Warming Homemade Food for Shih Tzu (with Recipe) 2025
As the chilly winter months set in, I like to pamper my Shih Tzu with a warming homemade meal to keep him warm, healthy, and happy.
This Winter Comfort Meal is one of Billy’s favorites.
This recipe is inspired by one in Dr. Judy Morgan’s book, Yin & Yang Nutrition for Dogs1, which beautifully explains how to use food to improve your pet’s overall health.
I like feeding Billy this recipe during cold weather or when he’s not feeling his best. He always enjoys it. (And let me tell you, I taste-tested it. It’s absolutely yummy!)
Disclaimer: The recipe I provide here is NOT a “complete and balanced” meal according to AAFCO standards. I believe that complete and balanced nutrition happens over time, not in every bowl2. Neither do I suggest feeding this recipe every day—it is designed for occasional use to add variety and warmth to your dog’s diet.
A Simple Warming Meal I Feed My Shih Tzu In Winter
Here’s a very simple recipe I occasionally feed Billy in Winter:
Ingredients:
- 75g Ground Chicken Breast (Or ground turkey breast if your dog is sensitive to chicken)
- 45g Pumpkin
- 10g Broccoli
- 8g Shiitake Mushroom
- 1/8 tsp Ginger
- 1/8 tsp Kelp
- 1/4 tsp Bone Meal (if you are not feeding any raw meaty bone)
- a pinch of pink salt
- a little MCT oil
How I Prepare My Shih Tzu Food
STEP 1: Mince the meat (if you have not)
STEP 2: Cook the Chicken or Turkey:
In a pan over medium heat, gently cook the chicken (or turkey if your dog is sensitive to chicken) with a small amount of MCT oil.
- You do not want to over cook it, as long as it is seared, stop further cooking.
STEP 3: Prepare the Vegetables & Mushrooms:
- Boil the pumpkin until it is soft.
Steam the rest of the vegetables: broccoli, ginger, and shiitake mushroom until soft. Once cooked, further chop them finely for easier digestion.
STEP 4: Add Nutrients & Supplements:
Mix all the cooked ingredients together.
And then add supplements: kelp, bone meal (if not feeding a raw meaty bone), and a pinch of pink salt. Stir everything together.
STEP 5: Serve Warm or Store for Later:
Serve the meal warm and fresh!
If preparing in advance, store portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for future use.
BONUS: How I Prepare 5 Days of Homemade Food for Shih Tzu in 30 mins
Energetically Warming Food in TCVM
In TCVM, winter is considered a Yin-dominant season, characterized by cold and dampness.
Like us humans, we also seek for warming food in winter.
Including warming foods3 in your Shih Tzu’s diet can help them feel overall comfortable during winter.
Some warming food that I feed more in cold months:
- Warming proteins: Chicken, lamb, salmon
Pumpkin: Neutral in energy. Very good for immune and digestive health.
Ginger: A warming spice that improves circulation, supports digestion and helps dispel cold from the body.
Sweet Potato & Carrot: These vegetables such as carrots are great sources of fiber, carbohydrates, and vitamins that promote digestive health and energy.
Coconut Oil: A healthy fat source that helps improve Billy’s skin and coat.
Bonus: Download FREE Shih Tzu Herbal Tea Handbook ➔
How Much Homemade Food For Shih Tzu?
For Billy, I calculate his portions based on about 3% of his body weight per day4, split into two meals.
This ensures he’s getting just the right amount of nutrients without overfeeding.
If you’re unsure about your dog’s portion sizes, you can use our Dog Calorie Calculator to find out how many calories your dog needs to maintain health.
Is This Homemade Shih Tzu Food Recipe Vet Approved?
No, it is not.
This recipe I share is a warming meal that I occasionally feed Billy in Winter.
Every Shih Tzu has unique needs and health conditions.
If your Shih Tzu is not completely healthy or you are looking for a recipe that addresses every single nutrient in one bowl, it is always best to consult with your holistic vet.
Bottom Line
Would you like to try this recipe for your Shih Tzu? Let me know how your Shih Tzu enjoys it!
If you’re looking to dive deeper into holistic care and nutrition for your Shih Tzu, check out my ebook, Holistic Shih Tzu Care.
In this 34-page guide, I share step-by-step advice on creating balanced, wholesome meals, natural remedies for common health issues, and tips to help your dog thrive.
