hypoallergenic dog food for shih tzu
Are Shih Tzus Hypoallergenic?
One of the worst experiences as a pet owner is falling in love with a dog that makes your eyes water and makes you sneeze your head off.
If you have allergies and are determined to have a dog, youre likely looking for one that is hypoallergenic.
The question among many is whether or not Shih Tzus fit the bill.
Yes, for many allergy suffers, shih tzus are a great breed.
Lets take a deeper look to find out.
What Causes Pet Allergies?
While some breeds are more allergy-friendly than others, no dog is entirely hypoallergenic.
To determine which ones are the most allergy-friendly, its essential to start with what causes the allergies in the first place.
It is a common thought that a dogs fur can stir up allergies, so most allergy sufferers steer clear of long-haired dogs.
The truth of the matter is that its not actually the fur but whats trapped in it.
A dogs dander, meaning its skin cells, as well as saliva, urine, and dust, all get caught in a dogs fur.
It is these things that produce allergic reactions in humans not the fur itself.
What Does That Mean For Shih Tzus?
It is also a common misconception that the longer the hair, the more they shed.
The shedding, in theory, would lead to more exposure to allergens.
As Shih Tzus typically have longer hair, many allergy sufferers choose a different breed.
In reality, Shih Tzus can be much gentler on your allergies than many other breeds.
Their fur is hair-like, and it comes in a double coat.
This means that as they shed, their fur does not fall off around your home.
Instead, it gets caught in the second layer, keeping those allergens buried until grooming time.
Tips for Owning a Shih Tzu If You Have Allergies
Before going any further, remember this: no dog is 100 percent hypoallergenic.
However, you can minimize potential allergic reactions by following a few tips.
- Brush your Shih Tzu every few days. This will prevent such a significant buildup of allergens that it finds its way out of that second layer of hair.
- Have someone else do the brushing and other grooming. Brushing away all of that dander can quickly kick up your allergies, so its better if someone else does it. If you live with a roommate or a partner, trade that chore off for another one.
- Dont groom them inside. No matter who does the grooming, have them do it outside if possible. Otherwise, youll still get exposed to the allergens.
- Wash the dog regularly with moisturizing dog shampoo. The drier your pups skin, the more the skin sheds. Keeping it moisturized can reduce this issue.
- Vacuum and dust your home regularly. This will help pick up any dander that happened to escape the second coat. If you are going to be handling these chores, consider wearing a mask while you do.
Conclusion
If you have allergies, owning a pet might not be the best idea.
If you are determined to have a pet despite your allergies, though, a Shih Tzu is a good choice.
With regular cleaning and grooming, a Shih Tzu can be one of the most allergy-friendly dog breeds around.
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Is A Shih Tzu Hypoallergenic? Everything You Want to Know
Shih Tzus are relatively healthy canines, and most live 10 to 18 years. Shih Tzus often do well in apartments and smaller homes because they dont have excess energy. Theyre also good with kids and other pets, making them popular family dogs. But are Shih Tzus good choices for allergy sufferers? Are they hypoallergenic? Shih Tzus produce less of the protein that causes allergies in humans, but theyre technically not hypoallergenic as they still produce some of the offending protein. However, theyre often great for allergy sufferers since they may cause fewer and less intense allergic reactions.
What Causes Pet Allergies?
Pet allergies are caused by various proteins found in dog saliva, dander, and urine. Can f1 and Can f2 are the most common offenders regarding human allergies to dogs. All dogs produce these and other proteins that can trigger reactions in individuals with dog allergies, so hypoallergenic dogs technically dont exist.
But Shih Tzus generally make less of the protein, so they trigger fewer allergy symptoms in some people. But keep in mind that dogs within the same breed produce different amounts of Can f1 and Can f2, so its possible for a Shih Tzu to cause one person with allergies to sneeze and to induce little or no reaction in someone else.
Are There Other Breeds That Are Good for Allergy Sufferers?
Yes. Poodles, Xoloitzcuintlin, Portuguese Water Dogs, Afghan Hounds, and Schnauzers are often considered good options for those with allergies. Other possibilities include the Maltese, Bichon Frises, and Chinese Crested dogs. While theres no guarantee these dogs wont trigger allergies, they tend to shed less and produce less dander than other breeds.
Ways to Reduce Allergy Symptoms
There are several ways to reduce allergy symptoms if you already have one of these loving dogs at home, including vacuuming, a few environmental changes, increased grooming, and medication.
Vacuum Your Pets Favorite Areas
Regularly vacuuming your home may provide allergy symptom reliefits quick and relatively easy to get rid of the fur and dander often responsible for allergy symptoms in people. You can use products with high-quality HEPA filters to get the most bang for your buck. Consider putting HEPA filters in rooms where your dog likes to hang out and in your bedroom to limit dander accumulation.
