What kind of vegetables can Shih Tzu eat

By Isabella Storyclaire

last updated November 18, 2024

Contributions sourced from

What Can Shih Tzu Eat? 15 Safe Foods!

According to legend, there was a Tibetan Buddhist who traveled with a small lion dog that could transform into a full-sized lion. In Mandarin, Shih Tzu refers to a little lion. It is probably where our adorable little friend gets its name from.

Generally, it is pretty simple to look after a Shih Tzu when it comes to animal care. With a mix of comfort, love, and care, they light up the lives of their owners. Although, certain dietary requirements have to be met to sustain a healthy lifestyle for your Shih Tzu.

What Can Shih Tzu Eat?

You can create a perfect balance of meals for your pup with the following items:

Organs such as the liver or heart
Fish
White chicken meat
Lamb
Blueberries
Sweet potato
Green beans
Sweet peas
Cottage cheese
Baby carrots
Whole yogurt
Raspberries
Plain white or brown rice
Pasta

If we were to compare the amount of food a Shih Tzu consumes with other dogs of the same breed. A Shih Tzus diet is quite large in contrast.

Dogs do prefer wet food and find it more appealing. Although, it may be more beneficial for their teeth for them to have dry food.

Furthermore, arranging for wet food can get costly, and you cannot use it to fill treat-release toys.

A diet with wet commercial foods as its chief component can cause runny stools.

While dry food options are generally gentler on the stomach and result in healthier stools.

With all these factors in consideration, a diet of dry kibble may be the most suitable choice for your Shih Tzu.

If you notice your dogs preference for wet food, you can dribble some chicken broth over it.

However, take note that the broth is low-sodium.

The primary aspect of being extremely careful about the meals quality.

It is crucial that you feed your dog good standard food.

It will ensure that your Shih Tzu remains in shape and give them a long, healthy life with you.

The basic thing to remember is that any meal you provide to your pet should have a good nutritional balance of protein and carbohydrates. An adequate example of such as meal would be plain chicken served over plain brown rice in about a half-half ratio.

The Ideal Food List For A Shih Tzu Puppy

While measuring how much food is being fed to your pet. It is also imperative to keep an eye on how often you are feeding them.

A Shih Tzu dog is susceptible to becoming obese, and this does not give them access to food all day long.

Sticking to the rule of quality over quantity, lets break down the best food items for your Shih Tzu. As the likelihood of a Shih Tzu gaining weight as they grow older is high, it is better to limit their carbohydrate intake.

The component to have in abundance, however, is protein. For a healthy growth pattern, include these major sources of lean protein for a Tzu in the meal plan:

Focus on integrating healthy fats into their diet with a combination of nutritious carbs such as sweet potatoes, oats, rice, and barley.

Also, lets not forget about our plant friends. You can give veggies to fulfill the demand for minerals and vitamins.

1 Month Old Shih Tzu Food

The endearing month-old Shih Tzu is at the age where tiny teeth are beginning to appear in the gums. It is the moment when the transition from moms milk should begin.

You should start supplementing dog food to the little champ.

Options for this diet include using canned food, soaked dry kibbles in warm water, or a mixture of them. These soft items will motivate the pup to eat on its own.

2 Months Old Shih Tzu Food

A Shih Tzu puppy at this age should eat four meals a day, divided into a portion of 0.75 cups.

At this stage, start introducing lean proteins to them.

Chicken meals, turkey, fish, and eggs are all viable alternatives.

Best Foods For A Shih Tzu Puppy

It is a quick and easy fix to whip up with the ingredients in your pantry or refrigerator.

Taking 2-3 scrambled eggs and serving them over vegetables with cooked grain is another suitable meal for your dog. Fruits can also be a good option if you want to give your dog something sweet to munch on.

If you choose inferior elements for your Shih Tzu diet, it might end up causing you immense trouble in the future. Subpar food options consist of additives and low-quality ingredients. These can cause a range of issues and reactions.

These often include itching or upset digestive systems. If you find your Shih Tzu chewing on the paws, having a rash, hot spots, or hives, become conscious.

It is highly likely they may be responding negatively to an ingredient in their food.

No one will argue the significance of the nutritional value of the food. However, it is also equally vital, if not more, that the food you give your pet is safe for them to consume.

Our pets blindly trust us to provide for them the best of everything.

We have to ensure that their well-being is at the top of our minds. Some everyday safe options for Shih Tzu comprise peanut butter, yogurt, salmon, pumpkin and sweet potatoes, rice and pasta, apples, peas, and green beans.

Knowing the preferences of your Shih Tzu will make the entire process easier for you.

