Best Homemade Dog Food for Shih Tzu: A Nutritious and Tasty Recipe Guide

Shih Tzus are a popular breed of small dogs known for their adorable looks and affectionate personalities. As with any pet, it’s important to provide them with a healthy and balanced diet to keep them happy and healthy. While there are many commercial dog food options available, some pet owners prefer to make their own homemade dog food for their furry friends. In this article, we’ll be discussing the best homemade dog food for Shih Tzu.

When it comes to homemade dog food, the benefits are clear. You have complete control over the ingredients, ensuring that your dog is getting a nutritious and balanced meal. Homemade dog food can also be more cost-effective in the long run, as you can buy ingredients in bulk and prepare larger batches at once.

However, it’s important to note that not all homemade dog food recipes are created equal. Some may lack essential vitamins and minerals, while others may contain ingredients that are harmful to your dog’s health. When making homemade dog food, it’s vital to ensure that you’re providing your dog with a balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs.

The critical thing to pay attention to when making homemade dog food for Shih Tzu is to ensure that the recipe includes the right balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. Shih Tzus are a small breed, so their caloric needs are lower than larger dogs. It’s also important to avoid ingredients that can be harmful to dogs, such as onions, garlic, and chocolate.

In this article, we’ll be sharing our top picks for the best homemade dog food for Shih Tzu, based on nutrition, taste, and ease of preparation. With our recommendations, you can ensure that your furry friend is getting a healthy and delicious meal every time.

Best Homemade Dog Food for Shih Tzu

We understand the importance of providing our furry friends with the best possible nutrition. This is why we have put together a list of the best homemade dog food options specifically tailored to meet the nutritional needs of Shih Tzu dogs. Our team of experts has conducted extensive research and testing to ensure that each product on this list is of the highest quality and provides the necessary nutrients for your Shih Tzu to thrive. Check out our top picks below.

Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Breed Specific Dry Dog Food

If you want to provide your Shih Tzu with a tailored diet that meets their specific nutritional needs, Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Breed Specific Dry Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

• The kibble shape and texture are designed for a Shih Tzu’s short muzzle and underbite, making it easy for them to pick up and chew.
• The combination of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and biotin helps maintain a Shih Tzu’s soft, long coat.
• Highly digestible proteins, precise fiber content, and high-quality carbohydrate sources help reduce stool volume and odor.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the kibble.
• The food is more expensive than some other dog food brands.
• The bag size may not be large enough for larger Shih Tzus or those with bigger appetites.

We have been using Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Breed Specific Dry Dog Food for our Shih Tzu for several months now, and we have noticed a significant improvement in his coat’s softness and shine. The kibble’s shape and texture make it easy for him to eat, and we have noticed a reduction in the amount of stool he produces, which is a plus for us.

The food’s high price point is a downside, but we believe that the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost. However, some dogs may not enjoy the taste or texture of the kibble, so it might not be the best option for picky eaters.

Overall, if you want to provide your Shih Tzu with a diet that meets their specific nutritional needs, we highly recommend Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Breed Specific Dry Dog Food.

Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Breed Specific Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend this product for Shih Tzu owners who want to provide their furry friend with precise nutrition that is tailor-made for their breed.

Pros

• The specialized kibble shape and texture is perfect for small dogs with short muzzles and underbites.
• The exclusive complex of nutrients promotes healthy skin and coat, making your Shih Tzu’s coat shiny and soft.
• The highly digestible proteins, precise fiber content, and high-quality carbohydrate sources help reduce stool volume and odor.

Cons

• The product is a bit expensive compared to other dog food brands.
• Some customers have reported that their dogs did not like the taste of the food.
• The packaging could be improved to make it easier to store and handle.

We have been using Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Breed Specific Dry Dog Food for our Shih Tzu for several months now, and we have noticed a significant improvement in his coat and overall health. The kibble shape and texture are perfect for him, and he seems to enjoy the taste of the food.

One thing we appreciate about this product is the exclusive complex of nutrients that promotes healthy skin and coat. Our Shih Tzu’s coat is now much shinier and softer, and we have received compliments from other dog owners on how healthy he looks.

We also appreciate that the food is highly digestible, which helps reduce stool volume and odor. This is especially important for small dogs like Shih Tzus, who tend to have sensitive stomachs.

The only downside to this product is the price. It is a bit more expensive than other dog food brands, but we feel that the quality of the food justifies the cost. Additionally, some customers have reported that their dogs did not like the taste of the food, so it may not be suitable for all dogs.

Overall, we highly recommend Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Breed Specific Dry Dog Food for Shih Tzu owners who want to provide their furry friend with precise nutrition that is tailor-made for their breed.

Royal Canin Shih Tzu Puppy Breed Specific Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s specifically tailored to meet the nutritional needs of your Shih Tzu puppy, then you might want to consider Royal Canin Shih Tzu Puppy Breed Specific Dry Dog Food.

