Why Free-Feeding Your Shih Tzu May Not Be The Best Choice
As a Shih Tzu parent, it can be difficult to decide on the best feeding method for your furry friend. Free-feeding, or leaving food out all day for your dog to eat at their leisure, may seem like a convenient option. However, it’s important to consider the potential drawbacks before implementing this approach. In this article, we’ll explore the cons of free-feeding your Shih Tzu and suggest alternatives to this feeding method. Let’s dive in and learn more about how to keep your pup healthy and happy.
What is Free-Feeding?
Are you leaving food out all day for your Shih Tzu to eat as they please? This feeding method is known as free-feeding, and although it seems convenient, it can lead to some negative consequences for your furry friend. Before deciding if free-feeding is the right choice for your Shih Tzu, it’s important to understand what it is and how it works. Additionally, learning about the potential drawbacks of this feeding method can help you make a more informed decision. If you want to know more about the best nutrition practices for your Shih Tzu, check out our page about Shih Tzu nutrition.
How Does Free-Feeding Work?
Free-feeding is the practice of leaving food available for your Shih Tzu to eat at all times. This means food is kept in a bowl or dispenser, and your pet can eat as much or as little as they want. It’s different from scheduled feeding, where food is given to your dog on a set schedule.
Free-feeding is a simple method of feeding that doesn’t require much effort from pet parents. The idea is to keep food available to your Shih Tzu throughout the day so they can eat whenever they feel hungry.
This practice may seem convenient, but it has numerous downsides. Take a look below at an html table depicting the workings of free-feeding and the associated disadvantages.
| How Does Free-Feeding Work? | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Food is kept in a bowl or dispenser, and your pet can eat as much or as little as they want. |
Free-feeding can lead to weight gain and obesity because your Shih Tzu will eat as much as they want, which can be more than their body needs. It can also cause boredom and overeating since your dog may eat out of habit, rather than hunger. This can result in an inconsistent meal pattern, which can impact your Shih Tzu’s health. It’s essential to adopt a feeding method that suits your dog’s lifestyle and size.
Why Do Pet Parents Choose to Free-Feed?
There are different reasons why pet parents choose to free-feed their Shih Tzu. Some find it convenient because they do not have to worry about sticking to a feeding schedule or measuring out portions. Others believe that their dog will self-regulate and only eat what they need. Take a look at the table below for a more detailed look at some common reasons for free-feeding.
| Reasons for Free-Feeding | Description |
|---|---|
| Convenience | Pet parents can fill up a bowl with food and leave it out all day, so they don’t have to be home to feed their dog. |
| Self-Regulation | Some pet parents think that their dog will only eat what they need and won’t overeat, so they don’t have to worry about portion control. |
| Peace of Mind | Leaving food out can make some pet parents feel like their dog always has access to nourishment, especially if they have a busy schedule. |
| Weight Management | Some pet parents who free-feed believe that their dog can manage their own weight and won’t become overweight or underweight. |
While these reasons may seem valid, it’s important to remember that free-feeding can have negative consequences for your Shih Tzu’s health. Weight gain, dental problems, and behavioral issues are just a few of the possible downsides. For more information on the dangers of free-feeding and how to properly feed your Shih Tzu, check out our article on the best diet for Shih Tzu.
The Cons of Free-Feeding
Feeding a Shih Tzu can be a tricky business, and the method by which you provide your furry friend with food can play a significant role in their overall well-being. While free-feeding may seem like a convenient and easy option, it is not without its downsides. In this section, we will explore some of the cons of free-feeding your Shih Tzu that you should consider before deciding on a feeding method. From weight gain and overeating to dental problems and food contamination, free-feeding can lead to a variety of issues that can negatively impact your pet’s health. However, fear not, we will also discuss some alternatives and helpful tips for implementing a feeding schedule that works best for your Shih Tzu. But before we delve deeper, it’s essential to understand what free-feeding actually means.
Weight Gain and Obesity
Free-feeding your Shih Tzu may actually lead to weight gain and obesity, especially if he or she has access to food all day long. When food is available all the time, your furry friend may eat more frequently and in larger quantities, which can easily result in overfeeding. Obesity in dogs can cause a variety of health problems such as diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, and respiratory issues. Overweight Shih Tzus may have difficulty moving around and become lethargic, which can have a negative impact on their overall well-being.
