Do you ever look at your tiny Shih Tzu and wonder if their food truly meets their unique needs? These adorable, fluffy companions come with special dietary considerations. They have small mouths, sensitive stomachs, and a tendency toward certain health issues. Choosing the perfect kibble can feel like navigating a maze filled with confusing labels and endless brands. It’s easy to worry if you are giving your beloved pet the very best nutrition for a long, happy life.
We understand this struggle. Finding food that prevents tummy troubles, supports their luxurious coat, and keeps their energy up can be tough. That is why we dove deep into the world of Shih Tzu nutrition. By the end of this guide, you will learn exactly what ingredients matter most. You will discover the best food types tailored for your small friend’s bite size and digestive system. Get ready to ditch the confusion and confidently pick the ideal meal for your pampered pup!
Top Dog Food For Shih Tzu Recommendations
- FORMULATED FOR PUREBRED SHIH TZUS: Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Dry Dog Food is designed to meet the nutritional needs of purebred Shih Tzus 10 months and older
- SPECIALIZED KIBBLE: Unique kibble shape is designed for a small breed’s short muzzle and underbite
- SKIN SUPPORT: Promotes healthy skin and coat with an exclusive complex of nutrients including EPA, DHA, and vitamin A
- COAT HEALTH: A combination of omega-3 fatty acids, omega-6 fatty acids, and biotin maintains a healthy coat
- OPTIMAL STOOL: Highly digestible proteins, precise fiber content, and high-quality carbohydrate sources help reduce amount of stools and stool odor
- FORMULATED FOR PUREBRED SHIH TZUS: Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Wet Dog Food is designed to meet the nutritional needs of purebred Shih Tzus 10 months and older
- TASTY LOAF IN SAUCE: Adult dog food featuring Loaf in Sauce for a paté that appeals to a Shih Tzu’s appetite and is easy for them to eat
- SKIN SUPPORT: Supports skin health and promotes a healthy coat with an exclusive complex of nutrients including EPA, DHA, and vitamin A
- HEART HEALTH: Targeted levels of sodium, taurine, and L-carnitine for healthy cardiac function promote heart health
- COMPLETE AND BALANCED: Canned dog food can be fed alone or mixed with Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Dry Dog Food
- Made with highly digestible ingredients that are easy on your small dog's stomach
- Provides high quality protein to maintain lean muscle in small breed dogs
- Omega-6s and vitamin E for beautiful skin & coat
- Made in the USA with global ingredients you can trust
- Hill's Pet Nutrition is the US Veterinarians' #1 recommended brand
- FORMULATED FOR PUREBRED SHIH TZUS: Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Dry Dog Food is designed to meet the nutritional needs of purebred Shih Tzus 10 months and older
- SPECIALIZED KIBBLE: Unique kibble shape is designed for a small breed’s short muzzle and underbite
- SKIN SUPPORT: Promotes healthy skin and coat with an exclusive complex of nutrients including EPA, DHA, and vitamin A
- COAT HEALTH: A combination of omega-3 fatty acids, omega-6 fatty acids, and biotin maintains a healthy coat
- OPTIMAL STOOL: Highly digestible proteins, precise fiber content, and high-quality carbohydrate sources help reduce amount of stools and stool odor
- Designed for Small Breeds: This dry dog food recipe is made with small pieces for small mouths, meeting the unique needs of your small breed dog
- Great Tasting: Pedigree Complete Nutrition Adult Small Dog Dry Dog Food, Grilled Steak and Vegetable Flavor is a great-tasting recipe with whole grains, protein, and accents of vegetables
- Quality Nutrition: This dry dog food recipe is made with 36 vitamins, minerals, and amino acids to support your dog’s health and vitality
- Supports Healthy Skin and Coat: Pedigree Complete Nutrition Adult Small Dog Dry Dog Food, Grilled Steak and Vegetable Flavor is enriched with Omega 6 Fatty Acid and Zinc to help nourish a healthy skin and coat
