Can Shih Tzus Eat Oranges Safely

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Panning Shot of a Running Shih Tzu
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Shih Tzus can eat oranges in moderation, but it's essential to be aware of the potential risks.

Oranges are high in sugar and acidity, which can cause digestive issues in Shih Tzus.

While a small amount of orange as an occasional treat is unlikely to harm your Shih Tzu, frequent consumption can lead to stomach problems.

Shih Tzus are prone to dental issues, and the acidity in oranges can exacerbate tooth decay and gum disease.

Can Shih Tzus Eat Oranges?

Shih Tzus can enjoy peeled orange slices in moderation. They should have ½-1 slice per serving, which is suitable for small dogs like Shih Tzus.

However, it's essential to remove the seeds from the oranges before feeding them to your Shih Tzu. This is because orange seeds are not safe for dogs to eat.

If your Shih Tzu accidentally gets a seed in an orange slice, don't worry, but do your best to always de-seed oranges to prevent any potential issues.

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Feeding Your Shih Tzu

Credit: youtube.com, 12 Fruits Shih Tzus Can Eat SAFELY (with Feeding Guide)

Feeding your Shih Tzu oranges can be a fun and healthy treat, but it's essential to do it safely.

Shih Tzus are considered small dogs, and according to the size and breed guidelines, they can have ½ orange segment as a treat.

To prepare oranges for your Shih Tzu, thoroughly wash the oranges, peel them, remove any seeds, and cut them into small pieces before feeding them.

Keep an eye out for symptoms of an upset stomach, such as diarrhea, vomiting, decreased appetite, looking uncomfortable, licking their lips, and gulping due to nausea.

Here's a size guide to help you determine the right amount of orange for your Shih Tzu:

Remember to adjust meal portions accordingly, as treats should never make up more than 10% of your dog's daily calorie intake.

Nutrition and Health

Oranges can be a healthy treat for Shih Tzus in small quantities, but it's essential to remember that they shouldn't make up a significant part of their diet.

Credit: youtube.com, Top 7 Highly NUTRITIOUS Fruits for your dog or puppy growth. || Monkoodog

Fresh orange slices are relatively healthy snacks, but they're more for sensory and emotional enjoyment than for physical health.

Too much orange can cause issues like gastrointestinal upset or central nervous system depression in dogs.

One or two slices of orange once every few weeks won't hurt your Shih Tzu, but if oranges become part of their everyday diet or they eat a large quantity, they could face health problems.

The high sugar and citric acid content in oranges can be too much for some Shih Tzus' digestive systems, especially those with sensitive stomachs.

If you notice signs of gastrointestinal issues like loose stool or an upset stomach, discontinue giving your Shih Tzu oranges immediately.

Oranges are safe to feed to your Shih Tzu and are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber.

However, commercial dog food diets are nutritionally balanced, so your Shih Tzu doesn't require supplementation of these nutrients.

If your Shih Tzu begs for oranges, they can be enjoyed in small quantities, but be sure to only feed the flesh of the orange and not the peel, pith, or seeds.

Oranges and Citrus Fruits

Credit: youtube.com, Are Oranges Safe for Dogs?

Yes, oranges are safe for your Shih Tzu to eat in moderation, with ½-1 slice being a suitable limit for small dogs like yours.

You can also give your Shih Tzu other types of citrus fruits like tangerines, mandarins, and blood oranges, but not as a staple in their diet.

Tangerines are safe for dogs to eat, but they should be served in moderation due to their high sugar content.

Just remember to limit the amount of citrus fruits you give your Shih Tzu to avoid stomach upsets and digestive issues.

In fact, citrus fruits like lemons, limes, and grapefruits should be avoided altogether because they can cause an upset stomach and digestive issues.

As a general rule, it's best to stick to peeled slices of fresh oranges and other citrus fruits, and not make them a daily treat.

Potential Risks and Allergies

Dogs with certain health conditions should avoid eating oranges. This includes dogs that are overweight or have diabetes, as the natural sugar in oranges can affect their blood sugar levels.

Credit: youtube.com, 7 Common Allergies in Shih Tzus you MUST know!

