Can Shih Tzu Eat Human Food: Is It Safe Or Not?

As a pet owner, you may be wondering can Shih Tzu eat human food. After all, who doesn’t love sharing a bite of their favorite meal with their furry friend?

While offering your Shih Tzu a taste of your food may be tempting, it’s essential to be mindful of what you give them. Some human foods can be toxic or harmful to dogs, while others can be beneficial in moderation.

In this article, we’ll explore whether Shih Tzus can eat human food and what types are safe for them to consume. We’ll also discuss the potential risks and benefits of feeding human food to Shih Tzus and provide tips for safely incorporating human food into their diet.

Is Human Food Safe For Shih Tzus?

Many Shih Tzu owners ask whether or not it’s safe to feed their dogs human food. As with most things in life, the answer is that it depends. Some human foods can be perfectly safe for Shih Tzus, while others can be dangerous. For example, cooked chicken or turkey breast meat is an excellent source of protein for dogs and can be safely fed as part of a balanced diet.

On the other hand, raw chicken or turkey can contain bacteria that can make dogs sick, so it’s best to avoid giving these to your Shih Tzu. Always consult your veterinarian before feeding your dog any new food, including human foods.

What Human Food Can Shih Tzus Eat?

Knowing what human food Shih Tzus can eat is important before sharing your meals with your furry friend. Most Shih Tzus can safely enjoy a variety of fruits and vegetables, lean meat, and whole grains. Just be sure to avoid any foods that could potentially be harmful, and always consult with your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns.

What Fruits can Shih Tzu Eat?

1) Apples

Apples are a good source of nutrients, including antioxidants, which can help to keep your dog healthy. Additionally, apples can help to clean your dog’s teeth and gums and can even be used as a remedy for diarrhea.

However, it’s important to note that dogs should not eat the seeds or skin of apples, as these can be toxic. Additionally, too much apple can lead to weight gain and other health problems. So while apples are generally safe for Shih Tzus, feeding them in moderation is essential.

For Detailed Information: Can Shih Tzu Eat Apples: The Ultimate Guide

2) Bananas

Bananas are a good fiber, potassium, and vitamin C source, benefiting dogs. However, bananas also contain sugar and can cause digestive problems in some dogs. So, while bananas can be a healthy snack for Shih Tzu, moderation is crucial.

Related: Can Shih Tzu Eat Bananas: Pros & Cons

3) Blueberries

Blueberries are packed with antioxidants, which can help fight free radicals and improve the dog’s immune system. They also contain fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin K, which can benefit the dog’s health.

However, feeding Blueberries to a Shih Tzu also has a few potential downsides. For one, they can be challenging to digest, so giving them in moderation is essential. Additionally, Blueberries can sometimes contain high levels of sugar, which can be bad for the dog’s teeth and lead to weight gain if given in large quantities.

Overall, Blueberries can be a healthy snack for a Shih Tzu and provide some benefits that other human foods can’t offer.

4) Cantaloupe

Cantaloupe is a good source of fiber and vitamins A and C. It can also help to regulate blood sugar levels. However, there are some potential drawbacks to feeding cantaloupe to a Shih Tzu. For one, cantaloupe can be messy and difficult to digest. It can also cause diarrhea or other digestive issues. Therefore, it is essential to introduce cantaloupe slowly and monitor your dog’s reaction.

Ultimately, whether or not a Shih Tzu can eat cantaloupe is up to the individual dog’s stomach and digestion. As long as you are careful, cantaloupe can be a healthy snack for your Shih Tzu.

5) Mangoes

Can Shih Tzu eat mangoes? The short answer is yes, but there are a few things to remember. First, Shih Tzus cannot digest mango skin or seeds, so these should be removed before giving the fruit to your dog. Additionally, too many mangoes can lead to digestive problems, so it’s best to feed them up to one or two a week.

Mangoes are a good source of vitamins A and C and antioxidants so they can be a healthy part of your dog’s diet. However, they also contain sugar, which can lead to weight gain if fed in large quantities.

