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This is our comprehensive review of the best dog food for Chihuahuas.
Shih Tzus are known for their beautiful coats and friendly personalities, making them popular pets around the world.
If you own a Shih Tzu, you know they have special needs, from keeping their furry coats in good shape to taking care of their teeth. To keep them healthy, it’s important to give them a diet that meets their unique requirements.
I’ve worked in the vet field for a while and know how crucial it is to feed Shih Tzus the right way. I usually suggest Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Dry Dog Food, a dog food that has good ingredients and is budget-friendly. It’s made to suit the specific needs of Shih Tzus.
But every Shih Tzu is different, so I’ve looked into lots of dog foods, using both my vet knowledge and research. I’ve picked out some dog foods that I think are great choices for Shih Tzus.
I’ve also put together a guide for you. It’s got important info about what your Shih Tzu needs nutrition-wise, things to think about, and tips to help you choose the best food for your special furry friend.
Let’s get started.
Our 10 Top Picks for The Best Dog Food for Shih Tzus
- Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Dry Dog Food (Best for Breed-Specific Nutrition)
- Nutro Ultra Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food (Best for Small Breed Shih Tzus)
- Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Senior Small Breed Dry Dog Food (Best for Overall Health in Seniorl Shih Tzus)
- Wellness CORE Grain-Free Small Breed Turkey & Chicken Recipe (Best Grain-Free Option for Small Shih Tzus)
- Purina Pro Plan Small Breed Weight Management Dog Food, Shredded Blend Chicken & Rice Formula (Best for Weight Management)
- CANIDAE PURE Petite Puppy Freeze-Dried raw coated Recipe with Real Salmon Dog Dry (Best Dog Food for Shih Tzu Puppy)
- Hill’s Science Diet Adult Small & Toy Breed Perfect Weight Dry Dog Food (Alternative Weight Management Option for Shih Tzus)
- I and Love and You Naked Essentials Grain-Free Lamb & Bison Recipe (Best for Shih Tzus with Sensitivities)
- Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Small Breed Bites Chicken & Sweet Potato Formula (Alternative Limited Ingredient Diet for Shih Tzus)
- Open Farm Homestead Turkey & Chicken Recipe (Alternative Human-Grade Option for Small Shih Tzus)
The 10 Best Dog Foods for Shih Tzus Reviewed
Before we dive in, I want to tell you that all the dog food I included in this list meets the standard AAFCO nutrient profile guidelines for dogs.
Also, we always recommend you consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your Shih Tzu’s diet.
1. Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Dry Dog Food
Elevate your Shih Tzu’s dining experience with Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Dry Dog Food, a meticulously crafted formula designed to meet the specific nutritional needs of this beloved breed.
Tailored to the unique features of Shih Tzus, the kibble size encourages proper chewing, promoting dental health. The inclusion of real chicken supports muscle maintenance, while antioxidants contribute to immune health, crucial for Shih Tzus’ overall well-being.
Recognizing the predisposition of Shih Tzus to joint concerns, this formula is fortified with glucosamine and chondroitin, aiding in maintaining joint health as they age.
The delicious taste ensures that mealtime is not only nourishing but also an eagerly anticipated moment for your Shih Tzu.
In conclusion, Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Dry Dog Food is more than a meal; it’s a tailored nutritional solution that addresses the specific needs of your cherished companion.
2. Nutro Ultra Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
Give your small Shih Tzu the nutritional excellence they deserve with Nutro Ultra Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food.
Crafted with a trio of proteins from chicken, lamb, and salmon, this formula ensures a protein-rich diet that supports muscle maintenance, providing the energy your small companion needs for their lively lifestyle.
The small kibble size is perfectly suited for their petite mouths, promoting proper chewing and aiding in digestion.
Nutro Ultra recognizes that small breeds like Shih Tzus require concentrated nutrition, and this formula delivers just that.
The inclusion of superfoods such as chia, kale, and blueberries adds antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support overall well-being.
The careful selection of natural ingredients makes this dog food a wholesome choice, free from artificial additives, colors, and preservatives.
For small Shih Tzus with high energy levels, Nutro Ultra stands out as an optimal choice, offering a nutrient-dense and protein-rich option that caters to their specific needs.
3. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Senior Small Breed Dry Dog Food
As your Shih Tzu gracefully enters their senior years, Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Senior Small Breed Dry Dog Food becomes a nourishing companion tailored to support their overall health.
