As a Shih Tzu owner, I’ve always wanted the best for my dog—especially when it comes to food.
Like many pet owners, I started with commercial dry food (kibble). It was convenient, affordable, and widely recommended. But over time, I began to question whether it was truly the healthiest option.
My Shih Tzu sometimes seemed uninterested in meals. His energy levels were inconsistent, and his coat wasn’t as shiny as I expected.
That’s when I decided to try something different: homemade food.
For one full week, I completely switched from dry kibble to home-cooked meals. I carefully prepared simple, nutritious dishes and observed every change.
The results? Honestly, they surprised me.
In this article, I’ll share:
- My real experience feeding homemade food
- The exact meals I prepared
- The benefits I noticed
- Potential risks you should know
- Tips for starting a homemade diet safely
If you’re considering switching your Shih Tzu to homemade food, this guide will help you make the right decision.
My Experience: Switching to Homemade Food
The transition was simple—but intentional.
I didn’t just throw random food into a bowl. I researched basic canine nutrition and kept meals balanced.
For 7 days, my Shih Tzu ate only homemade food.
At first, I was a bit nervous:
- Would he like it?
- Would it upset his stomach?
- Was I giving him proper nutrition?
But from day one, I noticed something different.
He was excited at mealtime again.
No hesitation. No ignoring his bowl.
That alone told me I was on the right track.
What I Fed My Shih Tzu
I kept things simple and safe.
🥗 Basic Meal Plan
1. Rice + Chicken
This was the foundation of most meals.
- Boiled white rice
- Plain boiled chicken (no salt, no spices)
Why it works:
- Easy to digest
- Gentle on the stomach
- High in protein
2. Vegetables (Small Portions)
I added dog-safe vegetables like:
- Carrots
- Beans
- Pumpkin
Benefits:
- Fiber for digestion
- Vitamins and minerals
3. Balanced Portions
Each meal looked like:
- 50% protein (chicken)
- 30% carbohydrates (rice)
- 20% vegetables
Simple, clean, and nutritious.
The Results: What Happened After 1 Week
After just a few days, I started seeing noticeable changes.
1. More Energy
This was the first thing I noticed.
My Shih Tzu became:
- More playful
- More active
- Less lazy
He seemed happier overall.
2. Shiny Coat
By the end of the week, his coat looked healthier.
- Softer fur
- More shine
- Less dryness
Nutrition plays a huge role in coat health—and it showed.
3. Better Digestion
This was a big improvement.
Before:
- Occasional bloating
- Inconsistent stool
After:
- Regular digestion
- Healthier stool
- No discomfort
4. Improved Appetite
He actually looked forward to meals.
No more:
- Skipping food
- Picky behavior
Why Homemade Food Works So Well
✔ Fresh Ingredients
Unlike processed food, homemade meals are:
- Free from preservatives
- Free from artificial additives
✔ Better Taste and Smell
Dogs rely heavily on smell.
Fresh food is naturally more appealing than dry kibble.
✔ Control Over Ingredients
You know exactly what your dog is eating.
No hidden chemicals. No unknown fillers.
Important Things You MUST Know
Before you switch completely, there are some important warnings.
⚠️ 1. Nutritional Balance is Critical
Dogs need more than just chicken and rice.
They also require:
- Calcium
- Healthy fats
- Vitamins
A long-term homemade diet must be balanced.
⚠️ 2. Avoid Harmful Foods
Never feed:
- Onion
- Garlic
- Chocolate
- Grapes
These are toxic to dogs.
⚠️ 3. Don’t Skip the Vet
Before making a permanent switch, consult a veterinarian.
They can:
- Recommend supplements
- Ensure balanced nutrition
How to Start Homemade Food (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Start Slowly
Mix homemade food with current food:
- Day 1–2: 25% homemade
- Day 3–4: 50%
- Day 5–6: 75%
- Day 7: 100%
Step 2: Keep Meals Simple
Don’t overcomplicate.
Start with:
- Chicken + rice + veggies
Step 3: Observe Your Dog
Watch for:
- Energy levels
- Digestion
- Appetite
Step 4: Adjust as Needed
Every dog is different.
Modify portions based on:
- Weight
- Activity level
Homemade Food vs Dry Food
| Feature | Homemade Food | Dry Food |
|---|---|---|
| Freshness | High | Low |
| Taste | Excellent | Moderate |
| Convenience | Low | High |
| Cost | Moderate | Low–Moderate |
| Nutrition Control | Full | Limited |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Feeding only chicken and rice long-term
❌ Not adding essential nutrients
❌ Overfeeding
❌ Sudden food switch
❌ Ignoring vet advice
Is Homemade Food Right for Every Shih Tzu?
Not always.
Homemade food is great if:
- You have time to prepare meals
- You understand nutrition basics
But it may not be ideal if:
- You need convenience
- You’re unsure about balanced diets
Final Thoughts
Trying homemade food for my Shih Tzu was one of the best decisions I made.
The results were clear:
- More energy
- Better digestion
- Healthier coat
But the key is balance.
Homemade food isn’t just about cooking—it’s about proper nutrition.
Conclusion
Switching to homemade food can transform your Shih Tzu’s health—but it must be done correctly.
Start simple. Stay consistent. Observe your dog.
And most importantly—make sure their diet is complete and balanced.
Your Shih Tzu deserves nothing less 🐶❤️
FAQ Section
Is homemade food better for Shih Tzus?
Yes, if properly balanced, homemade food can be healthier than processed food.
Can I feed my Shih Tzu chicken and rice every day?
Only short-term. Long-term diets need more nutrients.
How much homemade food should I feed?
It depends on your dog’s weight and activity level.
Do I need supplements for homemade dog food?
In most cases, yes—for a complete and balanced diet.