Homemade Dog Food Recipe for Shih Tzus Beef & Carrot Puree for Small Mouths

Zack Keithy, our author, is a certified veterinarian technician (UC Blue Ash) for over 6 years (contact him here). The articles written here are based on his expertise and experience, combined with a review by our expert vet reviewers including Dr M. Tarantino. Learn more about us here.

Your Shih Tzu nibbles on large kibble pieces, struggling with a tiny mouth.

Meals become a struggle or lead to stomach issues.

Say goodbye to the frustration!

You can make your own soft, bite-sized homemade dog food that’s tasty, easy to digest, and full of flavor. This mealtime magic will have your picky pup eating happily every time.

Recipe Overview

This homemade beef and carrot puree recipe is specially designed for Shih Tzus and other small breeds with sensitive mouths. It’s easy to digest, packed with flavor, and provides balanced nutrition for happy, healthy pups.

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 40 minutes
• Serving size: Varies based on dog’s needs

Ingredeints

• 1 pound lean ground beef (estimated cost: $4.50)
• 2 cups chopped carrots (estimated cost: $1.00)
• 1/2 cup cooked white rice (estimated cost: $0.20)
• 1/4 cup unsalted beef broth (estimated cost: $0.30)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (estimated cost: $0.15)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley (optional, for freshness, estimated cost: $0.10)
• 1/4 teaspoon canine multivitamin supplement (optional, but recommended for balance, estimated cost: $0.50)
• Substitutions: Ground turkey can be used instead of ground beef. Sweet potatoes can replace carrots for a different nutrient profile.
• Total Estimated Cost: $6.75

Instructions

• 1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. Drain off any excess fat.
• 2. Add the chopped carrots and unsalted beef broth to the pot.
• 3. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are very tender.
• 4. Stir in the cooked white rice and olive oil. Cook for another 5 minutes.
• 5. Remove from heat. Let it cool slightly.
• 6. Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, puree the mixture until it reaches a smooth consistency. For very small puppies or dogs with extreme dental issues, you might want to blend it even finer.
• 7. Stir in the dried parsley and canine multivitamin supplement, if using.
• 8. Allow the food to cool completely before serving.

Feeding Guidelines

• For adult Shih Tzus (around 10-15 lbs): Start with 1/2 cup per meal, twice a day.
• For puppies: Feed smaller, more frequent meals, about 1/4 cup per meal, 3-4 times a day. Adjust based on their growth and energy levels.
• For active dogs: You may need to increase the portion size slightly.
• For less active dogs or those needing to lose weight: Reduce portion sizes and consult your vet.
• Always monitor your dog’s weight and adjust as needed.
• It’s a good idea to talk to your veterinarian before making any big changes to your dog’s diet, especially if they have any health conditions. They can help you figure out the exact amount your dog needs.

Nutritional Benefits

• Protein from the beef is crucial for muscle development and repair, providing essential amino acids.
• Carrots are a great source of beta-carotene, which the body converts to Vitamin A, vital for vision and skin health. They also offer fiber for digestion.
• White rice provides easily digestible carbohydrates for energy.
• Olive oil offers healthy fats, including Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, which support skin and coat health.
• Parsley can help freshen breath and contains antioxidants.
• A good canine multivitamin ensures all essential vitamins and minerals are covered for a truly balanced diet.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the puree in ice cube trays or small containers. Once frozen, transfer cubes to a freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
• Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight or gently warm them on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Serve the food at room temperature or slightly warmed. You can also mix it with a small amount of your dog’s regular kibble to make it more appealing.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I make this recipe in a larger batch?

Yes, you can absolutely double or triple the recipe. Just be sure to store it properly in the refrigerator or freezer to maintain freshness.

My Shih Tzu is a picky eater. Will they like this?

This recipe is designed to be very palatable due to the lean beef and naturally sweet carrots. The smooth texture is also great for small mouths. Most small dogs find it very appealing.

What if my dog has allergies?

This recipe uses common ingredients. If your dog has specific allergies, you can explore substitutions. For example, if beef is an issue, try turkey or lamb. If carrots cause problems, cooked sweet potato is a good alternative. Always introduce new ingredients slowly.

Do I really need to add a multivitamin?

While the ingredients provide a good base, achieving a perfectly balanced diet with homemade food can be tricky. A canine multivitamin supplement is highly recommended to ensure your dog receives all the essential vitamins and minerals they need for optimal health, especially for long-term feeding.

How do I transition my dog to this homemade food?

It’s best to transition slowly. Start by mixing a small amount of the homemade food with their current food. Gradually increase the proportion of homemade food and decrease their old food over a week to 10 days. This helps prevent digestive upset.

Wrapping Up

This easy beef and carrot puree is a healthy, delicious option perfect for your small breed dog. Give it a try and see your pup wag their tail!