A handful of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins can be safely added alongside a Shih Tzu’s regular, complete-and-balanced dog food. They should stay a small part of the diet, not a replacement for it.
Alternative food for a Shih Tzu means whole foods added on top of their regular diet, not a replacement for it. Commercial dog food that’s labeled “complete and balanced” already covers a dog’s core nutritional needs, so anything extra is really about variety, enrichment, and the occasional treat rather than filling a nutritional gap.
Below are the foods that come up most often as safe additions for Shih Tzus, based on veterinary and AKC guidance, along with why each one is worth considering and where the limits are.
Best Alternative Foods for a Shih Tzu
Small breeds like Shih Tzus are more prone to urinary tract issues, and the AKC notes cranberries may support urinary health in dogs. Feed only plain, unsweetened cranberries in small amounts: a veterinarian quoted by the AKC warns that large amounts can contribute to bladder stones.
The AKC confirms cooked salmon is a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids for dogs, supporting a healthy coat and skin. Salmon must always be fully cooked and boneless; raw salmon can carry a parasite that is dangerous for dogs.
The AKC notes apples are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and antioxidants for dogs. The seeds contain a small amount of cyanide-producing compounds and the core is a choking hazard, so both must be removed before serving.
The AKC confirms dogs can eat broccoli cooked or raw, without seasoning or oil. It should be kept to very small quantities, since the florets contain isothiocyanates that can cause gastric irritation in larger amounts.
Plain, cooked green beans and peas are a low-calorie, high-fiber option that can help a Shih Tzu feel full without adding many calories, which matters for a breed prone to weight gain. Avoid canned versions with added salt.
Hepper’s veterinary review recommends lean or extra-lean ground beef (90% lean or higher), fully cooked with no seasoning, salt, onion, or garlic. It’s a good source of protein and B vitamins, but should stay a small addition rather than the core of the diet.
The AKC notes soy allergies are relatively common compared to some other proteins, though beef, chicken, and lamb still cause more allergic reactions overall. Soy sauce specifically should never be given, since its sodium content is unsafe for dogs.
Plain celery, kale, summer squash, and most seedless fruits and berries are generally safe additions in small amounts. As with anything new, introduce one food at a time and watch for any digestive upset.
A note specific to Shih Tzus
Shih Tzus are a small toy breed prone to weight gain, so any alternative foods need to be factored into their daily calorie count rather than added on top of a full portion of kibble. Treats and extras, including these foods, should stay under about 10% of total daily calories, with the rest coming from a complete and balanced dog food.
Always introduce new food slowly and one at a time. If a Shih Tzu is on medication, has a diagnosed food allergy, or has a condition like pancreatitis or kidney disease, check with a veterinarian before adding anything new, including the foods above.
Frequently Asked Questions
Plain, cooked lean proteins like chicken or salmon, alongside small amounts of dog-safe vegetables like green beans or carrots, are generally considered the best fresh additions. They should supplement, not replace, a complete and balanced commercial dog food unless a veterinary nutritionist has designed a full home-cooked diet for the dog specifically.
Yes. Cooked, plain eggs are a complete protein source and generally safe for Shih Tzus in moderation. For the full breakdown on portions and preparation, see our complete guide to Shih Tzus and eggs.
In small amounts, plain milk is not toxic, but the AKC notes that many dogs are lactose intolerant and can develop diarrhea or an upset stomach from dairy. If a Shih Tzu tolerates dairy well, small amounts of plain milk or yogurt are fine occasionally; if not, it’s best avoided entirely.
A spoonful of plain cooked chicken, a few pieces of steamed green beans, or a small amount of plain pumpkin puree are all common, vet-friendly mix-ins that add flavor and moisture without unbalancing the diet. Keep portions small so the extras stay within that 10% treat allowance.
Plain, cooked rice is commonly used as a bland, easy-to-digest option, particularly for dogs recovering from an upset stomach. See our full guide on Shih Tzus and rice for portions and preparation.
The Bottom Line
Fresh, whole-food additions like cranberries, salmon, apple, broccoli, green beans, and lean ground beef can be a genuinely good way to add variety to a Shih Tzu’s diet, as long as they’re prepared plain and kept to small portions. They’re a complement to a complete and balanced dog food, not a substitute for one.
Cooper still gets his regular kibble every day. The extras are just that: extras, offered a few times a week to keep mealtimes interesting without throwing off his calorie count. 🐾
Sources & References
- American Kennel Club: Can Dogs Eat Cranberries?
- American Kennel Club: Can Dogs Eat Salmon?
- American Kennel Club: Can Dogs Eat Apples?
- American Kennel Club: Can Dogs Eat Broccoli?
- Hepper: Can Dogs Eat Ground Beef? (Vet-Approved)
- American Kennel Club: Soy in Dog Food
- American Kennel Club: Can Dogs Drink Milk?
