Breed-Specific Considerations for Shih Tzu Owners Nutrition

Homemade Food Options for Shih Tzu Owners

Britta Thygesen 27.04.2023 0

Introduction

As Shih Tzu owners, we all want our furry friends to be healthy and happy. One way to ensure their well-being is through their diet. While store-bought dog food may seem like a convenient choice, some brands may not contain the necessary nutrients that our pets need. That’s where homemade food comes in. By making your own dog food, you can tailor your Shih Tzu’s diet to meet their unique nutritional needs. In this guide, we will discuss the benefits of homemade food, ingredients to avoid, and provide some easy and delicious homemade food options for your furry friend.

Why Homemade Food?

Making homemade food for your beloved Shih Tzu can provide many benefits, including better quality ingredients, control over what your dog consumes, and the satisfaction of making something with your own hands. It is no secret that many commercial dog foods contain **questionable ingredients** that can be harmful to dogs in the long run. By making your own dog food, you have the option to choose fresh, healthy ingredients that will keep your Shih Tzu healthy and happy. Additionally, you can **tailor the food to suit your Shih Tzu’s individual needs**, whether they be allergies, age, or health status.

According to various research, some dogs benefit from home-cooked meals more than others. Shih Tzu is one of the breeds that may need particular attention to their diet. With the right ingredients and recipes, you can make sure your Shih Tzu is getting the perfect balance of nutrients to help them live a healthy and active life.

It is also important to mention that feeding your Shih Tzu homemade food requires a little more effort on your part. You will need to do proper research and meal prep, but with a little time and patience, you can create healthy, delicious meals for your pup. It is also important to consult your veterinarian or a nutritionist to ensure that your Shih Tzu is receiving all the essential vitamins and nutrients they need.

By feeding your Shih Tzu homemade food, you can also **control their portions**, making sure they are not overeating or under-eating. Some commercial dog foods can even lead to overfeeding and obesity, which can cause various health issues.

Feeding your Shih Tzu homemade food is a great way to take control of their diet and ensure they are consuming the healthiest ingredients. Just remember to do your research, speak with your veterinarian or nutritionist, and always prioritize your Shih Tzu’s health and happiness. For more information on Shih Tzu nutrition and feeding, see our related articles:

What You Need To Know

Feeding your Shih Tzu can be a challenging task, especially when it comes to ensuring that your furry friend receives all the necessary nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. Before you start preparing homemade food for your Shih Tzu, there are a few things you need to know to provide a balanced and nourishing diet that meets your dog’s needs. Learning about your Shih Tzu’s nutritional needs, the ingredients to avoid, and the potential risks of free feeding is crucial. Let’s take a closer look at what you need to know to keep your furry friend healthy and happy. (To learn more about the potential risks of free feeding, read our article on shih tzu free feeding cons.)

Understanding Your Shih Tzu’s Nutritional Needs

As a Shih Tzu owner, understanding the nutritional needs of your furry friend is essential to ensure a healthy and happy life. Below are the key nutrients and dietary requirements that your Shih Tzu needs to thrive:

Protein	Fat	Carbohydrates
Protein is important for the growth, repair and maintenance of muscle tissue. It also helps to support a healthy immune system and skin, coat and nail health.	Fat provides a concentrated source of energy, helps to maintain healthy skin and coat, and is important for the absorption of certain vitamins.	Carbohydrates provide a source of energy for your Shih Tzu, and are also important for healthy digestion and bowel function.

It’s important to note that the nutritional needs of your Shih Tzu may vary depending on factors such as age, weight, activity level and overall health. However, a general rule of thumb is for their diet to consist of 18-25% protein, 10-15% fat and 50-60% carbohydrates.

In addition to these macronutrients, Shih Tzus also require specific vitamins and minerals to maintain overall health. These include:

– Vitamin A: important for healthy vision and immune system function.
– Vitamin C: important for immune system function and skin health.
– Vitamin E: important for healthy skin and coat, and immune system function.
– B vitamins: important for energy production, healthy skin and coat, and brain function.
– Calcium: important for strong bones and teeth.
– Phosphorus: important for healthy bones and teeth and energy production.
– Potassium: important for healthy muscle and nerve function.

By incorporating these essential nutrients into your Shih Tzu’s homemade diet, you can ensure that they are receiving a well-balanced and nutritious meal. However, it’s important to note that certain ingredients should be avoided to ensure the health and safety of your furry friend. Read on to learn more in the next section.