The diet regimen for your dog does not need to be too complicated.

A fun fact is that even plain popcorn is safe for your Shih Tzu to nibble on. Just be consistent with regular checkups and try to include healthy alternatives as a part of their meals.

How Much Food Should A Shih Tzu Eat Per Day?

Keep in mind that animals find it difficult to align their actions with what is good for them. For instance, they might continue to eat well past their requirement when it comes to food. They might not realize when to stop.

They have unpredictable behaviors, which can make the entire process of figuring out their diet plan quite daunting.

To give you an idea, feeding a Shih Tzu four times a day for the first six months should be fine. After the initial period, two meals per day will be perfect.

A core factor to include when deciding the quantity of food that you can give to a Shih Tzu is their age.

The older your dog gets, the slower its metabolism becomes. Your Shih Tzus build and activity level will largely impact the quantity of food they can digest properly.

The suggested amount of dry food categories for a Shih Tzu is 1 cup every day.

However, there is a distinction in calories in multiple foods that are fed to a dog.

Before making these decisions, it is important to weigh your dog. A Shih Tzu dog anywhere between the weight of 10 to16 pounds is considered fit as a flea.

Commonly, a puppy Shih Tzu must be given an ounce of food per pound of their body weight. For an adult Shih Tzu, we make it half and give them ounce of food per pound of body weight.

The quantity of food deviates due to the higher levels of activity which in return requires more calories for growing.

What Not To Feed A Shih Tzu?

Just as we do detailed homework for ourselves when working on a diet plan, we should do the same for our pets.

Certain foods could be bad for the digestive system of your Shih Tzu. As the accountability for their health falls on your shoulders, be vigilant that your dog does not intake any of the following food items:

Chocolate
Grapes and Raisins
Onions
Tea and coffee
Salt
Soda
Fruit pits and seeds

Given the number of dog foods out there that consist of chicken as one of the main ingredients. It is a safe option to feed your dog. It is even a good source of protein, and cooked chicken can be traded with or put into your dogs daily meal.

Additionally, it is perfectly okay for your dog to have a piece of bread every now and then.

Staying within moderate limits, dogs can consume it pretty much in a similar manner as us humans. Plain white and wheat bread are generally safe choices for dogs to eat.

Certain food groups have been identified as being toxic to canines. For instance, fruit seeds and puts can create breathing complications and fill the dogs abdomen and heart. Caffeine can result in seizures, coma, and ultimately death.

It is better to steer clear of these ingredients altogether. To sum it up, the potentially poisonous food items for a Shih Tzu include the following:

Grapes and Raisins
Chocolate
Onions
Coffee, Tea, and Soda
Salt
Macadamia nuts
Fruit pits and seeds
Xylitol

There has been some speculation about how grain food may be dangerous to a Shih Tzus health.

There have been numerous cases where dogs have exhibited signs of having grain allergy and issues with gluten.

Shih Tzu Eating Problems

A major concern that some Shih Tzu dog owners have is how fussy their dog is when it comes to eating.

A select few people become proud owners of Shih Tzus who are fussy eaters, while others can eat with an open heart.

When your Shih Tzu gets older, their dietary requirements have to be adjusted accordingly. We have to avoid excessive weight gain in older pets strictly.

Obesity can become the cause of numerous other medical conditions and make your dog sick.

A few health issues can make a Shih Tzu picky about what they choose to eat. Decreased appetite is one of the main symptoms that manifest due to dental issues such as painful tooth decay, tooth infections, or loose teeth.

Make sure to get your dog tested for food allergies if you notice any symptoms, such as skin outbreaks, chronic itching, or stomach troubles.

A Shih Tzu is a relatively small dog that tends to exhibit variable eating behavior.

How your pet eats is just as important as how much they eat. Properly chewing the food is significant, and swallowing food whole is a habit that dogs fundamentally possess.

Numerous things can initiate this instinct in them.

If your Shih Tzu is giving you trouble eating, there are a few strategies that you can try.

You must avoid providing them any kind of treats or snacks in the middle of their meal for twenty-four hours; it also includes foods that Greenies or any other edible material.

It is definitely not the safest option for your dog to eat their food quickly and not chew. It can result in an upset stomach and might even cause your Shih Tzu to choke.

As a dog owner, ensure that you arm yourself with any knowledge of your dogs special diet.

Final Thoughts: What Can Shih Tzu Eat?

Diet contributes significantly to the standard of life that any living being spends. Being conscious about your dogs diet and hygiene is vital. Using the right bowls is important, along with feeding accessories.

The correct dish will assist you with everything ranging from preventing facial hair staining to relieving any stomach distress. Look for stainless steel and non-skid-bottomed bowls, and keep away from plastic at all costs.

