Best Dog Food for Shih Tzus: Top Picks for Optimal Nutrition

Shih Tzus are a popular dog breed known for their adorable appearance and friendly temperament. But, like all dogs, they have specific nutritional needs that must be met to maintain their health and well-being. Choosing the right dog food for your Shih Tzu can be a daunting task, with so many options available on the market.

When it comes to selecting the best dog food for Shih Tzus, there are a few things to consider. First and foremost, you’ll want to look for a high-quality dog food that is made with real meat and doesn’t contain any artificial preservatives or fillers. Shih Tzus are prone to obesity, so it’s important to choose a dog food that is low in calories and fat.

Another thing to consider is the size of the kibble. Shih Tzus have small mouths and teeth, so they may have difficulty eating larger kibble. Look for a dog food that has smaller, bite-sized kibble that is easy for your Shih Tzu to chew and digest.

In this article, we’ve spent hours researching and testing various dog foods to identify the best options for Shih Tzus. We’ve considered factors such as nutritional content, kibble size, and overall quality to bring you our top picks for the best dog food for Shih Tzus.

Best Dog Food for Shih Tzus

As dog owners, we know that finding the right food for our furry friends can be a daunting task. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for your Shih Tzu. That’s why we’ve done the research and compiled a list of the best dog food options for Shih Tzus. Our list includes a variety of options that cater to different dietary needs and preferences, so you can find the perfect fit for your pup.

Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Breed Specific Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a dog food that is tailored to the nutritional needs of your Shih Tzu, then Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Breed Specific Dry Dog Food is worth considering.

Pros

• The specialized kibble shape and texture make it easy for your Shih Tzu to pick up and chew.
• Promotes healthy skin and coat with an exclusive complex of nutrients including EPA, DHA, and vitamin A.
• Highly digestible proteins, precise fiber content, and high-quality carbohydrate sources help reduce the amount of stools and stool odor.

Cons

• Some customers may find the price to be a bit high.
• The formula may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.
• A few customers have reported that their dog did not like the taste.

We have been using Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Breed Specific Dry Dog Food for a few months now, and we are happy with the results. The kibble shape and texture are perfect for our Shih Tzu’s short muzzle and underbite, and our dog seems to enjoy the taste.

We have also noticed an improvement in our dog’s coat and skin health since switching to this food. The exclusive complex of nutrients including EPA, DHA, and vitamin A has made a noticeable difference in the softness and shine of our dog’s coat.

Additionally, we appreciate that this food helps reduce the amount of stools and stool odor. It’s a relief to not have to deal with as much clean-up after our dog.

Overall, we recommend Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Breed Specific Dry Dog Food for Shih Tzu owners who want a high-quality, tailored dog food for their furry friend.

Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Breed Specific Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a dog food that is tailor-made for your Shih Tzu, then Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Breed Specific Dry Dog Food may be just what you need.

Pros

• The exclusive kibble shape is designed specifically for a Shih Tzu’s short muzzle and underbite, making it easy for your toy breed to pick up and chew.
• The specialized nutrients in this dog food help to reinforce the skin barrier, maintain your Shih Tzu’s skin health, and give their long coats softness and shine.
• This dog food is highly digestible and has a precise fiber content and high-quality carbohydrate sources to support healthy digestion and help reduce stool volume.

Cons

• This dog food is breed-specific and may not be suitable for dogs of other breeds.
• Some customers have reported that their dogs did not like the taste of this dog food.
• This dog food may be more expensive than other dog food brands.

We’ve been using Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Breed Specific Dry Dog Food for our Shih Tzu for a while now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in his overall health. The exclusive kibble shape is perfect for his short muzzle and underbite, and he has no trouble picking it up and chewing it. We’ve also noticed that his coat is much softer and shinier since we started using this dog food.

One thing to keep in mind is that this dog food is breed-specific, so it may not be suitable for dogs of other breeds. Additionally, some customers have reported that their dogs did not like the taste of this dog food, so it may be worth trying a small bag first to see if your dog likes it.

Overall, we would highly recommend Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Breed Specific Dry Dog Food to any Shih Tzu owner looking for a high-quality dog food that is tailored to their dog’s specific needs.

Royal Canin Shih Tzu Puppy Breed Specific Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s specifically formulated for your Shih Tzu puppy, then the Royal Canin Shih Tzu Puppy Breed Specific Dry Dog Food might be just what you need.

Pros

• The kibble shape and texture are designed for your Shih Tzu puppy’s short muzzle and underbite, making it easy for them to pick up and chew.
• Contains specific nutrients to help support your puppy’s immune system, skin and coat health, and digestive care.
• Helps promote optimal stool quality, reducing the amount of stools and stool odor.