6) Oranges

Oranges are generally safe for Shih Tzus to eat, but it’s important to be mindful of how much you give them. Oranges are a good source of vitamin C and other nutrients, but they also contain a small amount of citric acid and sugar, which can be problematic if consumed in large amounts.

In addition, the peel and seeds of oranges can harm dogs if ingested. It’s best to feed your Shih Tzu oranges in moderation and to remove the peel and seeds before giving them to your dog. As with any new food, it’s a good idea to introduce oranges slowly to your Shih Tzu’s diet and to watch for any adverse reactions. If you have any concerns about feeding your Shih Tzu oranges, it’s best to consult with a veterinarian.

7) Papayas

Papayas are a nutritious fruit high in vitamins A and C, and they can help improve your dog’s immune system. Additionally, papayas contain enzymes that can aid in digestion. However, there are also some drawbacks to feeding your Shih Tzu papayas. Too much fruit can lead to weight gain and digestive problems.

Additionally, unripe papayas can contain latex, which can cause an allergic reaction in some dogs. As with all human food, it is vital to introduce papayas slowly and monitor your dog’s response. If your dog seems to enjoy papayas and does not experience any adverse side effects, feel free to include them in their diet. But always consult with a veterinarian before changing your Shih Tzu diet.

8) Strawberries

It is generally OK for Shih Tzu to eat strawberries. They are a good source of fiber, Vitamin C, and antioxidants. However, there can be some risks associated with feeding your dog strawberries. For example, strawberries can contain harmful toxins that can make your dog sick.

Additionally, strawberries are high in sugar and can cause weight gain if fed in large quantities. So while it is safe for Shih Tzu to eat strawberries, it is crucial to do so in moderation and only if they are fresh and pesticide-free.

For Detailed Information: Can Shih Tzu Eat Strawberries: Everything You Need to Know!

9) Pumpkins

First, you must be surprised to see pumpkins in the fruits category! According to Joe Masabni, a pumpkin is legally and botanically considered a fruit. Pumpkins are a good source of fiber and beta-carotene and can help settle an upset stomach.

However, it’s essential to avoid giving your dog pumpkin seeds, as they can contain harmful toxins. Regarding other human foods, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and consult with your veterinarian before feeding your dog.

10) Watermelon

Many people believe that watermelon is a healthy treat for their dogs, and while it is true that this fruit is low in calories and fat, there are some potential dangers to be aware of. The biggest concern with feeding watermelon to dogs is the risk of choking. The seeds and hard rind can cause blockages in the digestive tract, so removing them before giving your dog any watermelon is essential.

In addition, the high sugar content of watermelon may not be ideal for dogs with diabetes or other blood sugar problems. So while watermelon can be safe for Shih Tzu to eat in moderation, it’s important to take precautions and avoid any potential issues.

For more information: Can Shih Tzu Eat Watermelon: Surprising Benefits & Risks

What Vegetables Can Shih Tzu Eat?

1) Asparagus

Asparagus is one food that can be safely given to Shih Tzu. It’s high in nutrients and helps to keep dogs healthy and active. Asparagus also has anti-cancer properties, which can help to protect your dog from disease. However, there are a few cons to feeding asparagus to Shih Tzu. First of all, asparagus can be difficult for some dogs to digest. It can also cause gas and diarrhea.

So if your dog has trouble digesting asparagus, you should avoid giving it to them. Asparagus is a healthy food for Shih Tzu and can benefit their health. After giving it asparagus, monitor your dog’s reaction and adjust its diet accordingly.

2) Broccoli

Shih Tzu can eat broccoli as long as it is given in moderation. The pros of letting a Shih Tzu eat broccoli are that the vegetable is high in fiber, which can help with digestion, and it is also a good source of vitamins C, and K. Broccoli can also help to strengthen the immune system.

The cons of allowing a Shih Tzu to eat broccoli are that it can sometimes cause gas or diarrhea and may not be suitable for dogs with a thyroid disorder. Overall, broccoli is a healthy food for Shih Tzu and can be safely fed moderately.

