Is your tiny Shih Tzu puppy a picky eater? Or maybe you worry if their small tummy gets all the right nutrients? Bringing home a fluffy Shih Tzu puppy is exciting, but figuring out what to feed them can feel overwhelming. These little dogs have unique needs. Their small mouths and fast-growing bodies require special food.
Many owners struggle to find a kibble that supports healthy growth without upsetting their sensitive stomachs. You want the best for your new best friend, but the bags on the shelf all promise different things! It is tough to know which ingredients truly matter for a happy, healthy, little companion.
Don’t stress! This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what makes the best food for your Shih Tzu puppy. You will learn about the perfect bite size, essential nutrients, and how to spot great ingredients. Get ready to confidently choose a food that keeps your puppy thriving.
Top Dog Food For Shih Tzu Puppy Recommendations
- 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
- REAL MEAT FIRST: Chicken is the #1 ingredient in this High-Protein Blue Buffalo puppy food
- ESSENTIAL NUTRITION FOR PUPPIES: This puppy dog food supports cognitive development with DHA, and it provides energy for growth and play
- IMMUNE SYSTEM SUPPORT: High protein dry dog food that contains exclusive, antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits
- HEALTHY, WHOLESOME INGREDIENTS: This Blue Buffalo dog food is made with no chicken (or poultry) by-product meals and no corn, wheat, or soy
- Contains: One (1) 4-lb bag of Baby BLUE Healthy Growth Small Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Oatmeal Recipe
- 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
- DHA from fish oil to support healthy brain and eye development
- High quality protein to fuel growing muscles and active play
- Balanced minerals to support growing bones and teeth
- Made in the USA with global ingredients you can trust
- #1 Veterinarian Recommended
- 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
- SPECIALLY FORMULATED FOR PUPPIES: BLUE Life Protection Formula Puppy Food contains DHA and ARA (important fatty acids found in mother’s milk) to support cognitive function and retinal health
- 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 Natural Puppy Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Brown Rice
- 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
- 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
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Food for Your Shih Tzu Puppy
Bringing home a Shih Tzu puppy is exciting! These little dogs need special food to grow up strong and healthy. This guide helps you pick the perfect kibble for your tiny friend.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, look for specific things on the food bag. These features help your puppy thrive.
1. Small Kibble Size
- Shih Tzu puppies have tiny mouths and small teeth.
- Small kibble pieces are easier for them to chew and swallow.
- Large pieces can be a choking hazard.
2. Puppy Formula
- Puppy food has more calories, protein, and fat than adult food.
- This extra nutrition supports their fast growth and high energy levels.
- Always choose food specifically labeled for “Puppies” or “All Life Stages.”
3. Breed-Specific Needs
- Some high-quality foods consider the Shih Tzu’s unique needs.
- These formulas often include ingredients to support their long, beautiful coats and sensitive skin.
Important Ingredients Matter Most
The ingredients list tells you what your puppy is actually eating. Good food starts with good materials.
Top Ingredients to Seek Out:
- Named Meat Source First: The first ingredient should be a high-quality protein like “Chicken,” “Salmon,” or “Lamb.” Avoid foods where the first ingredient is just “Meat By-products.”
- Healthy Fats: Look for Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids (like fish oil). These keep their skin healthy and their coat shiny.
- Digestible Carbohydrates: Good sources include brown rice, sweet potatoes, or barley. These give sustained energy.
Ingredients to Limit or Avoid:
- Artificial Colors and Preservatives: Skip foods with BHA, BHT, or artificial dyes. They offer no nutritional value.
- Excessive Fillers: Too much corn or wheat can sometimes cause digestive upset in sensitive puppies.
Factors That Change Food Quality
Not all dog foods are created equal. Quality is determined by how the food is processed and what it promises.
What Improves Quality?
- AAFCO Statement: Make sure the bag includes a statement from the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). This confirms the food meets basic nutritional standards for puppies.
- Whole Food Inclusion: Foods that include real fruits and vegetables usually offer better vitamins and antioxidants.
What Reduces Quality?
- Vague Labeling: If the protein source is listed vaguely (like “Poultry Meal” instead of “Chicken Meal”), the quality might be lower.
- Heat Processing: Heavy processing can destroy some natural vitamins. Look for foods that try to preserve nutrients after cooking.
User Experience and Use Cases
How does the food fit into your daily life with your Shih Tzu?
Digestive Sensitivity:
Shih Tzus are prone to sensitive stomachs. If you switch foods, watch your puppy closely for a week. Vomiting or soft stools mean you need to switch back or try a different sensitive-stomach formula.
Coat Maintenance:
Since Shih Tzus have long hair, their diet directly impacts shedding and coat health. A high-quality food rich in healthy fats often means less scratching and fewer mats.
Feeding Schedule:
Puppies need to eat three times a day until they are about six months old. The food you choose should be easy to measure for these frequent, smaller meals. Dry kibble is often best for dental health, but you can slightly moisten it with warm water for very young puppies.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Shih Tzu Puppy Food
Q: How much food should I feed my Shih Tzu puppy daily?
A: This depends on the specific food brand and your puppy’s weight. Always check the feeding chart on the back of the bag and divide the total daily amount into three equal meals.
Q: When can I switch my Shih Tzu puppy to adult food?
A: Most small breeds like the Shih Tzu transition to adult food between 9 and 12 months old. Ask your veterinarian for the best timing for your dog.
Q: Is grain-free food better for my Shih Tzu puppy?
A: Not necessarily. Grain-free is only necessary if your puppy has a diagnosed grain allergy. Many high-quality grains provide excellent, easily digestible energy.
Q: Why does my puppy’s poop look soft after eating this new food?
A: A sudden change in diet often causes loose stools. When switching brands, mix the new food with the old food gradually over 7 to 10 days until you are feeding 100% of the new food.
Q: What is the ideal protein percentage for their food?
A: Look for puppy formulas that contain at least 25% to 30% crude protein for healthy muscle development.
Q: Should I feed wet food or dry kibble?
A: Dry kibble is usually better because it helps clean their teeth. However, you can mix a small amount of wet food on top to encourage picky eaters.
Q: How important is the kibble size for this breed?
A: It is very important! Shih Tzus need small, bite-sized kibble because their jaws and mouths are small. This prevents choking.
Q: What ingredients help with their long hair?
A: Ingredients rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, like salmon oil or flaxseed, greatly support a healthy, shiny coat.
Q: How often should I measure the food?
A: You should measure the food every single time you serve it. Scoops vary, and precise measuring prevents overfeeding, which can lead to weight problems later.
Q: Can I feed my Shih Tzu puppy food meant for large breeds?
A: No. Large-breed puppy foods are designed to slow bone growth. Shih Tzus are small breeds and need the higher calorie and nutrient density found only in small-breed puppy formulas.