Can Shih Tzus Eat Peaches and What to Watch Out For

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Brown Shih Tzu Puppy
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Shih Tzus can eat peaches in moderation, but it's essential to watch out for a few things. Peaches are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, which can be beneficial for Shih Tzus.

However, peaches are also high in sugar and can cause digestive issues in some dogs. According to the article, a single peach can contain up to 10 grams of sugar, which is a significant amount for a small dog like a Shih Tzu.

To safely feed peaches to your Shih Tzu, start with small amounts and monitor their behavior and digestive health. A general rule of thumb is to limit the amount of peaches to about 1-2 teaspoons per 10 pounds of body weight.

Peach Safety for Shih Tzus

Peaches are a nutritious and delicious treat for Shih Tzus, but it's essential to ensure their safety.

Peach pits can be a choking hazard and contain amygdalin, a toxic compound that can cause health problems in high amounts. If your Shih Tzu ingests a peach pit, monitor them for signs of cyanide toxicity, such as appetite loss, abdominal pain, and difficulty breathing.

To safely give peaches to your Shih Tzu, start by offering a small slice and monitor them for any adverse reactions. If your dog is allergic to peaches, they may experience bloating, diarrhea, vomiting, itchy paws, or discomfort.

Are Peaches Safe?

A Dog Eating on a Bowl
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Peaches are safe for Shih Tzus, and many of them love the taste and texture of this juicy fruit.

The flesh itself is perfectly safe for your pup, but it's essential to keep an eye out for the peach pit, which can pose a choking hazard or gastrointestinal issues.

Start by offering your Shih Tzu a tiny slice of peach and monitor them for a few days before giving more.

If your dog does happen to be allergic to peaches, they may become bloated, experience diarrhea or vomiting, get itchy paws, or feel discomfort.

These symptoms should pass within a day, and there are plenty of other treats you can give your pooch.

Have Peach Pits?

If your Shih Tzu ingests a peach pit, it's not just a minor issue. The pit can cause serious health problems due to the toxic cyanogenic compound amygdalin it contains.

Amygdalin is present not only in the pit but also in the peach leaves and stems. This means your Shih Tzu can get into trouble even if they just sniff or lick these parts of the fruit.

Shih Tzu Dog Lying on the Sofa near the Window
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Monitor your Shih Tzu closely if they ingest any part of the peach, as the symptoms of cyanide toxicity can be subtle at first. Look out for appetite loss, abdominal pain, diarrhea, dilated pupils, and difficulty breathing.

Here are the signs of cyanide toxicity to watch out for:

  • Appetite loss
  • Abdominal pain
  • Diarrhea
  • Dilated pupils
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Gagging
  • Vomiting
  • Lethargy
  • Severe panting
  • Regurgitation
  • Red gums

In addition to toxicity, peach pits can also cause physical harm to your Shih Tzu's teeth and digestive system. The hard center can damage or break their teeth, and the sharp texture can cause throat and stomach damage.

Feeding Shih Tzus Peaches

Peaches are a great source of vitamin A and fiber, making them a nutritious treat for Shih Tzus. However, it's essential to introduce them in moderation and as an occasional treat.

To ensure your Shih Tzu's safety, always remove the pit, as it can cause a choking hazard or gastrointestinal issues. Wash the peaches thoroughly before serving them to your dog.

Bone Shaped Food on Front of White Shih Tzu
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A few small pieces of peach are all you should give your Shih Tzu at a time, and they should never be given a whole peach to eat. This will prevent gastrointestinal distress and potential choking hazards.

Here are some serving ideas for your Shih Tzu:

  • Mix peach slices with other dog-safe fruits like bananas and apples for a sweet treat.
  • Frozen peaches make a refreshing treat, especially on summer days.
  • Add diced peaches and a teaspoon of all-natural peanut butter to your Shih Tzu's oatmeal.
  • Dice a few peach slices into small cubes and combine them with some plain Greek yogurt (if your Shih Tzu is lactose-tolerant).