To prevent obesity, it’s important to carefully control and monitor your Shih Tzu’s food intake. This can be achieved through meal feeding or scheduled feeding, which provide a set amount of food at scheduled intervals. Portion control is also essential; be sure to measure the amount of food your furry pal consumes daily. Giving too many treats can add unnecessary calories to your dog’s diet, so it’s important to be mindful of the amount and quality of treats you offer.
If your Shih Tzu is consistently gaining weight even with portion control and regular exercise, it’s possible that he or she may have an underlying health issue. Talk to your veterinarian about testing for food allergies or the need for supplements like vitamins and supplements to ensure that your furry friend is healthy and not overeating due to underlying issues.
The cons of free-feeding your Shih Tzu can have a significant impact on their health, especially with regard to weight management. In order to ensure your Shih Tzu has a healthy and happy lifestyle, it’s important to provide a balanced diet, monitor food intake, and choose appropriate feeding methods.
Boredom and Overeating
One of the major cons of free-feeding your Shih Tzu is the problem of boredom and overeating. When food is constantly available, your dog may eat out of boredom rather than hunger. This can lead to overeating and obesity, as well as behavioral issues such as whining constantly for food or begging at the table.
It’s important to note that dogs enjoy routine and structure in their daily lives. Eating on a schedule can actually provide a sense of comfort and predictability for your Shih Tzu. Without a set feeding schedule, your dog may become anxious or uncertain about when they will be fed. This can lead to stress and nervous behavior.
To combat boredom and overeating, consider creating a feeding schedule for your Shih Tzu. This will help your dog understand when to expect meals and prevent them from overeating out of boredom. You can also provide interactive toys or engage in playtime to stimulate your dog’s mind and distract them from excessive eating.
Another option is to provide low-calorie, healthy snacks throughout the day instead of free-feeding. This will help keep your dog satisfied and prevent them from overeating, while also providing them with proper nutrition. Some examples of healthy snacks for Shih Tzus include carrots, green beans, and apple slices.
Free-feeding can lead to boredom and overeating in Shih Tzus. Providing a structured feeding schedule and healthy snacks can help prevent these issues and promote a healthier, happier lifestyle for your furry friend. For more tips on feeding your Shih Tzu, check out our article on feeding tips.
Inconsistent Meals
One major issue with free-feeding your Shih Tzu is that it can lead to inconsistent meals. When you leave a bowl of food out all day, your pup may choose to nibble on it here and there instead of having regular meals.
This can cause a number of problems, including indigestion, upset stomach, and even malnourishment if your dog is not getting the proper nutrients they need.
To further illustrate the point of inconsistency, take a look at this table:
| Meal Time | Amount of Food (cups) |
|---|---|
| 8:00am | 1/2 |
| 12:00pm | None |
| 3:00pm | 1/4 |
| 7:00pm | 1/2 |
As you can see, there is no consistent pattern or amount of food being consumed. This can lead to digestive problems and even behavioral issues, as your dog may become anxious or agitated without a set routine.
To avoid these problems, it is important to establish a regular feeding routine for your Shih Tzu. This can be done through meal feeding, scheduled feeding, or automatic feeders, all of which we will discuss in further detail later in the article.
Behavioral Issues
Free-feeding your Shih Tzu can also lead to several behavioral issues. Without a set feeding schedule, your dog might become aggressive or territorial around food. Your furry friend might start guarding their food, growling, or showing signs of possessiveness, which can be alarming and potentially dangerous.
Free-feeding can lead to a lack of structure in your dog’s daily routine. Dogs thrive on routine, and without a consistent feeding schedule, they might become anxious, stressed, or bored. This can manifest in destructive behavior, like excessive barking or chewing, as your Shih Tzu tries to entertain themselves.
Additionally, free-feeding can make it difficult to train your dog. Food is an essential tool for obedience and positive reinforcement techniques. If your dog is constantly snacking throughout the day, they might not be motivated to participate in training sessions. Without the structure that comes with scheduled feedings, it can be challenging to establish healthy boundaries that help your Shih Tzu learn and grow.
While free-feeding might seem convenient, it can lead to a range of behavioral issues for your Shih Tzu, from aggression and territorialism to anxiety and boredom. To ensure your furry friend is healthy and happy, it is important to establish a consistent feeding schedule and provide them with the structure they need to thrive both physically and emotionally.