It will guarantee that there are no problems later on linked to digestion. It is always better to err on the side of caution. Take your Shih Tzu to the vet if they refuse to eat their food or display abnormal feeding patterns.

Comment below your recommendations of what should a Shih Tzu eat and if this article was helpful.

More Shih Tuz questions are answered below:

What Can Shih Tzus Eat: 22 Safe Foods For Shih Tzus

Shih Tzus are some of the most beloved pets, and making sure they have a healthy diet is an important part of keeping them happy and healthy.

But with so many different foods available, it can be challenging to know which ones are safe for them to eat.

Dont worry weve put together a list of 22 safe foods that your Shih Tzu will love!

What Can Shih Tzus Eat

There are endless possibilities when it comes to what Shih Tzus can eat. From kibble to fresh fruits and vegetables, there are lots of options for their diets.

If you are looking for a balanced diet for your Shih Tzu, we recommend feeding them a mix of fresh and dry food.

Kibble is an excellent option for short-term feeding, but we recommend gradually transitioning them to a mostly fresh diet to help ensure their overall health and well-being.

Dogs are susceptible to many of the same foodborne illnesses as humans, so it is important to keep them safe while they are eating.

Here are 22 of the safest foods for Shih tzus:

1. Cooked chicken This is a safe food for dogs because it is high in protein and low in fat.

Cooked chicken is a great food for shih tzus. It is high in protein and low in fat, which makes it a healthy option for these furry friends.

Additionally, chicken is a common food that many people eat, so a shih tzus is likely to be familiar with it.

2. Cooked beef Beef is a safe food for dogs because it is high in proteins and low in fat.

Cooked beef is a great option for Shih Tzus because it is high in protein and low in fat.

The beef can be cooked in a variety of ways, so be sure to choose one that is suitable for your dogs diet and health.

Some of the most popular methods of cooking beef for Shih Tzus include grilling, broiling, and baking.

3. Cooked fish Fish is a safe food for dogs because it is high in protein and low in fat.

Cooking fish is a great way to get your Shih Tzu to enjoy a healthy diet.

There are a variety of different types of fish that can be cooked, so you can find something that your Shih Tzu will enjoy.

There are a few things that you need to keep in mind when cooking fish for your Shih Tzu.

First, make sure that the fish is fresh. Fish that has been cooked in advance will not taste as good as fresh fish.

Second, make sure that the fish is cooked thoroughly. Overcooking fish can make it tough and dry.

Finally, make sure that the fish is cooked in a way that is suitable.

4. Cooked rice Rice is a safe food for dogs because it is high in carbohydrates and low in fat.

Cooked rice is a staple meal in many households and can be enjoyed by all types of pets.

There are a few things to keep in mind when cooking rice for shih tzus.

First, make sure the rice is cooked through. Shih tzus like their rice cooked through, with a slightly firm texture.

Second, use a good amount of salt when cooking rice.

Shih tzus like a good amount of salt in their food, so dont be afraid to add it to your cooking water.

And finally, make sure to stir the rice frequently while cooking. This will help to prevent it from undone.

5. Cooked oatmeal Oatmeal is a safe food for dogs because it is high in carbohydrates and low in fat.

Cooked oatmeal is a great way to get your shih tzus healthy nutrition and fiber.

Oatmeal is a complete protein, has a good amount of fiber, and is low in sugar. It is also a good source of antioxidants.

You can cook oatmeal in different ways, but we recommend using a stovetop method.

Simply heat water and oatmeal in a pot until the oatmeal is cooked.

You can also add in some flavorings, such as raisins or nuts, to make it more appealing to your shih tzu.

6. Cooked quinoa Quinoa is a safe food for dogs because it is high in carbohydrates and low in fat.

Quinoa is a great grain to use in a canine diet. It is a high-quality protein and fiber source, and is also low in fat.

Quinoa is a good source of magnesium, zinc, and vitamin B6.

Quinoa can be cooked in a variety of ways, making it a versatile food for dogs.

One way to cook quinoa is to boil it in water. Boil the quinoa until it is soft, then let it cool.

Mix it with any desired ingredients, such as canned dog food, kibble, or bits of meat.

Quinoa can also be made into a treat by boiling it and then chilling it.

7. Cooked pasta Pasta is a safe food for dogs because it is high in carbohydrates and low in fat.

8. Cooked Turkey with Tomatoes Cooked turkey and tomatoes are a great meal for shih tzus.

The turkey is a healthy option and the tomatoes provide the acidic flavor your dog will love.

You can serve this dish with rice or a side salad for a complete meal.

