Homemade Dog Food For Shih Tzu: Best Recipes, Tips & More

ByCanine Bible

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This is the definitive guide to learning all about homemade dog food for Shih Tzu. Cooking for your Shih Tzu may sound easy, but there are vital nutritional guidelines you need to follow; otherwise, you run the risk of dog malnutrition, among other issues.

Follow these tips and expert advice to learn about the intricacies of making home-cooked meals for your Shih Tzu, and we are sure your dog will love your homemade meals and treats almost as much as they love you. We also share our favorite homemade Shih Tzu food recipes. Let’s get started!

Chapter 1: Nutrition, Benefits & Risks

Ch 2 

Benefits of Homemade Dog Food For Shih Tzu

Preparing home-cooked meals has many benefits.

Jennifer A. Larsen, DVM, MS, Ph.D., and Joe Bartges, DVM, Ph.D., board-certified veterinary nutritionists and diplomates of the American College of Veterinary Nutrition, say some of the benefits you can expect when you start feeding your dog homemade dog food include:

  • Diet management (a healthy body weight has been linked to a 20% longer lifespan in dogs)
  • Appeasing picky dog eaters
  • Combatting food intolerance and allergy issues
  • Avoid concern over food recalls
  • Bond-building

Homemade food promotes healthier digestion and can prevent many conditions associated with a poor diet, such as obesity, poor skin, coat condition, pancreatitis, diabetes, and reduced immunity. Economically, it’s also better for your wallet.

Additionally, commercial dog food is highly processed, which results in low nutritional value, whereas cooking at home for your Shih Tzu is generally the healthiest alternative because these meals are free of additives and preservatives, unlike traditional kibble.

It is not uncommon for Shih Tzus to be allergic to specific proteins in their food (chicken or beef), chemical additives, and preservatives. However, some dogs also develop allergies to other sources like corn, grains, fat, eggs, and milk.

In fact, Shih Tzu is known for having a sensitive stomach. A Shih-Tzu experiencing an adverse reaction to a food item will often experience symptoms like gas, diarrhea, vomiting, swelling and inflammation, and coughing and sneezing. Shih-Tzus often react to food preservatives, colorants, corn, and soy, all found in kibble.[1]

Obesity can be another significant health problem in Shih Tzus due to the extra weight since this breed is already prone to hip and knee issues.

Shih Tzus are also more likely than other dogs to have a liver disorder called portosystemic shunt (liver shunt).[2] Dogs with liver shunts deprive the liver of the blood flow and increase bile acid concentrations in the blood because the liver does not get a chance to remove and store these chemicals after they are reabsorbed.[3] Dog liver problems can be caused by various factors, including obesity, bad nutrition, genetics, and ingestion of a toxic substance, among other reasons.

This breed is particularly at risk of hypoglycemia, a condition where the dog experiences a dangerously low drop in blood sugar. In the Shih Tzu, this can be caused by a missed meal, but health conditions such as diabetes may also be a potential cause.[4] Furthermore, according to Johnson Animal Clinic, Shih Tzu is more likely than other dogs to have teeth problems. Dental disease in dogs starts with bad nutrition and poor dental hygiene.

Can A Homemade Diet Help Your Shih Tzu With These Health Problems?

As you can see, a Shih Tzu is prone to several food-related health conditions that may require a change in diet.

But can homemade food help manage these issues and boost overall health? Here are the answers.

