The Right Treats to Keep Your Shih Poo Healthy and Happy

It’s always a joy to spoil your furry friend with their favorite treats, but as a pet parent, you may be wondering how many treats are too many for your beloved Shih Poo. With conflicting advice available and a plethora of treats in the market, determining the right number can be perplexing. Nevertheless, you need to know how to balance between reinforcing positive behaviors and over-treating, which can lead to weight gain and other health complications. In this article, we’ll discuss the role of treats in your Shih Poo’s life and how to determine the right amount to give to your canine companion. So, let’s dive in!

Why Treats Matter for Your Shih Poo

Giving your Shih Poo treats may seem like a minor part of your dog’s diet, but it actually plays a crucial role in their overall health and wellbeing. Treats can be useful for training, as a form of affection, and reinforcing positive behaviors. However, over-treating can lead to health issues, so it’s important for owners to know the right amount to give. In this section, we’ll discuss the importance of treats for your Shih Poo and their role in training and affection. We’ll also touch on the health implications of over-treating and how to determine the right number of treats for your pup. For more information on creating a balanced diet for your Shih Poo, check out our article on balanced diet for Shih Poo dogs.

The Role of Treats in Training

When it comes to training your Shih Poo, treats can play a crucial role in reinforcing good behavior. Treats act as a positive reinforcement tool, encouraging your dog to repeat the actions that earned them a treat in the first place. Consistency is key when it comes to training, and regularly rewarding good behavior with a treat can help your Shih Poo grasp the concept quicker.

It’s important to choose the right type of treat for training. Small, soft treats like training treats or small pieces of chicken or cheese can be the perfect choice because they can easily be fed to your dog without interrupting the training session. Using high-value treats that your dog loves can also be a powerful motivator during training and help keep their focus on the task at hand.

While treats are a useful tool in training, it’s important to avoid over-treating, especially during training sessions. You want to avoid overfeeding your dog and potentially causing digestive issues, as well as preventing your Shih Poo from becoming overweight.

To avoid over-treating during training sessions, you can use a portion of your dog’s daily food as training rewards. This will also help your Shih Poo maintain a healthy weight. Additionally, you can try breaking up larger treats into smaller pieces, so you can provide more rewards without worrying about over-feeding.

It’s also important to note that treats should not be the only form of positive reinforcement used during training. Praise and petting can be equally effective as treats, and they can be used in conjunction with treats to reinforce positive behaviors.

Treats play an important role in training your Shih Poo, but they should be used correctly and in moderation to ensure your dog stays healthy and happy. Remember to choose the right type of treat for training, avoid over-feeding, and complement treats with other forms of positive reinforcement during training.

Treats as a Form of Pet Affection

Treats are not only an effective tool for training your Shih Poo, but they can also be a powerful way to show your furry friend some extra love and affection. The act of giving treats to your Shih Poo is a great way to bond and build a deeper connection with them.

Here are some ways that treats can be used as a form of pet affection:

• Offering treats as a reward for good behavior can reinforce positive habits and encourage your Shih Poo to continue making good choices.
• Sharing a treat with your Shih Poo can serve as a bonding moment, and your dog will appreciate the special attention.
• Offering a treat to your Shih Poo can be a comforting gesture in moments of stress or anxiety, helping to calm them down and create a sense of security.

While treats should never be used as a substitute for affection, they can certainly be a meaningful addition to the ways in which you show love to your pet.

It’s important to remember, however, that treats should be given in moderation. Over-treating your Shih Poo can lead to health problems such as obesity and dental issues. Be conscientious of the number of treats you give your pet, and look for healthier options such as those with high protein or fiber content.

If you want to show your pet affection with treats but are concerned about the ingredients in store-bought treats, you might consider making your own homemade treats. There are many recipes available that are specifically designed for the dietary needs of Shih Poos, such as those that are protein-rich or geared towards sensitive stomachs. Check out our Shih Poo dog food recipes for some ideas and inspiration.

Remember that affectionate use of treats is a way to bond with your Shih Poo and show them extra love, but it’s important to be mindful of portion control and ingredient quality.

Reinforcing Positive Behaviors

Treats can be a great way to reinforce positive behaviors in your Shih Poo. Whether it’s potty training, obeying commands, or simply showing good behavior and manners, a well-timed treat can go a long way in reinforcing positive actions.

Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool that can help your Shih Poo learn and develop good habits. When you reward your dog for doing something good, such as sitting on command, they will be more likely to repeat that behavior in the future. This is because they have associated that particular action with a positive outcome – in this case, receiving a tasty treat.

