Is chicken good for Shih Tzu everyday

By Isabella Storyclaire

last updated September 16, 2024

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Can Shih Tzus Eat Chicken: Everything You Should Know

I receive many questions from Shih Tzu owners about feeding chicken. Is it safe? Can it be beneficial? And what about the bones!

There are many important questions surrounding this topic, and its handy to know the answers.

Ill cover everything you need to know about Shih Tzus and eating chicken below. Lets get straight into it.

Is Chicken Safe for Shih Tzus?

In general, chicken is safe for Shih Tzus to eat. Its a great source of protein, which is essential for their overall health.

However, it should be prepared properly and given in moderation. Remember, every dog is unique. So, just because chicken is safe for most dogs doesnt mean your Shih Tzu will tolerate it well.

Always consult with your vet before making significant changes to your pets diet.

Heres a link from the American Kennel Club that provides more information on dogs eating chicken.

Raw Chicken: Yay or Nay?

A debate exists in the dog world about whether raw food is good for dogs. While some argue that raw chicken, part of a raw diet, can provide natural nutrients, others caution against it due to the risk of bacterial infection, such as Salmonella or Campylobacter.

Most vets recommend against feeding raw chicken to Shih Tzus. The risk of bacterial contamination is high, and small breeds like Shih Tzus might be particularly susceptible to these infections.

If youre interested in a raw diet for your pet, consult your vet first. This article from PetMD discusses the pros and cons of raw diets for dogs.

Related: Can Shih Tzus Eat Eggs? What To Know

What About Chicken Bones?

Its crucial to never feed your Shih Tzu chicken bones. While it might seem natural for dogs to chew on bones, chicken bones pose serious hazards.

They can splinter easily, potentially causing your dog to choke, or injure their mouth, throat, or digestive system.

For more details on the dangers of chicken bones, check out this link from Vets Now.

Using Chicken as Training Treats for Shih Tzus

Chicken can be a fantastic tool when it comes to training your Shih Tzu.

Dogs love the taste, and the high protein content can give them the energy they need for training sessions.

But, as with anything, there are a few things to keep in mind when using chicken as a training treat.

Size Matters: Keep the pieces small. Training treats are meant to be quick rewards, not meals. You want your Shih Tzu to be able to eat the treat quickly and get back to the task at hand. Plus, smaller pieces mean fewer calories, which can help prevent weight gain.
Use Sparingly: Even though your Shih Tzu might love chicken, its essential to keep it as a special treat. Overuse can lead to your pet becoming less interested in their regular food or becoming overweight.
Monitor Your Dog: Always watch your Shih Tzu when theyre eating chicken, especially during training sessions. This is important to ensure they dont choke and to spot any signs of food allergies or intolerances.
Balance is Key: Remember, treats (including chicken) should not make up more than 10% of your Shih Tzus daily caloric intake. Their main diet should still be a balanced dog food that meets all their nutritional needs.

Incorporating chicken as a training treat can create a positive association with learning new commands or good behavior, making training sessions more effective and enjoyable for both you and your pet.

How to Best Cook Chicken for Your Shih Tzu

When preparing chicken for your Shih Tzu, keep it simple. Heres a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Choose skinless, boneless chicken breasts. These cuts have less fat and no dangerous bones.
Boil the chicken. Boiling is the best method as it doesnt involve any oil or seasoning, which can upset your dogs stomach.
Cut the chicken into small, manageable pieces. This step reduces the risk of choking.
Let it cool. Always cool food before offering it to your pet to prevent burns.

Avoid using any spices, onion, or garlic, which are harmful to dogs. Also, dont replace a meal with chicken. It should only be a treat or a supplement to their regular, balanced dog food.

How Much Chicken Can a Shih Tzu Eat?

While chicken is safe for Shih Tzus, it doesnt mean they can eat unlimited amounts. Chicken should not make up more than 10% of your pets daily calorie intake.

Too much can lead to obesity, which is a serious concern for small breeds like Shih Tzus. It can also cause an imbalance in their nutrient intake.

Again, always consult with your vet to determine an appropriate amount based on your Shih Tzus age, size, and overall health.