  • Increased lifespan. Research shows that dogs that eat fresh food diets are linked to a 20% longer lifespan than those who don’t. A year-long study of 522 dogs by Lippert and Sapy found that dogs fed high-quality, freshly made, real food had an average life expectancy of 13.1 years versus just 10.4 years for dogs fed commercially processed pet food.[5]
  • Avoid allergies. Cooking for your dog allows you to pick ingredients that won’t trigger allergies in your Shih Tzu. If you are unsure what ingredients may cause sensitivities or allergies in your pet, we advise doing an At-Home Food Dog Allergy test before selecting the ingredients for your Shih Tzu’s next meal.
  • Bioavailability. Feeding fresh food is easier to digest than store-bought kibble due to its unprocessed nature. Easy digestion means more efficient nutrient absorption, which means your dog’s body processes a lot faster minerals, vitamins, amino acids fatty acids (Omega-3 and Omega-6) — all of which play a role in decreasing inflammatory responses caused by allergens — a lot faster.
  • Live shunt. Because Shih Tzus are prone to develop liver shunt, an appropriately formulated fresh diet can help prevent or treat this condition. Fresher proteins like those found in homemade foods are more effective as the liver doesn’t have to work as hard. Dr. Karen Tobias, professor of small animal soft tissue surgery and a board-certified surgeon at the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine, says one-third (33%) of dogs with liver shunts can be successfully managed with dietary changes and medications. If your Shih Tzy has been diagnosed with a liver shunt, you will need to make a diet with just enough protein for the dog but no “extra,” which reduces the byproducts of protein digestion (e.g., ammonia) that can make a dog’s symptoms worse. Dry food is inappropriate for dogs with liver disease because they are often higher in sodium and contain a large starch content.
  • Obesity & joints. Shih Tzus are also prone to obesity. Switching to homemade dog food allows you to easily calibrate the amounts of carbohydrates, proteins, vegetables, vitamins, and minerals your dog needs to maintain a healthy body weight. Obesity in dogs can increase their risk for bone and joint problems (i.e., hip dysplasia) and subsequent osteoarthritis. Studies show that dogs maintaining their ideal body weight live almost 2.5 years longer (with significantly fewer diseases) than their overweight siblings.[6]
  • Hypoglycemia. If your Shih Tzy suffers from hypoglycemia, you can help manage its symptoms through your specialized homemade dog diet designed by your vet. If your pet shows signs of hypoglycemia and can eat, feed him a meal. If he is not alert, hand-feed him corn syrup or honey until he is alert enough to eat his regular food. At that time, feed a meal of his regular food. Because Shih Tzu may have a fast metabolism and are prone to hypoglycemia, they cannot hold much of an energy reserve. Therefore, spreading their meals throughout the day helps keep their energy and sugar levels stable.
  • Cancer prevention. When it comes to cancer, homemade dog food removes the highly processed food from the equation, which is often linked to cancer issues in dogs. Food processing has been shown to cause free radicals and carcinogenic chemicals to be released. With homemade, you no longer have to worry about oxidative stress due to processed food.[7][8]
  • Fresh ingredients with no chemicals. Homemade meals ensure your pup always eats fresh, wholesome, and chemical-free foods without additives, fillers, high-glycemic carbs, or colorants normally found in kibble.
  • Easy digestion. Homemade dog food is easier to digest than those hard-kibble mystery balls. Feeding your pet freshly made food puts less stress on their digestive system and liver, reducing the likelihood of bloating or other digestive issues.
  • Excellent taste and smell. Dogs love the taste, smell and texture of fresh dog food.

Shih Tzu Homemade Dog Food Risks

DIY homemade dog food for Shih Tzu isn’t that simple. You need to be mindful of some of the risks involved.

  • Not understanding the nutritional needs of Shih Tzu
  • Using inadequate or dangerous recipes
  • Not preparing a balanced meal
  • Using unsafe or harmful ingredients
  • Not understanding the impact of food and dietary changes
  • Neglecting your dog’s health conditions
  • Not understanding your dog’s life stages (puppies, adults & senior) nutritional needs

Research by the University of California Davis, School of Veterinary, and two studies published in the journal Preventive Veterinary Medicine and The Journal of Nutritional Science found that most homemade dog food recipes lack key essential nutrients, and other recipes used dangerously high levels of some nutrients.[9][10][11]

Here are the findings:

  • 48% of homemade dog diets had an imprecise determination of ingredients and quantities
  • 71.3 % of dog owners did know how much food to serve per meal
  • 30.4% of the pet parents admitted to purposely changing the recipe
  • 40% of owners didn’t measure the proportions of the ingredients well enough
  • 28.3% didn’t use any of the recommended vitamins, minerals, or amino acids.
  • 97% of obesity cases in dogs could be traced to how owners fed and played with their pets.

It’s vital to understand that dogs’ nutritional requirements are unique. We recommend consulting a veterinary nutritionist who can address your Shih Tzu’s dietary requirements and help you make nutritionally balanced recipes or recommend a homemade food service for convenience.

Shih Tzu Nutritional Guidelines to Follow

What are the nutritional requirements for Shih Tzu?

When cooking for your dog, you need to consider your dog’s health conditions, activity level, size, weight, and the six essential nutrients recommended by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AFFCO).

AFFCO is the entity regulating dog food nutritional value in commercial dog food.