However, it’s important to note that treats should be given in moderation, and not as a substitute for good training practices. Consistency and praise are just as important, if not more so, in helping your Shih Poo learn and remember good behaviors.

To make the most of treats as a reinforcement tool, consider keeping a log of when you give your dog treats, and what action they were rewarding for. This can help you identify patterns in your dog’s behavior, and determine which behaviors are responding best to positive reinforcement.

Here’s an example of a simple log you can keep:

By keeping track of your Shih Poo’s behavior and your responses to it, you can create a more effective training plan that utilizes treats in a way that reinforces positive behaviors without over-reliance on them.

It’s worth noting that not all treats are created equal. Some treats are higher in calories, while others may contain ingredients that can upset your dog’s stomach or cause allergic reactions. Refer to articles about high-protein foods for Shih Poo puppies or foods to avoid for Shih Poos with sensitive stomachs to learn more about choosing the right kind of treat for your Shih Poo.

Health Implications of Over-Treating

Over-treating your Shih Poo can have negative effects on their health. It is important to keep in mind that treats should not be used as a substitute for regular meals, as they do not provide the necessary nutrients and minerals that your dog needs to stay healthy. Here are some health implications to consider when it comes to over-treating your Shih Poo:

1. Weight Gain: Treats often contain high amounts of calories and can lead to weight gain in your Shih Poo. Obesity can increase the risk of developing a range of health problems including diabetes, heart disease, and joint problems. It is crucial to monitor your dog’s calorie intake and ensure that the number of treats they receive does not cause them to gain excessive weight.

2. Digestive Problems: Over-treating can also result in digestive problems, such as stomach upset, diarrhea, and vomiting. This can be particularly problematic if your Shih Poo has a sensitive stomach. It is important to choose treats that are easy to digest and do not contain ingredients that may upset your dog’s stomach.

3. Dental Issues: Some treats may be too hard for your dog to chew, which can cause damage to their teeth. Additionally, treats that contain sugar can lead to tooth decay and other dental problems. Always choose treats that are designed to promote dental health, such as those that help clean your dog’s teeth and freshen their breath.

4. Allergic Reactions: Treats may contain ingredients that your Shih Poo is allergic to, which can result in a range of symptoms including itching, swelling, and breathing difficulties. Always read the labels of any treats you give to your Shih Poo and be vigilant for any signs of an allergic reaction.

By being mindful of the potential health implications of over-treating your Shih Poo, you can help ensure that they remain happy and healthy.

Determining the Right Number of Treats for Your Shih Poo

As a Shih Poo owner, you want to ensure that your furry friend is getting the right amount of treats to stay healthy and happy. But with so many different types of treats out there, it can be difficult to determine how many to give in a day. You don’t want to over-treat and risk health problems, but you also don’t want to under-treat and miss out on the positive benefits that treats can offer. So, how can you find the perfect balance? Let’s explore some factors to consider when determining the optimal number of treats for your Shih Poo.

Considering Your Dog’s Age and Health

When determining the number of treats that your Shih Poo should have each day, it is important to take into consideration their age and overall health. Just like humans, dogs have different dietary needs and restrictions based on their age and any pre-existing health conditions they may have.

To ensure that you are providing your Shih Poo with the appropriate number of treats and not jeopardizing their health, it is recommended that you consult with a veterinarian. They can offer valuable insights into what types of treats are best for your specific dog, based on their age, breed, and any existing health issues.

In the meantime, it can be helpful to use this general guide to determine the appropriate number of treats for your Shih Poo, based on their age:

It’s important to remember that these are just general guidelines and that the specific number of treats your Shih Poo can have each day may vary based on their individual needs and health profile. Additionally, it’s important to ensure that the treats you are giving them are appropriate for their specific age and nutritional needs.

By taking your Shih Poo’s age and overall health into consideration, you can ensure that you are providing them with the appropriate number of treats each day and not put their health at risk. Remember to always consult with your veterinarian to ensure that you are providing your furry friend with the best possible care.

Consulting with Your Veterinarian

Ensuring that your Shih Poo receives the correct number of treats each day is essential to their overall health and wellbeing. While determining this number on your own is possible, it’s always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian to create a personalized plan for your furry friend.

Why Consult with Your Veterinarian?

Veterinarians have extensive knowledge and experience with animal nutrition and can provide expert guidance on the types and amounts of treats suitable for your Shih Poo. They can also assess your dog’s individual needs, including their age, weight, and any pre-existing health conditions, to develop a customized plan.

