Top 10 Healthiest Human Foods for Shih Tzu 2025

Many times, I receive comments and questions about whether I add multivitamins to my Shih Tzu, Billy’s food. 

Most pet parents seem to believe they NEED to add these powders to their dog’s meals to meet daily nutritional requirements.

However, my feeding philosophy is different—I believe in supplements only when a test indicates deficiency.

Over-supplement with synthetic vitamins and minerals can do more harm than good.¹

My priority is always to feed supplements in whole food form because real foods come with cofactors and enzymes that help the body absorb nutrients efficiently.

Unlike synthetic versions, which may not be fully utilized, whole food nutrients work synergistically to support overall health.

Now, whether you are feeding a home-cooked or commercial diet, the following 10 human foods for shih tzu can be used as toppers to enhance the diet with a wealth of health benefits. 

1. Bee Pollen

“Bee pollen contains every known nutrient in trace amounts…It supports glands and aids the immune system.“

Horne, S. H., & Easley, T. (2016). The Modern Herbal Dispensatory: A Medicine-Making Guide (p. 182). North Atlantic Books.²

Bee pollen is a great source of trace minerals, omega-3, and antioxidants.

It helps boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, and support digestion.

Additionally, it can aid in allergy relief by gradually desensitizing the immune system to environmental allergens.

I started with tiny portions and ensured Billy wasn’t allergic before increasing the dose.

If your dog has a known history of pollen allergy, for sure avoid this.

Now, I sprinkle a tiny bit over his meals a few times a week as part of a balanced diet.

2. Sprouts

Sprouts are probably the cheapest way you can supplement your Shih Tzu, yet they are incredibly powerful!

I definitely enjoy growing them and adding to Billy’s bowl. 

These tiny sprouts pack an enormous punch of nutrients compared to their mature counterparts. 

For example, broccoli sprouts contain 10 up to 100 times more sulforaphane³, a potent antioxidant, than fully grown broccoli.

“While studies show that the sulforaphane in sprouts – especially broccoli sprouts – are highly effective at removing the heavy metals and mycotoxins that are found in abundance in processed dog food, perhaps their most significant job is that they can remove more AGEs than any other food.”

Habib, R., & Becker, K. S. (2024). The Forever Dog Life: 120+ Recipes, Longevity Tips, and New Science for Better Bowls and Healthier Homes (p. 68). Harper Wave.⁴

This means your dog can reap exponentially more health benefits from just a tiny amount of sprouts!

3. Dandelion (Root)

“According to nutritionists, dandelions are one of the top five most nutritious plants in the world.”

Habib, R., & Becker, K. S. (2024). The Forever Dog Life: 120+ Recipes, Longevity Tips, and New Science for Better Bowls and Healthier Homes (p. 59). Harper Wave.⁴

I am absolutely a fan of dandelion root when it comes to supporting a dog’s liver health!

I first started using dandelion root for Billy when I was looking for natural ways to help detox his liver.

I had read so much about how dandelion root is one of the best herbs for cleansing the liver and improving bile flow, so I decided to try it.

Since then, dandelion has become a staple in Billy’s detox routine as a gentle yet powerful way to support his detoxification system naturally.

Dandelion is rich in vitamins A, C, K, and minerals like calcium and iron.

The leaves act as a natural diuretic, helping the body flush out toxins, while the root specifically targets liver function.

Dandelion root also contains prebiotic fiber that supports gut health, which is crucial for overall digestion and immune function.

4. Cranberry

Cranberries are well-known for their ability to prevent harmful bacteria from sticking to the bladder walls, reducing the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs)⁵.

But their benefits don’t stop there!

They are packed with antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber, all of which support the immune system and gut health. 

I always use fresh or dried cranberries as a natural way to keep Billy’s urinary system in top shape.

It’s a simple but powerful way to keep the urinary tract healthy.

5. Blueberry

Blueberries are one of my favorite berries to feed Billy.

These tiny berries are one of the highest antioxidant fruits available, helping to fight free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in dogs.⁶

In addition to their anti-inflammatory properties, blueberries are also great for eye health, heart health, and cognitive function.

I often mix them into Billy’s meals or offer them as a snack—he loves them either way!

