When it comes to rewarding our beloved Shih Tzu companions, choosing the right treats is about more than just indulgence—it’s about health, nutrition, and strengthening the bond between you and your furry friend. These charming, affectionate dogs with their distinctive flowing coats and sweet personalities deserve treats that not only satisfy their taste buds but also contribute to their overall wellbeing. With so many options available in the market, finding the best treats for Shih Tzu can feel overwhelming. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about selecting, introducing, and even making treats specifically tailored to your Shih Tzu’s unique needs.
Understanding your Shih Tzu’s nutritional requirements is the first step toward choosing appropriate treats. These small breed dogs typically weigh between 9-16 pounds as adults and have specific dietary considerations. Their treats should complement their regular diet without contributing to weight gain, which can be particularly problematic for this breed’s joint health. Additionally, Shih Tzus are known for their beautiful coats, so treats that support skin and coat health are especially beneficial. Dental health is another crucial consideration, as small breeds are often prone to dental issues, making dental treats an excellent choice for maintaining oral hygiene between brushings.
When selecting commercial treats for your Shih Tzu, there are several key factors to consider:
- Size and Texture: Shih Tzus have small mouths, so treats should be appropriately sized to prevent choking hazards. Soft or easily breakable treats are often preferable to hard ones that might damage their teeth.
- Ingredient Quality: Look for treats with recognizable, high-quality ingredients. The first ingredient should ideally be a protein source like chicken, lamb, or fish. Avoid treats with excessive fillers, artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors.
- Calorie Content: Treats should make up no more than 10% of your Shih Tzu’s daily caloric intake. For a typical Shih Tzu consuming around 400 calories per day, this means treats should not exceed 40 calories daily.
- Allergy Considerations: Some Shih Tzus may have food sensitivities or allergies. Common allergens include wheat, corn, soy, and certain proteins. If your dog shows signs of allergies (itching, digestive issues), consider limited-ingredient or hypoallergenic treats.
- Life Stage Appropriateness: Puppies, adults, and senior Shih Tzus have different nutritional needs. Choose treats formulated for your dog’s specific life stage.
Among the numerous treat options available, several categories stand out as particularly beneficial for Shih Tzus. Dental health treats are specifically designed to reduce plaque and tartar buildup while freshening breath. These often have a chewy or slightly abrasive texture that helps clean teeth as your dog chews. Look for dental treats approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) for proven effectiveness. Training treats are another excellent option, especially for Shih Tzu puppies or dogs learning new commands. These are typically very small, low-calorie treats that allow for frequent rewards during training sessions without overfeeding. Soft, moist treats are often favored by Shih Tzus, particularly older dogs who might have dental sensitivities or missing teeth. These are easy to chew and often highly palatable. For Shih Tzus with specific health concerns, functional treats can provide additional benefits. These might include joint support treats with glucosamine and chondroitin, skin and coat treats with omega fatty acids, or calming treats with ingredients like chamomile or L-theanine for anxious dogs.
Several brands consistently produce high-quality treats that are well-suited for Shih Tzus. Blue Buffalo Blue Bits are soft, bite-sized training treats made with real meat as the first ingredient and containing no poultry by-products, corn, wheat, or soy. They’re perfect for small breeds and come in various protein options. Zuke’s Mini Naturals are another excellent choice for training, containing less than 3 calories per piece and made with real meat and whole food ingredients. For dental health, Greenies Dental Treats are popular and effective, though it’s important to choose the petite size appropriate for Shih Tzus. Wellness WellBites soft and chewy treats are made with high-quality proteins and contain no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, making them a healthy option for everyday rewards. For dogs with food sensitivities, limited-ingredient treats like Natural Balance L.I.T. Limited Ingredient Treats or single-ingredient options like freeze-dried liver can be excellent choices.
While commercial treats offer convenience, many Shih Tzu owners enjoy preparing homemade treats. This approach allows complete control over ingredients and can be particularly beneficial for dogs with specific dietary needs or allergies. Simple recipes might include dehydrated sweet potato slices, which are rich in fiber and vitamins, or small baked treats made with oat flour, pumpkin puree, and a protein source like chicken or salmon. When making homemade treats, it’s important to avoid ingredients that are toxic to dogs, including chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol (an artificial sweetener). Portion control remains crucial with homemade treats, as it’s easy to overfeed when using human food ingredients.
Introducing new treats to your Shih Tzu should be done gradually to monitor for any adverse reactions or digestive upset. Start with a small piece of the new treat and observe your dog for at least 24 hours. Signs of intolerance might include vomiting, diarrhea, excessive itching, or changes in energy level. If no negative reactions occur, you can gradually increase the amount. Remember that even healthy treats should be given in moderation. Over-treating can lead to weight gain, nutritional imbalances, or decreased interest in regular meals. Using treats strategically—for training, rewarding good behavior, or administering medication—ensures they serve a purpose beyond simple indulgence.
Some Shih Tzus may have specific health conditions that require special consideration when selecting treats. For overweight dogs, low-calorie vegetable-based treats like small pieces of carrot, green bean, or cucumber can provide satisfaction without significant calories. Dogs with kidney issues may need low-phosphorus treats, while those with liver problems might require low-protein options. Always consult with your veterinarian if your Shih Tzu has specific health concerns that might impact treat choices. Additionally, some Shih Tzus are prone to food allergies or sensitivities, with common triggers including chicken, beef, dairy, and wheat. If you suspect your dog has food allergies, an elimination diet supervised by your veterinarian can help identify problematic ingredients.
Beyond nutritional considerations, treats play an important role in your relationship with your Shih Tzu. These small gestures of reward and affection strengthen your bond and can be powerful tools in training and behavior modification. The excitement your Shih Tzu shows when anticipating a favorite treat is a joy to witness, and using treats positively reinforces desired behaviors. However, it’s important to balance treat-giving with other forms of positive reinforcement, such as praise, petting, and play. This variety ensures your Shih Tzu remains responsive to different types of rewards and doesn’t become overly dependent on food motivation.
Storing treats properly is essential for maintaining their freshness and nutritional value. Most commercial treats have specific storage instructions on their packaging. Generally, soft, moist treats should be sealed tightly to prevent drying out, while dry treats should be kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Homemade treats typically have a shorter shelf life and often require refrigeration. Always check treats for signs of spoilage before offering them to your dog, including unusual odors, discoloration, or mold. When in doubt, it’s safer to discard questionable treats than risk your Shih Tzu’s health.
Finding the best treats for your Shih Tzu is a journey that combines knowledge of their nutritional needs with observation of their individual preferences and health status. The perfect treat is one that your dog enjoys, contributes positively to their health, and fits within their daily caloric budget. Whether you choose commercial options or prefer to make treats at home, the key is prioritizing quality ingredients, appropriate sizing, and moderation. By being mindful of these factors, you can ensure that treat time remains a safe, healthy, and joyful experience for your beloved Shih Tzu companion for years to come. Remember that the best treats are those given with love and attention to your dog’s overall wellbeing, making each reward a small expression of the special bond you share.