Crafted with real chicken and brown rice, this formula delivers a balanced blend of proteins and carbohydrates, promoting sustained energy and aiding in digestion. The kibble size is perfectly sized for small mouths, ensuring your senior Shih Tzu can enjoy every bite.
What sets this formula apart is the incorporation of Blue Buffalo’s exclusive LifeSource Bits—a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.
These bits contribute to immune health, oxidative balance, and life stage requirements, offering comprehensive support for your senior Shih Tzu’s well-being. The delicious chicken flavor ensures that mealtime remains an enticing experience for your furry companion.
Beyond the basics, Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula addresses specific senior concerns by fortifying the formula with glucosamine and chondroitin. These elements support joint health and mobility, recognizing the potential challenges that come with aging.
In conclusion, Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Senior Small Breed Dry Dog Food is more than a meal; it’s a holistic approach to nourishing and caring for your senior Shih Tzu.
4. Wellness CORE Grain-Free Small Breed Turkey & Chicken Recipe
Opt for optimal nutrition with Wellness CORE Grain-Free Small Breed Turkey & Chicken Recipe, a formula designed to cater to the specific dietary needs of small Shih Tzus.
Real turkey and chicken take center stage, providing high-quality protein essential for muscle maintenance and overall vitality.
This grain-free option acknowledges the potential sensitivities of small breeds like Shih Tzus, ensuring a clean and easily digestible meal.
The small kibble size in this formula is crafted with precision, promoting proper chewing and aiding in dental health for your small companion.
Probiotics further enhance the appeal of this formula by supporting digestive health—a crucial aspect for small breeds. The inclusion of omega fatty acids contributes to a healthy coat and skin, addressing the grooming needs of Shih Tzus known for their luxurious coats.
Wellness CORE goes beyond meeting basic nutritional requirements; it focuses on a holistic approach to small breed nutrition. The formula’s thoughtful inclusion of essential nutrients, natural ingredients, and a grain-free composition makes it an exceptional choice for small Shih Tzus.
5. Purina Pro Plan Savor Shredded Blend Small Breed Chicken & Rice Formula
Prioritize your Shih Tzu’s weight management with Purina Pro Plan Small Breed Weight Management Dog Food, featuring the Shredded Blend Chicken & Rice Formula. This carefully crafted formula recognizes the importance of maintaining a healthy weight for small breeds.
Real chicken serves as the primary protein source, ensuring that even in a weight management diet, your Shih Tzu receives the essential nutrients needed for muscle maintenance and overall vitality.
The shredded blend adds a tempting texture to every bite, making mealtime enjoyable for your Shih Tzu. The formula is fortified with live probiotics, supporting digestive health and ensuring that your companion’s sensitive stomach is well taken care of during the weight management journey.
Beyond calorie control, this formula focuses on maintaining optimal protein levels to prevent muscle loss during weight management.
Choose this formula to support your Shih Tzu on their weight management journey without compromising on taste or nutritional integrity. Purina Pro Plan’s dedication to canine nutrition ensures that your Shih Tzu receives a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
6. Canidae Grain-Free PURE Petite Small Breed Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe
Nurture the vibrant growth and development of your Shih Tzu puppy with CANIDAE PURE Petite Puppy Freeze-Dried raw coated Recipe featuring real salmon.
This thoughtfully crafted formula is specifically tailored to meet the unique nutritional needs of growing Shih Tzu puppies. Real salmon serves as a high-quality protein source, supporting the development of lean muscles and overall vitality, crucial for the energetic nature of puppies.
The inclusion of a freeze-dried raw coating adds not only a delightful flavor but also nutritional benefits.
This unique coating appeals to even the pickiest eaters, making mealtime a joyous occasion for your Shih Tzu puppy. Recognizing the delicate digestive systems of puppies, this formula is crafted with limited ingredients, minimizing potential allergens and irritants.
Fortified with essential vitamins and minerals, this puppy formula supports overall growth and development, ensuring that your Shih Tzu puppy receives the necessary nutrients for a healthy start in life.
The small kibble size is tailored for puppies, promoting proper chewing and ensuring an enjoyable eating experience.
In conclusion, CANIDAE PURE Petite Puppy Freeze-Dried raw coated Recipe with Real Salmon is the optimal choice for Shih Tzu puppies, offering a nutritious and palatable start to their lifelong well-being.