Possible Side Effects of Eating Chicken

Despite being generally safe, some Shih Tzus might have adverse reactions to chicken. Watch out for signs of:

Allergies: Some dogs are allergic to chicken. Symptoms can include itching, redness, and gastrointestinal upset. If you suspect your Shih Tzu is allergic, contact your vet.
Digestive issues: Overconsumption can lead to diarrhea or constipation. Always introduce new foods gradually and monitor your pet for any changes.
Choking hazard: Even small, boneless pieces can be a choking hazard if your Shih Tzu eats too quickly. Supervise them while theyre eating.

This link from PetMD provides more information about allergies in dogs.

When Should You Not Feed Your Shih Tzu Chicken?

While chicken can be a great addition to your Shih Tzus diet in moderation, there are times when its best to avoid it. Here are a few key situations:

Allergic Reactions: If your Shih Tzu shows signs of a chicken allergy (like skin irritation, ear infections, or gastrointestinal issues), stop feeding them chicken immediately.
Digestive Upset: If your pet has had a recent bout of diarrhea or vomiting, chicken or any change in diet could potentially exacerbate the issue. In these cases, its best to stick to their regular food until theyre feeling better.
Underlying Health Conditions: Certain conditions, like pancreatitis or kidney disease, require a special diet. If your Shih Tzu has a chronic condition, always consult with your vet before adding chicken or any new food to their diet.
Overweight or Obese Dogs: If your Shih Tzu is overweight, its crucial to monitor their caloric intake. While chicken isnt high in fat, it still contains calories. You might need to adjust their regular meals if youre adding chicken to their diet.
After Surgery or Illness: If your Shih Tzu has recently undergone surgery or been ill, their stomach might be more sensitive than usual. In this case, stick to their regular diet until theyre fully recovered.

Remember, when in doubt, its always a good idea to consult your vet.

Expert Opinions

Many experts emphasize the importance of a balanced diet for Shih Tzus. Dr. Jerry Klein, the AKCs Chief Veterinary Officer, states that Fresh chicken can be fed to dogs in small amounts, but make sure it makes up no more than 10 percent of your dogs daily calorie intake (source).

On the other hand, Dr. Ian Billinghurst, a pioneer of the raw food diet for dogs, believes that raw chicken, including bones, can be beneficial for dogs.

However, this remains a controversial opinion, and most vets recommend against feeding raw chicken due to the risk of bacterial infection.

Conclusion

In conclusion, chicken can be a safe and healthy treat for your Shih Tzu when prepared and given properly.

Always avoid raw chicken and chicken bones, keep the portion sizes in check, and monitor your pet for any adverse reactions.

As always, consult with your vet before making any significant changes to your Shih Tzus diet.

With careful attention and a bit of knowledge, chicken can indeed become a favored treat for your fluffy companion. Happy feeding!

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.

Can Shih Tzu Eat Chicken? (Bones, Nuggets, Fried, Raw)

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Can Shih Tzu Eat Chicken? Yes, Shih Tzus can eat Chicken, but feeding them Chicken bones or skin can be dangerous and should be avoided. Youll need to prep the meat by cooking it thoroughly to prevent bacterial infections. Note its also best to refer to your vet before adding anything new to your pets diet.

Dog parents are always looking to upgrade their furry pals meal plan to a more nutritious one. If youre wondering whether Shih Tzus can eat Chicken for the same reason, youve come to the right place.

This article will focus on all aspects of the Chicken for Shih Tzu debate. Be it the pros and cons of poultry, how to feed your Shih Tzu Chicken, the dangers of Chicken bones, and more!

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Can Shih Tzu Have Chicken?

Is it okay for Shih Tzu to eat Chicken everyday?

If youre wondering whether feeding your Shih Tzu Chicken is safe, the answer is yes. However, there are a few conditions attached to the statement.

First off, giving your Shih Tzu raw Chicken is risky. Thats because raw Chicken is full of bacteria and leads to problems like salmonella infections.

Additionally, Shih Tzus have sensitive tummies, so adding anything that can bring on an upset stomach isnt recommended.

Next, if you plan to use Chicken as a treat, be sure its free of seasonings, especially garlic and onion, as they are both toxic to dogs. Feeding your furry friend plain boiled Chicken meat should do the trick.

Finally, you must remove Chicken skin and bones before giving it to your little canine friends.

Chicken skin contains lots of fat that can lead to digestion concerns, and Chicken bones can be a choking hazard or cause damage to the digestive tract.

WANT MORE INFORMATION? Check out Can Dogs Eat Chicken Skin? (Raw, Cooked & Fried)

Is Chicken Good For Shih Tzu?