Pay extra attention to floorboards and corners while vacuuming, and spend extra time on your dogs bed to pick up loose fur, dirt, and dander. Put comforters, pillows, and blankets in the wash to limit dander and mite accumulation.
Wash Your Dogs Bedding
Wash your dogs bed at least once per week. Start off by giving it a good vacuum to collect dirt and fur. Follow the manufacturers cleaning instructions and use the hottest water to kill any lingering bacteria. Avoid scented laundry detergent, as these products sometimes cause canine skin irritation.
To be safe, opt for a pet-friendly, unscented, hypoallergenic detergent. Consider putting a folded blanket or sheet on top of your dogs bed or favorite napping place to make cleaning easy. Do a quick pass with the vacuum, then throw the blanket or sheet in the washing machine for a high-temperature clean.
Replace Carpeting
Replacing carpeting with hardwood, laminate, marble, or linoleum floors may also help, as carpet often collects and harbors allergens, which can increase symptom severity in some people.
Brush Your Dog
Regularly brushing your dog may also help prevent dander from building up in your pets fur. Some owners find bathing their pets every 2 months is beneficial. Spray-on dander reducers can also help reduce allergy symptoms. Some owners find that wiping dogs down with a moist cloth helps keep dander under control.
Having your dogs hair trimmed also helps by making it easier to groom your pet. Puppy cuts are functional, look great, and are easy to maintain. Most leave about 1 inch of fur over your pets entire body, making them popular summertime choices. Shaving dogs usually doesnt help reduce allergies and can be harmful to dogs with double coats like Shi Tzus.
Our Favorite Products
Selecting the right shampoo and conditioner makes the world of a difference when grooming your pup. Our favorite products are the duo by Hepper. The Oatmeal Pet Shampoo is formulated with aloe and oatmeal to soothe skin and hydrate the coat. The Pet Conditioner works at eliminating tangles and taming frizz and static. Both products are pH-balanced and formulated with pet-friendly ingredients, free of harsh soaps, chemicals, and dyes. Give this duo a try to heal and nourish your dog's coat, and leave them with an irresistible just-left-the-spa cucumber and aloe scent.
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Hepper Oatmeal Shampoo for Dogs, Cats and Other...
Free of harmful additives
Hepper Pet Conditioner and Moisturiser - Scented...
Free of harmful additives
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Change Your Clothes
Put on new clothes after playing with your dog, spending time in homes with canine residents, or cleaning your dogs bedding or favorite hangouts. Reducing dander exposure often goes a long way toward managing the intensity and severity of allergic episodes.
And taking off dander-laden clothes is an incredibly simple and effective way of limiting your exposure to allergens. If you cant launder your clothes immediately, put them somewhere out of the way, preferably where you can open a window to let some fresh air in! Throwing clothes in the dryer is a quick and efficient way to reduce pet dander.
Speak With Your Doctor
Several medications may reduce the severity of allergy symptoms, including over-the-counter antihistamines and decongestants and prescription options such as nasal steroids.
Allergy shots help some people with sensitivities to dog dander, but they dont work for everyone, and treatment requires several months of shots. Speak with your doctor to get accurate information about the risks and benefits of using medication to manage your allergies.
Conclusion
Shih Tzus are loving, playful, friendly dogs that make great companions for those living in apartments and small homes, but they tend to bark a bit! Theyre usually extraordinarily friendly, easy to get along with, and loving.
Shih Tzus also make great choices for allergy sufferers as the breed tends to produce less of the protein usually responsible for triggering allergy symptoms. They arent, however, technically hypoallergenic, as most dogs still have the offending proteins, just in lower amounts than other dogs.
Featured Image Credit: Sanyalux Srisurin, Shutterstock
Best Dog Food for Shih Tzus
Nutro Ultra Small Breed Adult is one of 9 dry recipes rated in our review of the Nutro product line.
This small breed recipe derives most of its animal protein from fresh chicken as well as chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 29% protein, 19% fat and 44% estimated carbs creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 65%.
A holistic blend of superfoods containing a balanced mix of 3 premium (lean) proteins, antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, and healthy whole grains ideal for optimal small breed nutrition. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Nutro Ultra Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken meal, whole grain sorghum, whole grain oats, whole grain brown rice Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 29 AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adults only (not suitable for puppies) Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I am a huge fan of Nutro. My dogs are picky and have sensitive stomachs. The small breed ultra is their favorite. We purchase a bag once every 3 weeks and it suits my two 15 lb boys."
Ollie Turkey is one of 4 fresh cooked recipes included in our review of the Ollie product line.