7. Hill’s Science Diet Adult Small & Toy Breed Perfect Weight Dry Dog Food
If you seek an alternative weight management option for your Shih Tzu, consider Hill’s Science Diet Adult Small & Toy Breed Perfect Weight Dry Dog Food.
Tailored to address weight concerns without compromising on nutrition, this formula features real chicken as the primary protein source, supporting muscle maintenance in a weight management context.
This formula goes beyond calorie control; it focuses on maintaining an optimal balance of nutrients to support overall health during weight management.
Live probiotics contribute to digestive health, ensuring that your Shih Tzu receives comprehensive care during their weight management journey.
Hill’s Science Diet emphasizes quality nutrition, and this weight management formula is a testament to that commitment. The delicious taste of real chicken ensures that your Shih Tzu continues to enjoy mealtime while working towards achieving and maintaining a healthy weight.
Overall, Hill’s Science Diet Adult Small & Toy Breed Perfect Weight Dry Dog Food provides an alternative weight management option that prioritizes both taste and nutrition for your Shih Tzu.
8. I and Love and You Naked Essentials Grain-Free Lamb & Bison Recipe
Address the unique sensitivities of your Shih Tzu with I and Love and You Naked Essentials Grain-Free Lamb & Bison Recipe.
Crafted with real lamb and bison, this formula offers a diverse protein profile that supports muscle maintenance without the use of common allergens. The grain-free composition caters to Shih Tzus with sensitivities, providing a clean and easily digestible option.
Beyond avoiding grains, this formula excludes artificial additives, colors, and preservatives, ensuring a pure and nourishing diet for your sensitive Shih Tzu.
The limited ingredient approach minimizes potential allergens, making it a considerate choice for dogs with known sensitivities.
The inclusion of essential vitamins and minerals contributes to overall well-being, providing a holistic approach to sensitive Shih Tzu care. I and Love and You Naked Essentials stands as a brand committed to transparent and quality nutrition, making this grain-free lamb and bison recipe an excellent choice for your Shih Tzu with sensitivities.
In conclusion, choose I and Love and You Naked Essentials Grain-Free Lamb & Bison Recipe to offer your Shih Tzu a nourishing and sensitive-friendly meal. Elevate their dining experience with a formula that prioritizes clean ingredients and supports their unique dietary requirements.
9. Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Small Breed Bites Chicken & Sweet Potato Formula
Introduce an alternative limited ingredient diet to address sensitivities with Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Small Breed Bites Chicken & Sweet Potato Formula.
Crafted with a simplified list of premium ingredients, this formula caters to Shih Tzus with sensitivities, ensuring a well-rounded and satisfying meal that minimizes potential allergens.
Real chicken serves as the primary protein source, supporting muscle maintenance without overwhelming your Shih Tzu’s digestive system.
Sweet potatoes add a nutrient-rich carbohydrate source, contributing to overall well-being. The small kibble size is carefully designed for small mouths, promoting proper chewing and aiding in digestion.
Natural Balance prioritizes transparency in their ingredients, ensuring that pet owners have confidence in the quality of their dog’s food. The limited ingredient approach reduces the likelihood of sensitivities, making it an ideal choice for Shih Tzus with dietary concerns.
10. Open Farm Homestead Turkey & Chicken Recipe
Elevate your Shih Tzu’s dining experience with Open Farm Homestead Turkey & Chicken Recipe, an alternative human-grade option crafted with ethically sourced ingredients.
Real turkey and chicken take center stage, providing a high-quality protein source for muscle maintenance and overall vitality. The inclusion of non-GMO fruits and vegetables adds a touch of premium nutrition, ensuring a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
For Shih Tzus with refined tastes, Open Farm Homestead Turkey & Chicken Recipe stands as a testament to premium and ethical nutrition.
In conclusion, Open Farm ensures that your Shih Tzu receives the best in terms of quality and ethical sourcing. Open Farm Homestead Turkey & Chicken Recipe is more than a meal; it’s a choice that reflects your commitment to the well-being of your furry friend.