If prepared the right way, Chicken can be a good choice of meat for your Shih Tzu. If youre curious about the benefits of feeding your fur baby Chicken, scroll below to see our compiled list to learn more.

High in protein

Chicken is an excellent protein source, making it essential for the growth and maintenance of your Shih Tzus muscles and tissues.

Easily digestible

Chicken is a lean meat that is easy to digest. Thats one reason why its a suitable choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Low in fat

Chicken is a low-fat meat that can help your Shih Tzu maintain a healthy weight. Thats especially helpful when dealing with overweight toy dogs.

Rich in vitamins and minerals

Chicken contains vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B6, niacin, phosphorus, and selenium, which are essential for your dogs overall health. Heres how.

Vitamin B6 is beneficial for the nervous system and red blood cell function. It also boosts immune response and glucose generation.
Niacin helps support the metabolism and promotes healthy weight and skin.
Phosphorus is required for healthy teeth and bones and supports kidney function too.
Selenium aids joint and coat health and has antioxidant properties.

Boosts the immune system

Chicken contains amino acids (methionine and arginine) that can help boost your dogs immune system and protect them from various illnesses.

Good for skin and coat

Chicken contains significant amounts of omega-6 fatty acids that can help improve your Shih Tzus skin and coat health.

Supports bone health

Chicken is a good calcium source, essential for maintaining healthy bones.

Provides energy

Chicken is a good source of energy that can help keep your Shih Tzu active and playful.

Easy to cook

Chicken is easy to cook and prepare, making it a meal that doesnt require too much hassle.

Delicious

Most canines love the taste of Chicken meat, making it a good choice for picky eaters.

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Is Chicken Bad For Shih Tzu?

As stated earlier, Chicken is good for Shih Tzus, but only if you keep certain conditions in mind.

If youre wondering how Chicken can be bad for your toy breed pet, this section is for you. Scroll on to learn more.

Allergies

Chicken is a common dog allergen, and Shih Tzus are no exception. Feeding your Shih Tzu Chicken can cause allergic reactions such as itching, rashes, and even digestive issues.

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Gastrointestinal problems

Chicken bones can be a potential choking hazard and can even lead to gastrointestinal problems such as blockages, constipation, and even perforation of the intestines.

Unbalanced nutrition

While Chicken is a good source of protein, feeding your Shih Tzu a diet consisting solely of Chicken can lead to unbalanced nutrition or malnourishment.

Bacteria and Salmonella

Raw or undercooked Chicken can be a powerhouse of dangerous bacteria like Salmonella, leading to severe infections.

Obesity

Chicken is a high-calorie food, and overfeeding your Shih Tzu Chicken can lead to obesity, which can cause several health problems such as joint issues, heart disease, and diabetes.

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Can I Feed My Shih Tzu Chicken?

Generally, you can feed your Shih Tzu Chicken without problems if its plain-boiled and doesnt include chicken bones and skin.

However, despite taking these precautions, its best to consult your vet before adding chicken to your canines diet.

Also, its essential to introduce your Shih Tzu to Chicken meat in increments. Doing so will help your canine build a tolerance to the meat and avoid stomach issues.

Besides that, this will also give you time to observe whether your furry pal is allergic to Chicken so that you can stop before its allergy problems get worse.

Can I Feed My Shih Tzu Chicken Everyday?

You can feed your Shih Tzu Chicken daily as it is a good protein source.

However, Chicken alone will not meet the nutritional requirements of your Shih Tzu, meaning you can feed your pet Chicken in addition to its regular pet food.

How much Chicken a Shih Tzu can eat daily varies with weight, underlying health conditions, and your pets diet.

Its best to ask your veterinarian about the daily portion of Chicken your fur baby can consume safely.

Are Shih Tzu Allergic To Chicken?

Are Shih Tzus Allergic to Chicken? Shih Tzus may develop allergies to certain foods, and Chicken is one of the most common allergens in dogs.

However, not all Shih Tzu dogs are allergic to Chicken, and the allergy can vary in severity from one dog to another.

Chicken allergy in dogs results from the protein found in chicken meat, which triggers an immune response in the dogs body.

The symptoms of Shih Tzu Chicken allergy may include skin rashes, itching, hair loss, vomiting, diarrhea, and respiratory problems.

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However, since other health issues may also cause these symptoms, its best to consult a vet for a conclusive diagnosis and treatment.

