Do you ever look at your tiny Shih Tzu and wonder what truly nourishes that fluffy face? These charming little dogs have unique needs, and what works for a Labrador might not be the best fit for your pampered companion. Choosing the right food can feel like a maze. You worry about sensitive stomachs, those adorable but sometimes troublesome teeth, and keeping that beautiful coat shiny. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the bags and labels at the pet store.
Finding the perfect kibble shouldn’t be a guessing game. We understand the frustration of buying a bag only to watch your Shih Tzu turn their nose up at it or suffer tummy troubles later. This guide cuts through the confusion. We break down exactly what ingredients matter most for your breed’s small size and specific health profile.
Keep reading to discover the top nutritional secrets that will keep your Shih Tzu energetic, healthy, and happy for years to come. We will show you how to read labels like a pro and select food that supports their delicate systems. Let’s dive into crafting the best meal plan for your beloved lap dog!
Top Dog Food For A 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 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
- 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
- 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: 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
- #1 Ingredient Real Poultry or Meat: Cesar Wet Dog Food Home Delights is made with real poultry or meat as the #1 ingredient for a delicious, protein-packed recipe for a happy and healthy dog
- Delicious Dish: Cesar Home Delights wet dog food is made in the USA with the finest ingredients from around the world
- Quality Ingredients: Made with high-quality ingredients, Cesar Home Delights moist dog food contains no fillers, added sugar, or artificial flavors; ingredients are natural as defined by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO)
- 100% Complete and Balanced for Adult Dogs: This wet dog food stands alone as a tasty meal or complements any dry dog food as meal toppers for dogs alongside any dry kibble, while also being easy to digest yet hard to resist
- Savory Flavor: This single-serve Cesar dog food is slow-cooked for a juicy, tender texture that dogs love
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Shih Tzu Dog Food
Choosing the right food for your Shih Tzu is super important. These small dogs have unique needs. A good diet keeps them happy and healthy. This guide will help you pick the best food for your furry friend.
Key Features to Look For in Shih Tzu Food
When shopping, look for food that matches your Shih Tzu’s life stage. Puppies need different things than adult or senior dogs. Also, consider their small mouths and sensitive stomachs.
Small Kibble Size
- Shih Tzus have small mouths and flat faces (brachycephalic).
- Small kibble pieces are easier for them to chew and swallow.
- This prevents choking and encourages better eating.
Skin and Coat Support
- Shih Tzus have long, luxurious coats that need care.
- Look for foods rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids.
- These healthy fats keep their skin healthy and their coat shiny.
Digestive Health Ingredients
- Many small breeds, including Shih Tzus, can have sensitive tummies.
- Prebiotics and probiotics are great additions.
- These ingredients support good gut bacteria and make digestion easier.
Important Ingredients: What to Choose
The ingredients list tells the real story of the food’s quality. Focus on whole, recognizable foods.
High-Quality Protein Sources
Protein is essential for muscle strength. Good sources include deboned chicken, turkey, lamb, or fish. These should be listed first on the ingredient label.
Healthy Fats
Fats provide energy. Besides Omega fatty acids, look for sources like flaxseed or fish oil. Avoid foods listing only generic “animal fat.”
Complex Carbohydrates
Carbs give sustained energy. Good choices are brown rice, sweet potatoes, or oats. They digest slowly, keeping energy levels steady.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Food Quality
Not all dog foods are made equal. Some ingredients boost nutrition, while others lower the quality.
Quality Boosters (What to seek out)
- Real Meat First: The first ingredient should be a named meat source (e.g., “Chicken”).
- Whole Vegetables and Fruits: These add vitamins and antioxidants.
- Natural Preservatives: Look for Vitamin E (mixed tocopherols) instead of artificial preservatives.
Quality Reducers (What to avoid)
- Artificial Colors and Flavors: These are unnecessary and offer no nutritional value.
- By-products: Terms like “meat by-product” are vague fillers.
- Corn, Wheat, and Soy (in excess): While not always bad, large amounts often serve as cheap fillers instead of quality protein.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how the food fits into your daily routine and your dog’s life.
For Picky Eaters
Shih Tzus are sometimes known for being picky. Foods with strong, appealing smells or added moisture (like freeze-dried toppers) often win over finicky eaters. Good palatability is key for these dogs.
Weight Management
Because they are small, Shih Tzus can gain weight easily if overfed. Look for formulas specifically labeled for small breeds that control calories but maintain high nutrient density.
Transitioning Food
When you switch foods, do it slowly. Mix the new food with the old food over seven to ten days. This gradual change prevents stomach upset, which is common in sensitive breeds.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Shih Tzu Dog Food
Q: What is the best size kibble for a Shih Tzu?
A: The best kibble is small and often specifically marketed for “small breeds.” This shape makes chewing easy for their short snouts.
Q: How much should I feed my adult Shih Tzu daily?
A: This changes based on the food brand and your dog’s activity level. Always follow the feeding guide on the bag, but adjust based on your vet’s advice.
Q: Are grain-free diets necessary for Shih Tzus?
A: Grain-free is not automatically better. If your dog has a grain allergy, it helps. Otherwise, quality grains like brown rice are good energy sources.
Q: What are the most important nutrients for their coat?
A: Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids are the most important. They nourish the skin and support a soft, shiny coat.
Q: Should I feed my Shih Tzu puppy food or adult food?
A: Puppies need puppy food until they are about one year old. Puppy formulas have more calories and nutrients for growth.
Q: Can I feed my Shih Tzu table scraps?
A: It is best not to. Human food often contains too much fat, salt, or spices, which can cause digestive issues or pancreatitis.
Q: What ingredient shows the food is low quality?
A: Vague terms like “animal digest” or artificial colors (like Red 40 or Blue 2) often show lower quality.
Q: How do I handle my Shih Tzu refusing to eat the new food?
A: Try warming the food slightly or mixing in a small spoonful of low-sodium chicken broth to increase the smell and appeal.
Q: Do Shih Tzus need special dental care in their food?
A: Yes. Small breeds are prone to dental issues. Look for foods that offer dental health benefits or consider dental chews alongside their regular diet.
Q: What is the ideal protein percentage in dry food for a Shih Tzu?
A: For an adult dog, aim for a guaranteed analysis showing around 22% to 28% protein. Puppies need slightly higher percentages.