- SMALL BREED DOG FOOD:Contains one (1) 4-pound bag of Nature's Recipe grain free dry dog food for small breed adult dogs
- NATURAL DOG FOOD: Natural dog food with added vitamins, minerals and nutrients for maintenance of adult dogs
- CHICKEN DOG FOOD: Real chicken is the number one ingredient in this small breed dog food
- HEALTHY DIGESTION: Made with nutrient-dense carbohydrate sources like sweet potato and pumpkin instead of added corn or wheat
- NO ARTIFICIAL FLAVORS OR PRESERVATIVES: Dog food with no added corn, wheat or soy protein, no poultry by-product meal and no artificial flavors or preservatives
- REAL CHICKEN FIRST: This Blue Buffalo dry dog food is made with real, high quality chicken as the #1 ingredient
- HIGH QUALITY NATURAL FOOD: BLUE's natural dry dog food is made with premium ingredients and contains no chicken or poultry by-products, corn, wheat or soy
- SUPPORTS higher SMALL BREED ENERGY LEVELS: Contains essential proteins and carbs to support higher energy requirements of small breed dogs
- CONTAINS IMMUNITY-BOOSTING LIFESOURCE BITS: LifeSource Bits contain a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals to support immune system health, life stage needs and a healthy oxidative balance
- Contains: One (1) 5-lb trial-size bag of BLUE Life Protection Formula Adult Small Breed Chicken and Brown Rice Flavor
- FORMULATED FOR PUREBRED SHIH TZUS: Royal Canin Shih Tzu Puppy Dry Dog Food is designed to meet the nutritional needs of purebred Shih Tzus 8 weeks to 10 months old
- SPECIALIZED KIBBLE: Unique kibble shape is designed for a Shih Tzu’s short muzzle and underbite
- HEALTHY DEVELOPMENT: Helps protect puppy development of their immune system and natural defenses with an exclusive complex of antioxidants including vitamin E
- SKIN AND COAT: Promotes healthy skin and maintains a Shih Tzu’s growing, long coat with specific nutrients
- OPTIMAL STOOL: High-quality proteins and prebiotics for your small breed’s digestive health helps reduce amount of stools and stool odor
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Finding the Best Food for Your Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are small, charming dogs with big personalities. They also have specific nutritional needs. Choosing the right food keeps their long, beautiful coats healthy and their tummies happy. This guide helps you pick the best food for your furry friend.
1. Key Features to Look For in Shih Tzu Food
Not all dog foods are created equal, especially for small breeds like the Shih Tzu. Look for these important features:
- Small Kibble Size: Shih Tzus have short muzzles and small mouths. Large kibbles are hard for them to chew. Small, easy-to-chew kibble prevents choking and helps keep their teeth clean.
- Coat and Skin Support: Their long hair needs special care. Look for foods rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids. These ingredients make their coat shiny and skin healthy.
- Digestive Health: Small breeds can sometimes have sensitive stomachs. Prebiotics and probiotics help keep their digestion smooth.
- Appropriate Calorie Density: Shih Tzus are small but very active indoors. The food should have enough energy but not too many calories, as obesity is a risk for small dogs.
2. Important Ingredients: What Goes In Matters
The ingredients list tells the real story of the food’s quality. Always check the first few items.
High-Quality Protein Sources
The first ingredient should be a named meat source. Good choices include deboned chicken, lamb, salmon, or beef. Protein builds strong muscles. Avoid foods where the first ingredient is a grain or rendered fat.
Healthy Fats and Carbohydrates
Fats provide energy and help absorb vitamins. Look for sources like fish oil or flaxseed. For carbohydrates, sweet potatoes, brown rice, or barley offer steady energy. Whole grains are better than fillers like corn or wheat if your dog tolerates them well.
