Shih Tzu Food

Since most Shih Tzus live in apartments and are underexercised because of their small size, the breed has become prone to obesity and its ugly consequences. For this, it is best to feed your Shih Tzu food that is low in calories and high in protein and fibre. That said, most Shih Tzu parents find it helpful to provide optimum breed-specific nutrition right from the start with Shih Tzu puppy food and gradually move on to adult dog food of the same brand. Apart from obesity, Shih Tzus are prone to skin infections since the upkeep of their coat requires much attention. In order to make your job easier and your Shih Tzu's coat smoother, it is best to feed your Shih Tzu a good supplement recommended by a veterinarian.

Protein

Protein is an important macronutrient required to build and repair tissues, enhance skin and coat health, maintain hormonal balance, and regenerate cells and enzymes. Shih Tzus need dog food with over 18% of protein content, whether it is plant-based or meat-based. In order to determine the right type of protein for your Shih Tzu’s body, it is best to draw up a diet chart with your veterinarian or a certified canine nutritionist. Young pups, i.e. those below the age of 1, require more protein than adults because their bodies are still growing. Here, the best food for golden retriever puppy is one that offers tailored, breed-specific nutrition for optimum growth and development of both the brain and body. Likewise, Shih Tzus that are over 9 years old need to switch onto a senior dog diet with more protein to replace lost muscle mass due to ageing.

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are necessary sources of energy and brain activity for Shih Tzus. However, the amount of carbohydrates your dog requires depends on his/her age, activity level, and possible allergens. An active Shih Tzu, i.e. one who receives more than 2.5 hours of daily exercise, requires more energy than dogs who receive anywhere between 1.5 hours of daily exercise. It is often believed that carbohydrates are the source of obesity in this breed and whilst that is partially true, obesity from carbohydrates primarily stems from overfeeding and underexercising. A Shih Tzu that lives a sedentary lifestyle does not burn calories while sitting down after a walk, they only burn calories when they’re active through play, walks, swimming, and other forms of exercise. 

Fat

Fat in Shih Tzu food is anywhere between 5-8%. Healthy fats are often in the form of oils - fish oil, cod liver oil, olive oil, coconut oil, sunflower oil, and more. They help with cushioning organs, improving brain function, maintaining healthy skin and coat, decreasing allergies, and improving digestion. 

Vitamins & Minerals

Essential vitamins and minerals for your Shih Tzu are found in vegetables, fruits, and seeds. Calcium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, magnesium, zinc, and iron are essential minerals, likewise, vitamins A, B, C, D, E, and K are essential vitamins - all of which are found in nutritious, balanced, and wholesome dog food. Vitamins and minerals are necessary for proper hormone function, strengthening of joints, maintaining skin health, and boosting the immune system. 

We all long for more years of Shih Tzu affection, and that begins with a healthy diet. Buy the best food for Shih Tzus in India only at Petsy!