What's the Best Shih Tzu Diet?

Dry food, canned meat and biscuits, complete food, puppy food, frozen meat meals -- there are literally thousands of brands and varieties of dog foods and picking the best for a nutritious Shih Tzu diet is sometimes daunting. Everyone has preferences when it comes to feeding their dog and you will have to decide what yours will be.

When a puppy first comes into the home, however, it is extremely important that he be fed exactly the way he was fed at the kennel he came from. The breeder you buy from should be asked to provide a diet sheet that explains what brand and kind of food, how many times a day to feed, how much to feed, and any other questions or particulars you may be wondering about.

If a pup's food is changed suddenly, stomach problems could come about, so be careful. Shih Tzu diet problems could include stomach aches, pickiness, appetite loss, etc.

As said above, a sudden switch in a Shih Tzu diet can result in stomach problems, even in older dogs. However, if no changes have occurred consider consulting your vet.

Fussy eaters are common among the Shih Tzu breed, but there are some solutions. When you are feeding your pup, set the bowl down for about five minutes and at the end of that time take the bowl up, whether eaten or not. This will gradually teach your pup to eat when you put his bowl down. If your puppy leaves his food, NEVER replace with something else. This will teach him that he can pick and choose what he wants. A dog should learn to eat what is placed in front of him.

Stubbornness may be the root cause for "appetite loss," but if your Shih Tzu doesn't eat for 24 hours you may need to check with your veterinarian.

When deciding on a Shih Tzu diet it is important to keep in mind that a Shih Tzu will need a good mix of vitamins and minerals also. Check with your vet to be sure the feed you are feeding your dog is giving those vital supplements.

Shih Tzu diet does have some challenges, but they're well worth it to see a happy, healthy doggie enjoying life.

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