Peel the Truth: Can Shih Tzus Go Bananas for Bananas?

Do you have a Shih Tzu? If yes, you should read this blog post.

One of my readers has a Shih Tzu and he wants to give him bananas. So that his fur baby feels happy and healthy. But his concern is can his fur baby eat bananas?

And I am sure that this question must be in many dog owners’ minds.

So I researched everywhere, gathered the information, and here I come with the answer.

Can Shih Tzu eat bananas?

Yes, Shih Tzu can eat bananas! They are a great snack for this small dogs. They provide essential vitamins and minerals. While giving Shih Tzu banana as a snack, make sure it is ripe and peeled. All in all, you can feed your Shih Tzu bananas only thing is, it should be in moderation.

Can Dogs Eat Banana Peels?

It is not recommended for dogs to eat banana peels.

• It can be difficult for them to digest and may cause digestive issues such as diarrhea or vomiting.
• The tough and fibrous texture of the peel can pose a choking hazard, particularly for small dogs or dogs with dental problems.
• A report published in National Library on Medicine in April 2022 shows that the peel of a banana contains high levels of insoluble fiber. According to the report, 100 g dry peel contains 42.29 g insoluble fiber. The high amount of insoluble fiber can be difficult for dogs to digest and may cause gastrointestinal irritation.

It is always best to remove the peel from a banana before giving it to your dog as a treat. If you have any concerns about your dog’s diet, it is always best to consult with your veterinarian for advice.

How Much Banana Is Too Much for a Shih Tzu?

As a general rule of thumb, it should make up no more than 10% of your Shih Tzu’s daily caloric intake. This means that if your Shih Tzu requires 500 calories per day, they should only have about 50 calories from bananas.

One small banana (about 100 grams) contains about 90 calories, so this would be equivalent to half a small banana per day. It is always best to consult with your veterinarian to determine the right amount based on your furry friend’s individual caloric needs.

What are the benefits of adding bananas to your Shih Tzu’s diet

Some of the benefits include:

• Improved digestion: Bananas are a high source of fiber, which can help support healthy digestion and prevent constipation in dogs.
• Heart health: They are a good source of potassium, which can help support healthy blood pressure and heart function in dogs.
• Healthy skin and coat: They are also a good source of vitamins B6 and vitamin C, which can support healthy skin and a shiny coat in dogs.

How can you safely feed bananas to your Shih Tzu as part of their diet?

Here are some tips for safely feeding your Shih as part of their diet:

• Start with a small amount: When introducing bananas to your Shih Tzu’s diet, it is important to start with a small amount and gradually increase the amount over time. This will allow their digestive system to adjust to the new food and reduce the risk of digestive issues such as diarrhea or vomiting.
• Remove the peel
• Limit the amount
• Consult with your veterinarian: If you have any concerns about adding bananas to your Shih Tzu’s diet, it is always best to consult with your veterinarian for advice. They can provide guidance on the safe amount and frequency and answer any questions you may have.

Homemade Banana Dog Treats

Here are two homemade treats:

Banana and Peanut Butter Dog Treats:

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe banana
• 1/4 cup natural peanut butter
• 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup rolled oats

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mash the banana with a fork.
3. Add the peanut butter and mix until well combined.
4. Gradually stir in the flour and oats until the dough comes together.
5. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
6. Use a cookie cutter or a knife to cut the dough into desired shapes.
7. Place the treats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the treats are golden brown.
9. Let the treats cool completely before feeding your dog.

Banana and Oatmeal Dog Biscuits:

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe banana
• 1/4 cup rolled oats
• 1/4 cup unsalted chicken broth
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mash the banana with a fork.
3. Add the oats and chicken broth and mix until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder.
5. Gradually stir the flour mixture into the banana mixture until a dough forms.
6. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
7. Use a cookie cutter or a knife to cut the dough into desired shapes.
8. Place the treats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the treats are golden brown.
10. Let the treats cool completely before serving your dog.

These homemade treats are a healthy and delicious way to reward your dog. They are easy to make and can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.

What are some fruits and vegetables that dogs can safely eat?

Dogs can safely eat a variety of fruits and vegetables, including the following:

• Apples: Apples are a healthy and nutritious snack for dogs. They are a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as dietary fiber. Just be sure to remove the seeds and core, as they contain small amounts of cyanide, which can be toxic to dogs.
• Blueberries: Blueberries are a tasty and healthy treat for dogs. They are low in calories and high in antioxidants, which can support immune health and prevent cell damage.
• Carrots: Carrots are a crunchy and nutritious snack for dogs. They are a good source of beta-carotene, which can support eye health, and dietary fiber, which can support healthy digestion.
• Green beans: Green beans are a healthy and low-calorie snack for dogs. They are a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as dietary fiber.
• Sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes are a healthy and nutritious snack for dogs. They are a good source of beta-carotene, which can support eye health, and dietary fiber, which can support healthy digestion.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is generally safe for Shih Tzus to eat bananas in moderation as a treat. They are a healthy and nutritious snack for dogs, as they are low in calories and contain essential vitamins and minerals.

However, it is important to keep in mind that it should only be given to Shih Tzus in small amounts, as eating too much of this fruit can cause digestive issues such as diarrhea or vomiting.

Additionally, the peel should not be given to Shih Tzus, as it can be difficult for them to digest and may cause an intestinal blockage.

To ensure the safety and well-being of your Shih Tzu, it is always best to consult with your veterinarian before giving them any new food, including bananas.