Feeding a Shih Tzu puppy with love and care starts with what’s in their bowl. For many pet parents, the growing shift toward homemade food isn’t just a trend—it’s a conscious decision to provide better nutrition, eliminate hidden fillers, and build a lifelong foundation of health. Shih Tzus, with their delicate digestion and specific dietary needs, thrive when given the right food, prepared in the right way.
Let’s explore everything you need to know about homemade food for Shih Tzu puppies—from what it is, why it matters, and how to do it safely and effectively. This article includes carefully researched tips and vet-approved recipes that are not only healthy but also easy to make at home.
What Is Homemade Food for Shih Tzu Puppies?
Homemade food refers to freshly prepared meals created in your own kitchen using real, whole ingredients. Unlike store-bought dog food, which can include preservatives, low-quality meat byproducts, and unnecessary grains, homemade food lets you control exactly what your puppy eats. For Shih Tzu puppies, this can make a huge difference, especially during critical growth stages.
These dogs are small, sensitive, and require balanced nutrition in smaller portions. When crafted with guidance from veterinary nutritionists or trusted resources, homemade meals provide the essential vitamins, minerals, and calories a puppy needs without risking harmful additives.
Why Homemade Food Is Better Than Store-Bought for Shih Tzus
Feeding homemade isn’t just about quality—it’s about personalization. Your puppy isn’t generic, and their food shouldn’t be either.
You can customize every meal based on your Shih Tzu’s age, size, health concerns, and taste preferences. This is especially helpful if your puppy has food allergies, skin issues, or a sensitive stomach.
Additionally, many store-bought foods are processed at high heat, which destroys many of the natural nutrients in the ingredients. Freshly prepared food retains its value, is more digestible, and gives noticeable improvements in your puppy’s coat, stool quality, and overall vitality.
Key Nutritional Needs of Shih Tzu Puppies
To grow strong and healthy, Shih Tzu puppies need more than just protein. Here’s a quick look at what their meals should include:
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High-quality animal protein (chicken, turkey, beef, salmon) for muscle development
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Healthy fats (like olive oil or fish oil) for energy and skin health
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Complex carbohydrates (such as sweet potatoes, rice, or oats) for digestibility
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Essential vitamins and minerals from vegetables and fruits
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Calcium and phosphorus for bone development
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Plenty of water—hydration is crucial, especially when feeding dry or semi-dry food
Balancing all these elements in the correct proportions is vital. That’s why vet consultation is always encouraged before starting a fully homemade diet.
Ingredients Safe for Your Puppy’s Bowl
Homemade food for a Shih Tzu puppy isn’t complicated if you stick to safe and vet-recommended ingredients. Some of the best options include:
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Lean meats: Boiled chicken, ground turkey, beef, or fish
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Carbohydrates: Cooked rice, oats, or quinoa
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Veggies: Carrots, green beans, spinach, broccoli (all cooked and chopped)
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Fruits (in small amounts): Blueberries, apples (no seeds), bananas
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Eggs: Scrambled or hard-boiled
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Healthy oils: Fish oil, flaxseed oil, or olive oil (a teaspoon is enough)
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Calcium: Crushed eggshell powder, plain yogurt, or cottage cheese
These ingredients should be cooked plainly—no salt, spices, onions, or garlic—as these can be dangerous to dogs.
Ingredients to Strictly Avoid
Some human foods are toxic or harmful to dogs, especially small breeds like Shih Tzus. Here’s what to avoid completely:
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Onions and garlic – Can damage red blood cells
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Grapes and raisins – Linked to kidney failure
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Chocolate and caffeine – Toxic to dogs even in small amounts
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Avocado – Contains persin, which can cause upset stomach
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Cooked bones – Can splinter and cause internal injuries
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Raw dough or batter – Expands in the stomach and can cause bloating
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Xylitol (found in sugar-free foods) – Extremely toxic and life-threatening
Always double-check before introducing a new food, and when in doubt, leave it out.
Vet-Approved Homemade Recipes for Shih Tzu Puppies
Here are simple, nutrient-rich recipes you can make at home that are suitable for growing Shih Tzus. Always let meals cool before serving.
1. Chicken and Rice Puppy Mix
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1 cup boiled, shredded chicken breast
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½ cup cooked brown rice
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¼ cup steamed carrots, chopped
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1 teaspoon olive oil
This meal provides lean protein and complex carbs, great for digestion and energy.
2. Turkey & Sweet Potato Delight
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1 cup ground turkey (cooked and drained)
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½ cup mashed sweet potato
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2 tablespoons green peas
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1 boiled egg, chopped
Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamin A, this meal supports growth and immunity.
3. Beef and Quinoa Power Bowl
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1 cup lean ground beef
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½ cup cooked quinoa
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¼ cup chopped spinach
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1 teaspoon flaxseed oil
Quinoa is a gluten-free grain rich in protein, while spinach provides iron and antioxidants.
4. Egg and Oat Breakfast Scramble
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2 scrambled eggs
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¼ cup cooked oats
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1 tablespoon grated carrots
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A sprinkle of parsley (optional)
This is a gentle breakfast that’s easy on the stomach and rich in protein.
Feeding Frequency and Portion Sizes
Puppies grow fast—and need consistent meals to keep their energy stable. Here’s a general guide:
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8–12 weeks old: Feed 4 times per day
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3–6 months old: Reduce to 3 meals per day
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6–12 months: Move to 2 meals per day
Portion sizes depend on weight, but a typical serving might be ¼ to ½ cup of food per meal. Adjust based on your puppy’s activity level and body condition.
Tips for Storing and Preparing Meals
Homemade food doesn’t mean cooking every single day. You can batch cook and refrigerate meals for 3–4 days, or freeze portions for up to a month.
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Use BPA-free containers
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Label meals with dates and contents
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Reheat gently and let cool to room temperature before serving
Never reheat food in the microwave too hot or serve it straight from the fridge—Shih Tzus prefer lukewarm food.
Supplementation: Do You Need It?
Sometimes, even the best home meals need a little boost. Depending on the recipe, your vet might recommend:
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Calcium powder (especially if you don’t use bone meal or eggshell)
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Multivitamin drops or powders
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Fish oil capsules for Omega-3s
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Digestive enzymes or probiotics
Supplements should always be vet-prescribed. Too much of a vitamin can be as harmful as too little.
Transitioning from Commercial to Homemade
If your puppy is currently on kibble or canned food, don’t switch cold turkey. Mix in homemade food slowly:
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Days 1–3: 75% commercial + 25% homemade
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Days 4–6: 50/50
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Days 7–9: 25% commercial + 75% homemade
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Day 10 onward: 100% homemade
This gradual transition avoids digestive issues and helps your pup adapt to the new flavors and textures.
How to Know If Your Puppy Is Thriving
When your Shih Tzu puppy is getting the right nutrition, it shows. Here are signs to look for:
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Bright, clear eyes
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Glossy coat and soft skin
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Playful energy
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Healthy stool (firm, brown, and regular)
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Steady weight gain
On the other hand, signs like lethargy, dry skin, excessive shedding, or loose stool could mean the food needs adjusting.
Conclusion
Preparing homemade food for your Shih Tzu puppy is an act of care and commitment. When done correctly, it helps build a healthier, happier, and more active dog. Not only does your puppy benefit physically, but mealtime becomes more meaningful too.
Make sure every recipe is balanced, every portion is intentional, and every ingredient is selected with love. And above all—keep your vet in the loop. They are your best guide on this home-cooked journey.
Start cooking healthy meals your Shih Tzu puppy will love!