NutrientFoodDescription
Protein Chicken, lamb, turkey, beef, fish, yogurt and cooked eggsBuilds and repairs muscles and other body tissues. Needed to make new skin cells, grow hair, hormones, enzymes and more.
Carbohydrates Oats, brown rice, potatoes, and whole wheat Source of energy for dogs and supplies glucose needed by the brain, nervous system and other critical organs for normal function.
Fat From meats and oils such as olive or sunflower oil, fish oil, canola oils among others Responsible for providing quality energy. Necessary for the normal development and function of body cells, nerves, muscles, and body tissues
Minerals Calcium, potassium, sodium, magnesium, iron, zinc, etc. Common functions include the formation of bone and cartilage, nerve and muscle function, fluid balance regulation, the transportation of oxygen in the bloodstream and hormone production.
WaterWaterHydration is critical in dogs. A dog that loses too much water (10% to 15% of the water in his body) can get very sick and even die. Ensure they have water available throughout the day.
VitaminsA, B, C, D, E, and K Keeps skin and coat healthy, strengthens bones and teeth, and gives them the overall energy that they need to function.

Recommended Supplements For Shih Tzu

Here are the top recommended supplements for Shih Tzu based on their main health susceptibility issues.

  • Hip & joint: Shih Tzus are generally susceptible to hip dysplasia, a hip deformity developed during a dog’s growth that can lead to arthritis.
  • Eye health: Some Shih Tzus might also develop progressive retinal atrophy, a genetic disease that causes retinal degeneration and vision loss over time.
  • Hormonal problems: One of the hormonal diseases often found in Shih Tzus is hypothyroidism. It affects the thyroid gland of the dog and results in a lack of thyroxine, a hormone that controls the metabolism of the dog.

Always consult your vet before making any changes to your dog’s diet.

You may also want to add a multivitamin like Zesty Paws Multivitamin Chews to ensure your Shih Tzu pup gets the recommended balance of vitamins and minerals.

To help you cook for your Shih Tzu at home, check out Home Prepared Dog & Cat Diets: the Healthful Alternative by Donald R. Strombeck, DVM, Ph.D. He’s an expert in veterinary medicine, and many pet nutritionists consider his book the Bible of healthy homemade dog nutrition.

Healthy Dietary Changes In Shih Tzu

Here are some dietary changes you can implement to your Shih Tzu diet to fight allergies and promote a luscious coat and skin.

ConditionDietary Needs & Adjustments
Coat Color Changes


Increase amino acids which can be found in protein (>75 grams per 1000 calories)
Concurrent GI Signs

Avoid foods with tryptamine and histamine such as dairy or fermented vegetables and meats (yes, this includes bacon); try a simple ingredient food trial
Chronic Itching and Dermatitis

Fortify the diet with Vitamin E, B Vitamins, Zinc, omega-6 and the omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil; add a dog probiotic; try a simple ingredient food trial
Dull Coat and Scaling

Adjust EPA and DHA levels in the diet (added fish oil being the most common way); try a food that has added zinc
Dandruff and Crustiness

Add Zinc and Vitamin A levels

Many Shih Tzus also struggle with skin and coat issues. Their hair becomes dull and thin, and some Shih Tzus constantly scratching or biting their skin due to allergies. The solution, add a couple of squirts of dog-specific fish oil to his food to provide relief and nourishment to affected areas. Dog food containing high-quality fish oil (a potent omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA) has been suggested to improve skin, coat, and digestive health.

Shih Tzu Calorie Requirements

The caloric needs of dogs are based on their weight.

An adult Shih Tzu usually weighs between 9 and 16 pounds, which means most Shih Tzu need between 320 and 500 calories a day.

Ensure you follow the 10% rule when feeding treats to your dog. Food would equal 90% of the total calories and treats the remaining 10%.

  • For instance, if a Shih Tzu weighs 14 lbs., he would need 451 calories daily. For those eating treats, that’s 406 calories in food (90%) and 45 in treats (10%). Usually, most full-grown dogs eat two meals per day. So, you need to split 406 into two meals of 203 calories each.

You can use our dog calorie calculator to find the exact caloric needs of your dog based on his weight.

Pregnant or lactating Shih Tzu may need up to 2 to 4 times the amount of food they normally need as the mother’s energy requirements increase after delivery and during lactation. Be sure to talk to your vet.

Homemade Dog Food For Shih Tzu Puppies

A Shih Tzu puppy’s diet is different from an adult Shih Tzu.

Compared to adult dogs, puppies need higher protein, fat, calcium, and phosphorus levels. Too few (or too many) of these nutrients can cause deficiencies, stunted growth, or lifelong complications.