Remember to always consult with your vet before giving your Shih Tzu any new foods, including peaches, to ensure their safety and well-being.

Can Eat Dried Peaches?

Feeding Shih Tzus dried peaches can be a healthy treat option, but it's essential to follow some guidelines.

Remove the pit at any cost as it's toxic to dogs. The pit can cause a choking hazard and may lead to obstruction.

Make sure your Shih Tzu doesn't eat the stems or green portions of the dried peaches, as they can be harmful.

Treat dried peaches as a supplement and not as a meal replacement for your Shih Tzu's regular diet.

Dog Feeding Guide

Shih Tzu Puppies on Table
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Feeding your Shih Tzu peaches can be a great way to add some variety to their diet, but it's essential to do it safely.

First, make sure to wash the peaches thoroughly before cutting them up into small pieces. This will prevent any bacteria or dirt from getting into your dog's system.

Only give your Shih Tzu a few small pieces of peach at a time, as treats should make up no more than 10% of their daily calories.

You can mix peach slices with other dog-safe fruits like bananas and apples for a sweet treat.

Frozen peaches make a refreshing treat, especially on hot summer days.

Remember to remove the pits, leaves, and stems from the peaches before giving them to your dog.

Here are some serving ideas to get you started:

  • Mix peach slices with other dog-safe fruits like bananas and apples
  • Use frozen peaches as a refreshing treat
  • Add diced peaches to your dog's oatmeal
  • Combine diced peaches with plain Greek yogurt (if your dog is lactose-tolerant)
  • Make peach dog biscuits (but be sure to check with your vet first)

Don't feed your Shih Tzu preserved or canned peaches, as they contain high amounts of sugar and preservatives that can cause stomach upset.

Always speak to your vet before giving your Shih Tzu any kind of human food, as certain health conditions could be worsened by peaches or other foods.

Peach Consumption Details

From above of funny shaggy mixed color Shih Tzu with scrunchy sitting on ground and looking at camera during stroll
Credit: pexels.com, From above of funny shaggy mixed color Shih Tzu with scrunchy sitting on ground and looking at camera during stroll

Peach consumption details are important to consider when sharing this tasty treat with your Shih Tzu.

Dogs can safely eat peaches in small, cut-up pieces, but it's essential to follow some guidelines to avoid any issues. Whole peaches are high in natural sugars and acidic, making them a potential choking hazard and cause of stomach upset.

A few slices of peach are a perfectly safe and delicious treat for your dog, but be sure to only give them as an occasional treat. Too many peaches can cause stomach upset and increase the risk of obesity in dogs.

Peaches contain high amounts of sugar, with one fresh peach containing about 8% sugar and one cup of sliced peach having about 60 calories and 13 g of sugar. It's best to only feed your Shih Tzu organic peaches to avoid pesticides.

It's crucial to wash peaches well before feeding them to your dog, regardless of whether they're organic or non-organic. Make sure to inspect the peaches for mold before serving them to your canine best friend.

Dog Food in a Stainless Steel Bowl
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Here are some key guidelines to keep in mind when sharing peaches with your Shih Tzu:

  • Only give your dog a few small pieces of peach at a time.
  • Avoid giving your dog whole peaches due to the high sugar content and choking hazard.
  • Only feed your dog organic peaches to avoid pesticides.
  • Wash peaches well before feeding them to your dog.
  • Inspect peaches for mold before serving them to your dog.

Remember, peaches should only be an occasional treat and not a regular part of your Shih Tzu's diet.

Clara Cole

Writer

Clara Cole is a prolific writer, covering a range of topics from lifestyle to wellness. With years of experience in the blogosphere, she is known for her engaging writing style and ability to connect with readers. Clara's approachable demeanor and relatable voice make her an ideal source for readers seeking practical advice on everything from self-care to personal development.

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