Vitamins and Antioxidants
These boost the immune system. Ingredients like carrots, spinach, blueberries, and Vitamin E are excellent additions.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Food Quality
The quality of the food directly affects your Shih Tzu’s well-being.
Quality Boosters:
- Named Meat Meals: Ingredients like “Chicken Meal” are concentrated protein sources and are generally high quality.
- Natural Preservatives: Foods preserved naturally (like with Vitamin E or rosemary extract) are preferred over artificial preservatives like BHA or BHT.
- Whole Food Inclusion: Seeing actual vegetables and fruits listed shows the manufacturer uses real, nutritious components.
Quality Reducers (What to Avoid):
- By-products and Generic Meats: Terms like “Meat By-Product” or “Animal Digest” are vague. They tell you little about the actual source of the protein.
- Artificial Colors and Flavors: These are unnecessary additions. Your dog relies on smell and taste, not bright colors.
- Excessive Fillers: Too much corn or wheat gluten can offer little nutritional value for your small dog.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
How does the food perform in real life?
Puppy vs. Adult Needs
A Shih Tzu puppy needs more calories and specific ratios of calcium and phosphorus for fast growth. Always select food labeled specifically for “Puppies” or “All Life Stages.” Adult food is best once they reach about 10-12 months old.
Transitioning Food
When you switch brands, do it slowly. Mix a small amount of the new food with the old food over seven to ten days. This gentle transition prevents digestive upset, which is common in sensitive breeds.
Dental Health Use Case
Shih Tzus are prone to dental disease because their small mouths get crowded. Some specialized foods have textures or shapes designed to scrape plaque off teeth as the dog chews. If your dog’s breath is bad, consider looking for a veterinary dental diet.
Shih Tzu Food FAQs
Q: How much should I feed my Shih Tzu daily?
A: Feeding amounts vary based on the food’s calorie count and your dog’s activity level. Always check the feeding chart on the specific bag you purchase. Most small dogs eat between 1/4 cup to 1/2 cup total per day, split into two meals.
Q: Is wet food better than dry kibble for Shih Tzus?
A: Dry kibble is generally better for dental health because the crunching action cleans teeth slightly. However, wet food can be great for older dogs or those with very few teeth. Many owners mix a little wet food with kibble for added flavor.
Q: What are the main signs that my Shih Tzu food is not working?
A: Signs include dull, brittle fur, excessive shedding, chronic itching, loose stools, or constant hunger despite eating enough calories.
Q: Should I feed my Shih Tzu grain-free food?
A: Grain-free diets are only necessary if your dog has a diagnosed grain allergy, which is rare. For most dogs, high-quality grains are a safe and healthy energy source.
Q: What is the best protein source for a Shih Tzu?
A: Chicken, turkey, and salmon are excellent, highly digestible protein sources for this breed. If your dog has allergies, your vet might suggest novel proteins like duck or venison.
Q: Do Shih Tzus need special food for tear staining?
A: While no food magically stops tear stains, diets high in Omega fatty acids can improve skin and coat health, sometimes reducing inflammation that contributes to staining. Always check with your vet first.
Q: When should I switch from puppy food to adult food?
A: Most Shih Tzus are fully grown between 10 and 12 months old. At this time, you should transition them slowly to a high-quality adult maintenance formula.
Q: Is it okay to feed my Shih Tzu human food scraps?
A: Occasional, safe scraps like plain cooked chicken are fine, but human food should never make up more than 10% of their diet. Too much table food can cause weight gain and digestive upset.
Q: What is the ideal fat percentage for Shih Tzu food?
A: For maintenance, most quality Shih Tzu foods contain around 12% to 18% crude fat. Active puppies might need slightly higher levels.
Q: Why is my Shih Tzu suddenly not eating their food?
A: A sudden refusal to eat can signal illness, stress, or dental pain. If the behavior lasts more than a day, or if it is accompanied by other symptoms, you must contact your veterinarian immediately.