Cons

• Some may find the price to be a bit high compared to other dog foods on the market.
• Some puppies may not take to the taste of the kibble.
• The bag size may be too small for some owners, requiring more frequent purchases.

We’ve been using the Royal Canin Shih Tzu Puppy Breed Specific Dry Dog Food for our own Shih Tzu puppy and have been very happy with the results. The kibble is the perfect size and shape for our puppy’s short muzzle and underbite, and she has no trouble picking it up and chewing it.

We’ve also noticed that her coat looks great and she isn’t scratching as much since we switched to this food. Additionally, the high-quality proteins and prebiotics in the food have helped promote optimal stool quality, reducing the amount of stools and stool odor.

However, we have noticed that the price of this dog food is a bit high compared to other options on the market. Additionally, some puppies may not take to the taste of the kibble, and the bag size may be too small for some owners, requiring more frequent purchases.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s specifically formulated for your Shih Tzu puppy, then the Royal Canin Shih Tzu Puppy Breed Specific Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food Large Breed Salmon and Rice Formula – 34 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food for your shih tzu, Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food Large Breed Salmon and Rice Formula is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The first ingredient is real salmon, which provides a delicious and healthy source of protein for your dog.
• This dog food is specially formulated to be gentle on your dog’s digestive system, which is especially important for shih tzus who are prone to digestive issues.
• With added glucosamine and EPA, this dog food is great for supporting your dog’s joint health and mobility.

Cons

• Some people may find the price to be a bit high compared to other dog foods on the market.
• While this dog food is specifically designed for sensitive skin and stomachs, it may not work for every dog.
• This dog food may not be suitable for dogs with severe allergies or food sensitivities.

We’ve been using Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food Large Breed Salmon and Rice Formula for our shih tzu for several months now, and we’ve been very happy with the results. Our dog loves the taste, and we’ve noticed that his coat is shinier and his digestion seems to be better since we switched to this food.

One thing we really appreciate about this dog food is the fact that it’s made with high-quality ingredients and doesn’t contain any artificial colors or flavors. We feel good about feeding this to our dog and knowing that he’s getting the nutrition he needs to stay healthy.

Overall, we would definitely recommend Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food Large Breed Salmon and Rice Formula to anyone looking for a high-quality dog food for their shih tzu. While it may be a bit more expensive than some other options, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the benefits it provides to your dog are well worth the investment.

ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food – All Natural, High Protein, Grain Free and Limited Ingredient with Superfoods (Lamb, 1.0 lb)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s made with all-natural ingredients, then the ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food might be the right choice for you. This dog food is made with 96% fresh meat, organs, and bones, along with superfoods like green mussels, organic kelp, and green tripe. It’s also free from artificial fillers, preservatives, sugars, or glycerides, making it a safe, clean, and nutritious alternative to a raw diet.

Pros

• The air-drying process naturally preserves all ingredients, retaining nutrients and maximizing flavor.
• Made with 100% ethically and sustainably sourced meats and seafood from New Zealand’s free-range farms and pristine blue waters.
• May help promote allergy relief, healthy skin and coat, improved digestion, joint health and mobility, weight maintenance, and higher Taurine levels to promote heart health.

Cons

• It’s expensive compared to other dog foods on the market.
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food.
• The lamb flavor may not be suitable for all dogs, especially those with allergies or sensitivities to lamb.

If you’re looking for a dog food that’s nutrient-dense, high in protein, and free from artificial ingredients, then the ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food could be a good choice for your shih tzu. The air-drying process used in making this dog food naturally preserves all ingredients, retaining nutrients and maximizing flavor. The limited ingredients used in this dog food recipe make it a great choice for dogs with allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients.

The ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food is made with 100% ethically and sustainably sourced meats and seafood from New Zealand’s free-range farms and pristine blue waters. This means you can feel good about feeding your dog a product that’s not only good for them but also good for the environment.

While the ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food is more expensive than other dog foods on the market, it’s important to remember that you get what you pay for. This dog food is made with high-quality ingredients and is a safe, clean, and nutritious alternative to a raw diet. However, some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food, and the lamb flavor may not be suitable for all dogs, especially those with allergies or sensitivities to lamb.

Overall, we recommend the ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food for shih tzu owners who want to provide their dogs with a high-quality, all-natural, and nutrient-dense diet.

Open Farm Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a dog food that’s high in quality and free of artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives, then Open Farm Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food is a great choice.