9. Cooked Vegetables Vegetables are a safe food for dogs because they are high in carbohydrates and low in fat.

There are many types of vegetables that can be cooked for your shih tzu.

These vegetables can be steamed, boiled, or grilled.

Some of the best vegetables to cook for your shih tzu are as follows:

-Broccoli: Broccoli is a great vegetable to cook for your shih tzu. Boil or steam broccoli until it is soft.

-Celery: Celery is another great vegetable to cook for your shih tzu. Boil or steam celery until it is soft.

-Carrots: Carrots are a great vegetable to cook for your shih tzu. Boil or steam carrots until it is soft.

10. Cooked yogurt Yogurt is a safe food for dogs because it is high in proteins and low in sugar.

Cooked yogurt is a great way to give your shih tzu a healthy snack.

Not only is it a great source of protein, but it also contains many vitamins and minerals.

Cooked yogurt can be made with a variety of flavors, so your shih tzu can have his or her own favorite.

11. Cooked eggs Eggs are a safe food for dogs because they are high in proteins and low in cholesterol.

Shih Tzu owners love their eggs cooked just the way they like them.

Hard boiled eggs, scrambled eggs, and even omelets are all favorites.

One way to cook eggs for your Shih Tzu is to use a double boiler.

Put the eggs in a pot or saucepan that has a tight fitting lid.

Add enough water to cover the eggs by one inch. Bring the water to a boil and then reduce the heat to low and let the eggs cook for 12 minutes.

Remove the eggs from the heat and let them cool before serving.

12. Cooked apple sauce Apple sauce is a safe food for dogs because it is high in sugar and low in fat.

Apple sauce is a great way to add flavor to your dogs diet. It is also a healthy treat for your dog.

Apple sauce is easy to make and can be made in a variety of ways.

One way to make apple sauce is to cook apples until they are soft. Then, add sugar and cinnamon to taste.

Another way to make apple sauce is to cook apples and sweeten them with honey or maple syrup.

You can also mix in some raisins or nuts for added flavor.

Whatever way you choose to make apple sauce, your dog will love the flavors and the health benefits.

13. Cooked sweet potato Sweet potatoes are a safe food for dogs because they are high in carbohydrates and low in fat.

Sweet potatoes are a great option for dogs because they are high in fiber and low in calories.

They are also a good source of vitamins A and C. Some people recommend cooking sweet potatoes in the oven, while others recommend boiling them.

Whichever way you choose to cook them, be sure to keep an eye on them so they dont overcook.

14. Cooked Vegetable Medley This is a safe food for dogs because it is a mix of cooked vegetables.

Cooked Vegetable Medley is a great way to get your dog to eat their vegetables.

This dish is made of a variety of vegetables that have been cooked in a tomato sauce.

The vegetables are combined with rice and other spices to give it a great flavor.

The dish is easy to make and can be served as a main course or as a side dish.

15. Cooked Vegetable Stew This is a safe food for dogs because it is a mix of cooked vegetables.

The best thing about this Stew is that it is so easy to make. All you need are some vegetables and a bit of water.

Cook the vegetables until they are tender and then add the water and let the stew simmer until it is cooked through.

This Stew is a great way to use up any vegetables that you might have in the fridge, and it is high in fiber which is great for Shih Tzus.

16. Cooked Vegetable and Beef Stew This is a safe food for dogs because it is a mix of cooked vegetables and beef.

Cooked Vegetable and Beef Stew is a perfect dish for shih tzus! The stew is made with beef and vegetables, and is cooked in a savory broth.

The beef is simmered until tender, and the vegetables are cooked until they are soft and tender.

This stew is perfect for a cold winter day, and is sure to warm your shih tzu up!

17. Cooked Vegetable and Chicken Stew This is a safe food for dogs because it is a mix of cooked Vegetable and Chicken Stew which is a great dish for shih tzus.

It is easy to make and is packed with flavor. The chicken and vegetables are cooked until they are tender and the stew is creamy and delicious.

18. Fresh fruits and vegetables As a small dog owner, one of the best things you can do for your furry friend is to include fresh fruits and vegetables in their diet.

Fresh fruits and vegetables are a great source of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which can help to keep your dog healthy and happy.

In addition to providing your dog with essential nutrients, fresh fruits and vegetables can also be a great source of fiber.

Fiber is important for dogs because it can help to regulate their digestive system and keep them feeling full after eating.

If you are looking to give your Shih tzu the best possible diet, make sure to include plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables in their food.

19. cottage cheese Cottage cheese is an excellent food choice for Shih tzus.

It is high in protein and low in fat, making it a healthy option for canine diets.

