Can Shih Tzus Eat Watermelon? Vet-Reviewed Benefits, Tips & FAQ

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 natural 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 facultative carnivores, 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. Watermelon is also extremely low in calories, making it a light and refreshing treat. Another helpful advantage is its naturally high water content, which can support hydration during warm weather. In addition to these nutrients, watermelon provides gentle plant antioxidants such as lycopene and beta-carotene. These compounds help neutralize free radicals and support immune health, giving your Shih Tzu a small nutritional boost while they enjoy this cooling, hydrating snack.

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, watermelon can have a diuretic effect. This means that it causes the kidneys to produce more urine. Although this can be beneficial by flushing toxins out of the system, if your dog doesn’t have access to enough water they may become dehydrated. Plus, if you’ve not factored in the diuretic effect, your dog could have an accident indoors if they need to pee sooner than usual!

A second concern is the watermelon rind. Shih Tzus might enjoy having a munch on watermelon rind, but not only can it retain potentially harmful contaminants like pesticides, it is poorly digestible and can cause digestive distress or even lead to an intestinal blockage. In any event, 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 digestive irritants 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 dog-safe edible chew. 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 will have to offer your dog a piece of watermelon to determine whether they like it or not.

• See Also: Can Shih Tzus Eat Eggs? Are They Safe?

Featured Image Credit By: Any Lane, Pexels