Ingredients to Avoid

As a Shih Tzu owner preparing homemade food, it’s important to be aware of which ingredients to avoid. Some human foods can be very dangerous for dogs and should never make their way into your furry friend’s meals. Here are some ingredients you should steer clear of:

Chocolate: This sweet treat contains theobromine, which can be toxic to dogs even in small amounts. The darker the chocolate, the higher the concentration of theobromine, so be sure to keep any chocolate products away from your furry friend.
Grapes and raisins: These seemingly harmless fruits can actually cause kidney failure in dogs. Be sure to avoid feeding your Shih Tzu any grapes or raisins, whether they’re fresh or baked into a snack.
Onions and garlic: These common cooking ingredients contain compounds that can damage a dog’s red blood cells, leading to anemia. Avoid giving your Shih Tzu any food that contains onions or garlic, including many prepared condiments.
Avocado: While humans may love avocado, it contains persin, a toxin that can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs.
Nuts: Many types of nuts, including macadamia nuts and walnuts, can be toxic to dogs and cause symptoms like tremors and fever.

It’s important to remember that some human foods that are healthy for us can be harmful to our furry friends. In particular, be aware of any dishes containing onions, garlic or avocado. Make sure you check each ingredient of your Shih Tzu’s meal carefully before you start cooking to ensure it’s safe and healthy for them to eat. By sticking to safe ingredients and avoiding those that could be harmful, you can help keep your Shih Tzu healthy and happy.

Homemade Food Options

As a loving owner of a Shih Tzu, you want to make sure your furry friend is receiving the best possible nutrition. Homemade food is a great way to ensure that your pup is getting the necessary nutrients without synthetic additives. Here are some delicious and straightforward recipes that you can make for your Shih Tzu at home. With these recipes, your pup will be barking for seconds in no time.

1. Chicken & Brown Rice

Chicken and brown rice is a delicious and nutritious option for homemade dog food that your Shih Tzu will love. This meal is packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals to keep your furry friend healthy and happy. Here are the ingredients you will need:

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a great source of lean protein for your Shih Tzu.
Brown Rice: Brown rice is a healthy source of carbohydrates and fiber, making it an excellent grain option for your dog.
Vegetables: To add extra nutrition to your homemade dog food, include some vegetables like carrots or green beans.
Water: It is important to keep your dog hydrated, so be sure to include water in their meals.

To prepare the meal, first cook the chicken thoroughly and shred it into small pieces. Cook the brown rice according to the package instructions, and chop the vegetables into small pieces. Mix all the ingredients in a pot and add enough water to make a stew-like consistency.

It is important to note that the amount of food your Shih Tzu needs will depend on their age, weight, and activity level. As a general guideline, feed them 1/2 to 1 cup per day, divided into two meals. Be sure to consult with your veterinarian to determine the right amount of food for your furry friend.

Feeding your Shih Tzu homemade dog food can be a great way to ensure they are getting the best possible nutrition. Chicken and brown rice is just one of the many options available, but it is a great place to start. Not only will your furry friend enjoy the delicious taste, but they will also benefit from the healthy ingredients.

2. Turkey & Sweet Potato

Turkey and sweet potato is a delicious and nutritious option for your Shih Tzu. Turkey is packed with protein and essential amino acids that are great for muscle growth and repair. Meanwhile, sweet potatoes are a great source of dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals that can contribute to your dog’s overall health.

To make this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

Ingredients	Amount
Turkey breast	1 pound
Sweet potato	1 large
Green beans	1 cup
Water	1 cup
Olive oil	1 tablespoon
Parsley	1 tablespoon

To prepare, start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Next, peel and chop the sweet potato into small pieces. Cut the turkey breast into small chunks as well.

Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat, then add the turkey and sweet potato. Cook for about 5 minutes until the turkey is browned and cooked through.

Add the green beans and water to the pan, then cover and allow to simmer for about 10 minutes. Once the sweet potato is soft, remove from heat and allow to cool.

Once the mixture has cooled, add it to a food processor and blend until smooth. Add the parsley for an extra burst of flavor and mix it in.

Your Shih Tzu will love this delicious and healthy homemade meal option. The combination of turkey and sweet potato provides all the essential nutrients your furry friend needs to stay healthy and happy. Plus, making your own dog food at home can be a fun and rewarding experience for both you and your pet.