What Should You Discuss with Your Veterinarian?

When consulting with your veterinarian, be sure to discuss:

Consulting with your veterinarian not only ensures the health and wellbeing of your Shih Poo but also gives you peace of mind knowing that you’re providing them with the correct number of treats each day. It’s essential to follow your veterinarian’s advice and recommendations to prevent overfeeding your furry friend, which can lead to obesity, diabetes, and other health problems.

To sum up, consulting with your veterinarian is crucial in determining the right number of treats for your Shih Poo. They can provide expert guidance specific to your furry friend’s individual needs and help prevent over-treating. So, don’t hesitate to reach out to your veterinarian and discuss your Shih Poo’s treat intake.

Observing Your Dog’s Reaction to Treats

When determining the right number of treats for your Shih Poo, it’s important to observe their reaction to the treats they’re given. Not all dogs have the same preferences and some may be pickier than others. This is why it’s important to pay attention to your dog’s reaction to different types of treats. You can do this by observing their behavior and body language when you offer them a treat.

Consider creating a table to keep track of which treats your dog enjoys and which ones they don’t seem too interested in. This can help you tailor your treat-giving to your dog’s preferences and help prevent over-treating. When introducing a new type of treat, offer it alongside a treat you know your dog likes to encourage them to try it. If they don’t seem interested, don’t force it.

Additionally, consider the size and texture of the treats you’re giving your Shih Poo. If they have trouble chewing or swallowing a particular type of treat, it may not be a good choice for them. Similarly, if the treat is too big or difficult to break into smaller pieces, it may contribute to over-treating if you give them the whole thing at once.

Overall, paying attention to your dog’s reaction to treats can help you make informed decisions about the types and amount of treats you give them. Consider keeping track of their preferences and watching for any adverse reactions, such as upset stomach or excessive drooling, to ensure that you’re not unintentionally harming their health.

Using Treats as Rewards, Not Meals

It’s important to remember that treats should be used as rewards, not meals, for your Shih Poo. While they can be an effective way to reinforce positive behaviors during training, they should not be relied upon as the main source of nutrition for your furry friend.

Using Treats as Rewards

When using treats as rewards, it’s important to choose small, low-calorie treats that your Shih Poo will enjoy. You can even break larger treats into smaller pieces to make them go further. This ensures that your dog is receiving the appropriate amount of nutrition from their regular meals and not relying on treats as their main source of sustenance.

Not using treats as meals

Over-treating or using treats as meals can lead to obesity and other health issues. It’s important to keep track of the number and type of treats you give your Shih Poo to maintain a healthy weight and prevent any negative health implications.

To help you keep track of the treats you give your Shih Poo, you can create a table to record the types and amounts of treats given throughout the day. This can also help you identify any potential sources of over-treating or excessive caloric intake.

Choosing the Right Treats

When choosing treats for your Shih Poo, opt for those that are low in calories and high in nutritional value. Avoid treats that are high in fat, sugar, and additives that can have negative health implications for your dog.

Aim to choose treats that are made from high-quality, natural ingredients and that are specifically formulated for small breed dogs like the Shih Poo.

By using treats as rewards, not meals, and choosing the right types of treats, you can ensure that your Shih Poo is getting the necessary nutrition to maintain a healthy weight and live a happy, active life.

The Right Type of Treats for Your Shih Poo

When it comes to treating your Shih Poo, it’s important to choose the right type of treat. Not all treats are created equal, and some can actually be harmful to your pet’s health if given in excess. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the right type of treat for your furry friend.

Ingredients: Always read the ingredient list before buying a treat. Look for treats made with quality, whole food ingredients and avoid those containing fillers, by-products, and artificial colors or flavors.

Size: Treats should be appropriately sized for your Shih Poo. Avoid giving treats that are too large or small, as they can pose a choking hazard or be ineffective as a reward.

Texture: Consider your dog’s dental health when choosing the texture of the treat. Crunchy treats can help promote healthy teeth and gums, while soft treats may be better for older dogs or those with dental issues.

Flavor: Just like humans, dogs have individual taste preferences. Some dogs may prefer savory treats while others may have a sweet tooth. Experiment with different flavors to find your dog’s favorite.

Caloric value: Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. Keep this in mind when choosing treats and be mindful of the serving size.

Here is a table summarizing the considerations when choosing the right type of treat for your Shih Poo:

Remember, treats are not a substitute for a balanced diet, and it’s important to choose treats that benefit your Shih Poo’s health in moderation.

