Obesity is a growing health concern among dogs, including small breeds like the Shih Tzu. Since they are a small-sized breed with a compact body, even a small amount of excess weight can put significant stress on their joints, heart, and overall health. An overweight Shih Tzu is at higher risk for conditions such as diabetes, joint problems, breathing difficulties, and reduced life expectancy.
Preventing obesity in your Shih Tzu requires a balanced diet, regular exercise, portion control, and proper weight monitoring. By following the right practices, you can keep your furry friend at a healthy weight and ensure they live a long, happy life.
How to Tell If Your Shih Tzu Is Overweight
Before taking steps to prevent obesity, it’s important to know whether your Shih Tzu is already carrying excess weight. Some signs that your dog might be overweight include:
- You Can’t Feel Their Ribs Easily – Run your hands along their sides. If you can’t feel their ribs without pressing hard, they may be overweight.
- Lack of a Defined Waist – Viewed from above, a healthy Shih Tzu should have a slight curve at the waist. If their body looks round or barrel-shaped, they may be overweight.
- Difficulty Walking or Playing – An overweight Shih Tzu may become less active, get tired easily, or have trouble jumping and running.
- Heavy Breathing or Snoring – Extra weight can put pressure on their respiratory system, making it harder for them to breathe, especially since Shih Tzus are a brachycephalic breed (flat-faced).
- Slow Movements and Reluctance to Exercise – If your dog avoids playing, climbing stairs, or going for walks, it could be due to excess weight putting strain on their joints.
If you’re unsure whether your Shih Tzu is overweight, consult your veterinarian. They can assess your dog’s body condition score (BCS) and recommend a healthy weight range based on their age, size, and activity level.
Causes of Obesity in Shih Tzus
Understanding the causes of obesity can help you take preventative steps before your dog gains excess weight. The most common causes include:
Overfeeding
Many Shih Tzu owners overestimate how much food their dog needs. Since Shih Tzus are small, they require fewer calories than larger breeds. Free-feeding or giving too many large portions can lead to gradual weight gain.
Too Many Treats and Human Food
While treats are great for training, giving too many can quickly add up in calories. Many dog treats are high in fat, sugar, and artificial ingredients, contributing to weight gain. Sharing human food can also be dangerous, as many foods contain unhealthy fats, sodium, and sugar that are harmful to dogs.
Lack of Exercise
Shih Tzus may be small, but they still need daily physical activity. A sedentary lifestyle, combined with excess calorie intake, leads to rapid weight gain. Some owners assume that Shih Tzus don’t need much exercise because they are a lapdog breed, but in reality, they need daily walks and playtime to stay fit.
Age-Related Metabolism Slowdown
As dogs get older, their metabolism slows down, and they require fewer calories than when they were younger. If their diet isn’t adjusted accordingly, they may gain weight. Senior Shih Tzus are also less active, which means they burn fewer calories throughout the day.
Hormonal Imbalances and Medical Conditions
Some dogs develop obesity due to underlying medical issues, such as hypothyroidism or Cushing’s disease. If your Shih Tzu is gaining weight despite eating a healthy diet and getting exercise, consult a veterinarian to rule out any medical conditions.
How to Prevent Obesity in a Shih Tzu
1. Control Portion Sizes
One of the most effective ways to prevent obesity is by feeding the right amount of food. Follow these tips for proper portion control:
- Check the Feeding Guidelines on Dog Food Labels – Every dog food brand provides recommended daily portions based on weight. However, these are just guidelines, and you should adjust based on your Shih Tzu’s activity level.
- Use a Measuring Cup – Many owners overfeed their dogs because they guess the amount. Measuring portions ensures consistency and prevents overeating.
- Divide Meals into Two or Three Portions – Instead of feeding one large meal, split it into two or three smaller meals throughout the day. This helps maintain energy levels and prevents excessive hunger between meals.
2. Choose a High-Quality, Balanced Diet
The quality of food plays a big role in maintaining a healthy weight. Look for high-protein, low-carb, and low-fat dog food with natural ingredients and no artificial additives.
- Avoid fillers like corn, wheat, and soy, which contribute to weight gain.
- Prioritize lean protein sources like chicken, turkey, or fish.
- Include fiber-rich ingredients like sweet potatoes, pumpkin, or brown rice to promote digestion and satiety.
If your Shih Tzu is prone to weight gain, consider switching to a weight management dog food that has fewer calories but still provides essential nutrients.
3. Limit Treats and Snacks
While treats are useful for training and rewarding good behavior, they should only make up 10% or less of your dog’s daily calorie intake.
- Choose healthy treats like baby carrots, cucumber slices, or apple slices (without seeds).
- Avoid high-fat treats like bacon-flavored snacks or processed dog biscuits.
- Use portioned treats – Instead of giving a whole treat, break it into smaller pieces.
4. Ensure Daily Exercise and Activity
Exercise is crucial for preventing obesity and keeping your Shih Tzu in good shape. Even though they are small, they still need at least 30–45 minutes of activity per day.
- Daily Walks – A 20–30 minute walk twice a day helps burn calories and keeps muscles strong.
- Interactive Play – Playing fetch, tug-of-war, or hide-and-seek indoors can be a fun way to keep them active.
- Puzzle Toys – Mental stimulation with food-dispensing puzzle toys can prevent boredom and overeating.
If your Shih Tzu is older or has joint problems, consider low-impact exercises like gentle walks or swimming to keep them active without straining their joints.
5. Monitor Your Dog’s Weight Regularly
Regular weight checks help detect any changes before obesity becomes a problem.
- Weigh your Shih Tzu once a month to track their weight.
- Use a body condition scoring system to assess their shape.
- Adjust food portions and exercise if you notice weight gain.
6. Schedule Regular Vet Checkups
Your veterinarian can help monitor your dog’s weight and detect any health issues that could contribute to obesity. Annual checkups and discussions about diet and exercise can prevent weight-related illnesses.
Final Thoughts
Preventing obesity in a Shih Tzu requires consistent portion control, a high-quality diet, regular exercise, and weight monitoring. By maintaining a healthy weight, your dog will have better mobility, improved heart health, and a longer, happier life. Small changes in their routine can make a big difference in preventing unnecessary weight gain and ensuring your furry companion stays active and energetic.