A Shih Tzu allergic to Chickenwill likely be prescribed a special diet that excludes Chicken protein and similar allergens.

The vet can also give your fur baby medications to help alleviate the allergy symptoms.

Shih Tzu and Chicken

Now that weve discussed the broad points of the Shih Tzu Chickendebate, its time to focus on the finer details.

If youre wondering whether all types of Chicken meat are okay for Shih Tzus, weve got you covered.

The upcoming sections will highlight which Chicken bits are safe for your pet to eat from the ones that arent.

Can Shih Tzu Eat Chicken Bones?

A common question among pet owners is whether Shih Tzu can eat chicken bones. The answer to this question is a big no.

Chicken bones can be dangerous for Shih Tzus as they can cause choking, blockage, or even perforation in their digestive system.

Chicken bones are small, sharp, and brittle when cooked. These bones can break into small pieces and cause damage to your pets mouth, throat, and stomach.

Moreover, Chicken bones are also linked to serious health issues like constipation, diarrhea, and vomiting.

Stomach upsets can be dangerous in toy dog breeds because theyre susceptible to dehydration.

Therefore, always avoid feeding your Shih Tzu Chicken bones and stick to skinless, boiled Chicken meat.

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My Shih Tzu Ate A Chicken Bone! What Should I do?

Queries like My Shih Tzu Ate a Chicken Bone! Or My Shih Tzu Ate Chicken Bones: What should I do!? are common among Shih Tzu enthusiasts.

This small dog breed is notorious for going after food items they love with gusto, so sometimes your pet can dig into Chicken meat when youre not looking.

If you suspect your pet has eaten Chicken bones, the first order of business is not to panic.

Call your vet and inform them of the situation. If your veterinarian asks you to wait and watch, observe your pet closely for signs of distress, such as restlessness, mouth pawing, or whining.

Its also a good idea to check your pets mouth to see if any bone fragments are lodged between its teeth or other damage chewing on the bone may have caused.

If your Shih Tzus mouth is clear, keep observing your Shih Tzu for the next few hours to see if ingesting the bone has caused any trouble.

Small-sized Chicken bones can pass through the digestive system without causing harm.

However, if signs like abdominal pain, drooling, bloody stools, or bloating appear, rush your Shih Tzu to a vet without any delay.

Bone obstruction in the gastrointestinal tract is a medical emergency and requires immediate medical assistance.

Shih Tzu Swallowed Chicken Bone! What Should I do?

If terms like Shih Tzu swallowed Chicken Bonefill you with anxiety, this section can help you be prepared.

If you suspect your Shih Tzu has swallowed a Chicken bone, it is vital to act immediately.

Chicken bones can cause serious health issues if stuck in your dogs throat or digestive system. They can puncture the stomach or intestines in severe cases, leading to life-threatening complications.

The first thing to do is to call your veterinarian. They will be able to advise you on what to do next based on the size of your dog and the type of bone they swallowed. They can sometimes ask you to monitor your dogs behavior and see if they feel discomfort or pain.

Alternatively, they may ask you to bring your fur baby in for an X-ray to determine if the bone has passed or is stuck.

It is important not to induce vomiting or give your dog any medication without conferring with your vet first.

Can Shih Tzu Eat Chicken Liver?

Are you curious about Chicken liver for Shih Tzu?Chicken liver is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Its highly nutritious and low-fat, making it a suitable canine meal option.

Nonetheless, you should only give Shih Tzus cooked liver, and that too in moderation.

Feeding your Shih Tzu too much Chicken liver can lead to an upset stomach, diarrhea, and vomiting.

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And, as always, we recommend discussing any such meal changes with your vet in advance to understand the benefits and detriments involved.

Is Chicken Liver Good For Shih Tzu?

Feeding your Shih Tzu cooked Chicken liver as a treat once in a while comes with plenty of benefits. For example, Chicken liver is a good vitamin A, B, and iron source.

Simply put, Chicken liver can boost your Shih Tzus immune system, support healthy eyesight, promote skin and coat health, and promote optimal growth and development.

Its also great for hemoglobin production and can help your pets overall health improve.

Can Shih Tzu Eat Chicken Nuggets?

No, Shih Tzus should not eat chicken nuggets. These types of foods are high in fat, salt, and preservatives, which can harm their health.

