There is no shortage of different all-natural, organic, or health foods claiming to be the best treats for Shih Tzu puppies and dogs. However, be warned that dog treats are not regulated and monitored the same as human food and that any claims can be made lacking very little or no scientific backing or requirements.
When it comes to offering the best training treats for Shih Tzu puppies, whether supplements or organic, keep the dog’s veterinarian in the conversation. For instance, some Shih Tzu may get allergic reactions to various ingredients or herbs found in many natural and organic Shih Tzu treats.
Therefore, if you notice any symptoms such as excessive licking of the feet and skin, sneezing, coughing, rubbing of the body or head, and drooling, your Shih Tzu should be taken off those foods immediately. Indications of sensitive skin, hot spots, or rashes on the skin can also be a signal that your dog is allergic to specific foods or additives.
The Best Treats for Shih Tzu Puppies are Homemade Treats
It is not hard to make simple homemade treats for your Shih Tzu. Healthy Shih Tzu treats should always be given in small amounts and should not exceed five percent of the total amount that your puppy would eat that day. Shih Tzu treats should only be given when deserved, not just as a food item between meals.
Commercial Shih Tzu training treats are primarily saturated with high carbohydrates and fats; therefore, homemade treats are a fantastic way to keep your Shih Tzu on a diet or provide a well-balanced and nutritional reward. Here are some easy and healthy dog treats that you can give to your canine family members:
- Small piece of broccoli
- Thin slices of turkey hot dogs
- A small portion of fresh or dried pears or apples
Here is a simple recipe that you can give to your Shih Tzu. These home baked dog cookies will have your puppy wagging its tail and wanting more. For an easy and fantastic recipe, see below:
- Six tbsp vegetable or olive oil
- ½ cup of cornmeal
- 2/3 cup unsalted chicken broth
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- Mix until smooth
- Roll until about ¼ inch thick
- Cut into desired shapes and allow to bake at 350 degrees F for 35 to 40 minutes
- Cool down and then store in an airtight container
Here is another great treat for Shih Tzu puppies & dogs:
- ½ cup powdered milk
- 2 ¾ cups whole wheat flour
- ¼ tsp. garlic powder
- 1 tsp. Salt (optional)
- One egg
- 8 to 10 Tbs. water
- 6 Tbs. vegetable oil
- Two small jars of strained baby food (liver, lamb, chicken, or beef)
- Combine all ingredients in a bowl with an electric mixer
- When the batter is sticky, knead for three minutes, then roll out on a thin sheet.
- Carve into desired shapes and bake at 350 for 25-30 minutes
You can experiment with different Shih Tzu dog treat recipes until you find the correct one that suits both you and your canine family member. Finding the best dog treats for Shih Tzu puppies will help deliver a healthy and balanced diet. It is one way that owners help to care for their dogs and keep them in the best possible condition.
No matter what type of diet you choose, be sure that your Shih Tzu puppies are in good condition and are healthy overall. Do not be reluctant to ask your veterinarian for recommendations on the best snacks for Shih Tzu puppies if you still have any concerns.
While a great diet is a crucial part of keeping your Shih Tzu healthy, it is something to which owners don’t pay enough attention. Make it a routine to read labels and monitor your Shih Tzu’s weight throughout the year and even between vet check-ups.
Limit the amount of Shih Tzu puppy treats and table scraps between meals to help weight management. Remember to follow feeding guidelines and watch the quality of the Shih Tzu treats you are purchasing. When it comes to the everyday food for your Shih Tzu, high-quality dry food is recommended and is most often reasonably priced and affordable.
Shih Tzu Treats to Avoid
Sometimes people unknowingly treat their Shih Tzu with food items that are not good for them. Unfortunately, some of these foods can be fatal, even in small portions. To avoid any problems, avoid feeding your Shih Tzu or any dog for that matter, the following:
- Milk or milk products: significant amounts will cause diarrhea.
- Chocolate: can be fatal to dogs, even in small quantities.
- Grapes or raisins: can be highly toxic to Shih Tzus, even in small amounts
- Raw eggs: in large quantities are known to interfere with the absorption of biotin within the dog’s body.
- Raw fish: because of its propensity to contain bacteria, it can also inhibit the absorption of thiamine.
- Cat food: since it is high in fat, protein, and sugar, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea.
- Human foods or table scraps: can lead to obesity and refusal to eat a balanced diet.
- Nuts: Some, such as macadamia or walnuts, can cause seizures.
- Liver: Too much cooked or raw can result in vitamin A toxicity.
- Salt: can lead to imbalances in electrolytes.
- Raw onions or garlic: are toxic to Shih Tzu
- Sugar: candies and other sugary foods can result in diabetes in your Shih Tzu and obesity.
When looking for the best dog treats for Shih Tzu puppies or dogs, remember that human foods are not acceptable, although dogs enjoy and crave them. Start your Shih Tzu puppies off the right way by not giving them table scraps or human foods as dog treats.
Instead, purchase or make some nutritionally balanced dog treats and give them sparingly or on special occasions. In my opinion, the best training treats for Shih Tzu dogs or puppies are the all-natural homemade ones you make yourself.
