turns out to be a good fit eventually.

What to look for in a good kibble:

Fewer carbohydrates. Aim for higher protein, medium-high fat, and low carbs Protein is better from animal rather than plant sources Turkey, salmon, or duck is better than chicken, lamb, beef, or pork Grain-free is more ideal for sensitive tummies Choose a brand that sources their ingredients locally and responsibly Choose a brand that focuses on fresh and whole ingredients Avoid preservatives and artificial flavorings Steer clear of high amounts of dairy in the food (most dogs are lactose intolerant)

Here are a couple of great options that closely follow the above guidelines: Orijen Six Fish Premium Dog Food Taste of The Wild Pacific Stream

2. Opt for Low-Calorie Treats & Cut Out All Tidbits

Eliminating all tidbits is a good idea even after your shih tzu goes back to eating normally. Tidbits, although tasty, are not healthy for dogs. Human food isnt created with a dogs health in mind, so its best to avoid it completely.

Also, change your current treats to low-calorie bite-sized treats. They are not only small and cost-effective but also wont spoil her appetite.

Our top choice is Zukes Mini Naturals, particularly the duck option as it avoids chicken.

3. Establish Mealtimes and Stick to Them

Another important step is to consistently maintain the same mealtimes every day.

Many of you might already be doing this, but if you arent, this should be an essential change.

Choose a morning time, ideally when everyone wakes up, and an evening time you know youll never miss.

Consistently follow these times, and your shih tzu will quickly learn to be hungry at these specific hours.

4. Make Sure Her Environment Is Peaceful and Safe

Helping her feel relaxed and secure in her surroundings will greatly reduce any general stress and anxiety she might experience.

While its helpful to keep her food bowl in the same spot, you may need to relocate it if there have been changes in the environment. New neighbors, construction work, or noisy kids can be very distracting.

Sometimes, simply moving the food bowl can be a welcome change and all thats needed to get her eating again

Whatever the change, ensure that when its time for her to eat, shes in a quiet, calm area.

5. Boost Exercise Levels

If your shih tzu isnt already exercising for a solid 60 minutes per day, consider increasing her activity levels.

Whether this means extending your walks or playing more with her indoors, additional physical activity should positively affect her overall health and appetite.

However, avoid making this change if your shih tzu is a puppy or a senior. Puppies and seniors need to be extra careful with their joints. It would be better to consult a veterinarian sooner rather than later when dealing with a puppy or senior shih tzu.

6. Reach Out to Your Veterinarian

This step isnt last because it should be done last. Sometimes, its necessary to contact your veterinarian right away.

Situations when you should contact your veterinarian first:

When you think your shih tzu might be sick for some reason When your shih tzu refuses both food and water When your shih tzu shows additional symptoms that suggest a health issue When its already been 2 days since your shih tzu has eaten When your shih tzu is a very young puppy or senior (over 8)

In all honesty, theres never a wrong time to call your veterinarian. If youre unsure and concerned about your shih tzus health, always prioritize ruling out health issues

Last thoughts

In conclusion, there are several common reasons why a Shih Tzu may refuse to eat, including issues with their diet, receiving too many treats, inconsistent feeding schedules, lack of exercise, stress or anxiety, and underlying health issues.

Its important to consult with a veterinarian if your Shih Tzu is consistently refusing food or not eating as much as usual, as this could be a sign of an underlying medical condition.

Helpful resources:

American Kennel Club (AKC): https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/why-is-my-dog-not-eating/
PetMD: https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/digestive/c_dg_anorexia
VCA Animal Hospitals: https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/my-dog-wont-eat

Disclaimer

Before making any decisions that could affect the health and/or safety of your dog, you should always consult a trained veterinarian in your local area. Even though this content may have been written/reviewed by a trained veterinarian, our advice to you is to always consult your own local veterinarian in person. Please read our full dislcaimer if you have any questions.