Dental Problems
Possible response:
While free-feeding can seem convenient, it can also harm your Shih Tzu’s dental health. When dogs can eat anytime they want, they may snack frequently and take longer to chew their food. This can lead to a build-up of plaque and tartar on their teeth, and eventually, to dental disease. The American Veterinary Medical Association estimates that by age three, most dogs show signs of periodontal disease, which can cause pain, tooth loss, and systemic infections.
The Cons of Free-Feeding: Dental Problems
To understand how free-feeding can impact your Shih Tzu’s teeth, let’s compare it to meal feeding. If you feed your dog specific meals, you can oversee how much they eat, what they eat, and how they chew. You can also prevent them from gulping their food or eating too fast, as some Shih Tzus tend to do. If you provide treats or bones, you can control their frequency and size, and choose products that promote dental hygiene, such as dental chews, toys, or water additives.
In contrast, free-feeding can allow your Shih Tzu to chew on whatever they find, including soft or hard human food, stale kibble, or non-food items, such as toys, shoes, or furniture. This can damage their teeth or gums and increase the risk of foreign body ingestion. Additionally, free-feeding can make it harder for you to notice changes in their appetite, appetite loss, or refusal to eat, which could signal dental pain or illness. Your Shih Tzu may also hide their mouth discomfort or act aggressively when you try to examine or brush their teeth.
To illustrate the dental problems associated with free-feeding, see the table below:
| Problems | Causes | Solutions |
|---|---|---|
| Plaque | Build-up of bacteria, saliva, and food particles on the teeth | Brush your Shih Tzu’s teeth daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and enzymatic toothpaste; consider dental cleanings or scaling by a veterinarian |
| Tartar | Calcification of plaque into hard yellow or brown spots that adhere to the teeth | See above; avoid using hard or sticky treats that can damage the teeth; consider water additives or dental diets |
| Gingivitis | Inflammation of the gums due to bacterial invasion; can cause redness, swelling, bleeding, and oral pain | See above; consider antimicrobial rinses or gels recommended by your vet; avoid using human toothpaste, which can contain harmful ingredients |
| Periodontitis | Infection of the gums and tissues that surround and support the teeth; can cause tooth mobility, abscesses, and bone loss | See above; consider antibiotics, painkillers, or surgery recommended by your vet; monitor your Shih Tzu’s eating habits and seek prompt medical attention if you notice signs of oral discomfort or bleeding |
As you can see, dental problems are not only unpleasant but also costly and potentially life-threatening. It’s crucial to prevent them by adopting a dental care routine that suits your Shih Tzu’s needs and preferences. Even if you suspect that your dog already has dental issues, it’s never too late to address them and improve their oral health. By meal feeding and scheduling your Shih Tzu’s meals, you can reduce the risk of dental problems and ensure that they receive quality nutrition and care.
Food Spoilage and Contamination
One of the most overlooked downsides of free-feeding your Shih Tzu is the risk of food spoilage and contamination. Leaving a bowl of food out for your furry companion all day can cause the food to become stale, go bad or spoil. This is especially true if you live in a hot and humid climate or if your home is poorly ventilated.
However, it’s not just the climate that poses a risk. Pet food is also susceptible to bacterial growth and other forms of contamination. When left out for a long time, pet food can attract insects and rodents, which can contaminate the food with their droppings or disease-causing bacteria. This can lead to a serious health risk for your Shih Tzu, causing illness or infections that can result in costly vet bills and treatment.
Additionally, free-feeding your Shih Tzu can result in wastage of food, as your pet may not eat all of the food in the bowl if left out for too long. This means that you may end up throwing away food that has gone bad, which is a waste of both money and resources.
To avoid the risk of food spoilage and contamination, it’s best to adopt alternative feeding methods such as scheduled or meal feeding. This will ensure that your Shih Tzu receives fresh and portioned meals, reducing the risk of food spoilage and illness. Additionally, storing pet food in airtight containers can help prevent contamination and spoilage.
Expense
One thing pet parents should consider when free-feeding their Shih Tzu is the expense. When you leave food out for your dog to eat whenever they please, it’s difficult to determine how much food they’re consuming. This can result in them eating more than they really need and wasting a lot of food. It can become quite expensive in the long run to constantly buy large amounts of food that your dog may not even finish.
To illustrate this point, let’s take a look at some numbers. On average, a bag of dog food can cost anywhere from $30 to $50 or more, depending on the brand and size. If you’re free-feeding your Shih Tzu, you may go through a bag of food much more quickly than you would if you were sticking to a set feeding schedule. This means you’ll need to purchase food more frequently, which can add up over time.
