Our Little Snowy Gem: Home to a 5-month-old Shih Tzu, we're on a quest to keep this little rascal healthy and happy. But, oh boy, does he love his food! The question is, should we go for kibble or homemade meals?

Understanding Shih Tzu's Diet

Age	Diet Type	Nutritional Needs
5 Months	Both commercial and homemade	High-quality proteins, vitamins, and minerals
Over 1 Year	Transition to adult food	Adjusted protein and fat levels, controlled calories

Now, let's dive into the nitty-gritty of what's best for our tiny, fluffy, and ever-hungry companion.

Commercial Dog Food: The Quick Fix

Commercial dog food, especially formulated for puppies, is a convenient choice. It's often balanced with all the nutrients a growing Shih Tzu needs. However, there are a few things to consider:

• Quality Matters: Not all kibble is created equal. Opt for high-quality, well-researched brands.
• Too Much of a Good Thing: Overfeeding can lead to obesity, so portion control is key.
• Ingredients: Make sure the top ingredients are real meat, not meat by-products.

Homemade Meals: The Personal Touch

For some pet parents, the thought of making homemade food for their furry friend is irresistible. It's like cooking for a tiny human, minus the tantrums. Here's how to go about it:

• Balance is Key: Ensure your homemade meals have a good balance of proteins, carbs, and fats.
• Safe for Pups: Cook meats thoroughly, and avoid foods like onions, garlic, grapes, and chocolate that can be toxic to dogs.
• Supplements Needed: Consider adding vitamins and minerals if you're not sure you're covering all nutritional bases.

A Bit of Everything, Please

Our Shih Tzu, like many, is a picky eater. So, here's what we've learned:

1. Varied Diet: We mix and match kibble and homemade food for variety and nutritional balance.
2. Healthy Treats: We use carrots, green beans, and small pieces of meat as treats to keep things interesting and healthy.
3. Special Occasions: We occasionally treat our Shih Tzu to a little cooked liver or a yolk from a pastured egg for a boost of nutrients.

Portion Control and Feeding Schedule

Portion size and frequency of feeding can vary depending on the dog's size, age, and activity level. Here's what we've found works for our Shih Tzu:

• Twice a Day: We feed our Shih Tzu twice a day, splitting the portions into two smaller meals to avoid overeating.
• Monitor Intake: Always keep an eye on your dog's weight and adjust portions accordingly.
• Supplemental Feeding: We sometimes offer a small amount of yogurt or cottage cheese to help with digestion.

Remember, It's All About Love

In the end, what matters most is that our Shih Tzu is happy and healthy. Whether you choose commercial dog food or homemade meals, it's the love and care you put into their diet that truly matters.

So, here's to our little Snowy Gem, happy eating, and many more years of cuddles and cuddles!