3. Beef & Carrots

When it comes to homemade food options for your Shih Tzu, beef and carrots are a great combination. Beef is a fantastic source of protein and iron, while carrots provide essential vitamins and minerals. Here’s a recipe for a delicious and nutritious beef and carrot meal for your furry friend:

Ingredients:

1 pound of lean ground beef
2 cups of chopped carrots
1 cup of cooked brown rice
1 tablespoon of olive oil
1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme

Instructions:

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned and cooked through, stirring frequently.
Add the chopped carrots to the skillet and stir to combine.
Add the dried rosemary and thyme to the skillet and stir to combine.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the carrots are tender.
Add the cooked brown rice to the skillet and stir to combine.
Let the mixture cool before serving to your Shih Tzu.

This beef and carrot meal is not only delicious but also healthy for your Shih Tzu. The lean ground beef provides high-quality protein to help build and maintain muscle, while the carrots provide essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, vitamin K, and potassium. The addition of cooked brown rice adds fiber and carbohydrates to this meal, making it a well-rounded option for your furry friend.

Remember, always consult with your veterinarian before making any significant changes to your Shih Tzu’s diet. They may have recommendations or specific instructions regarding homemade food options for your furry friend.

Supplements & Treats

As with any diet, it is essential to make sure your Shih Tzu receives all the necessary nutrients. While homemade food is an excellent way to control what your furry friend consumes, you may still need to add certain supplements to ensure their diet is well-balanced. Additionally, who doesn’t love giving their dog a treat every now and then? But not all treats are created equal when it comes to your dog’s health. Here, we’ll discuss the best supplements to add to your dog’s food and provide some healthy treat ideas to keep your Shih Tzu happy and healthy.

Adding Omega-3 Fatty Acids

As you plan the meals for your Shih Tzu, it is important to note that Omega-3 fatty acids are important for their health. These fatty acids play a crucial role in the development and maintenance of your furry friend’s brain, skin, coat, and eyes. Adding Omega-3 fatty acids to your Shih Tzu’s diet can help improve their overall health and wellness.

Here are some ways you can add Omega-3 fatty acids to your Shih Tzu’s diet:

Salmon: Salmon is a great source of Omega-3 fatty acids. You can include it in your Shih Tzu’s diet by giving them cooked or canned salmon. It is important to ensure that the salmon is boneless and well-cooked to avoid any digestion problems.
Flaxseeds: Flaxseeds are an excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids. You can grind the flaxseeds and sprinkle them over your Shih Tzu’s food. However, it is essential to note that flaxseeds should be ground before serving, or they will pass through your Shih Tzu’s digestive system undigested.
Fish Oil Supplements: Fish oil supplements are readily available in the market, and you can easily add them to your Shih Tzu’s diet. You can add the oil supplements to their food or give them as treats. However, it is important to consult your veterinarian before adding any supplements to your Shih Tzu’s diet.
Chia Seeds: Chia seeds are also a great source of Omega-3 fatty acids. They can be added to your Shih Tzu’s food by grinding or soaking them in water. However, it is important to note that chia seeds can cause digestive problems if served in large quantities.

Adding Omega-3 fatty acids to your Shih Tzu’s diet not only enhances their overall health, but it also improves the condition of their skin and coat. However, it is essential to introduce these sources gradually and in moderate amounts. Mix it up and keep track of what works best for your furry friend.

Healthy Treat Ideas

When it comes to treating your Shih Tzu, it’s important to choose options that are healthy and won’t negatively impact their diet. Here are some healthy treat ideas that you can make at home:

Pumpkin Balls: Mix together canned pumpkin with a small amount of peanut butter and rolled oats. Roll the mixture into small balls and bake until firm.
Frozen Yogurt Drops: Combine low-fat plain yogurt with mashed blueberries or strawberries. Drop spoonfuls onto a parchment-lined tray and freeze for a few hours.
Carrots: Raw or cooked carrots make a great low-calorie treat option for your Shih Tzu.
Apple Slices: Remove the seeds and core from an apple and slice it into small pieces for an easy and healthy treat.
Kale Chips: Bake kale leaves in the oven with a drizzle of olive oil until they are crispy. Break them into small pieces for a crunchy snack option.

Remember to always monitor your Shih Tzu’s treat intake and incorporate them into their overall diet in moderation. By offering healthy options like these, you can still give your furry friend a tasty reward without compromising their health.

Transitioning to Homemade Food

As a Shih Tzu owner, switching to homemade food can seem like a daunting task. However, with the right guidance and preparation, your furry friend can benefit from the wholesome and nutritious meals you can provide at home. But how do you transition your Shih Tzu from store-bought kibble to homemade food? It’s important to do it gradually and with care to avoid any digestive issues or discomfort. Let’s explore some tips and tricks for making the transition as smooth as possible.