Pros

• The meat used in this recipe is humanely raised, so you can feel good about the food you’re giving to your furry friend.
• The formula is loaded with meaty animal protein, whole ancient grains, and fresh locally sourced produce, providing your dog with top-quality health and taste.
• The recipe features a pure mix of gluten-free grains, such as steel-cut oat, brown rice, quinoa, and chia seeds, providing your dog with a nutrient-rich wellness diet.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this food, as it has a weird smell.
• The kibble is small, like puppy kibble, so it may not be suitable for larger dogs.
• This food is on the expensive side, compared to other dog food brands.

We’ve been using this dog food for a while now, and we’ve noticed that our furry friend has more energy and a shinier coat. The recipe makes meat the first ingredient, which is great because dogs crave meat by wild natural instinct. We also appreciate that Open Farm provides 100% transparency in their sourcing practices, allowing us to trace the origin of every ingredient using the lot number on the bag.

The only downside we’ve noticed is that the smell of the food is a bit weird, which may put some dogs off. Additionally, the kibble is small, so it may not be suitable for larger dogs. Finally, this food is on the expensive side, compared to other dog food brands. However, we believe that the benefits of this food outweigh the cost. Overall, we highly recommend Open Farm Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food for anyone looking for a high-quality, nutritious dog food for their furry friend.

Nature’s Recipe Dry Dog Food, Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe, 24 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that is both delicious and nutritious, then Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe is an excellent choice.

Pros

• Real salmon is the number one ingredient, providing a quality protein source that helps maintain optimal muscle strength.
• Made with nutrient-dense carbohydrate sources like sweet potato and pumpkin instead of added corn or wheat, which helps support healthy digestion and immune system health.
• Contains added vitamins, minerals, and nutrients for maintenance of adult dogs.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that the food looks and smells different than previous purchases.
• It is a bit pricey compared to other dog foods on the market.
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food.

We recently tried this grain-free dry dog food, and we were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. Our dog loved the taste and texture of the food, and we noticed that her coat looked shinier and healthier after just a few weeks of eating it. We also appreciated that the food was made with real salmon and nutrient-dense carbohydrates like sweet potato and pumpkin, which are great for supporting healthy digestion and immune system health.

Overall, we would highly recommend Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Salmon, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe to anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that is both delicious and nutritious.

Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Dry Puppy Food, Chicken and Rice Formula

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food for your large breed puppy, Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Dry Puppy Food is an excellent choice.

Pros

• The high-quality protein, including real chicken as the first ingredient, supports appropriate growth rate for large breed puppies.
• Glucosamine supports developing joints and cartilage.
• The formula contains vitamin A and omega-6 fatty acids that nourish skin and coat.

Cons

• Some customers reported that their puppies did not like the taste.
• The kibble size is large, which may not be suitable for some puppies.
• The product is relatively expensive compared to other dog food brands.

We have used Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Dry Puppy Food for our own puppies, and we have been impressed with the results. The high-quality protein, including real chicken as the first ingredient, supports appropriate growth rate for large breed puppies. The formula also contains glucosamine that supports developing joints and cartilage, which is important for large breed puppies that are prone to joint problems. Additionally, the product contains vitamin A and omega-6 fatty acids that nourish skin and coat, keeping your puppy’s fur healthy and shiny.

One downside of this product is that some customers reported that their puppies did not like the taste. However, we did not experience this issue with our own puppies. Another potential issue is that the kibble size is large, which may not be suitable for some puppies. Finally, the product is relatively expensive compared to other dog food brands. However, we believe that the high-quality ingredients and the benefits they provide make it worth the price.

Overall, we highly recommend Purina Pro Plan Large Breed Dry Puppy Food for any large breed puppy owner looking for a high-quality dog food that supports appropriate growth rate and joint health.

Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7 Small Bites Chicken Meal, Barley -amp; Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food

If you are looking for a dog food that caters to the specific needs of your aging shih tzu, Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7 Small Bites Chicken Meal, Barley -amp; Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food is worth considering.

Pros

• Formulated for specific aging needs of toy or small breed dogs
• Contains easily digestible ingredients to support energy levels and immune system
• Balanced minerals promote heart and kidney health

Cons

• Not suitable for puppies or pregnant or nursing dogs
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain allergies or dietary restrictions
• Some may find the price point to be high

As a shih tzu owner, I have been using Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7 Small Bites Chicken Meal, Barley -amp; Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food for my senior dog for a few months now. I have noticed that the small kibble is perfect for my dog’s tiny mouth, and the chicken flavor is a hit with her. The ingredients are easily digestible, which has helped her maintain her energy levels and overall health.

I appreciate that this dog food is made with natural ingredients and contains a balanced set of minerals for heart and kidney health. The Omega 6 fatty acids and Vitamin E have also helped my dog maintain healthy skin and a shiny coat.

However, it’s important to note that this product is not recommended for puppies or pregnant or nursing dogs. Additionally, if your dog has certain allergies or dietary restrictions, this product may not be suitable for them. Finally, some may find the price point to be high compared to other dog foods on the market.

