The Ancient Chinese Emperors knew a thing or two about luxury. They had nothing but the most exquisite silk robes, the most delightful aromatic teas, and even their dogs were nothing short of extraordinary. If you’ve been lucky enough to share your home with a Shar-Pei, that crinkly and cute bundle of joy, you would relate to those Chinese royals because this breed was once exclusive to them.
There’s a lot that’s distinct about the Shar-Pei, from its uniquely rough coat (isn’t Shar-Pei Chinese for ‘sand skin’?) to its bluish tongue. However, just as fascinating is what lies within their adorable wrinkles – an astute, independent, and occasionally stubborn nature that would do the Emperors proud!
Keeping such regal ancestry in mind, it’s important that your Shar-Pei receives a diet as majestic as its lineage. One common question that prances in every Shar-Pei parent’s mind is – which fruit is the best for their cuddly companion? Here is where our journey begins, a deep dive into the fruit platter perfect for your Shar-Pei.
You might think to yourself, “Fruits, really? Aren’t dogs carnivores?” You’re not mistaken, but here is something you might not know: Dogs, just like humans, need a well-balanced diet to remain healthy. It’s not just meat but also vegetables, grains, and fruits that play a vital role in providing the necessary vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Among fruits, blueberries emerge as a fruitful victor for your Shar-Pei. Dubbed a “superfood” by nutritionists globally, blueberries are loaded with fiber, antioxidants, and Vitamin C. They help boost their immune system, keep their brains sharp and help prevent cancer. They are small, bite-sized and easily added to their diet. Keep in mind moderation is key and too many blueberries could lead to gastric distress.
Next in line are apples. They’re high in fiber, vitamin A and C. Plus, those crunchy slices are a fun way to help keep your Shar-Pei’s teeth clean. Don’t forget to remove the core and seeds before you offer them this delicious treat, as they may contain traces of cyanide.
Bananas, a source of biotin, fiber, copper, and vitamin C, are also good for your Shar-Pei. Remember, it’s a treat, not a meal! Overfeeding bananas could lead to obesity due to a high sugar content.
Watermelons are another Shar-Pei favorite. It’s basically a hydrating snack packed with vitamins like a, b6, and c, along with potassium. Just remember to remove those seeds and skip the rind!
Lastly, humble oranges can be a tangy treat for your fluffy friend. Oranges are rich in Vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. However, they’re also high in sugar, so keep this citrus delight limited.
While our little fruity exploration has primarily been about the goodies, let’s warn you about the baddies too! Never, ever feed your Shar-Pei grapes, raisins, or avocados. These are seriously harmful and can lead to severe illness.
As you can see, fruits offer a host of benefits to your Shar-Pei. They are a fun, healthy way to add a little variety to your pet’s diet. So next time you see those expectant cute little eyes staring in the direction of your fruit bowl, you’ll know exactly which fruity delight to share.
Yet, bear in mind that every Shar-Pei is unique and what one might relish, others may not even take a second sniff at. If your Shar-Pei is new to the fructivorous world, introduce a small quantity first and see how they react. If they don’t show any signs of discomfort or allergies, then give them a green light!
In conclusion, while sharp teeth emphasize their carnivorous nature, don’t let it fool you into missing out on the multiverse of health and joy that fruits provide. As long as they are given in moderation and exclude the harmful ones, fruits can be delightful additions to your Shar-Pei’s meals. After all, it’s not only the royal ancestry that’s to be taken care of, but so are the royal tastebuds!
Remember, your Shar-Pei deserves nothing but the best – and sometimes, the best comes in small, fruity packages! In the end, when it comes to your beloved Shar-Pei’s health and happiness, a fruit a day might just keep the vet away! Happy snacking!