How to Transition Your Shih Tzu

Making the switch to homemade food for your Shih Tzu can be a significant change, and it’s essential to transition them gradually to avoid any digestive upsets. Here’s how you can do it:

Transition Period	Homemade Food Percentage	Commercial Food Percentage
Days 1-2	25%	75%
Days 3-4	50%	50%
Days 5-6	75%	25%
Days 7 and beyond	100%	0%

During the transition period, it’s important to keep a close eye on your Shih Tzu’s stool and behavior. Some dogs may experience loose stools during the transition, but this should improve with time as their digestive system adjusts to the new food.

Make sure to also gradually introduce any new supplements or treats during this period to avoid any additional digestive upset. As always, consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your Shih Tzu’s diet.

Conclusion

As we come to the end of this article on homemade food options for Shih Tzu owners, we hope that you gained a deeper understanding of your furry friend’s nutritional needs and learned about some safe and healthy ingredients to include in their meals. Remember that when it comes to feeding your fur baby, you are in control of their diet, and homemade food is a great way to ensure their health and happiness. So take some time to experiment with different recipes and find what works best for your Shih Tzu. And always consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to their diet. Happy cooking!

Final Tips For Homemade Dog Food

Now that you have a few easy and nutritious homemade dog food options, it’s important to keep a few key tips in mind to ensure that you’re providing your furry friend with everything they need to stay healthy and happy.

Here are some final tips for homemade dog food:

Variety is key: Just like humans, dogs need a varied diet to get all of the nutrients they need. While the recipes we’ve provided are all healthy options, don’t be afraid to mix things up and try out new proteins and vegetables.
Portion control is important: Shih Tzus are a small breed, so be sure to adjust portion sizes accordingly. As a general rule, aim to feed your dog about 1/2 cup to 1 cup of food per day, depending on their activity level and weight.
Supplement as needed: While the recipes we’ve provided are balanced and nutritious on their own, it’s always a good idea to supplement your dog’s diet with additional vitamins and minerals as needed. For example, omega-3 fatty acids can be beneficial for skin and coat health, while joint supplements can help keep your dog’s joints healthy as they age.
Avoid harmful ingredients: We’ve covered some ingredients to avoid already, but it’s worth reiterating that your dog’s food should not contain any onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, chocolate, or xylitol, as these can all be toxic to dogs.
Keep portions refrigerated or frozen: Homemade dog food can spoil quickly, so be sure to refrigerate or freeze any leftovers promptly. If you’re making a big batch of dog food, consider portioning it out and freezing it in individual servings.

By following these tips and staying mindful of your dog’s nutritional needs, you can feel confident that you’re providing your Shih Tzu with the best possible diet to keep them healthy and happy for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if homemade food is right for my Shih Tzu?

If you’re concerned about the quality of commercial dog food, or if your Shih Tzu has allergies or digestive issues, homemade food may be a good option.

Can I feed my Shih Tzu a vegetarian diet?

While it is technically possible to feed your Shih Tzu a vegetarian diet, it’s important to ensure they are getting all the necessary nutrients. Consult with a veterinarian before making any changes to their diet.

What should I avoid feeding my Shih Tzu?

Avoid feeding your Shih Tzu chocolate, onions, grapes, raisins, garlic, and foods high in fat or salt. These can be toxic or harmful to their health.

Is it safe to give my Shih Tzu bones?

No, it is not recommended to feed your Shih Tzu bones as they can cause choking, blockages, or damage to their digestive system.

How much food should I be feeding my Shih Tzu?

The amount of food your Shih Tzu needs depends on their age, weight, and activity level. Consult with a veterinarian to determine the appropriate portion size for your furry friend.

Can I supplement my Shih Tzu’s homemade food with commercial dog food?

While it’s best to stick to one type of food, if you need to supplement your Shih Tzu’s homemade meals with commercial dog food, choose a high-quality, grain-free option.

Can I feed my Shih Tzu raw food?

Raw food diets can be risky as they may contain harmful bacteria. It’s best to consult with a veterinarian before feeding your Shih Tzu a raw food diet.

What are some signs that my Shih Tzu is not tolerating their food well?

Signs that your Shih Tzu may not be tolerating their food well include vomiting, diarrhea, excessive gas, and changes in appetite or energy levels.

Do I need to cook the vegetables in my Shih Tzu’s meals?

Yes, it is recommended to cook vegetables before feeding them to your Shih Tzu as it makes them easier to digest and can help release nutrients.

Can I use supplements with homemade dog food?

Yes, supplements can be a great addition to your Shih Tzu’s homemade meals to ensure they are getting all the necessary nutrients. Consult with a veterinarian to determine the appropriate supplements for your furry friend.