In addition to the cost of the food itself, free-feeding can also lead to other expenses such as healthcare costs. As we discussed earlier, free-feeding can cause weight gain and obesity, which can lead to health issues down the line. These health issues can require trips to the vet, which can be costly.
To avoid excessive spending on dog food and healthcare costs, it’s important to consider alternative feeding methods such as meal feeding or scheduled feeding. By sticking to a set feeding schedule, you can more easily manage your dog’s food intake, which can ultimately save you money in the long run.
Let’s summarize: free-feeding your Shih Tzu can be costly due to the amount of food that may go to waste and the potential health issues that may arise. Consider alternative feeding methods to save money and keep your Shih Tzu healthy.
| Expense Considerations | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Bag of dog food | $30-$50+ |
| Extra trips to the vet due to health issues | Varies |
Alternatives to Free-Feeding
If you have decided that free-feeding your Shih Tzu is not the best option, you may be wondering what other alternatives are available. Fortunately, there are several feeding methods that can help ensure your furry friend is getting the proper nutrition without the negative consequences of free-feeding. Let’s explore some of the most effective alternatives that can keep your pup healthy and happy.
Meal Feeding
One alternative to free-feeding is meal feeding. With this approach, you provide your Shih Tzu with a specific amount of food at scheduled times throughout the day. This can help prevent overeating and weight gain, while also providing a more consistent mealtime routine.
The Benefits of Meal Feeding
1. Portion Control – By measuring out your Shih Tzu’s food, you can ensure they are getting the right amount of nutrition for their size and activity level.
2. Weight Management – Meal feeding can help prevent overeating and weight gain, which is especially important for Shih Tzus who may be prone to obesity.
3. Consistency – Providing meals at scheduled times can help establish a routine and make it easier to manage your Shih Tzu’s feeding schedule.
How to Meal Feed
When meal feeding, it’s important to choose the right type of food and portion size for your Shih Tzu. You can talk to your vet to determine the appropriate serving size based on your dog’s weight and activity level.
Here is an example of a meal feeding schedule for a Shih Tzu:
| Meal Time | Food Amount |
|---|---|
| Morning | 1/4 cup |
| Mid-day | 1/4 cup |
| Evening | 1/4 cup |
It’s important to note that meal feeding may not work for every dog. Some Shih Tzus may have difficulty adjusting to a new feeding schedule, so it’s important to gradually transition them to their new routine. You can do this by gradually reducing the amount of food provided during free-feeding and slowly increasing the number of scheduled meals until your Shih Tzu is fully transitioned to their new feeding routine.
Scheduled Feeding
Scheduled feeding involves setting specific times throughout the day when your Shih Tzu will eat. This means that you will be controlling the amount of food they consume and can help reduce the risk of overeating and obesity. Additionally, scheduled feeding can provide your dog with a sense of routine and consistency.
Benefits of Scheduled Feeding:
- Controlled Portions: By measuring out the amount of food your Shih Tzu needs for each meal, you can help prevent overeating and obesity. This is especially important for smaller breeds like Shih Tzus who are prone to weight gain.
- Prevents Boredom: Scheduled feeding can help provide a routine for your dog, which can prevent them from becoming bored and overeating out of habit.
- Reduces Behavioral Issues: Knowing when your Shih Tzu will eat can help reduce begging and other behavioral issues that can arise from free-feeding.
- Maintains Dental Health: Eating at scheduled times can also help maintain your dog’s dental health by reducing the amount of time food remains on their teeth and reducing the risk of tooth decay.
Implementing Scheduled Feeding:
If you’re transitioning from free-feeding to scheduled feeding, it’s important to do so gradually. This will help prevent your dog from becoming too hungry or experiencing digestive issues. Here are some steps to help you implement a scheduled feeding routine:
- Choose Meal Times: Consult with your vet and choose a feeding routine that works best for your Shih Tzu’s age, activity level, and dietary needs. For example, adult Shih Tzus may thrive on a twice-daily feeding schedule.
- Measure Out Food: Using a measuring cup or kitchen scale, measure out your dog’s food for each meal. Follow the recommended serving size on the dog food packaging, but adjust as needed based on your dog’s weight and activity level.
