Food for a Shih Tzu Dog

The Shih Tzu is a lively, sweet dog that is eager to please her owner, which makes it even more difficult to deny her some doggy treats. And while every dog deserves an occasional snack, it is important to provide your Shih Tzu with proper nutrition to keep her healthy.

  1. Importance of Nutrition

    • All dogs are carnivorous, so the majority of their diet should be meat, but other food is also required to maintain a healthy and nutritious diet. For instance, fiber is required for proper digestion, and carbohydrates furnish a much needed energy source, which is why it is vital to nourish a Shih Tzu with the proper foods.

    Providing Proper Nutrition

    • In the past, it was not always easy to combine the necessary ingredients needed to provide a dog with a balanced meal, but today it is simple to care for a Shih Tzu because there are a variety of already prepared nutritious dog foods for sale in grocery stores and pet boutiques.

    Which Food to Buy

    • Dog food is available in three formulas that accommodate the stages of life and are specifically made for puppies, adults and seniors. Shih Tzu owners, as well owners of any other dogs, should consult their veterinarian to determine which brand is best for their pet.

    Feeding Tidbits

    • Shih Tzu owners should not ignore nutritional guidelines and treat their dogs as if they are their children by giving them tidbits of foods such as cookies, cakes and other sweets. This may not be harmful if a dog is fed a balanced diet, but it is wise to limit these treats to a minimum.

    Storing Dog Food

    • Store food in large quantities so that it is always available. To ensure it last for the longest time possible, store dry food in air-tight plastic containers.