Can Shih Tzus Eat Watermelon? Benefits, Tips & FAQ
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Shih Tzus are cute dogs with fearless personalities. That said, these dogs are susceptible to injury due to their small size and massive play drive. They love to play and get rambunctious, yet they can easily hurt themselves or someone else could accidentally hurt them in the process. They are also curious to a fault.
So, you might be wondering if your Shih Tzu can eat certain foods, like watermelon, without developing any problems, like diarrhea. Are there any serious gastrointestinal issues to consider? Let’s explore these topics and more here!
Yes, Shih Tzus Can Eat Watermelon
Watermelon is perfectly safe for dogs of any breed to eat in small amounts. It’s important to remember that this fruit, like almost all fruits, is full of sugar. So, if your dog is dealing with problems such as obesity and/or diabetes, it is a good idea to consult with your veterinarian to find out exactly how much, if any, watermelon your furry family member can safely consume. If your dog is healthy overall, feel free to occasionally offer watermelon to your dog as a snack.
The Benefits of Feeding Watermelon to Your Shih Tzu
Dogs are naturally omnivores1, so they derive their nutrition from both animal and plant resources, especially when living as domesticated animals. Watermelon has a variety of nutrients that can benefit dogs. For one thing, it’s packed with potassium, an electrolyte that is crucial for proper muscle and nerve function1. Watermelon is also high in essential nutrients, such as vitamins B6 and C, and extremely low in calories, which means you won’t have to worry about your pup becoming overweight just because you enjoy sharing the fruit together.
Watermelon is high in water content, which can help keep your dog well-hydrated while spending time outdoors during the hot summer months, whether playing, hiking, or camping.
Can Watermelon Be Harmful to Shih Tzus?
There are a few things about watermelon that can be harmful to Shih Tzus and any other dog breed. First, the seeds of a watermelon can be choking hazards. Look for and remove any seeds before feeding watermelon to your dog, to ensure that they don’t end up choking or breaking a tooth.
A second concern is the watermelon rind. Shih Tzus can typically chew it, but it can cause them gastrointestinal distress once ingested. Furthermore, the rind can harbor pesticides and any other toxins that the watermelon was treated with.
Even if you scrub the rind with soap and water, you can’t be sure how much, if any, residue you successfully get rid of. It’s best to add watermelon rinds to the compost bin. Feeding your dog the flesh of a watermelon and avoiding the rind will help ensure that they are not exposed to any unnecessary toxins that could negatively impact their health.
The 3 Clever Ways to Feed Watermelon to Your Shih Tzu
You can simply throw a piece of watermelon to your Shih Tzu, and they will likely munch it up immediately. However, if you’re feeling creative, you may want to try offering this delicious treat to your dog in a clever way. There are many options to consider, including these:
1. Make a Shish-Kabob
Cut a piece of watermelon into three bite-sized square pieces, then skewer the pieces onto a rawhide stick, bully stick, or something similar. Freeze the “shish-kabob” for at least an hour, then give it to your pup.
2. Create a Slushie
Throw about ½ cup of watermelon in a blender along with a few cubes of ice, and blend the two ingredients. Your Shih Tzu is sure to love licking this delicious slushy out of a bowl.
3. Roast Cubes
Cut a piece of watermelon into small cubes, place the cubes on a baking sheet, and roast them at 325 degrees Fahrenheit in the oven for 10 minutes or just until the edges start to turn brown. Let the cubes cool, then offer them to your dog like any other treat.
Conclusion
Watermelon is a smart and healthy treat option for any Shih Tzu unless they are dealing with problems like diabetes and obesity. Most Shih Tzus love the taste and texture of watermelon, but all dogs are different, so you’ll have to offer your dog a piece of watermelon to determine whether they like it or not.
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Featured Image Credit: Any Lane, Pexels