Keep Your Shih Poo’s Daily Caloric Intake in Mind

It’s important to be mindful of your Shih Poo’s daily caloric intake when giving them treats. Overfeeding your pet can lead to obesity and other health issues, so it’s crucial to keep track of the number of treats you’re giving them each day.

One useful tool is to create a chart that outlines your Shih Poo’s daily caloric needs, as well as the number of treats they can have without going over their daily limit. This chart should take into account your Shih Poo’s weight, age, and activity level, as these factors can all impact their caloric needs.

For example, a Shih Poo that weighs 10 pounds and is moderately active may need around 350 calories per day. However, if you’re also giving them three or four treats per day, each containing 50-100 calories, you could easily push their daily caloric intake over the recommended limit.

To help you keep track of your Shih Poo’s treats and ensure they’re not consuming too many calories, use the following table to determine the appropriate number of treats based on their daily caloric needs:

Of course, these amounts are just a general guideline, and your Shih Poo’s needs may differ. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate number of treats for your pet based on their individual needs.

By keeping track of your Shih Poo’s caloric intake and limiting their treats accordingly, you can ensure they stay healthy and happy for years to come.

When and Where to Give Your Shih Poo Treats

As a Shih Poo owner, it’s important to know not only how many treats to give your furry friend but also when and where to give them. Treats can play a crucial role in training and reinforcing positive behaviors, but over-treating can have health implications. So, what are the best practices for giving your Shih Poo treats? In this section, we’ll dive deeper into the specifics of when and where to give your dog treats, and how to do so in a way that benefits both you and your beloved pup.

Incorporating Treats into Your Shih Poo’s Training

Training your Shih Poo is an essential part of owning a dog, and incorporating treats into their training can make the process much smoother. Here are some tips for incorporating treats into your Shih Poo’s training:

• Start small: When training your Shih Poo, start with small bites of treats. This will prevent your dog from getting too full and losing interest in training.
• Use high-value treats: Use treats that your Shih Poo loves and associates with positive experiences. This will encourage them to work harder during training sessions.
• Offer treats as a reward: Reward your Shih Poo with a treat after they perform the desired behavior. This will reinforce the positive behavior and encourage them to repeat it in the future.
• Be consistent: Use treats consistently when training your Shih Poo. This will help them associate the treat with the desired behavior, making it easier for them to learn.
• Use treats sparingly: Use treats sparingly to avoid over-treating your Shih Poo. This will help prevent health issues like obesity and diabetes.
• Be patient: Training your Shih Poo takes time and patience. Don’t get frustrated with them if they don’t catch on right away. Keep working with them and rewarding them with treats when they do well.

Remember to be patient and consistent when incorporating treats into your Shih Poo’s training. With time and practice, your dog will learn the desired behaviors and you’ll have a well-trained and happy pup.

Treats as a Form of Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool in dog training, and treats can be a great way to reinforce good behavior. When you reward your Shih Poo for responding correctly to a command or exhibiting desirable behavior, he is more likely to repeat that behavior in the future. Here are some tips for using treats as a form of positive reinforcement:

• Choose treats that your Shih Poo really loves. This will help to make the reinforcement as effective as possible.
• Be consistent in your use of treats. If you reward your Shih Poo for doing something one day and then don’t reward him for the same behavior the next day, he may become confused and less motivated to repeat the desired behavior.
• Use treats immediately after the desired behavior occurs, so your Shih Poo can make a connection between the behavior and the reward.
• Use treats in conjunction with verbal praise and petting to reinforce desirable behavior. This will help your Shih Poo understand that his good behavior is what is earning him the rewards.
• Gradually decrease the frequency of treats over time as your Shih Poo becomes more consistent in his good behavior. This will help to ensure that he continues to behave well even when treats are not offered.

Remember that positive reinforcement should be your primary method of training your Shih Poo, rather than punishment or negative reinforcement. Punishing your dog for unwanted behavior can be harmful to his emotional well-being and can actually reinforce that behavior, rather than eliminating it. Using treats as a form of positive reinforcement encourages your Shih Poo to enjoy learning and obeying commands, making training a positive experience for both of you.

Avoid Over-Treating During Training Sessions

Training your Shih Poo with treats is an effective way to reinforce positive behaviors, but over-treating can have negative consequences. Avoiding over-treating during training sessions is important to maintain your Shih Poo’s health and avoid weight gain.

To avoid over-treating during training sessions, it’s helpful to establish clear rules for treating. One effective method is to use a treat-tracking table. This table will help you keep track of how many treats your dog receives during training and throughout the day.