Overall, we recommend Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7 Small Bites Chicken Meal, Barley -amp; Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food for owners of aging shih tzus looking for a high-quality dog food that caters to their specific needs.

Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Adult Dog Food

We highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws adult dog food for your little furry friend. This product is specially formulated for small breed dogs and contains easy-to-digest ingredients that are gentle on their stomachs.

Pros

• The small kibble size is perfect for little canine mouths.
• High-quality protein maintains lean muscle in small breed dogs.
• Nourishing omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E promote healthy skin and a shiny coat.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the food.
• The price may be higher compared to other dog food brands.
• The food may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.

We have been using Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws adult dog food for several months now, and our little Shih Tzu loves it. The kibble size is perfect for her small mouth, and we noticed that her coat has become shinier and healthier-looking since we started using this product.

One thing to note is that some dogs may not like the taste of the food, so it’s important to introduce it gradually and monitor your dog’s reaction. Additionally, the price may be higher compared to other dog food brands, but we believe that the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost.

Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws adult dog food for small breed dogs. It’s a great option for maintaining your dog’s health and providing them with the nutrition they need.

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying dog food for your Shih Tzu, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you’re getting the best product for your furry friend. Here are some features to consider when choosing the right dog food:

Nutritional Content

The nutritional content of the dog food should be the first thing you consider. Shih Tzus require a balanced diet that contains a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. Look for dog food that contains high-quality protein sources like chicken, fish, or lamb. Carbohydrates should come from whole grains, vegetables, and fruits. Fats should come from healthy sources like fish oil or flaxseed oil.

Ingredient Quality

The quality of the ingredients in the dog food is also important. Avoid dog food that contains fillers like corn, wheat, and soy. These ingredients have little nutritional value and can cause digestive issues in some dogs. Instead, look for dog food that contains whole food ingredients like sweet potatoes, brown rice, and peas.

Age and Health

Consider your Shih Tzu’s age and health when selecting dog food. Puppies and senior dogs have different nutritional needs than adult dogs. If your Shih Tzu has any health issues, consult with your veterinarian to determine if there are any specific dietary requirements that need to be met.

Brand Reputation

Choose a reputable brand that has a history of producing high-quality dog food. Look for brands that have undergone testing and have a good track record of producing dog food that meets nutritional requirements.

Feeding Guidelines

Make sure to follow the feeding guidelines on the dog food packaging. Overfeeding your Shih Tzu can lead to obesity and other health issues. Additionally, make sure to provide your Shih Tzu with fresh water at all times.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best dog food for your Shih Tzu that meets their nutritional needs and keeps them healthy and happy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the recommended ingredients to look for in food for Shih Tzus?

When choosing food for your Shih Tzu, it’s important to look for high-quality protein sources such as chicken, beef, or fish. Additionally, ingredients like brown rice, sweet potato, and peas can provide your dog with healthy carbohydrates and fiber. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in ingredients like salmon oil and flaxseed, can help support your dog’s skin and coat health.

How can I identify food allergies in my Shih Tzu and find the right dog food?

If your Shih Tzu is experiencing symptoms like itching, vomiting, or diarrhea, it’s possible that they have a food allergy. To identify the allergen, you can try an elimination diet where you gradually remove certain ingredients from their diet. Once you’ve identified the allergen, you can look for dog food that doesn’t contain that ingredient.

What are the dietary considerations for Shih Tzu puppies versus adults?

Shih Tzu puppies have different nutritional needs than adults, and require food that is higher in protein and fat to support their growth and development. Additionally, they may need to eat more frequently throughout the day. As your puppy grows and becomes an adult, you can gradually transition them to adult dog food.

Which types of food should be avoided for Shih Tzus with sensitive stomachs?

Shih Tzus with sensitive stomachs may have difficulty digesting certain ingredients like corn, wheat, and soy. Additionally, foods with artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors can also cause digestive issues. Look for dog food that is made with limited ingredients and is free from artificial additives.

Is grain-free dog food a healthier option for Shih Tzus?

There is no clear evidence that grain-free dog food is healthier for Shih Tzus than food that contains grains. In fact, some grain-free dog foods have been linked to a serious heart condition called dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). If you’re considering grain-free dog food, it’s important to do your research and talk to your veterinarian.

What are the benefits of homemade food for Shih Tzu puppies?

Homemade food can be a great option for Shih Tzu puppies, as it allows you to control the ingredients and ensure that your puppy is getting all the nutrients they need. However, it’s important to work with a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist to ensure that your homemade food is balanced and meets your puppy’s nutritional needs.