Sticking to a well-balanced diet of high-quality dog food and occasional human-grade treats that are safe for dogs is best.

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Can Shih Tzu Eat Fried Chicken?

If you are a Shih Tzu parent and a fan of fried Chicken, you may wonder if sharing some of your Chicken with your furry friend is safe.

The answer is no, Shih Tzus should not be given fried Chicken or any type of fried food.

Fried Chicken has a high fat and salt content, which can cause health problems in toy dog breeds. The amount of oil and grease in fried Chicken can upset your Shih Tzus stomach, leading to vomiting and diarrhea.

Additionally, the spices and seasonings used in fried Chicken can harm your dogs health, causing digestive issues, dehydration, and even pancreatitis.

Speaking of pancreatitis, a user from Reddit wrote, I used to feed all my Shih-Tzus table food until our smallest one almost died of pancreatitis. Her being 5lbs meant she was being affected by it more than her sisters. She required round the clock care to save her. Im so glad shes still here.

Hence, it is best to avoid feeding your Shih Tzu fried Chicken and keep to a well-balanced diet of dog food instead.

Can Shih Tzu Eat Raw Chicken?

Dog nutrition experts arent too comfortable with the idea of feeding Shih Tzus raw Chicken for several reasons.

Shih Tzus are renowned for having delicate digestive systems, and providing them with a well-balanced and healthy diet suitable for sensitive tummies is crucial.

Raw Chicken contains harmful bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli, which can cause severe health issues in canines. This can mean double the trouble for Shih Tzus, who already have delicate digestive systems.

Bacterial infections from ingesting raw Chicken can result in vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration, which can be dangerous in toy dogs.

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Thats why giving your fur baby cooked Chicken is best to avoid any risk of infection.

Can Shih Tzus Have Cooked Chicken?

So, can my Shih Tzu eat cooked Chicken?Shih Tzus are picky eaters at times and have sensitive stomachs, making them somewhat challenging when creating a nutritional meal plan.

However, cooked Chicken can be a great addition to your Shih Tzus diet.

Chicken has ample protein and can provide essential nutrients to your furry friends diet. But youll need to be meticulous about preparing the Chicken meat to avoid health concerns.

For instance, youll need to ensure the meat you use is skinless and boneless. Besides that, avoid seasoning the Chicken with spices or salt as these can cause digestive issues in Shih Tzus.

Can Shih Tzu Eat Chicken Feet?

Are you looking for information on Chicken feet for Shih Tzu?

Expert opinion is divided when it comes to feeding Shih Tzus Chicken feet. Some claim giving canines pre-packaged air-dried Chicken feet (as treats) is safe because it makes them chewy instead of brittle. It also preserves nutrients like chondroitin and glucosamine, which act as bone supplements.

On the flip side, dog nutritionists recommend avoiding Chicken feet altogether and opting for specifically formulated treats that are safe for Shih Tzus to treat as they dont present health concerns like upset tummies or choking hazards.

How To Cook Chicken For Shih Tzu?

Chicken is ideal if youre looking for an occasional meal option for your Shih Tzu.

Start by boiling boneless, skinless Chicken breasts until fully cooked.

Once the Chicken is cooked, shred it into small pieces to control portion size. Shredding the Chicken will also make it easier for your fur baby to eat and digest.

Chicken Recipe For Shih Tzu

If you want to create a homemade meal for your furry friend, consider making this easy Chicken recipe:

Start by adding two cups of (cooked) shredded Chicken to a bowl.
Next, add half a cup of cooked and mashed sweet potatoes and four tablespoons of cooked and mashed carrots.
Add a tablespoon of olive oil or flaxseed oil to the mix and heat on a pan if necessary while stirring the ingredients together.
Allow the food to cool down, and serve an appropriate portion to your fur baby.
You can store the remaining food in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.

How Do You Feed Chicken To Shih Tzu?

You can choose to give your Shih Tzu a Chicken treat by boiling and shredding boneless Chicken breasts.

Another option is adding Shih Tzu friend vegetables (cooked and mashed) to the mix for a bit of flavor.

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So, Can Shih Tzu Eat Chicken?

Were at the end of our Chicken-centric Shih Tzu guide and hope all your queries have been answered.

Feeding Shih Tzus boneless and skinless cooked Chicken is a good idea, but its always best to practice moderation.

Also, dont forget to ask your vet if adding Chicken to your pets meal plan is a good idea.