This Ollie recipe derives the share of its animal protein from turkey thigh, turkey liver, and turkey heart. Dry matter label analysis reveals the formula contains 39% protein, 25% fat and 28% estimated carbs resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 64%.
A nutritionally balanced, fresh-cooked meal thats as close to homemade as you can get but without all the fuss and hard work. Ollies made in small batches, custom packaged and delivered fresh, right to your door.
A super-tasty, healthy option ideal for smaller dogs. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Ollie Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Main Ingredients Turkey thigh, pumpkin, turkey liver, turkey heart, carrot Type Grain-free, fresh Protein Percentage 39 AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Adult Shih Tzus as well as puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"Jolene has been with Ollie from the beginning. She never has digestive issues or allergies. Her coat is shiny, she has energy, and Im thankful I can get fresh food for her delivered at my door."
Small Breed Puppy is one of 21 dry recipes analyzed in our review of the Blue Buffalo Life Protection product line.
This Small Breed Puppy formula obtains the better part of its animal protein from fresh deboned chicken, chicken meal, and fish meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 32% protein, 19% fat and 41% estimated carbs resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 59%.
We also note this recipe is fortified with taurine, an amino acid many veterinary professionals believe may help reduce the risk of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a type of heart disease found in certain breeds.
An affordable choice for those shih tzu parents who prefer a quality, grain-inclusive recipe. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Blue Buffalo Dog Food range here
Main Ingredients Deboned chicken, chicken meal, oatmeal, barley, fish meal Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 32 AAFCO Standards Growth Best For Shih Tzu puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My Shih Tzu loves this kibble puppy dry dog food. With vet's instructions, I weaned her off what the breeder had been feeding her. She took to it easily without any stomach issues and was eager to eat it, unlike the food the breeder sent home with us. Best decision ever to make this switch. Our vet stamp-approved the decision 100%."
Raised Right Beef is one of11 fresh recipesincluded inour reviewof the Raised Right product line.
Raised Right Beef derives the lions share of its animal protein fromfresh beef. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 61% protein, 24% fat and 8% estimated carbs delivering a fat-to-protein ratio of about 39%.
One of the best fresh, human-grade dog foods on the market. Unusually wide recipe selection can be a major plus especially for picky eaters. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Raised Right Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Main Ingredients Beef, beef heart, carrots, beef liver, cranberries Type Grain-free (carrots, cranberries) Protein Percentage 61% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult dogs only Little Bites Chicken and Brown Rice is one of 6 dry recipes evaluated in our review of the Health Extension product line.
Little Bites gets the better part of its meat protein from fresh deboned chicken, chicken meal, and lamb meal . Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 27% protein, 20% fat and 45% estimated carbs which creates a fat-to-protein ratio of about 75%.
The formula contains 8 different probiotic ingredients to help support healthy digestion as well as zinc polysaccharide complex and 4 other costly chelated minerals for superior absorption and balanced nutrition.
A classic, grain-inclusive design thats ideal for Shih Tzus of all ages. Easily recommended.
Read our review of the full Health Extension Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Organic deboned chicken, chicken meal, ground brown rice, chicken fat, lamb meal Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 27 AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Adult Shih Tzus as well as puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I have two small dogs. Recently our regular food had not been agreeing with the older of the two. Both of my dogs Love. This. Food! When I was introducing it with their old food, they would pick it out and leave the old food all over the floor. My older dog no longer gets bloated after eating and both dogs seem to have energy. This is our new regular food."
Teeny Tiny Steak Tip Dinner is one of 8 wet recipes included in our review of the Merrick product line.
Merrick Lil Plates derives most of its animal protein from fresh beef. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 44% protein, 17% fat and 31% estimated carbs delivering a fat-to-protein ratio of about 38%.
Contains above-average levels of omega fatty acids as well as glucosamine and chondroitin for healthy skin and joints. Complete and balanced design with both prebiotics and probiotics to aid in digestion.
A top pick for smaller breeds. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Merrick Lil Plates Grain Free Dog Food (Cups) range here
Main Ingredients Beef, beef broth, venison broth, beef liver, dried egg whites Texture Wet Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 44 AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult Shih Tzus only Texas Beef and Sweet Potato is one of 9 dry recipes included in our review of the Merrick product line.
Merrick Lil Bites Small Breed derives most of its animal protein from fresh deboned beef and lamb meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 43% protein, 17% fat and 32% estimated carbs delivering a fat-to-protein ratio of about 39%.
We note this formula contains BOTH prebiotics and probiotics for healthy digestion. Lil Bites also includes naturally sourced levels of glucosamine and chondroitin for optimal point health.
Reasonably priced. A top quality kibble option for smaller breeds. Recommended with confidence.