6. Bone Broth

“If your previously dry-fed dog is suffering recurring gut issues (IBD /colitis type issues, recurring diarrhea)…we begin the gut-issue dog on bone broth made from a single animal protein.”

Brady, C. (2020). Feeding dogs: The science behind the dry versus raw debate (p. 479). Dogwise Publishing.⁷

Bone broth is one of the most comforting and healing foods I can give Billy. 

Whenever he has an upset stomach, I prepare homemade bone broth to help soothe his digestive system and keep him hydrated. 

But even when he’s feeling great, I still include bone broth in his diet constantly because of its amazing health benefits!

Bone broth is packed with collagen, glucosamine, chondroitin, and essential amino acids, all of which are vital for joint health, gut health, and immune support.

Here is how I prepare beef bone broth for Billy: 

7. Mushroom

“When we talk about mushrooms, we mean edible, highly nutritious ‘medicinal’ or ‘functional’ mushrooms, a distinct group of safe fungi known for their exceptional health benefits beyond their nutrient composition.”

Habib, R., & Becker, K. S. (2024). The Forever Dog Life: 120+ Recipes, Longevity Tips, and New Science for Better Bowls and Healthier Homes (p. 39). Harper Wave.⁴

Medicinal mushrooms have been part of Billy’s diet for a long time, especially during seasonal changes when I want to give his immune system an extra boost.

Shiitake, maitake, and reishi mushrooms are some of the best immune-modulating foods, helping to protect against infections and even reducing inflammation.

Unlike some toxic wild mushrooms, these varieties are completely safe when cooked and are known for their ability to support liver function, blood sugar balance, and overall vitality.

I always make sure to cook them before feeding, as raw mushrooms can be hard to digest.

8. Ginger

In Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM), ginger is highly valued for its ability to warm the digestive system and support gut health.

It is considered a warming herb that helps expel cold from the stomach⁸, making it an excellent remedy for dogs who experience bloating, indigestion, or stomach upset due to cold food or weak digestion.

“It (Ginger) stimulates digestive secretion when taken with or after meals. Research indicates that ginger root enhances immune function, promotes the secretion of bile and gastric fluids, and increases blood circulation…”

Easley, T., & Horne, S. (2016). The modern herbal dispensatory: A medicine-making guide (p. 236). North Atlantic Books.

One of the primary ways I use ginger for Billy is when he shows signs of stomach discomfort, such as loose stools or nausea. 

TCVM believes that an imbalance in digestive energy (Qi) can lead to these issues, and ginger is one of the best herbs to help restore balance.

Whether your dog is prone to motion sickness, acid reflux, or sluggish digestion, a small amount of ginger is great for their stomach.

9. Broccoli

Broccoli is a powerful protector against chronic diseases like cancer and type 2 diabetes.⁹

It contains sulforaphane, a potent antioxidant that has been studied for its ability to neutralize carcinogens and reduce tumor growth.¹⁰ 

Additionally, broccoli acts as a great prebiotic, feeding beneficial gut bacteria that play a role in digestion and immune function.

It also protects the lining of the small intestine, reducing inflammation and ensuring proper nutrient absorption.

10. Heart

Heart meat is one of the richest natural sources of Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), a vital antioxidant that plays a key role in cellular energy production and cardiovascular health.

“It (CoQ10) helps protect the heart from inflammation, may decrease risk of cancer, improves functioning of the immune system, and helps prevent cognitive dysfunction.”

Morgan, J., DVM, & Grant, H. (2017). Yin & yang nutrition for dogs: Maximizing health with whole foods, not drugs. (P.238) Dr. Judy Morgan, LLC.¹¹ 

Feeding heart meat regularly can help maintain a healthy heart, improve endurance, and support overall vitality in your Shih Tzu.

Beyond heart health, CoQ10 also contributes to brain function and cognitive longevity, helping to protect against age-related decline.

It’s an excellent supplement for senior dogs, but also beneficial for younger dogs to prevent deficiencies early on.

And If You Are Interested in Feeding A Fresh Food Diet for Your Shih Tzu…

Feeding human foods for Shih Tzu is definitely a good beginning!

I believe feeding a fresh food diet is an investment in your Shih Tzu’s health and longevity.

To make it easier, I’ve compiled everything I’ve learned—including recipes, natural remedies, and tips—into my 52-page ebook, Holistic Shih Tzu Care. Click here to get your copy now!