3) Carrots

While it is generally safe for Shih Tzu to eat carrots, there are a few things to remember. For one, too many carrots can lead to weight gain. Additionally, carrots can sometimes cause digestive problems in dogs, such as diarrhea or constipation.

However, on the whole, carrots are a healthy snack for Shih Tzu and can provide them with essential nutrients, such as vitamin A. Carrots can also help to improve your dog’s vision and skin health. So if you’re looking for a tasty and healthy treat for your pet, consider giving them a carrot. Just be sure to moderation, and consult your veterinarian if your dog has any digestive issues after eating carrots.

4) Celery

Can Shih Tzu eat celery? The answer is yes, but there are some pros and cons. Additionally, celery is a good source of nutrients for dogs, providing them with essential vitamins and minerals. It’s also low in calories and can help to control weight. Additionally, celery has a high water content, which can help keep dogs hydrated. However, celery can also have some potential downsides. For one thing, it can be difficult for dogs to digest and may cause digestive problems.

Celery can sometimes contain harmful toxins that can make dogs ill. So while celery can be a healthy snack for dogs, monitoring their intake and only giving them small amounts at a time is essential.

5) Cucumber

Cucumbers are a great source of nutrients for dogs and can help to keep them healthy. They are a good source of vitamins A, B6, and C, as well as potassium, magnesium, and fiber. Cucumbers can also help to prevent urinary tract infections and obesity in dogs.

However, there are also some cons to feeding cucumbers to dogs. Cucumbers can be high in water content, leading to weight gain if provided in large quantities. Additionally, some dogs may be allergic to cucumbers.

If you are considering feeding your Shih Tzu a cucumber, it is best to check with your veterinarian first to ensure it is safe. While some risks are associated with feeding cucumbers to dogs, they can be a healthy snack for most canines.

6) Green Beans

Green beans are a nutritious vegetable that can be a part of a Shih Tzu’s diet, but they should eat only a few. Green beans are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They can help to keep your dog healthy and energized. On the other hand, they can cause gastrointestinal problems if your dog eats too many of them. They can also lead to weight gain if not properly managed.

7) Peas

The pros of giving your Shih Tzu peas are that they are a high-nutrient food that can help to keep your dog healthy. They are also low in calories, making them a good choice for dogs who need to lose weight. Also, peas are relatively easy to digest and can help clean teeth and gums.

The cons of giving your Shih Tzu peas are that they can cause gas and bloat, leading to diarrhea and vomiting. In addition, peas can be a choking hazard for small dogs. As always, it is essential to consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet.

8) Sweet potatoes

Sweet potatoes are a good source of dietary fiber, beta carotene, and vitamin C, and they can help to promote a healthy coat and skin. Additionally, sweet potatoes are relatively low in calories, making them a good choice for overweight or obese dogs. However, some potential dangers are associated with feeding dogs sweet potatoes. For example, sweet potatoes can contain toxins that damage a dog’s liver or intestines.

Therefore, it is vital to give your Shih Tzu small amounts of sweet potatoes at first and to monitor their reaction closely. If all goes well, you can gradually increase the number of sweet potatoes in your dog’s diet. Ultimately, the pros of feeding your Shih Tzu sweet potatoes outweigh the cons, but it is essential to proceed cautiously.

9) Zucchini

Zucchini is an excellent dietary fiber, potassium, and vitamin C source. It can help to regulate digestion and can also help to keep your Shih Tzu’s skin healthy. Additionally, zucchini is a relatively low-calorie food, making it a good choice for Shih Tzus, who need to lose weight.

However, there are also some potential downsides to feeding your pup zucchini. For one, zucchini can sometimes cause gas and diarrhea. Additionally, too much zucchini can lead to weight gain. Therefore, it is important to give your furry friend a small amount of zucchini daily and monitor their reaction to the vegetable. Zucchini is a safe and healthy food for Shih Tzus, but it should be in moderation.

Pros & Cons of Feeding Vegetables to Shih Tzus: Can Shih Tzu Eat Vegetables?

What Dairy Products Can Shih Tzu Eat?