Read our review of the full Merrick Lil Plates Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Deboned beef, lamb meal, sweet potatoes, peas, potatoes Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 43 AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Adult Shih Tzus as well as puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I have been giving my furbaby the chicken recipe of this Merrick small breed kibble. He likes it, so I decided to try the beef and he loves it. Merrick kibble is an excellent product free of corn, grains and fillers etc. I know I am feeding my sweet boy quality food. As a result he is a healthy senior with a full, silky, shiny coat. I add a bit of pumpkin and he seems to really enjoy both the chicken and the beef. I highly recommend this kibble (and the chicken too)."
Small Breed with Real Chicken is one of 12 dry recipes contained in our review of the Instinct product line.
This Instinct Raw Boost formula receives the major part of its meat protein from fresh chicken and chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 38% protein, 22% fat and 32% estimated carbs creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 57%.
Its not only made with cage-free chicken, the recipe contains no corn, wheat, soy or artificial colors or preservatives. The formula also includes zinc proteinate and 3 other chelated minerals, costly supplements for superior nutrition ingredients found in better quality dog foods.
Read our review of the full Instinct Raw Boost Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken meal, chickpeas, tapioca, chicken fat Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 38 AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adults only (not suitable for puppies) Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I have tried so many dry dog foods and given them away because my Shih Tzu just won't eat them. He gets a handful of this to go next to his wet food and eats it. Picky eater doesn't begin it describe him and add senior into the mix, ugh. I can honestly recommend this one."
Turkey Fare is one of 4 fresh human-grade recipes evaluated in our review of the Nom Nom product line.
Nom Nom Turkey Fare receives the majority its animal protein from ground turkey. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 18% fat and 38% estimated carbs yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 50%.
If youve ever wanted to serve your Shih Tzu a fresh home-cooked meal but without all the time-consuming effort then Nom Nom makes a smart choice.
Top level, human-grade ingredients and a 100% balanced recipe designed by a board-certified veterinary nutritionist. Not cheap. Yet highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Nom Nom Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Main Ingredients Ground turkey, brown rice, eggs, carrots, spinach Type Grain-inclusive, fresh Protein Percentage 36 AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Adult Shih Tzus as well as puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at NomNomNow.com"Tula gets so excited when it's mealtime. She no longer has skin issues, her coat looks wonderful and her stools are the best they've ever been. I can't imagine ever feeding her anything but Nom Nom!"
Small Breed with Chicken and Turkey is one of 4 dry recipes contained in our review of the Whole Earth Farms product line.
Whole Earth Farms Small Breed derives the majority of its animal protein from chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 30% protein, 16% fat and 46% estimated carbs creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 52%.
In addition, the recipe contains no corn, wheat, soy or artificial coloring agents. Plus, its not only optimized for smaller dogs, its also 100% free of BHA or other high-risk, chemical preservatives.
Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Whole Earth Farms Grain Free Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken meal, potatoes, canola meal, peas, chicken fat Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 30 AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Adult Shih Tzus as well as puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I changed from a expense grain free brand to this; my dogs are very happy with it. I'm happy with the savings in cost."
Shih Tzu Puppy is one of 11 dry recipes analyzed in our review of the Royal Canin product line.
This Royal Canin breed-specific puppy recipe obtains the major part of its meat protein from chicken by-product meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the formula contains 29% protein, 18% fat and 45% estimated carbs which produces a favorable fat-to-protein ratio of about 62%.
We also note this formula includes fish oil. Fish oil is rich in the omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA, for healthy skin and coat as well as optimal joint nutrition. Recommended with confidence.
For More Choices: Visit our Best Puppy Foods page
Read our review of the full Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Puppy Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Brewers rice, chicken by-product meal, corn, chicken fat, wheat gluten Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 29 AAFCO Standards Growth Best For Shih Tzu puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I was able to easily transition my shih tzu to this brand. The small kibble is easy for her to pick up and chew, and she loves it. No tummy issues, no poop issues; this brand is perfect for us. And our vet approves! This is Presley Approved. :)"
Chicken and Wild Salmon is one of 3 wet recipes analyzed in our review of the Natures Recipe product line.
This Natures Recipe derives the better part of its meat protein from fresh chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 65% protein, 12% fat and 16% estimated carbs which yields a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 18%.
Were also pleased to note the inclusion of zinc glycine complex and 3 other chelated minerals for superior nutrition. These are more costly forms of nutritional supplements typically found only in better quality dog foods.
Reasonably priced. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Natures Recipe Dog Food (Trays) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken broth, pumpkin, salmon, brown rice Texture Wet Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 65 AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adults only (not suitable for puppies) Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My dog loves these! he is a small dog who struggles to eat and is superrrrrr picky with his food. I've tried so many different wet food items and this is the one he actually eats when i put it down. 10/10 recommend for dogs who are picky eaters."