Pros

• The exclusive kibble shape is designed specifically for a Shih Tzu’s short muzzle and underbite, making it easy for toy breeds to pick up and chew.
• This dog food contains high-quality proteins and prebiotics to help promote optimal stool quality and digestive health.
• The specialized nutrients in this dog food help promote skin and coat health, as well as immune system support.

Cons

• Some customers have found this dog food to be a bit pricey compared to other brands.
• A few customers have reported that their puppy didn’t seem to like the taste of this dog food.
• This dog food is only suitable for Shih Tzu puppies between the ages of 8 weeks and 10 months old.

We’ve found that Royal Canin Shih Tzu Puppy Breed Specific Dry Dog Food is a great option for pet owners who want to ensure that their Shih Tzu puppy is getting the right nutrition to support their growth and development. The exclusive kibble shape is perfect for small breeds, and the high-quality proteins and prebiotics help promote optimal digestive health.

In addition, the specialized nutrients in this dog food can help support your puppy’s skin and coat health, as well as their immune system. While it may be a bit pricey compared to some other dog food brands, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the tailored nutritional content make it worth the investment.

Overall, if you’re looking for a dog food that’s specifically designed for your Shih Tzu puppy, then Royal Canin Shih Tzu Puppy Breed Specific Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7 Small Bites Chicken Meal, Barley -amp; Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food, 15 lb. Bag (pack of 1) Chicken -amp; Barley 15 Pound (Pack of 1)

We highly recommend this dog food for your aging shih tzu as it has all the necessary nutrients for their specific needs.

Pros

• The small kibble size is perfect for little dogs and helps maintain their dental health.
• The natural ingredients make it easy to digest and keep your dog’s energy levels up.
• The balanced minerals support heart and kidney health, and the Omega 6 fatty acids and Vitamin E keep your dog’s coat shiny and healthy.

Cons

• The price is a bit high compared to other dog foods on the market.
• Some dogs may not like the chicken flavor and prefer a different taste.
• Not recommended for puppies or pregnant or nursing dogs.

We recently switched to Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7 Small Bites Chicken Meal, Barley -amp; Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food for our aging shih tzu and have been very pleased with the results. The small kibble size is perfect for her little mouth and helps maintain her dental health. We also appreciate that the ingredients are natural and easy to digest, which keeps her energy levels up throughout the day.

The balanced minerals in this dog food also support her heart and kidney health, which is especially important as she gets older. We have also noticed that her coat is shinier and healthier since we switched to this dog food, thanks to the Omega 6 fatty acids and Vitamin E.

While the price is a bit higher than other dog foods on the market, we believe it is worth it for the quality ingredients and the benefits it provides our aging shih tzu. However, we do acknowledge that some dogs may not like the chicken flavor and prefer a different taste. Additionally, this dog food is not recommended for puppies or pregnant or nursing dogs.

Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7 Small Bites Chicken Meal, Barley -amp; Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food for your aging shih tzu. It has all the necessary nutrients for their specific needs and will keep them healthy and happy.

Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Breed Specific Wet Dog Food

If you want to provide your Shih Tzu with tailor-made nutrition, this Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Breed Specific Wet Dog Food is worth considering.

Pros

• Formulated for purebred Shih Tzus
• Tasty loaf in sauce texture
• Promotes skin health and healthy coat

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Not suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions
• Contains some artificial ingredients

We have been using this product for our Shih Tzu for a few months now, and we have noticed a positive change in her coat and skin health. The food is easy for her to eat, and she seems to enjoy the taste. We like that it is formulated specifically for Shih Tzus and contains nutrients like EPA and DHA from fish oil that promote healthy skin and coat.

However, we have noticed that some dogs may not like the taste of this food, so it may not be suitable for picky eaters. Additionally, if your dog has certain dietary restrictions or allergies, you should check the ingredients list carefully before purchasing. Finally, we would prefer if the food did not contain any artificial ingredients.

Overall, we recommend this product to Shih Tzu owners who want to provide their dogs with targeted nutrition that promotes skin and coat health.

Royal Canin Adult Shih Tzu Wet Dog Food

If you’re looking for a breed-specific dog food for your Shih Tzu, Royal Canin Adult Shih Tzu Wet Dog Food is an excellent option.

Pros

• Designed to meet the nutritional needs of purebred Shih Tzus
• Contains nutrients to support healthy skin and coat, as well as heart health
• Delicious loaf in gravy texture stimulates a picky eater’s appetite

Cons

• Some customers have reported issues with supply chain and availability
• One box may not last very long, depending on your dog’s appetite and serving size
• Some customers have reported that their dogs did not like the taste

We recently tried Royal Canin Adult Shih Tzu Wet Dog Food for our Shih Tzu, and we were impressed with the results. Our dog seemed to enjoy the taste, and we noticed an improvement in his coat’s shine and overall health.