By keeping track of your Shih Poo’s treats, you can ensure you’re not over-treating and providing a well-balanced diet. Additionally, you can choose treats that are lower in calories, such as carrot or cucumber slices, to offer during training sessions.

It’s also important to consider the size of the treat. Smaller treats can be just as effective as larger ones, and can reduce the risk of your dog becoming overweight or obese.

Finally, it’s important to remember that treats are meant to be a reward for positive behavior, not as a replacement for regular meals. By limiting the number of treats your dog receives, you can ensure they maintain a healthy diet while still reinforcing positive behaviors during training sessions.

Offering Treats as a Form of Playtime

Playing with your Shih Poo is such an enjoyable experience, but adding treats to this activity can make it even more exciting for your furry friend. Offering treats as a form of playtime can be an effective way to reinforce positive behavior and to create a bond with your Shih Poo.

Here are some ways you can incorporate treats into your Shih Poo’s playtime:

• Hide and Seek: Hide some treats in various locations around the room, and encourage your Shih Poo to find them by using their sense of smell. This game not only engages their minds and bodies but also reinforces their natural instincts to hunt for food.
• Fetch: Toss a toy or a ball and reward your Shih Poo with a treat every time they bring it back to you. This not only keeps them physically active but also motivates them to return the toy back to you.
• Tug of War: Use a tug toy and take turns pulling it with your Shih Poo. Reward them with a treat when they let the toy go or when they finally win the game.
• Training Games: Incorporate training exercises, such as “sit” or “stay,” and reward your Shih Poo with a treat every time they successfully follow a command. This not only stimulates their mind but also creates a fun and interactive experience for both you and your furry friend.

It’s important to note that treats should be given in moderation and not as a substitute for playtime or exercise. While it’s a great way to reinforce positive behavior and motivate your dog, overfeeding them treats can lead to obesity and other health issues. Be mindful of the number of treats you give your Shih Poo and try to incorporate them into playtime in a way that doesn’t disrupt their daily diet or routine.

Limiting Treats to Certain Times of the Day

Limiting Treats to Certain Times of the Day

It’s important to establish a routine when it comes to treat-giving. While treats can be a helpful tool for training and reinforcing positive behaviors, it’s important to not go overboard. One way to manage treat-giving is to limit it to specific times of the day. This can help prevent over-treating and ensure that your Shih Poo doesn’t become overweight or experience other health issues.

Here are some tips on how to limit your Shih Poo’s treat intake to certain times of the day:

• Use treats as training rewards: Use treats as a reward for your Shih Poo’s training sessions. This will help reinforce positive behavior and create a positive training experience for your dog. Limiting treats to training sessions helps ensure that your dog doesn’t consume too many calories throughout the day.
• Set a specific time for treats: Choose a specific time of day to give your Shih Poo treats. This could be after their meals or during a designated playtime. By limiting treats to a specific time, you can control your dog’s intake and prevent them from becoming too dependent on treats.
• Avoid giving treats before bedtime: Giving your Shih Poo treats right before bedtime could interfere with their sleep. Human food or treats can be harder for dogs to digest, which could lead to an upset stomach during the night. Try to limit treat-giving to earlier in the day to avoid any potential issues.
• Don’t use treats as a form of comfort or distraction: While treats can be used to help with separation anxiety, it’s important to not rely on them as a form of comfort or distraction throughout the day. This can lead to over-treating and could have negative health implications for your dog.
• Track your Shih Poo’s treat intake: Keep track of how many treats your dog is consuming each day to ensure that you’re not over-treating. This can help you establish a routine and manage your dog’s calorie intake throughout the day.

By limiting treats to certain times of the day, you can help prevent over-treating and ensure that your Shih Poo stays healthy and happy. Always consult with your veterinarian to determine the right amount and type of treats for your specific dog.

Using Treats to Help with Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety is a common problem among Shih Poo dogs. They tend to form a strong bond with their owners and can experience anxiety, fear, and distress when left alone. However, using treats as a tool can help alleviate some of these symptoms.