- Set Aside Time for Feeding: Set aside specific times throughout the day for feeding your Shih Tzu. Make sure to choose times that work best for you and your schedule.
- Stick to the Schedule: Once you’ve established a feeding schedule, stick to it as much as possible. This will help your dog become accustomed to the routine and reduce the risk of overeating or begging for food.
Conclusion:
Scheduled feeding can provide your Shih Tzu with a sense of routine, consistent meal times, and controlled portions that can help reduce the risk of obesity and other health issues. By gradually transitioning from free-feeding to a scheduled feeding routine, you can help ensure that your dog stays healthy and happy.
Automatic Feeders
Automatic feeders are another option for regulating your Shih Tzu’s food intake. These devices can be programmed to dispense specific amounts of food at predetermined times.
Benefits:
- Helps regulate portion sizes to prevent overeating and weight gain
- Ensures consistent meal times even if you are not home
- Some models have features like voice recordings that can soothe your pet or remind them to eat
Considerations:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
|
When choosing an automatic feeder, make sure to consider your Shih Tzu’s needs and your own lifestyle. Look for models that are high-quality and come with a warranty, and be prepared to spend time training your pet to use the device. Automatic feeders can be a great tool for managing your pet’s diet and ensuring they receive consistent and appropriate meals.
How to Implement a Feeding Schedule
If you’ve decided that free-feeding isn’t the best option for your Shih Tzu and you’re ready to implement a feeding schedule, you’re on the right track to ensuring your furry friend’s health and well-being. However, it can be perplexing to figure out how to transition from free-feeding to a scheduled meal plan. Don’t worry – we’ll guide you through the process step-by-step in order to make the transition as smooth as possible for both you and your Shih Tzu. Let’s dive in!
Consult with Your Vet
Before implementing any changes to your Shih Tzu’s diet, it’s crucial to consult with your veterinarian. They can help you determine the best feeding schedule based on your dog’s individual needs and health status. Here are some important considerations to discuss with your vet during your consultation:
- Current Weight and Body Condition: Your vet can evaluate your Shih Tzu’s current weight and body condition score to determine if they are overweight or underweight, and if any dietary changes are necessary.
- Nutritional Requirements: Different Shih Tzus may have different nutritional requirements based on their age, activity level, and health conditions. Your vet can provide guidance on the appropriate amounts of protein, fat, and carbohydrates that your dog needs in their diet.
- Food Preferences and Allergies: If your Shih Tzu has any food preferences or allergies, such as sensitivity to certain ingredients or types of protein, your vet can help you select the most appropriate types of food for their needs.
- Digestive Health: Certain digestive issues, such as pancreatitis or inflammatory bowel disease, can impact your Shih Tzu’s dietary needs. Your vet can help you develop a feeding schedule that takes these conditions into account.
- Overall Health Status: Your vet can provide a comprehensive health evaluation to identify any underlying health conditions that may impact your Shih Tzu’s dietary needs or feeding schedule.
By consulting with your veterinarian before implementing any changes to your Shih Tzu’s feeding schedule, you can ensure that you are making the best decisions for your furry friend’s health and well-being.
Determine the Best Feeding Schedule
Determining the best feeding schedule for your Shih Tzu is important to ensure they receive proper nutrition and avoid overeating. There are several factors to consider when creating a feeding schedule, including their age, weight, activity level, and health needs. Your vet can provide guidance on these factors and help you create a feeding schedule specific to your Shih Tzu.
Once you have consulted with your vet, you can begin to create a feeding schedule that works for both you and your furry friend. To make it easier, consider creating a table that outlines the feeding schedule for each day.
| Time | Meal Type | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| 7:00 AM | Breakfast | 1/2 cup of kibble |
| 12:00 PM | Lunch | 1/3 cup of wet food |
| 5:00 PM | Dinner | 1/2 cup of kibble and 1/4 cup of wet food |
| 8:00 PM | Treat | A few small training treats |
Note that the quantities listed in the table are just an example and may vary depending on your Shih Tzu’s needs. It’s important to stick to the feeding schedule as closely as possible, as this will help regulate your dog’s hunger and prevent overeating.
Remember to also monitor your Shih Tzu’s weight and adjust the feeding schedule accordingly. If your dog appears to be gaining weight, you may need to decrease the amount of food or adjust the feeding schedule. On the other hand, if your dog appears to be losing weight or has lower energy levels, you may need to increase the amount of food or adjust the feeding schedule as well.