The texture of the food is a soft loaf in gravy, which our picky eater seemed to enjoy. We also appreciated that the food is designed specifically for Shih Tzus, so we didn’t have to worry about whether or not it was appropriate for his breed.

One potential downside is that some customers have reported issues with supply chain and availability, so it may be difficult to find this food in stock. Additionally, one box may not last very long depending on your dog’s appetite and serving size. Finally, some customers have reported that their dogs did not like the taste, so it may not be a good fit for all Shih Tzus.

Overall, we would recommend Royal Canin Adult Shih Tzu Wet Dog Food to other Shih Tzu owners looking for a breed-specific food that supports their dog’s skin, coat, and heart health.

Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Breed Specific Wet Dog Food

If you’re looking for a wet dog food that’s specifically designed for your Shih Tzu, then Royal Canin Adult Breed Specific Wet Dog Food is worth considering.

Pros

• The food is designed to meet the nutritional needs of purebred Shih Tzus 10 months and older.
• The soft dog food featuring Loaf in Sauce for a paté appeals to a Shih Tzu’s appetite and is easy for them to eat.
• The exclusive complex of nutrients, including EPA, DHA, and vitamin A, helps support skin health.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food.
• The food is relatively expensive compared to other wet dog foods.
• The chunky texture may not be suitable for dogs with dental issues.

We tried Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Breed Specific Wet Dog Food with our Shih Tzu and found that she loved the taste and texture of the food. The Loaf in Sauce formula made it easy for her to eat, and we noticed an improvement in her skin health after a few weeks of feeding her this food.

However, we did find that the food is relatively expensive compared to other wet dog foods, and the chunky texture may not be suitable for dogs with dental issues. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food, so it’s important to introduce it gradually and monitor your dog’s reaction.

Overall, we would recommend Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Breed Specific Wet Dog Food to Shih Tzu owners who are looking for a high-quality wet dog food that’s specifically designed for their dog’s nutritional needs.

CESAR Adult Wet Dog Food Classic Loaf in Sauce Poultry Variety Pack

If you’re looking for a tasty and convenient option for your Shih Tzu’s meals, CESAR Adult Wet Dog Food Classic Loaf in Sauce Poultry Variety Pack might be just what you need.

Pros

• Made with real poultry for a delicious taste
• Convenient peel-away seals for easy serving and storage
• Complete and balanced meal for adult dogs

Cons

• Contains trace amounts of grains due to cross-contact during manufacturing
• Some dogs might not like the texture of the gelatinous sauce
• The portion size might not be enough for larger dogs

We’ve tried CESAR Adult Wet Dog Food Classic Loaf in Sauce Poultry Variety Pack with our Shih Tzu and she absolutely loved it. The real poultry ingredients make it a tasty option that she always looks forward to. The convenient peel-away seals make it easy to serve and store, and the complete and balanced meal means that we don’t have to worry about supplementing her diet with anything else.

However, we did notice that the ingredient list shows trace amounts of grains, possibly due to cross-contact during manufacturing. While this might not be an issue for most dogs, those with grain sensitivities might want to avoid this product. Additionally, the gelatinous sauce might not be to every dog’s liking, and the portion size might not be enough for larger dogs.

Overall, if you’re looking for a tasty and convenient option for your Shih Tzu’s meals, CESAR Adult Wet Dog Food Classic Loaf in Sauce Poultry Variety Pack is definitely worth considering.

Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Breed Specific Wet Dog Food, 13.5 oz. can

If you’re looking for a dog food that’s specifically designed for your Shih Tzu, you might be considering Royal Canin’s Shih Tzu Adult Breed Specific Wet Dog Food. Here’s what we found:

Pros

• Made for Shih Tzus: This wet dog food is designed to meet the nutritional needs of purebred Shih Tzus 10 months and older. It’s formulated to promote healthy skin and coat and support cardiac health.
• Easy to eat: The wet food format of this product makes it easy for your Shih Tzu to eat, especially if they have dental issues or are picky eaters.
• Precise nutrition: Royal Canin is known for its precise nutritional formulas, and this product is no exception. You can feel confident that your Shih Tzu is getting the nutrients they need.

Cons

• Expensive: At around $85 for a pack of 24 cans, this dog food is on the pricier side.
• Limited flavors: This product only comes in one flavor, so if your Shih Tzu is a picky eater, they may not like it.
• Mixed reviews: While some customers have had positive experiences with this product, others have had issues with the price, packaging, and quality.

In our experience, Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Breed Specific Wet Dog Food is a good option if you’re looking for a dog food that’s specifically designed for your Shih Tzu. However, it is on the expensive side and may not be the best choice if your dog is a picky eater or if you’re on a budget.

Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Small -amp; Mini Breeds, Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin, Chicken Recipe, 4 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a dog food that is specifically formulated for small and toy breed dogs, Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food for Sensitive Stomach and Skin is a great option. Our furry friend has been eating this food for a while now, and we’ve noticed some great benefits.

Pros

• The prebiotic fiber in this dry dog food helps to feed the microbiome in your dog’s gut, which can lead to better digestive health.
• The smaller kibble size is perfect for small and toy breed dogs, and the added vitamins and nutrients help to nourish their skin and coat.
• This dog food is made with natural ingredients and has a great taste that small dogs love.

Cons

• This dog food is a bit more expensive than some other options on the market.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of this food, so it’s important to introduce it slowly and monitor their reaction.
• The kibble size may be too small for some dogs, so it’s important to make sure your dog is able to chew it properly.

Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food for Sensitive Stomach and Skin. It’s a great option for small and toy breed dogs, and the added vitamins and nutrients help to promote better digestive health and a shiny coat. Plus, the fact that it’s made with natural ingredients is a huge plus in our book.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best homemade dog food for your shih tzu, there are a few important factors to consider. In this section, we’ll go over the key features to look for when selecting a homemade dog food recipe or product.

Nutritional Balance

One of the most important things to consider when choosing a homemade dog food recipe or product is nutritional balance. Shih tzus have specific nutritional needs, and it’s important to make sure that any homemade dog food you give them meets those needs. Look for recipes or products that contain a balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates, as well as vitamins and minerals that are essential for your dog’s health.

Quality Ingredients

Another important factor to consider when choosing a homemade dog food recipe or product is the quality of the ingredients. Look for recipes or products that use high-quality, whole-food ingredients, rather than fillers or by-products. This will ensure that your shih tzu is getting the best possible nutrition from their food.

Allergies and Sensitivities

If your shih tzu has any allergies or sensitivities, it’s important to choose a homemade dog food recipe or product that is free from those ingredients. Look for recipes or products that are labeled as hypoallergenic or that specifically state that they are free from common allergens like wheat, corn, and soy.

Feeding Guidelines

Finally, it’s important to follow feeding guidelines when giving your shih tzu homemade dog food. Make sure to measure out the appropriate amount of food for your dog’s size and activity level, and follow any guidelines or recommendations provided by the recipe or product. This will ensure that your shih tzu is getting the right amount of nutrition and staying healthy and happy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some vet-approved homemade dog food recipes for small breeds?

When preparing homemade dog food for small breeds like Shih Tzus, it is important to ensure that the recipes are vet-approved. Some recommended recipes include boiled chicken and brown rice, cooked sweet potatoes and green beans, and ground turkey and vegetables. It is best to consult with your vet to determine the appropriate recipe for your Shih Tzu’s specific nutritional needs.

What is an ideal diet chart for a Shih Tzu?

An ideal diet chart for a Shih Tzu should consist of high-quality protein sources like chicken, turkey, and fish, along with healthy carbohydrates like sweet potatoes and brown rice. It should also include a variety of vegetables like carrots, green beans, and peas. It is important to consult with your vet to determine the appropriate portion sizes and feeding schedule for your Shih Tzu.

How can I ensure my homemade dog food is nutritionally complete for my Shih Tzu?

To ensure that your homemade dog food is nutritionally complete for your Shih Tzu, it is important to include a variety of protein sources, healthy carbohydrates, and vegetables. You can also add supplements like fish oil and vitamins to ensure that your Shih Tzu is getting all the necessary nutrients. It is best to consult with your vet to determine the appropriate supplements for your Shih Tzu’s specific nutritional needs.

Which foods should be avoided when preparing a meal for a Shih Tzu?

When preparing a meal for a Shih Tzu, it is important to avoid foods that are toxic to dogs like chocolate, onions, and garlic. It is also best to avoid high-fat foods like bacon and fried foods, as well as foods that are high in sodium or sugar. It is best to consult with your vet to determine which foods should be avoided based on your Shih Tzu’s specific health needs.

What is considered the healthiest homemade food option for a Shih Tzu?

The healthiest homemade food option for a Shih Tzu is one that is nutritionally balanced and includes high-quality protein sources, healthy carbohydrates, and a variety of vegetables. It is best to consult with your vet to determine the appropriate recipe and portion sizes for your Shih Tzu’s specific nutritional needs.

What are some safe and nutritious alternatives to commercial dog food for a Shih Tzu?

Some safe and nutritious alternatives to commercial dog food for a Shih Tzu include homemade dog food, raw food diets, and freeze-dried or dehydrated dog food. It is important to consult with your vet to determine which alternative is best for your Shih Tzu’s specific nutritional needs.