Homemade Puppy Food : Smart or Risky

​Homemade dog food is a growing trend among pet owners who want complete control over their dog’s diet. For devoted Shih Tzu lovers, providing fresh, wholesome meals might seem like the best way to ensure their beloved companion’s health and longevity. While making your own Shih Tzu’s food has its advantages, it also comes with some potential risks. Let’s explore the pros and cons of homemade dog food, common mistakes to avoid, what ingredients are essential for a balanced diet, and the cost difference between homemade and store-bought kibble.
Pros of Homemade Dog Food

1. Control Over Ingredients – You know exactly what’s going into your dog’s food, avoiding fillers, artificial additives, and preservatives that may be found in commercial kibble.
2. Customization for Your Dog’s Needs – Shih Tzus are prone to food sensitivities, allergies, and digestive issues. A homemade diet allows you to tailor ingredients to suit their unique dietary needs.
3. Potentially Higher-Quality Ingredients – Many commercial dog foods use lower-quality meats and grain fillers. By preparing food at home, you can opt for fresh, high-quality meats, vegetables, and whole grains.
4. Better Hydration – Fresh food has a higher moisture content than kibble, which can help with hydration, especially since Shih Tzus can be prone to urinary issues.
5. Fewer Recalls and Contamination Risks – Pet food recalls due to contamination or nutritional imbalances are not uncommon. Preparing meals yourself reduces the risk of feeding tainted food.

Cons of Homemade Dog Food

1. Risk of Nutritional Deficiencies – One of the biggest challenges of homemade diets is ensuring that your Shih Tzu gets all the essential nutrients, including vitamins and minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and taurine.
2. Time-Consuming – Preparing balanced meals requires research, planning, and meal prep, which can be overwhelming for busy pet owners.
3. Can Be Expensive – High-quality ingredients, supplements, and proteins can add up, making homemade food potentially more costly than premium commercial options.
4. Spoilage Risks – Homemade food lacks preservatives, so it must be stored properly and used quickly to avoid spoilage.
5. Not Vet-Approved by Default – Some homemade recipes found online are not balanced and can be harmful over time. Consulting a veterinarian or a veterinary board certified pet nutritionist is crucial before making homemade food the primary diet.

Cost Difference: Homemade vs. Store-Bought Kibble
One major factor pet owners consider is cost. Homemade dog food can be significantly more expensive than store-bought kibble, depending on the quality of ingredients used. Premium proteins like fresh chicken, beef, or fish, along with fresh vegetables and supplements, can add up quickly. On the other hand, store-bought kibble, especially lower-end brands, is often more cost-effective but may include fillers and lower-quality ingredients.
For those opting for high-quality commercial brands, the cost difference may be less drastic, but homemade food still tends to be pricier due to fresh, whole ingredients. However, some pet owners believe the benefits of better nutrition and fewer health issues in the long run justify the added expense. If you’re on a budget, it’s important to carefully calculate costs and explore cost-saving strategies like buying ingredients in bulk or preparing larger batches of food to freeze.
Common Mistakes When Making Homemade Dog Food

1. Not Including the Right Nutrient Balance – Dogs require specific amounts of protein, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Many homemade diets lack calcium, iodine, and essential fatty acids.
2. Over-Reliance on Muscle Meat – While fresh meat is important, feeding only muscle meat can lead to deficiencies in calcium and phosphorus. Bones (cooked bones should never be fed) or proper calcium supplementation is necessary.
3. Feeding Toxic Foods – Certain human foods are toxic to dogs, including onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, chocolate, and xylitol. Always research ingredients before adding them to your Shih Tzu’s meals.
4. Failing to Measure Portions Correctly – Overfeeding or underfeeding can lead to obesity or malnutrition. Shih Tzus have small frames and require portion control.
5. Not Consulting a Professional – Working with a veterinarian or a pet nutritionist ensures your homemade diet meets your dog’s specific needs.

Essential Ingredients for a Balanced Homemade Diet
If you’re considering homemade meals for your Shih Tzu, here are some essential ingredients to include:

• High-Quality Protein – Chicken, turkey, beef, lamb, fish, or eggs
• Healthy Fats – Salmon oil, flaxseed oil, or coconut oil for a shiny coat and skin health
• Complex Carbohydrates – Brown rice, quinoa, sweet potatoes, or oats for energy
• Vegetables – Carrots, green beans, spinach, and pumpkin for fiber and vitamins
• Calcium Source – Crushed eggshells, bone meal, or calcium supplements
• Essential Supplements – Omega-3s, taurine, and vitamin D should be incorporated as needed

Final Thoughts
​Homemade dog food can be an excellent choice for your Shih Tzu when done correctly, but it requires careful planning to ensure balanced nutrition. Always consult with your veterinarian and a certified pet nutritionist before transitioning your dog to a homemade diet exclusively.
For more tips on Shih Tzu health, training, grooming, and nutrition, check out previous blog posts. Also, be sure to explore all the valuable resources on my website, shurbeezshihtzu.com!

---