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As a responsible pet owner, it's great that you're considering making homemade food for your Shih Tzu puppy. According to our research, a well-balanced homemade diet for Shih Tzus should include a mix of protein sources like chicken and fish, as well as complex carbohydrates like brown rice and sweet potatoes.
Shih Tzus are prone to obesity, so it's essential to monitor their food intake and ensure they're getting the right balance of nutrients. A good rule of thumb is to feed your puppy 3-4% of their body weight in food per day, divided into 3-4 meals.
One of the benefits of homemade food is that you can tailor the ingredients to your puppy's individual needs and preferences. For example, if your puppy has sensitive skin, you can omit ingredients like beef and dairy that can exacerbate the issue.
A typical homemade recipe for Shih Tzu puppies might include a combination of cooked chicken, brown rice, and steamed vegetables like carrots and green beans. This type of diet can help promote healthy digestion and a shiny coat.
What Can Shih Tzu Puppies Eat?
When preparing homemade food for your Shih Tzu puppy, it's essential to remember that a healthy diet should have a ratio of 75% carbohydrates to 25% protein.
A suitable source of protein for your Shih Tzu puppy is red meat, which should always be well cooked and minced. Chicken, sheep, and tuna meat are also good options.
Rice, wheat flour, soy, and corn are good sources of carbohydrates, and can be included in your puppy's diet.
Shih Tzu Can Eat: Small Amounts
When it comes to feeding your Shih Tzu puppy, there are certain foods that are safe for them to eat in small amounts. Here are some examples of healthy foods that your Shih Tzu puppy can enjoy:
Chicken is a great source of protein for your Shih Tzu puppy, and can be given in small amounts.
Ground beef is another nutritious option, but be sure to give it in moderation.
Raw or cooked liver is a nutrient-rich food that's perfect for Shih Tzus, and can be served in small amounts.
Raw or boiled egg is a great source of protein and can be given to your Shih Tzu puppy in small amounts.
Brown rice is a healthy carbohydrate that can be given to your Shih Tzu puppy in small amounts.
Raw or cooked carrots are a crunchy and healthy snack for Shih Tzus, and can be given in small amounts.
Sweet potato is a nutrient-rich food that's perfect for Shih Tzus, and can be given in small amounts.
Boiled pumpkin is a healthy and easily digestible food that's great for Shih Tzus, and can be given in small amounts.
Natural yogurt and kefir are both healthy dairy options that can be given to your Shih Tzu puppy in small amounts.
Minced raw garlic has antibacterial properties and can be given to your Shih Tzu puppy in small amounts.
Coconut oil is a healthy fat that can be given to your Shih Tzu puppy in small amounts.
Cheeses are a tasty treat for Shih Tzus, but be sure to give them in moderation.
Fruits such as bananas, seedless apples, persimmons, cashews, mangoes, guava, strawberries, and watermelon are all safe for Shih Tzus to eat in small amounts.
Raw meaty bones from the kneecap, pelvis, or chest are a healthy option for Shih Tzus, and can be given in small amounts.
Here's a list of safe foods for your Shih Tzu puppy:
- Chicken
- Ground beef
- Raw or cooked liver
- Raw or boiled egg
- Brown rice
- Raw or cooked carrots
- Sweet potato
- Boiled pumpkin
- Natural yogurt
- Kefir
- Minced raw garlic
- Coconut oil
- Cheeses
- Fruits (bananas, seedless apples, persimmons, cashews, mangoes, guava, strawberries, watermelon)
- Raw meaty bones (kneecap, pelvis, chest)
What Vegetables Can Dogs Eat?
When it comes to feeding your Shih Tzu puppy, you'll want to make sure they're getting a balanced diet that includes a variety of healthy vegetables. But what vegetables can dogs eat safely?
Dogs have been eating scraps of human food for thousands of years, and with some careful planning, you can create a nutritious homemade dog food that includes veggies.
Here are some veggies that are safe for Shih Tzu puppies to eat:
- Butternut squash is a great source of fiber and vitamins for your puppy.
- Brussels sprouts are a tasty and nutritious addition to their diet.
- Fennel is a crunchy and sweet veggie that dogs love.
- Peas are a great source of protein and fiber.
- Zucchini is a low-calorie veggie that's perfect for puppies.
- Carrots are a crunchy and healthy snack for your puppy.
- Sweet potatoes are a nutrient-rich veggie that's easy to digest.
- Fresh spinach is a superfood for dogs, packed with vitamins and minerals.
- Cooked potato is okay in moderation, but be sure to cook it thoroughly.
- Pumpkin is a fiber-rich veggie that can help with digestion.
- Celery is a crunchy and healthy snack for your puppy.
- Broccoli is a nutritious veggie, but be sure to chop it up finely to avoid choking hazards.
- Frozen peas are a convenient and healthy snack.
- Bell peppers are a sweet and crunchy veggie that dogs love.
- Green beans are a low-calorie veggie that's perfect for puppies.
- Kale is a nutrient-rich veggie that's packed with vitamins and minerals.
Remember, always do your own research and consult with a veterinarian before making any changes to your puppy's diet.
Why Make Home Cooked Food?
Making your own dog food can be a game-changer for pets with allergies, like my two Shih Tzus, Lucky and Sassy, who suffered from chicken allergies.