Here are some ways you can use treats to help with separation anxiety:

• Practice short departures with treats: Start by going out for a few minutes and gradually increasing the length of time you’re away. Give your Shih Poo a treat before you leave and another one when you return. This will help your dog associate your departure and return with positive feelings.
• Use interactive treat toys: Invest in interactive treat toys that your Shih Poo can play with while you’re away. Examples include puzzle games, chew toys that dispense treats, and toys that require a lot of effort to get the treat out. This will help distract your dog from the fact that you’re not home and provide mental stimulation.
• Give treats for good behavior: When you return home, greet your Shih Poo calmly and give them a treat for good behavior. This will help reinforce positive behavior and make your dog feel more comfortable when left alone.
• Avoid making a big deal about leaving: When you’re about to leave, avoid making a big fuss about it. Simply give your Shih Poo a treat and walk out the door. Making a big deal out of your departure can increase your dog’s anxiety.
• Use treats to create a positive environment: Giving your Shih Poo treats throughout the day can create a positive environment and help alleviate stress. Use treats as rewards for good behavior and to distract your dog from negative stimuli.

Remember, treats should only be used as part of a larger plan to help with separation anxiety. Consult with a veterinarian or professional dog trainer for a comprehensive approach to address separation anxiety in your Shih Poo.

Closing Thoughts

As a responsible pet owner, it’s important to remember that your Shih Poo’s health and well-being should always come first. Although it can be tempting to shower your furry friend with treats throughout the day, it’s crucial to maintain a healthy balance and limit their treat intake.

Always consider your dog’s individual needs and personalities when deciding on the appropriate number and types of treats to give. Some dogs may have health issues that limit their treat intake, while others may have a more active lifestyle that requires additional caloric intake.

Consulting with your veterinarian is also an essential step in determining what is safe and appropriate for your Shih Poo. Your vet can provide valuable insight into your pooch’s overall health and provide specific recommendations on treat types and amounts based on their individual needs.

Remember that treats should serve as rewards for good behavior and training, rather than a substitute for a balanced meal. Always keep your Shih Poo’s daily caloric intake in mind and avoid over-treating, which can have negative health implications and lead to weight gain.

Timing and location are also crucial when it comes to treat-giving. Incorporate treats into training sessions or use them as a form of positive reinforcement for desired behavior, but be sure to limit treats during playtime or other activities to prevent over-indulgence.

By considering your Shih Poo’s individual needs, consulting with your vet, and practicing moderation and timing in treat-giving, you can ensure that your furry friend remains healthy, happy, and well-trained. With a balanced approach to treat-giving, you can continue to strengthen the bond between you and your beloved pet while also promoting their overall health and well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I give my Shih Poo treats every day?

Yes, you can give your Shih Poo treats every day, as long as you monitor the total amount of calories your dog consumes from all sources.

2. How many treats should I give my Shih Poo each day?

Typically, you should limit treats to about 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake, and adjust based on your dog’s specific health needs.

3. Are commercial dog treats healthy for my Shih Poo?

It depends on the specific ingredients and nutritional content of the treat. Avoid treats with artificial preservatives or fillers, and choose treats with natural or organic ingredients.

4. What are some healthy treat options for my Shih Poo?

Some healthy options include small pieces of cooked chicken or turkey, plain popcorn, or small pieces of fresh fruits and vegetables such as carrots or blueberries.

5. Can I give my Shih Poo human food as treats?

Some human foods can be safe and healthy for dogs as treats, but it’s important to avoid foods that are toxic to dogs such as chocolate or onions. Consult with your veterinarian before introducing any new human food treats.

6. How often can I give my Shih Poo training treats?

You should limit training treats to a maximum of 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake, and use them sparingly to avoid over-treating and disrupting your dog’s regular meal schedule.

7. Can over-treating my Shih Poo lead to obesity?

Yes, consistently over-treating your Shih Poo can contribute to excessive weight gain and obesity, which can lead to health issues such as joint problems and diabetes.

8. Should I adjust my Shih Poo’s treat intake as they age?

Yes, as your Shih Poo ages and becomes less active, their caloric needs will decrease, and you may need to adjust the amount of treats you give them accordingly.

9. Can using treats as a form of positive reinforcement help with behavioral issues?

Yes, using treats as a reward for positive behaviors can reinforce good habits and help with training and behavior issues. However, it’s important to use treats appropriately and not rely on them as the sole form of reinforcement.

10. Should treats be provided in moderation to prevent illness?

Yes, treating in moderation is important to promote a balanced diet and prevent overeating, which can lead to potential health problems such as obesity, digestive problems or dental issues.

References

• Shih-Poo Feeding Guide
• Shih Tzu Food Guidelines for Dogs of All Ages

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Britta Thygesen

A passionate dog owner and a full-time certified dog trainer. Aspires to make Doggolab a go-to place for all the doggo info. Shares personal experience and professional knowledge.

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