According to the American College of Veterinary Nutrition (ACVN), puppies need about twice as many calories per pound of body weight as an adult dog of the same breed.

Most people worry that their puppy requires more food and calorie daily because they are rapidly growing. This isn’t necessarily the truth. Dr. Justin Shmalberg, DVM, a veterinary nutritionist at Nom Nom, advises that to promote average growth, most puppies need about the same number of calories and the same type of food from 4 months to 12 months of age.

Shih Tzu puppies should eat 3 to 4 times a day. When your puppy is a bit older (6 – 12 months), you can switch to 2 to 3 meals daily at scheduled intervals.

For proper growth and development, it is not advised to skip meals while your puppy is growing and developing. As our nutritional guidelines previously outlined, a puppy’s diet must include a balance of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, minerals, water, and vitamins.

Homemade Dog Food Delivery Service

Do you wish your Shih Tzu could eat whole, fresh homemade foods more often, but you don’t have the time to cook or are unsure how to cook nutritionally balanced meals for dogs?

Consider a homemade dog food delivery service like The Farmer’s Dog. All their recipes are developed by board-certified American College of Veterinary Nutrition experts. Their meal plans are grain-free and customized for your dog’s unique qualities, dietary needs, goals, breed, and lifestyle. These are vet-designed, fresh-prepared homemade meals delivered to your doorstep within days of cooking and never deep-frozen or stored on a shelf for months.

This ensures your Shih-Tzu gets the most out of it. Everything is made from real, human-grade, all-natural ingredients (meats, veggies, grains, etc.) Meals are pre-made and pre-portioned to your dog’s calorie needs based on the profile you create. They comply with AAFCO’s nutritional guidelines.

Let the experts cook for you so you never have to worry about using the wrong ingredients, counting nutrients, portion sizes, and more. It’s worth the cost after you add up the prices of all the ingredients you’ll need to cook a recipe. It’s a huge time-saver, and you can spend your time on more important things.

Our readers have access to 50% off your first box. No code is needed, use this link, and the discount will be applied!

VISIT THE FARMER’S DOG
Chapter 2: Recipes, Cooking Tips & More

Ch 1

Shih Tzu Homemade Food Tips

Before sharing our favorite Shih Tzu homemade food recipes, consider these recommendations when preparing your dog’s next meal.

  • Set a consistent feeding schedule
  • Feed your Shih Tzu twice daily (puppies under 12 months, 3 to 4 times a day, check with your veterinarian)
  • Meal prep weekly or monthly
  • Measure and control portion sizes depending on your dog’s calorie needs
  • Keep meals frozen for 2 to 3 months or refrigerated for about 5 days
  • Make a new batch when the food supply is getting low
  • If you want to feed different recipes, you can make multiple batches and color code by ingredients, rotating out the other meals
  • Prepare the food in bulk and portion it into containers (one container per meal makes it extra easy)
  • Increase portions appropriately as your puppy grows
  • Monitor weight to make sure you are feeding the proper amount of calories

Cooking Homemade Dog Food For Shih Tzu (Video)

Never made food for your canine companion? Watch this video on how to make a tasty homemade meal for Shih Tzu.

Best Shih Tzu Homemade Dog Food Recipes

Is your Shih Tzu a picky eater? This list of the best Shih Tzu food recipes will have your pup begging for homemade males.

We’ve also added a special treat recipe for your Shih Tzu that is tasty and packed with remarkable health benefits. This recipe has our favorite secret ingredient, dog CBD oil. CBD oil can help with seizures, anxiety, arthritis, inflammation, pain, wellness and other health problems.

Note: Please consult your pet’s veterinarian and use personal judgment when applying this information to your dog’s diet. The recipes below do not include serving size because portions will vary depending on breed, weight, activity level, age, and your dog’s health. A common recommendation is to feed your dog a comparable amount of ounces/cups to what you would usually feed in kibble BUT check with your vet to be certain.

CBD-Infused Dog Treats

Treat your Shih Tzu with these nutritious, therapeutic, and delicious homemade CBD dog treats. They are made with Pumpkin, a great source of essential vitamins and minerals (like vitamin A, potassium, vitamin C, and iron). Pumpkin also aids with digestion and hydration. Coconut is added for skin and coat, digestion and helps reduce allergic reactions.

Just be sure to check with your vet before to ensure CBD is safe for your pup and that you are giving the correct dosage.

You can also purchase already-made CBD dog treats so your pup can experience CBD’s benefits without the cooking.

Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 cups gluten-free flour
  • 1/2 cup oats
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 1 Tbsp coconut sugar
  • 1 apple, cored and grated
  • 1/2 cup carrots, peeled and grated
  • 1/2 cup peanut butter
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1/3 cup olive or coconut oil
  • 1/2 cup water
  • dash of sea salt
  • 120 mg CBD oil

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350ºF. Grease a dog cookie baking tray with coconut oil.
  2. Core and grate the apples, then peel and grate the carrots.
  3. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the gluten-free flour, oats, and coconut sugar. In another medium-sized bowl, beat the egg. Then, add coconut oil, water, and grated apples and carrots.
  4. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients bowl; mix thoroughly. Finally, add CBD oil and mix once more.
  5. Using a Tbsp measuring spoon, portion the dog biscuits and press them into the dog treat baking pan. Bake for 32-37 minutes or until the biscuits are firm and golden brown on the outside.
  6. Store in an air-tight container.

Recipe from: Truth Theory

Turkey & Fresh Veggies Chockfull

Veggies never looked so good. Provide your Shih Tzy with 50% protein, 25% veggies, and 25% grains, but the ratios can easily be adjusted to suit your pup’s breed and needs.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups brown rice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 pounds of ground turkey
  • 3 cups baby spinach, chopped
  • 2 carrots, shredded
  • 1 zucchini, shredded
  • 1/2 cup peas, canned or frozen

Directions

  1. In a large saucepan of 3 cups water, cook rice according to package instructions; set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook until browned, about 3-5 minutes, making sure to crumble the turkey as it cooks.
  3. Stir in spinach, carrots, zucchini, peas, and brown rice until the spinach has wilted and the mixture is heated through about 3-5 minutes.
  4. Let cool completely.

Source: DamnDelicious

Fiber Filled For Fido

Get more fiber in your Shih Tzu’s diet with these healthy recipes that curb cravings and have heart-helping benefits. This recipe can help Fido maintain a healthy weight and improve digestive function. It is filled with vitamins and beneficial minerals. Adding too much fiber too quickly can promote intestinal gas, so only feed fiber-based food twice a week as they.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb. Ground Turkey
  • 1 lb. Shredded Chicken
  • 3 cups Water
  • 1 medium Sweet Potato, peeled and diced
  • 2 cups Brown Rice
  • 1/2 cup Lentils
  • 2 tbsp. Pumpkin Puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
  • 1 cup Chopped Spinach
  • 2 tsp. Olive Oil

Directions

  1. Boil turkey and chicken in 3 cups of water over medium heat for 20 minutes
  2. Remove the meat from the water and set it aside
  3. Add rice, lentils, and sweet potato to the water and return to a boil – Cook for 15 minutes
  4. Add remaining ingredients and cook until the liquid has been absorbed.
  5. Mix in the cooked meat and serve warm
  6. Freeze unused portions and feed as directed by your vet

Source: WithaSplashofColor

Turkey & Vegetable Dinner

This turkey and vegetable recipe is an easy weeknight dinner that can be on the table in 30 minutes or less. Your Shih Tzu will love lean ground turkey, green beans, carrots, and brown rice. It’s high in protein and provides the perfect amount of carbs your pup needs to stay active and energized during the day. It also includes fish oil to ensure your pet gets its Omega-3 fats, which are great for the immune system.

Ingredients

  • 4 cups of water
  • 1 pound of ground turkey
  • 2 cups of brown rice
  • 1 cup of carrots, chopped
  • 1 cup of green beans, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon of fish oil

Directions

  1. Cook the ground turkey in a non-stick skillet over medium heat until the meat is cooked through
  2. Add the brown rice, turkey, and water to a large pot and bring to a boil
  3. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for an additional 15 minutes or until the rice is soft and tender
  4. Add the carrots and green beans and cook for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until the vegetables are tender
  5. Allow cooling before serving
  6. Store extra dinners in the fridge for up to five days

Pro tip: Avoid using heavy oil to brown the turkey. Its high-fat content may upset your dog’s stomach.

