How much should I truly be feeding my Shih Tzu dog to ensure optimal health and vitality? Is there a universally accepted guideline that I should adhere to, or does it vary based on the individual characteristics of my pet? For instance, could factors such as age, weight, activity level, and even the specific breed lineage influence what constitutes an appropriate serving size? Moreover, how can I best decipher the myriad of dog food options available on the market? Are there particular ingredients or nutritional labels I should scrutinize when selecting meals for my Shih Tzu? Additionally, what role does the frequency of feeding play in my dog’s overall well-being? Should I consider portion control, or would it be more effective to serve smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day? Finally, how do I assess whether my feeding regimen is leading to a healthy weight, or should I be consulting a veterinary professional for tailored advice?