1) Cheese

Most types of cheese are safe for dogs to eat, but it’s best to stick to hard cheeses like cheddar or Swiss. Cheesy snacks can be a great way to reward your dog for good behavior, but ensure you only give them a small amount at once. Too much cheese can lead to canine obesity and other health problems.

2) Cottage Cheese

Shih Tzu can eat cottage cheese as a snack or part of their regular diet. Some benefits of cottage cheese for dogs include its high protein, B-12, and calcium. It can also help to promote a healthy coat and can be used to treat obesity or constipation.

However, there are a few things dog owners should keep in mind when giving their pets cottage cheese. For starters, cottage cheese can be high in fat, so it is essential not to give Shih Tzu too much.

3) Plain Yogurt

Plain yogurt is an excellent source of nutrients like calcium, protein, and magnesium. It can also help to regulate the dog’s digestive system. However, giving your Shih Tzu plain yogurt is essential, as flavored yogurts can often contain high amounts of sugar.

Additionally, yogurt should not make up most of your dog’s diet; it should only be eaten as an occasional treat. So, while yogurt can be a healthy snack for Shih Tzu dogs, it should not be their only source of nutrition.

What Grains Can Shih Tzu Eat?

1) Oatmeal

Shih Tzu can eat oatmeal. It is an excellent dietary fiber source and can help keep your dog’s digestive system healthy. Oatmeal also contains antioxidants, which can help to protect your dog’s cells from damage.

However, some things to remember when feeding your Shih Tzu oatmeal. First, make sure that the oatmeal is plain and unsweetened. Dogs can’t digest sugar very well, and it can cause problems like diarrhea and vomiting. Second, only give your dog a small amount of oatmeal at first. Oatmeal can be filling, and too much can cause your dog to become overweight.

Finally, monitor your dog for any adverse reactions to oatmeal. Some dogs can be allergic to oats, so it’s essential to be cautious. Overall, oatmeal is a safe and healthy food for Shih Tzu dogs.

2) Plain Pasta

Pasta can be a healthy part of their diet. It is a good source of carbohydrates, which can provide energy, and it also contains important nutrients like protein, calcium, and iron. Additionally, pasta is a low-fat food, making it a healthy option for overweight or obese dogs.

However, feeding your Shih Tzu pasta also has some potential drawbacks. For one, pasta can be high in sodium, so it is essential only to give your dog a small portion. Too much pasta can cause weight gain and even lead to health problems like diabetes and pancreatitis.

3) Rice

Rice is not necessarily bad for Shih Tzus, but it should not be the primary source of nutrition. Dogs need a diet high in protein and fat, and rice is primarily carbohydrates. In addition, some dogs are allergic to rice. If your Shih Tzu has never eaten rice before, start with a small amount to see if there are any adverse reactions. You can gradually increase the amount if they tolerate it well. As with any change to your Shih Tzu’s diet, consult your veterinarian first.

What Meats Can Shih Tzu Eat?

1) Chicken

Chicken is a good protein source and an essential nutrient for dogs. It also contains other nutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids, which can benefit your dog’s coat and skin.

However, chicken bones can splinter and cause digestive problems or even choking. For these reasons, it’s essential to monitor how much chicken your Shih Tzu eats and ensure the chicken is cooked correctly before feeding it to your dog.

For detailed information: Is Chicken Good For Shih Tzu: Pros & Cons

2) Turkey

Shih Tzu can safely eat turkey. However, there are a few things to consider before feeding your dog this holiday staple.

Turkey’s skin is high in fat and can lead to gastrointestinal upset in some dogs. You may want to remove the skin before giving your dog any turkey meat.
Avoid giving your dog any bones, as they can splinter and cause digestive or choking issues.
Like all human food, turkey should be given in moderation.

When fed in moderation, turkey can be a safe and delicious treat for your Shih Tzu.

3) Beef

When it comes to beef, there are both pros and cons to consider. On the plus side, beef is an excellent source of protein and other essential nutrients for a healthy diet. It can also be a perfect way to add variety to your dog’s diet.

