Do you have a Shih Tzu at home and are wondering can Shih Tzus eat vegetables? The answer is yes! Shih Tzus can eat vegetables!
In fact, vegetables are an important part of their diet and provide them with essential vitamins and minerals. Let’s discuss the types of vegetables that Shih Tzus can eat, as well as some they should avoid.
I’ll also provide some tips on how to make sure your Shih Tzu enjoys their veggies!
So, what vegetables can Shih Tzus eat? Some of the best options include broccoli, carrots, sweet potatoes, and peas. These vegetables are all packed with nutrients that are essential for your Shih Tzu’s health.
You can either feed them the vegetables as a meal or mix them in with their regular food.
If you’re worried about your Shih Tzu not wanting to eat their vegetables, there are a few things you can do to make sure they enjoy them.
One option is to try cooking the vegetables in different ways such as steamed, roasted, or pureed. Just be sure to leave them plain, don’t add any seasoning or spices.
You can also mix the vegetables with some of their favorite foods, like chicken or mixed in with their kibble.
With a little trial and error, you’ll find the perfect way to get your Shih Tzu to enjoy their veggies!
Let’s see how adding vegetables to your Shih Tzu’s diet can be beneficial to their health.
Vegetables Ok for Your Shih Tzu to Eat:
- Broccoli
Broccoli is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K. It’s also a good source of fiber, which can help with digestion. Just don’t overdo it as that can have the opposite effect and lead to an upset stomach.
- Carrots
Carrots are another great option and are packed with vitamin A, beta-carotene, and fiber. They make a great snack and was one of my Shih Tzus favorite treats.
- Sweet Potatoes
Sweet Potatoes are a starchy vegetable, but they’re also a good source of vitamins A and C. Sweet potatoes can also help keep their hair nice and soft.
- Asparagus
Asparagus is a nutrient-dense vegetable that’s packed with vitamins A, C, and E. It’s also a good source of fiber and folate.
- Green Beans
Green beans are a great source of vitamins A, C, and K. They’re also low in calories and fat, making them a healthy option for your Shih Tzu.
- Brussel Sprouts
Brussel Sprouts are a nutrient-dense vegetable that’s packed with vitamins A, C, and K. Add Brussel sprouts to the rotation of vegetables to give your Shih Tzu.
- Cauliflower
Cauliflower is another great option and is packed with vitamins C and K.
- Celery
Celery is a good source of vitamins A and C. It’s also another good source of fiber.
- Lettuce
Lettuce is a good source of vitamins A and C. My Shih Tzu also liked lettuce and I would always give her some when I was making salads.
- Spinach
Spinach is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K. It’s also a good source of iron and calcium. Just be sure to cook it before feeding it to your Shih Tzu as raw spinach can be hard for them to digest.
- Pumpkin
Pumpkin is a good source of vitamins A and C. It’s also a good source of fiber, which can help with digestion. Pumpkin is also great for constipation and can help your Shih Tzu stay hydrated. Pumpkin also makes a great option to use when making some homemade treats for your pup.
- Peas
Peas are a great source of vitamins A, C, and K. Add some carrots and give your Shih Tzu peas and carrots with his dinner.
While there are many great vegetables that Shih Tzus can eat, there are a few that you should avoid feeding them. These include onions, garlic, and tomatoes.
These vegetables can be harmful to your Shih Tzu and can cause stomach upset and some can even be toxic.
Vegetables To Avoid Feeding Your Shih Tzu
- Onion
Onions are bad for dogs in general and Shih Tzus are no different. They can cause anemia and damage red blood cells.
- Garlic
Garlic is also bad for Shih Tzus. It can cause an upset stomach, vomiting, and diarrhea.
- Tomatoes
Tomatoes are a part of the nightshade family of vegetables which are poisonous to dogs. They can cause gastrointestinal upset, weakness, and confusion.
- Raw Potatoes
You should never feed your dog raw potatoes. According to the AKC just like tomatoes, raw potatoes are a part of the nightshade family of vegetables and contain solanine a compound that is toxic to dogs.
- Cabbage
Cabbage is a gas-forming vegetable and can cause bloating, flatulence, and diarrhea in Shih Tzus. It’s best to avoid feeding them cabbage altogether.
Signs that your Shih Tzu may have ingested something toxic include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and loss of appetite. If you think your Shih Tzu has eaten something they shouldn’t have and is showing these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it, a list of vegetables that are safe for your Shih Tzu to eat and some that are not. Remember, when introducing new foods to your Shih Tzu, always do so slowly and in small amounts.
This will help them get used to the new food and avoid any stomach upset.
Adding vegetables to their diet can provide a number of health benefits.
The next time you’re at the grocery store, pick up some extra vegetables for your Shih Tzu!
