Welcome back to our Team Pet Series, where we take a look inside the bowls of the pets our team knows and loves. This month, we're featuring Cyclops, a six-year-old Shih Tzu and Yorkie mix whose feeding routine proves that sometimes the simplest meals are the most successful.
Once known for turning his nose up at just about everything, Cyclops has transformed into an eager eater thanks to a thoughtfully chosen diet that fits his needs and preferences.
His daily routine focuses on high-quality nutrition, cooling proteins, and just enough variety to keep every meal exciting.
Despite his dramatic name, Cyclops has two perfectly healthy eyes.
This six-year-old Shih Tzu/Yorkie mix has a personality that's just as unique as his name. His best friends are all cats, and before his dad joined the Two Bostons team, he was an incredibly picky eater who made mealtime a daily challenge.
Today, that's no longer the case.
His bowl is simple, consistent, and built around foods he genuinely loves.
His routine helps support:
A healthy appetite, even for a formerly picky dog. Here's How Cyclops' Bowl Comes Together:
Cyclops' meals start with Zignature Duck Dry Dog Food.
Duck has become his favorite protein, and it's one his dad continues to feed because it fits his individual needs.
Why this recipe works well in Cyclops' bowl
Single animal protein
Duck is the only animal protein in the recipe, making it a great option for dogs with food sensitivities or those following a rotational diet.
Naturally rich in nutrients
Duck provides lean protein along with naturally occurring omega-3 fatty acids, iron, and zinc to support healthy skin, coat, muscles, and overall wellness.
Cooling protein
In Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM), duck is considered a "cooling" protein. Since Cyclops tends to run warm, it's been a great fit for him.
Digestive support
Added probiotics help support healthy digestion and maintain balanced gut bacteria.
Simple ingredients
The recipe is made without grain, potato, soy, chicken, artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives, making it a straightforward choice for dogs with ingredient sensitivities.
To make every meal a little more exciting, Cyclops gets Open Farm Freeze-Dried Raw Homestead Turkey crumbled over his kibble.
According to his dad, it's the maple aroma that wins him over every single time.
Why it's part of Cyclops' routine
Boosts flavor
The freeze-dried turkey adds incredible aroma and taste, making meals much more enticing for picky eaters.
Raw nutrition made easy
Made with 95% humanely raised turkey, organs, and bone, this recipe delivers the benefits of raw feeding without the extra preparation.
Superfood ingredients
Organic vegetables, leafy greens, squash, and pumpkin seeds provide additional vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Ethically sourced
Every Open Farm recipe is fully traceable, allowing pet parents to see exactly where each ingredient comes from.
Versatile feeding
It can be served as a complete meal or simply used as a meal topper, making it an easy way to increase both nutrition and excitement at mealtime.
Every dog has that one reward they'll do just about anything for.
For Cyclops, it's Saint Rocco's Meat Lover Jerky Strips.
In fact, they're the only treats he'll consistently perform tricks for.
Why they're a favorite
High-value reward
Made with real chicken and bacon, these jerky strips are incredibly motivating during training sessions.
High in protein
Made with 70% premium protein and no fillers, preservatives, or by-products.
Soft and easy to break apart
The texture makes them perfect for training, rewarding, or treating throughout the day.
Artisan crafted
Each batch is slowly baked and gently air-dried to help preserve both flavor and nutrients.
"Cyclops used to be incredibly picky, so finding foods he genuinely gets excited about has made a huge difference. The duck kibble works well for him, and once I crumble the Open Farm turkey over the top, he cleans his bowl every time. And if Saint Rocco's jerky comes out? He suddenly remembers every trick he's ever learned."
Not every dog needs a complicated feeding routine.
Sometimes adding a nutritious topper is all it takes to make meals more enjoyable, especially for picky eaters.
Meal toppers can:
As always, introduce new foods gradually to help avoid digestive upset.
Our Team Pet Series continues each month as more Two Bostons Team members share the feeding routines that work for the pets they love most.
Every bowl has a story, and every pet teaches us something new. Stay tuned for our next featured pet.
What should I do if my dog is a picky eater?
Start by ruling out any medical concerns with your veterinarian. From there, adding a high-quality meal topper or rotating proteins may help make meals more appealing.
Is duck a good protein for dogs?
Yes. Duck is a highly digestible, nutrient-rich protein that provides healthy fats, omega-3 fatty acids, iron, and zinc. It's also commonly used for dogs with food sensitivities.
Are freeze-dried raw toppers worth adding?
Freeze-dried raw toppers are an easy way to increase flavor and add nutrient-dense protein without switching your dog's entire diet.
Can I mix kibble with freeze-dried raw food?
Absolutely. Many pet parents use freeze-dried raw as a topper to add variety and boost nutrition while keeping the convenience of kibble.
What makes a good training treat?
Look for treats that are high in protein, easy to break into small pieces, and especially exciting for your dog. High-value rewards can make training much more effective.