However, there are also some potential risks to consider. Beef can be high in fat and may contain traces of toxins that can harm your dog.

For this reason, it’s important to speak with your veterinarian before feeding your Shih Tzu beef. They can help you determine if the benefits outweigh your case’s risks.

4) Lamb

Shih Tzu can eat lamb, but there are a few things to remember. One of the critical considerations is fat content; lamb is a fatty meat, and too much fat can lead to health problems for dogs, including pancreatitis and obesity.

In addition, cooked bones can pose a choking hazard. Regarding the pros and cons of feeding lamb to Shih Tzu, the potential risks should be taken into account. However, if you do decide to share this delicious treat with your furry friends, they will surely enjoy it just as much as you do!

What Fish Can Shih Tzu Eat?

1) Salmon

Can Shih Tzu eat salmon? The short answer is yes. Salmon is a type of fish packed with nutrients that are good for dogs, including omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s have been shown to promote a healthy coat and skin and can also help reduce inflammation. In addition, salmon is a good source of protein, which is essential for all dogs.

However, there are a few things to remember when feeding salmon to your Shih Tzu. First of all, removing all the bones from the fish before giving it to your dog is essential. Bones can be a choking hazard, and they can also splinter and cause digestive problems.

In addition, raw salmon can contain harmful bacteria, so it is important to cook the fish thoroughly before serving it to your dog. When appropriately prepared, salmon can be a healthy and delicious treat for your Shih Tzu.

2) Tuna

Like all dogs, Shih Tzus metabolizes food differently than humans, so they can’t digest all the same things. They also have different nutritional needs. That said, some human foods are perfectly safe for Shih Tzus to eat and can even benefit their health. For example, cooked tuna is a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids essential for a healthy coat. Just be sure to avoid high-mercury tuna, and always consult with your veterinarian before giving your dog any new food.

For detailed information about feeding Fish to Shih Tzu: Can Shih Tzu Eat Fish: Surprising Benefits and Considerations

Can Shih Tzu Eat Peanut Butter?

Peanut butter is a safe treat for Shih Tzus if it is unsalted and contains no xylitol, which is poisonous to dogs. Peanut butter can be a good source of protein and healthy fats, but it should be given in moderation. Some dogs may be allergic to peanuts, so it’s essential to watch for any signs of digestive upset after giving your dog peanut butter.

Peanut butter is a safe treat for most Shih Tzus, but it’s always best to check with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet.

Can Shih Tzu Eat Honey?

If you own a Shih Tzu, you may wonder if sharing your human food with your furry friend is okay. After all, who can resist those big, brown eyes begging for a taste of what you’re eating? While giving in is tempting, it’s important to remember that not all human food is safe for dogs. So, can Shih Tzu eat honey?

Honey is a natural sweetener that is safe for most people to eat—however, a few things to consider before giving honey to your Shih Tzu. First, honey is high in sugar, leading to weight gain and other health problems in dogs. In addition, honey may contain bacteria that can be harmful to dogs. If you decide to give your dog honey, do so in moderation and only provide a small amount at a time.

What Human Food Shih Tzus Can’t Eat?

While our furry friends may beg for a taste of what we’re eating, there are some human foods that Shih Tzus can’t eat. Their digestive system differs from ours, and they cannot process certain ingredients. For example, chocolate contains theobromine, which can be toxic to dogs. Other foods to avoid are onions, garlic, grapes, and raisins, as well as any food containing xylitol, an artificial sweetener poisonous to dogs.

Related: What Shih Tzu Can’t Eat: 20 Toxic Foods To Avoid

Conclusion

So, can Shih Tzu eat human food? The answer is a lot! There are very few things that Shih Tzu cannot eat from the human food spectrum. Of course, as with anything, moderation is key. You don’t want to overdo it on the human food front and give your dog health problems. But as long as you stick to healthy foods that are good for dogs, there is no reason why you can’t share your meals with your furry friend. Have you ever fed your Shih Tzu human food? If so, what did they like best? Share in the comments below and tell other owners what they can safely feed their pup.

FAQ’s