Mak’s Favorite Treats and How to Make Them

Favorite Shih Tzu Treats and How to Make Them
Delicious, Healthy Recipes Your Pup Will Love

If you’re a Shih Tzu parent, you already know that these adorable dogs are food-motivated and love a tasty snack. While there are many store-bought options, nothing beats a homemade treat made with love and natural ingredients. Not only can you control what goes into your pup’s snacks, but homemade treats are often healthier and safer for small breeds like the Shih Tzu.

Here are some of their favorite flavors, plus a few simple treat recipes you can whip up at home.

Why Homemade Treats?

Shih Tzus have sensitive stomachs and can be prone to food allergies or weight gain. Making treats at home gives you full control over ingredients—so you can skip the artificial colors, preservatives, and fillers often found in commercial treats. Focus on whole, natural ingredients like lean meats, pumpkin, oats, and peanut butter (make sure it’s xylitol-free!).

🦴 Favorite Flavors for Shih Tzus

Most Shih Tzus go wild for:

• Peanut Butter

• Pumpkin

• Sweet Potato

• Chicken or Turkey

• Carrots

• Banana

• Oats

These ingredients are not only tasty but also support digestion, coat health, and energy.

🍪 3 Easy Homemade Treat Recipes

1. Peanut Butter & Pumpkin Bites

These chewy, flavorful treats are full of fiber and healthy fat—great for your pup’s digestion and coat.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (no xylitol)

• 1 cup canned pumpkin (unsweetened)

• 1 3/4 cups whole wheat flour (or oat flour for gluten-free)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Mix all ingredients into a dough.

3. Roll out and cut into small shapes using cookie cutters.

4. Bake for 15–20 minutes.

5. Let cool and store in an airtight container for up to a week.

Tip: Make the cookies small enough for tiny mouths.

2. Frozen Banana & Yogurt Pup Pops

A perfect summer treat or reward after playtime!

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe banana

• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt

• 1 tablespoon peanut butter

Instructions:

1. Blend all ingredients until smooth.

2. Pour into silicone molds or ice cube trays.

3. Freeze for 2–3 hours.

4. Pop out and serve one at a time!

Cool, creamy, and packed with healthy nutrients.

3. Chicken & Carrot Mini Bites

A savory treat loaded with protein and a little crunch.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded

• 1/2 cup grated carrots

• 1 egg

• 1/2 cup oat flour

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Mix all ingredients into a thick batter.

3. Spoon small portions onto a parchment-lined baking tray.

4. Flatten slightly and bake for 20 minutes.

5. Cool before serving. Store in the fridge for up to 5 days.

These also freeze well for future snack sessions!

🐶 Treat Tips for Shih Tzus

• Size Matters: Shih Tzus have small mouths and can struggle with large or hard treats. Always cut or bake them into small pieces.

• Moderation is Key: Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake.

• Watch for Allergies: Introduce new ingredients one at a time and monitor for itching, stomach upset, or unusual behavior.

Final Thoughts

Making your own treats is a fun and rewarding way to bond with your Shih Tzu—and it ensures you’re giving them the healthiest options possible. With just a few ingredients and a little time in the kitchen, you can create snacks your furry friend will beg for again and again.

Try out a few recipes and see which ones become your dog’s new favorites. (Just don’t be surprised if they start sitting by the oven every time you bake!)