Cottage cheese can be served as a main course or as a snack. It is also easy to mix with other foods to create a healthy meal.

20. low-sodium canned tuna When it comes to canned tuna, there are a few things to keep in mind:

First, always read the label to make sure the tuna is low in sodium.

Second, always choose a brand that is high in quality and has a low sodium content.

Third, always eat canned tuna in moderation, since too much can lead to health problems like hypertension and heart disease.

Finally, make sure to give your Shih tzu a good diet overall to avoid health problems in the first place.

A high-quality canned tuna diet can be a great way to help your dog get the essential nutrients it needs.

21. Cooked lamb Cooked lamb is a great option for shih tzus because it is high in protein and low in fat.

Lamb is also a good source of thiamin, niacin, and vitamin B12. Lamb is easy to prepare and can be cooked in a variety of ways.

Some popular methods include grilling, broiling, and baking.

Grilling is the easiest way to cook lamb, and it is a great method for beginners.

Simply preheat the grill to medium-high heat and place the lamb on the grill.

Cook the lamb for 3 to 5 minutes per side, or until it is browned and slightly charred.

22. water Water is essential for both humans and Shih tzus.

A Shih tzu needs between 12 and 16 ounces of water per day, depending on the breed and activity level.

Water is essential for keeping the dog hydrated and healthy.

Too much or too little water can cause serious health problems, so it is important to make sure your Shih tzu is getting the correct amount of water.

If your Shih tzu is drinking from a human or pet water bowl, make sure the bowl is clean and filled to the top with fresh water every day.

Read more; Are Shih tzus Good Dogs: 10 Good Reasons to Get One

How To Feed A Safe Food Diet To Your Shih Tzu

When it comes to feeding your shih tzu, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.

First, always make sure to give your pet the correct type and amount of food.

A safe food diet should consist of a mix of meat, vegetables, and fruits.

Second, be sure to provide your shih tzu with plenty of fresh water.

Finally, be sure to monitor your pets weight and keep track of any changes.

What Are The Benefits Of Feeding Your Shih Tzu The Right Food

The following are the benefits of feeding your Shih tzu the right food:

Feeding your Shih Tzu the right food will ensure that your pet is healthy and has the nutrition it needs to stay healthy.
Feeding your Shih Tzu the right food will help your pet to be less aggressive and more obedient.
Feeding your Shih Tzu the right food will help to keep your pets coat clean and healthy.
Feeding your Shih Tzu the right food will help to keep your pets teeth clean and healthy.
Feeding your Shih Tzu the right food will help to keep your pets muscles and bones healthy.
Feeding your Shih Tzu the right food will help to keep your pets stomach settled.
Feeding your Shih Tzu the right food will help to keep your pets energy levels high.

What To Do If Your Shih Tzu Has a Food Allergy Or Intolerance

If your shih tzu has a food allergy or intolerance, you should take them to the vet as soon as possible.

If the allergy is to a specific food, then the vet may be able to prescribe a food replacement that your shih tzu can eat.

Also, if the allergy is to a specific animal, then the vet may be able to prescribe a special diet that your Shih Tzu can eat.

Tips For Feeding A Shih Tzu On A Limited Budget

Here are tips for feeding a shih tzu on a limited budget:

Shop for quality food that is low in price.
Feed your shih tzu a high-quality, low-cost diet.
Consider feeding your shih tzu a raw diet.
Feed your shih tzu small meals frequently throughout the day.
Consider purchasing a shih tzu food dispenser.
Exercise your shih tzu regularly.
Be patience and consistent with your shih tzus feeding regimen.
Be sure to groom your shih tzu regularly.
Monitor your shih tzus weight and adjust feeding and exercise habits as needed.

Final Thought

If youre like most pet owners, youre familiar with the saying an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

And when it comes to your shih tzu, prevention is key especially when it comes to food.

There are a number of foods that are safe for shih tzus to eat, but its important to make sure youre providing them with the right nutrition.

Here are a few safe foods for shih Tzus to try:

Pumpkin: A member of the squash family, pumpkin is a great source of fiber, vitamins A and C, and potassium. Pumpkin is also a good source of beta carotene, which is important for eye health.

Beans: Beans are a great source of fiber, protein, and potassium. Theyre also a good source of antioxidants, which can help protect your dogs cells from damage.

Grains: Whole grains are a great source of fiber, which can help maintain your dogs digestive health.

Grains also provide your shih tzu with important nutrients, including protein and vitamins.

If youre concerned about your shih tzus food intake, talk to your veterinarian.

They can help you determine which foods are safe for your pet and provide the appropriate nutrition.