Dogs with sensitive gastrointestinal systems should also steer clear of oranges, as their acidic nature can cause stomach upset. It's best to introduce oranges slowly to ensure this doesn't happen.

Allergic reactions to oranges are rare, but some dogs may develop symptoms like itching, redness, hives, and vomiting after consuming oranges.

Bad for Some?

Dogs with certain health conditions need to steer clear of oranges. Dogs that are overweight or diagnosed with diabetes shouldn't be fed oranges, as the natural sugar can affect their blood sugar levels and lead to excess calories.

Oranges can cause stomach upset in some dogs, especially those with sensitive gastrointestinal systems. You should only offer your dog a small piece of orange the first time to ensure this doesn't happen.

Giving your dog too much fiber from oranges can lead to digestion issues, especially if they have a sensitive stomach or digestive problems in the past. Start with a small bite of orange and keep a close eye on how much you're feeding them.

Dogs with diabetes should be careful with even small amounts of sugar from oranges, which can cause an adverse reaction.

Eat Orange Seeds?

Credit: youtube.com, Do you know what orange seeds can do to your body?

No, dogs should not eat orange seeds. If your dog accidentally gets a seed in an orange slice, you don't need to worry. You should do your best to always de-seed oranges before you feed them to your dog.

Be Allergic?

It's rare for dogs to be allergic to oranges, but it's not impossible.

Some dogs can develop allergic reactions after consuming oranges, and the symptoms can be unpleasant.

Itching and redness are common symptoms of an orange allergy in dogs.

Vomiting can also occur if a dog is allergic to oranges.

The chances of a dog being allergic to oranges are low, but it's always better to be safe than sorry.

Creative and Fun Ways

If your Shih Tzu enjoys oranges, you can try cutting them into small segments or slices and removing any skin or membrane that might be left behind. Some dogs may not like oranges, which is fine.

You can also serve your Shih Tzu a fresh peeled slice or a frozen piece on a hot day. If you're serving oranges for the first time, ensure you wash the orange thoroughly to remove any dirt that may have been used on the skin.

Introducing in Fun Ways

Bone Shaped Food on Front of White Shih Tzu
Credit: pexels.com, Bone Shaped Food on Front of White Shih Tzu

Introducing new foods to your dog requires caution, so start with small amounts and monitor for any adverse reactions.

Begin by washing the new food thoroughly to remove any dirt or residue, as seen with oranges. This is especially important for your dog's digestive health.

Some dogs may not like certain foods, which is perfectly fine - there are plenty of other options to try.

Creamsicle Dog Treats

If you're looking for a fun and tasty way to give your dog a special treat, you might want to consider making some creamsicle dog treats. These treats are super easy to make and require only two ingredients: fresh orange flesh and plain yogurt.

To make these treats, you'll need to start by washing the orange thoroughly to remove any dirt that may have been used on the skin. Then, peel the orange and remove any seeds or fiber, as these can be hard to digest for dogs.

Shih Tzu Puppies
Credit: pexels.com, Shih Tzu Puppies

You can serve these treats to your dog frozen on a hot day, or add them to their food as an occasional treat. One recipe, created by Droolicious Dog Treats, makes 9-10 single-serving treats and requires only 5 minutes of prep time.

Here's a quick rundown of the ingredients and prep time you'll need for this recipe:

These creamsicle dog treats are a great source of healthy fats, thanks to the plain yogurt, and are sure to be a hit with your furry friend.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much orange can I give my dog?

Feed your dog 1-3 orange slices per day, in moderation, to avoid excessive citrus and sugar intake

What is the best fruit for Shih Tzu?

For a healthy Shih Tzu, bananas are a great option as they're easily digestible and rich in essential nutrients. However, always check the full list of safe fruits to ensure your furry friend stays safe and happy.

Can dogs have mandarin oranges in a cup?

Yes, dogs can safely eat mandarin oranges, but it's essential to remove any seeds or peels to prevent choking or digestive issues.

Eileen Kessler

Junior Writer

Eileen Kessler is a rising star in the world of pet-focused writing. With a passion for canine companions, she has established herself as a go-to authority on all things dog-related. Her writing career has taken off, with a portfolio that showcases her expertise in crafting engaging and informative content.

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