By determining the best feeding schedule for your Shih Tzu and monitoring their weight and energy levels, you can help ensure that they receive the proper nutrition they need to live a long and healthy life.
Transitioning Your Shih Tzu
When transitioning your Shih Tzu from free-feeding to a feeding schedule, it’s important to do so gradually to avoid any digestive upsets. Here are some steps to follow:
- Start by gradually reducing the amount of food left out: Begin by offering smaller portions of food each time you free-feed. Over the course of a few days, gradually reduce the amount of food that’s available until your Shih Tzu is eating all of it in one sitting.
- Choose a set feeding schedule: Once your Shih Tzu is used to eating smaller, timed portions, select a feeding schedule that will work for both you and your pet. This could be twice a day, three times a day, or even more frequent feedings for puppies.
- Maintain consistency: Stick to your new feeding schedule as much as possible to help your Shih Tzu develop a routine. Consistency will help your pet feel more secure and comfortable with their new mealtime routine.
- Monitor your Shih Tzu’s eating: Pay attention to how much your Shih Tzu is eating at each mealtime, and adjust portion sizes and feeding times as needed. If your pet is leaving food behind, they may not be hungry enough for their next meal, so consider reducing portions or spacing out feedings accordingly.
- Offer healthy treats: Treats are an important part of your Shih Tzu’s diet and can be used as a reward during training. If you choose to offer your pet treats throughout the day, make sure they are healthy and nutrient-rich to avoid any negative health consequences.
With patience and consistency, you can successfully transition your Shih Tzu from free-feeding to a feeding schedule that promotes a healthy weight and overall wellbeing. Remember to consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns about your pet’s diet or feeding habits.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while free-feeding may seem like a convenient and easy option for pet parents, it comes with several cons that can have long-term negative effects on your Shih Tzu’s health and wellbeing. From weight gain and boredom to inconsistent meals and dental problems, there are many reasons why free-feeding may not be the best choice for your furry friend.
However, there are alternatives to free-feeding that can help ensure that your Shih Tzu is getting the right amount of food at the right time. Meal feeding, scheduled feeding, and automatic feeders are all viable options that can provide structure and consistency to your pet’s feeding routine.
Before implementing any feeding schedule, it is important to consult with your vet to determine the best approach for your individual Shih Tzu. This can involve assessing their current weight and nutritional needs, as well as any other health issues they may be facing.
By taking an intentional and thoughtful approach to feeding your Shih Tzu, you can help ensure that they are healthy, happy, and well-fed. So if you’ve been considering free-feeding as an option, it may be time to explore some alternatives and make a change for the better. Remember, a little bit of planning and effort can go a long way in keeping your furry friend healthy and happy for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I free-feed my Shih Tzu puppy?
No, it is not recommended to free-feed a Shih Tzu puppy as it may lead to overeating, weight gain, and other issues.
What is the recommended feeding schedule for a Shih Tzu?
The recommended feeding schedule for a Shih Tzu is two to three small meals per day.
Can I leave food out for my Shih Tzu all day?
No, leaving food out for your Shih Tzu all day, also known as free-feeding, can lead to weight gain, boredom, and other issues.
What are the alternatives to free-feeding my Shih Tzu?
Alternatives to free-feeding your Shih Tzu include meal feeding, scheduled feeding, and automatic feeders.
Will free-feeding my Shih Tzu save me money?
No, free-feeding your Shih Tzu may actually end up costing you more money in the long run due to food spoilage and overeating.
Can free-feeding my Shih Tzu lead to dental problems?
Yes, free-feeding your Shih Tzu can lead to dental problems such as plaque buildup and tooth decay.
Can behavioral issues arise from free-feeding my Shih Tzu?
Yes, behavioral issues such as aggression and food guarding can arise from free-feeding your Shih Tzu.
How do I transition my Shih Tzu to a feeding schedule?
You can transition your Shih Tzu to a feeding schedule by gradually reducing the amount of time their food is left out and increasing the frequency of meals.
What should I consider when determining the best feeding schedule for my Shih Tzu?
You should consider your Shih Tzu’s age, activity level, and overall health when determining the best feeding schedule.
Is it necessary to consult with a vet before implementing a feeding schedule for my Shih Tzu?
It is recommended to consult with a vet before implementing a feeding schedule for your Shih Tzu to ensure it is the best option for their individual needs.
References
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.