Recipe from: Moneycrashers

Frozen Strawberry & Banana Smoothie Dog Treat

Surprise your pup with a strawberry smoothie with a frozen strawberry and banana smoothie. It includes milk, honey, and yogurt for a nutrition punch. It’s a refreshing, simple treat that offers protein and nutrients and a fruity flavor that your Shih Tzu will enjoy. It’s healthy, calm, and creamy.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups of Sliced Strawberries or a 16-ounce bag of Frozen Strawberries
  • 1½ cups Plain Greek Low Fat Yogurt
  • 1 sliced banana (if you have two, use them both)
  • ¼ cup of Skim Milk
  • 3 tablespoons of Honey

Directions

  1. Place all the ingredients in your blender
  2. Turn on the blender to a medium speed
  3. Blend for approximately 2 minutes
  4. Pour into the molds of your choice, or use ice cube trays
  5. Freeze for 4 hours or more
  6. Pop-out of the molds
  7. Ready to enjoy!

NOTE: For storage, use Zip Lock Bags or use some Tupperware. Please keep them in the freezer.

Recipe from: The Cottage Market

For even more Shih Tzu homemade food recipes and cooking options, check out Home Cooking for Your Dog: 75 Holistic Recipes for a Healthier Dog.

Best Homemade Dog Food Cooking Practices

Here are some general guidelines to follow when cooking homemade dog food for Shih Tzus.

  • Never use unsafe or toxic ingredients for dogs
  • Use only boneless meats (no cooked bones)
  • Cook all animal products thoroughly to kill harmful bacteria
  • Cook all grains, beans, and starchy vegetables to make them easier to digest
  • Research every ingredient before using it for safety
  • Follow recipes as instructed
  • Add supplements to their diet if needed
  • Run any questions by a vet nutritionist

Monitor Weight & Health

Shih Tzus tend to be picky eaters. Sudden changes to their diet can shock their system. They are at an increased risk of experiencing food allergies. Therefore, monitoring your Shih Tzu’s reaction to homemade meals is essential. If you notice symptoms such as lack of energy, skin or coat disorders, malnutrition, or obesity, you will need to revise your dog’s and contact your vet immediately.

What Foods Should Your Shih Tzus Never Eat?

Be sure to avoid the following lists of ingredients. Some foods are toxic for dogs.

  • Chocolate
  • Xylitol
  • Onions and garlic
  • Avocados
  • Coffee, tea, and other caffeine
  • Grapes and raisins
  • Macadamia nuts
  • Raw bread dough
  • Alcohol

Check out this handy list for a comprehensive list of all foods to avoid. Please print it out and put it on your refrigerator as a reminder.

Shih Tzu Raw Diet (BARF)

Raw dog food is meant to mimic dogs’ diet in the wild millions of years ago. Raw dog foods, organs, muscles, whole or ground bones, fresh fruits, vegetables, and dairy products are usually included. Several raw dog foods are available, including homemade raw dog food and store-bought (frozen, freeze-dried, and dehydrated).

As the risk of contamination and nutritional imbalance is higher when handling raw foods, preparing a BARF diet for your Shih Tzu requires a lot of extra care and planning.

Best Raw Dog Food Delivery

Raw dog diets are gaining popularity because of their fantastic health benefits for teeth, coats, digestion, and allergies. Read our raw dog food diet article to learn more about the benefits and risks, and get the best commercial raw food diet for your Shih Tzu.

What Do Shih Tzus Like to Eat?

Most Shih Tzu and dogs, in general, love to eat these foods the most

  1. Peanut Butter
  2. Pumpkin
  3. White Rice
  4. Baby Carrots
  5. Salmon
  6. Chicken
  7. Eggs
  8. Cheese

If you want to learn all about raising a Shih Tzu, this book is a great resource to learn the ins and outs of this breed, including nutrition.

Should You Feed Homemade Food to Shih Tzu? Alternatives

Can I feed homemade fog food to my Shih Tzu?

Yes, feeding homemade dog food to Shih Tzu is okay as long as your pet gets the proper nutrition levels they need to live a healthy, allergy-free life. The best diet for Shih Tzu should consider all the factors discussed above, from your dog’s health status to providing the right portions and calories per meal.

Switching your Shih Tuz’s food from kibble to homemade is a slow process and should be done progressively. Before starting a new diet, you must consider factors like your dog’s eating history, weight, and overall health.

Want more options? Vegan dog food and raw dog food are gaining popularity, especially for dogs who suffer from food intolerance, allergies, digestive issues, or other food health-related condition. If you are curious about who can benefit your Shih Tzu, check out our vegan dog food and raw dog food guide.

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Canine Bible uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

[1] Nom Nom, [2] PetMD, [3] VCA Hospitals, [4] Pet Plate, [5] Lippert & Sapy [6] AVMA [7] Lyka, [8] Hardvard [9] NCBI, [10] PubMed, [11] UC Davis


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