Do you ever look at your tiny Shih Tzu and wonder if they are getting the absolute best fuel for their little bodies? These fluffy, charming companions have unique needs, and what works for a big Labrador might not work for your small friend. Choosing the right food can feel like a guessing game. You worry about picky eating, sensitive stomachs, and keeping that beautiful coat shiny. It’s tough when every bag promises miracles!
Finding food that supports their delicate digestion and meets their energy demands is crucial for a happy, long life. That’s why we dove deep into the world of Shih Tzu nutrition. By the end of this guide, you will know exactly what ingredients to look for—and which ones to avoid. We will break down the best kibble sizes, protein sources, and feeding schedules tailored just for them.
Get ready to transform mealtime from a source of stress into a moment of pure satisfaction for both you and your beloved Shih Tzu. Let’s find the perfect bowl!
Top Dog Food For Shih Tzus 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 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
- 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 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
- 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
- REAL CHICKEN FIRST: Blue Buffalo's premium dog food features high quality deboned chicken as the primary ingredient; brown rice, cranberries and vegetables for a balanced diet; and high quality protein that promotes strong muscles
- 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
- THE PERFECT BALANCE OF FLAVOR AND NUTRITION: Formulated with essential proteins and carbs for energy needs and Omega-3 & 6 fatty acids to promote healthy skin and coat
- 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-lbs bag of BLUE Life Protection Formula Natural Chicken and Brown Rice Flavor
- 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
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Shih Tzu Dog Food
Shih Tzus are small, adorable dogs with big personalities. They also have specific needs when it comes to their diet. Choosing the right food keeps their long, luxurious coats shiny and their small bodies healthy. This guide helps you find the best meals for your furry friend.
Key Features to Look For in Shih Tzu Food
When you shop, look for these important things on the bag. These features cater directly to the Shih Tzu breed.
- **Small Kibble Size:** Shih Tzus have short muzzles and small mouths. Large kibble pieces are hard for them to pick up and chew. Small, bite-sized pieces prevent choking and help clean their teeth a little.
- **Skin and Coat Support:** Their long hair needs help! Look for foods rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids (like fish oil or flaxseed). These ingredients promote a healthy, less itchy coat.
- **Digestive Health Support:** Small breeds can sometimes have sensitive stomachs. Ingredients like prebiotics or specific fibers (like beet pulp) help keep their digestion smooth.
- **Weight Management:** Shih Tzus love to lounge! Since they are not super high-energy dogs, the food should have moderate fat levels to prevent unnecessary weight gain.
Important Ingredients: What’s Inside Matters
The quality of the ingredients directly impacts your dog’s health. Always check the first five ingredients listed on the label.
Top Quality Ingredients:
- Named Meat Source as the First Ingredient: Good food starts with real meat. Look for “Chicken,” “Lamb,” “Salmon,” or “Beef” listed first. Avoid generic terms like “Meat By-Products.”
- Healthy Carbohydrates: Shih Tzus need energy. Good carb sources include brown rice, sweet potatoes, or oats. These provide steady energy without spiking blood sugar too quickly.
- Vitamins and Antioxidants: Ingredients like carrots, spinach, and blueberries provide necessary vitamins that boost the immune system.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Food Quality
Not all dog foods are made equal. Some things make food great, and others make it poor.
Factors That Improve Quality:
- Named Protein Sources: A specific named protein (like “deboned turkey”) is always better than an unnamed mix.
- Natural Preservatives: Foods preserved naturally with Vitamin E (tocopherols) are superior to those using artificial preservatives like BHA or BHT.
- Complete and Balanced Label: The bag should state that the food meets nutritional levels set by the AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) for your dog’s life stage (e.g., adult maintenance).
Factors That Reduce Quality:
- Corn or Wheat as the Main Ingredient: While not inherently bad, if these are the first two ingredients, the food might be less protein-rich. Some dogs develop allergies to wheat.
- Artificial Colors and Flavors: These ingredients trick your dog into eating food that might not taste great naturally. They offer no nutritional benefit.
- Excessive Fillers: Ingredients like soy or generic animal digest are cheap fillers. They take up space but do not provide high-quality nutrition.
User Experience and Use Cases
How the food works for your specific Shih Tzu is the final test.
Signs of Good User Experience:
- Stool Quality: If the food is working, your dog will produce firm, consistent stools. Loose stool means the food might not be agreeing with them.
- Energy Levels: Your dog should maintain happy, normal energy throughout the day.
- Coat Condition: You should notice less shedding (beyond normal seasonal changes) and a healthy shine to their long hair within a few weeks of switching.
Use Cases: If you have a puppy, you must select a formula specifically labeled “Puppy.” Puppy formulas have higher protein and fat for growing bodies. If your adult dog is struggling with weight, look for “Weight Management” formulas which often have fewer calories per cup.
10 FAQs About Shih Tzu Dog Food
Q: How much should I feed my adult Shih Tzu each day?
A: Most adult Shih Tzus eat between 1/4 cup to 1/2 cup of dry food daily. Always follow the feeding guide on the specific food bag, as calorie counts vary widely.
Q: Should I feed my Shih Tzu wet food or dry kibble?
A: Dry kibble is generally better for their dental health because chewing helps scrape off plaque. Wet food provides more moisture, but many owners mix both for variety.
Q: Are Shih Tzus prone to any specific food allergies?
A: Yes, they can be sensitive to common proteins like beef or chicken, and sometimes grains like wheat or corn. If you suspect an allergy, try a limited-ingredient or novel protein diet (like duck or venison).
Q: When should I switch from puppy food to adult food?
A: Most small breeds transition to adult food between 9 and 12 months old. Check with your veterinarian for the best timing for your dog.
Q: What is the best protein source for a Shih Tzu?
A: Chicken, salmon, and turkey are excellent, highly digestible protein choices. Salmon also boosts that coat health!
Q: How often should I change my Shih Tzu’s food?
A: You should only change their food when necessary—if they stop liking it, or if they have digestive issues. When you do change, mix the old and new food slowly over 7–10 days to prevent stomach upset.
Q: Do Shih Tzus need grain-free food?
A: Not necessarily. Unless your dog has a diagnosed grain allergy, grain-inclusive foods with quality grains like brown rice are perfectly healthy and provide good energy.
Q: What human foods are safe for my Shih Tzu as treats?
A: Small pieces of cooked carrots, green beans, or plain cooked chicken breast make excellent, healthy treats. Always avoid grapes, onions, chocolate, and xylitol.
Q: Why is my Shih Tzu eating grass?
A: While sometimes dogs eat grass because they instinctively like the taste, it can sometimes signal mild stomach upset or a need for more fiber in their diet.
Q: What is the ideal fat percentage in adult Shih Tzu food?
A: For most healthy, moderately active adult Shih Tzus, look for a fat content around 12% to 16% on a dry matter basis. Too high can lead to weight gain.