How Much to Feed My Staffy Shih Tzu? Guide for First-Time Owners
Posted on November 11, 2024
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The Staffy Shih Tzu is a small dog with a huge appetite. This is why it is important that you consider its age, size, metabolism, and activity level when deciding how much to feed it. Otherwise, it can develop some health issues. If you are a first-time canine owner and don’t know the amount of food your pup needs daily, here is the ultimate food guide for Staffy Shih Tzu dogs:
Under Three Months Old
A Mal-Shi puppy is normally completely weaned from its mother at eight to 10 weeks of age. At this time, free-feeding is recommended. This means you should have fresh food available for your dog to eat at all times. Otherwise, it can suffer from hypoglycemia which is a condition that may result in loss of appetite, muscle twitching, skin discolouration, and extreme fatigue.
During your Mal-Shi’s first month, it is important that you keep showing it where its food and water bowls are located. This way, it can eat away throughout the day without the need for your supervision.
Three to 12 Months Old
Replace free-feeding with scheduled meals once your Mal-Shi turns 12 weeks old. This is because it needs to eat more to support its energy and activity levels. By scheduling your pooch’s mealtimes, its food intake will increase. The recommended amount is ½ to 1 cup of high-quality dry dog food per day, divided into three meals.
One Year and Above
For an adult Mal-Shi, ¼ to ½ cup of high-quality dry dog food per day, divided into two meals, is suggested. This is enough to keep your pooch’s tummy satisfied the whole day, especially if you are also giving your dog snacks and training treats between hours. Otherwise, three meals per day are just as appropriate.
Many new dog owners make the mistake of feeding their Staffy Shih Tzus only once a day because of their size. However, it is the other way around. Small breeds like the Mal-Shi need more calories than larger dogs because they have a faster metabolism. So, regardless of your pup’s size, it needs to eat more.
The Bottom Line
When feeding your Staffy Shih Tzu, it is important that you keep track of its food intake as it is prone to obesity. If you must, measure its food and conduct a hands-on test from time to time. If you are still unsure of how much and often you should feed your pooch, consult with your breeder or vet.
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Dog Chew Toys for Aggressive Chewers A$27.99
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Dog Pull Ring Toy for Training & Biting Resistance A$31.99
Interactive Dog Pull Ring Toy – Train, Play & Strengthen Your BondThe Ultimate Tug & Train Companion for Energetic Dogs Fuel your dog’s instinct to chase, tug, and learn with the Interactive Dog Pull Ring Toy. Designed for active training, gripping practice, and interactive play, this lightweight yet unyielding toy is a must-have for high-energy breeds like Border Collies, German Shepherds, and Labradors. Whether engaging in tug-of-war, fetch, or obedience drills, this rugged yet gentle ring helps sharpen skills while strengthening the connection between you and your pup. Why Pet Owners Swear by This Pull Ring ToyEngineered for Relentless Chewers & Heavy Tugging✔ Crafted from reinforced, impact-resistant plastic that holds up to relentless gnawing and gripping.✔ Tough enough for strong-jawed dogs yet gentle on teeth and gums. Enhances Training & Reinforces Obedience✔ Helps teach essential commands like “fetch,” “drop,” and “release,” making training more dynamic.✔ Boosts mental sharpness, encourages discipline, and builds focus while keeping your dog engaged. Interactive Play That Channels Energy Positively✔ Perfect for tug-of-war battles and high-energy chases that keep your dog’s body and mind engaged.✔ Redirects destructive habits like excessive chewing, barking, and digging into healthy, constructive play. Secure, Comfortable Grip for Owners✔ Thoughtfully designed handle provides a firm, slip-resistant grip during interactive games.✔ Gives better leverage and control when playing with large, strong dogs. Built for Any Environment – Indoors or Outdoors✔ Weatherproof and durable enough for rough-and-tumble play anywhere—whether at home, in the park, or on the beach. Product Details📌 Material: Ultra-tough, chew-resistant plastic📌 Size: Perfectly suited for large breeds & active dogs📌 Function: Training, tugging & interactive play Why This Pull Ring Toy Stands Out✔ Encourages Physical & Mental Stimulation – Keeps your pup active, fit, and engaged.✔ Strengthens Your Bond – Designed for meaningful, interactive play with your dog.✔ Built to Endure – Withstands heavy chewing and energetic tugging.✔ Perfect for Training & Behavior Reinforcement – Helps instill positive habits and strengthen obedience. Turn playtime into a rewarding experience—grab the Interactive Dog Pull Ring Toy today! -
Durable Wooden Deer Antler Dog Chew Toy A$51.99
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Indestructible Octopus Plush Dog Toy A$48.99
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Interactive Dog Football Training Ball & Chew Toy A$32.99
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Tough Dog Chew Toys for Aggressive Chewers A$32.99 - A$44.99
Tough Dog Chew Toy – Crafted for Power Chewers Unyielding, Safe & Earth-Friendly Chew Toy for Dogs Who Love to Gnaw Tracking down a chew toy that won’t surrender to powerful jaws is no small feat—but the Tough Dog Chew Toy is built to endure even the most relentless chewers. Molded from reinforced bamboo fiber, this ultra-durable toy satisfies strong chewing instincts, soothes teething discomfort, and promotes better oral health—all while standing the test of time. Whether your pup is teething or your adult dog has a bite that rivals a steel trap, this rugged, eco-conscious toy keeps them entertained and engaged. Why Pet Owners Rely on This Chew Toy Engineered for Hardcore Chewers✔ Crafted from dense, impact-resistant bamboo fiber, this chew toy holds up against hours of persistent gnawing.✔ Designed for teething puppies and adult dogs with powerful jaws. Eco-Conscious & Completely Pet-Safe✔ Molded from sustainable bamboo, making it a guilt-free choice for environmentally mindful pet owners.✔ Tough enough to resist destruction while remaining gentle on teeth and gums. Redirects Destructive Chewing & Boosts Mental Stimulation✔ Keeps dogs occupied, reducing the urge to chomp on furniture and shoes.✔ Encourages focus, eases restlessness, and helps relieve stress—especially for pups left home alone. Supports Cleaner Teeth & Healthier Gums✔ Rugged, textured surface scrubs away plaque and tartar while gently massaging the gums. Built for Play & Teething Comfort✔ Soothes aching gums in teething puppies while offering endless chewing satisfaction.✔ Perfect for indoor and outdoor fun—great for dogs who need an energy outlet. Why This Chew Toy Stands Above the Rest ✔ Virtually Indestructible – Designed for relentless gnawers.✔ Eco-Friendly & Non-Toxic – Made from naturally safe bamboo fibers.✔ Supports Oral Hygiene – Helps clean teeth and strengthen gums.✔ Fights Boredom – Encourages active play and keeps destructive behavior in check. 🐶 Give your dog a chew toy that lasts—grab the Tough Dog Chew Toy today! 🐶