Commercial dog food and fancy wet food can be expensive, and my dogs didn't even like them, so I decided to try making homemade dog food.
By making their own food, you can avoid common allergens found in commercial dog food, which can cause skin allergies and digestive issues in some dogs.
My dogs' sensitive stomachs and skin allergies made it difficult for them to eat, but a homemade diet helped alleviate their symptoms.
Making your own dog food allows you to control the ingredients and ensure your pet gets the nutrients they need, which is especially important for picky or senior dogs.
Preparing a Shih Tzu's Meal
Preparing a Shih Tzu's Meal is a crucial step in feeding your furry friend a healthy and delicious homemade diet. Carbohydrates and vegetables should always be well cooked, as Shih Tzus cannot digest these raw foods.
Cooking these ingredients until they're tender makes them easier to digest and more enjoyable for your Shih Tzu.
How to Prepare a Shih Tzu's Meal
To prepare a Shih Tzu's meal, start by cooking carbohydrates and vegetables thoroughly, as they can't be digested raw.
Carbohydrates should be cooked until they're soft and easy to digest.
Vegetables should be cooked until they're tender, making it easier for your Shih Tzu to enjoy them.
The more cooked, the easier it will be digested and better enjoyed by the Shih Tzu.
Step 3: Mix and Portion
To mix and portion your Shih Tzu's homemade meal, you'll need to calculate their daily caloric needs. This will require some research to determine the perfect amount for your furry friend.
Measure out a few days' supply of the homemade dog food based on your Shih Tzu's caloric needs. This will ensure you have enough for a 5-day supply.
Store the fresh pet food in the fridge to keep it food-safe after it defrosts. Freezing the food using freezer bags is the best way to store it long-term.
To mix the dog food, combine ground beef, warm rice, sautéed veggies, and fresh spinach in a large bowl. Mix well with a large spatula to ensure everything is fully incorporated.
Portion 4-5 cups of homemade dog food per zip lock bag, and store in an airtight container or larger zip top bag in the freezer. This will make it easy to grab what you need each week.
Healthy Recipes for Shih Tzu
You can make a simple and nutritious meal for your Shih Tzu using chicken, ground beef, and brown rice. Just cook the chicken and ground beef together, add some cooked brown rice, and you're done!
For a sweet treat, try boiling some carrots and sweet potatoes, then serving them as a side dish. Shih Tzus love the sweet flavor of carrots and sweet potatoes.
Here are some healthy recipe ideas for your Shih Tzu:
Remember to always serve these foods in small amounts and without added salt or seasonings.
Three Healthy Recipes for Shih Tzu
These homemade dog food recipes are a game-changer for Shih Tzu owners. They're super fun to make and can be personalized for your pup.
Using fresh veggies, peanut butter, and pumpkin is a great way to keep your Shih Tzu healthy and happy. Sassy, my pup, just loves these recipes!
Homemade dog biscuits are a great option for Shih Tzus. They're easy to make and can be customized with fun shapes using a biscuit cutter.
Peanut butter and pumpkin are two of my go-to ingredients for homemade dog recipes. They're nutritious and delicious, and Shih Tzus love them!
Trying New Recipes
Introduce new foods to your Shih Tzu slowly to avoid digestive issues.
Fresh dog food recipes often include ingredients your dog might be trying for the first time, so it's essential to go slow.
Small portions are a good starting point when introducing new foods.
Sassy, a dog, couldn't handle chicken stock cooked into the rice due to her allergies.
Beef stock is a good alternative to chicken stock when cooking rice for dogs with allergies.
Deciding on DIY Recipe
Deciding on a DIY recipe for your Shih Tzu puppy is a great idea, but it's essential to consider their individual needs. Each dog is totally unique.
Some Shih Tzus have food sensitivities or easily upset tummies, so regular commercial food might be best for them.
You should have a chat with your vet to determine the best approach for your puppy. I had a similar conversation with Sassy's vet, and it was super helpful.
If your Shih Tzu puppy can eat most anything without a problem, then making their own food can be a fun and rewarding experience.
Getting a Pet to Eat
Finely grating veggies can make them more appealing to your dog, so try using a food processor to get the job done.
If your dog is picky or older and has trouble chewing, finely chopped dog food can be a lifesaver.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I feed my Shih Tzu besides dog food?
Your Shih Tzu can enjoy healthy treats like carrots, apples, plain popcorn, and peanut butter, but always consult with your vet before making any changes to their diet
What should top 3 ingredients be in dog food?
For a nutritious dog food, look for high-quality proteins like chicken, beef, or fish, combined with natural carbs from whole fruits and veggies, and healthy fats from animal sources or plant-based oils. This trio provides a balanced foundation for your furry friend's diet.
What is the best meat to feed a Shih Tzu?
For a balanced diet, feed your Shih Tzu high-quality animal-based protein sources like beef, chicken, turkey, lamb, duck, eggs, and fish. These protein-rich foods support your Shih Tzu's overall health and well-being.
What not to put in homemade dog food?
When preparing homemade dog food, avoid adding potentially toxic ingredients such as chocolate, xylitol, avocado, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and macadamia nuts to keep your dog safe and healthy
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