Buying Guide: Selecting the Best Dog Food for Shih Tzus
Shih Tzus, cherished for their affectionate nature and distinctive appearance, demand a nutritionally balanced diet to support their unique health requirements. Delving into the nuances of their dietary needs is essential to pinpoint the finest dog food. This guide is designed to assist you in making an informed decision:
Understanding the Dietary Needs for Shih Tzus
Shih Tzus may be small in size, but their nutritional demands are substantial. To ensure their overall well-being, consider the following crucial facets of their dietary needs:
1. Premium Quality Protein Sources
Although Shih Tzus are diminutive, they are lively dogs that benefit from a diet abundant in top-tier animal protein. Look for dog foods incorporating real meat sources like chicken, beef, or lamb. A sufficient protein intake aids in muscle development and maintenance.
2. Essential Fatty Acids and Omega-3s
Shih Tzus are susceptible to skin issues, underscoring the importance of essential fats and omega-3 fatty acids for promoting healthy skin and a glossy coat. Ingredients like fish oil contribute to these essential fatty acids, fostering skin elasticity and overall coat health.
3. Caloric Density and Bite Size
Given their small size and energetic disposition, Shih Tzus necessitate a nutrient-dense diet. Opt for dog foods with an appropriate caloric density to meet their energy requirements without overfeeding. Additionally, selecting kibble with a size suitable for their small mouths is advantageous.
4. Dental Health Emphasis
Shih Tzus are prone to dental problems, making dental health a priority. Choose dog foods designed to support dental care, such as kibble formulated for chewing, which helps reduce plaque and tartar buildup. Complementing their oral care with dental treats or toys is also beneficial.
5. Antioxidants and Nutrient-Rich Ingredients
Shih Tzus benefit from antioxidants and vitamins that fortify their immune system. Seek dog foods containing fruits and vegetables rich in these nutrients. Antioxidants play a pivotal role in neutralizing free radicals and contribute to overall health.
6. Limited Allergens and Fillers
Given their susceptibility to allergies, it’s prudent to opt for dog foods with limited allergens and devoid of unnecessary fillers or artificial additives. A straightforward ingredient list minimizes the risk of adverse reactions and digestive issues.
7. Age-Appropriate Nutrition
Shih Tzus have distinct nutritional needs at different life stages. Puppy formulas support growth, adult formulas sustain overall health, and senior formulas address aging concerns. Choose a dog food aligning with your Shih Tzu’s specific life stage.
8. Tailored Formulas for Special Needs
Individual Shih Tzus may have particular health concerns. If your dog has allergies, joint issues, or other specific needs, select a dog food tailored to address those requirements. Specialized formulas cater to various health considerations.
9. Moisture Content and Hydration
Shih Tzus may not consume ample water, emphasizing the importance of moisture content in their food. Wet or canned dog food can contribute to hydration and may be more palatable, especially for those with dental sensitivities.
10. Regular Veterinary Consultations
Routine veterinary check-ups are indispensable for monitoring your Shih Tzu’s health and nutritional requirements. Veterinarians provide tailored advice, recommend specific diets, and promptly address any health concerns.
Common Health Issues for Shih Tzus and Dietary Solutions
1. Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome
Shih Tzus are brachycephalic, and respiratory issues may arise. A well-maintained weight through a balanced diet can assist in managing their breathing difficulties.
2. Dental Problems
Given their small jaw structure, Shih Tzus are prone to dental issues. Dental-formula dog foods, dental treats, and regular brushing can contribute to oral health.
3. Eye Problems
Shih Tzus may encounter eye problems. Diets rich in antioxidants, including vitamins A and C, can support eye health. Consult your vet for specific recommendations.
4. Skin Allergies
Allergies can affect Shih Tzus’ skin. Opting for hypoallergenic dog foods with limited allergens can help manage skin sensitivities. Regular grooming practices are also essential.
5. Ear Infections
Due to their floppy ears, Shih Tzus are prone to ear infections. Diets with ingredients that promote overall immune health can be beneficial. Regular ear cleaning is also crucial.
6. Obesity
Shih Tzus are predisposed to obesity. Providing portion-controlled meals and selecting weight-management dog foods can aid in weight control. Regular exercise is equally important.
By addressing these health considerations through a meticulously chosen diet, you contribute to the overall health and joy of your Shih Tzu.
Our Verdict
While every Shih Tzu is distinct and may have specific dietary needs, Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Dry Dog Food emerges as a top-notch option for maintaining a well-balanced diet. The carefully crafted formula takes into consideration the unique nutritional needs of small breeds, including the Shih Tzu, providing essential nutrients for their overall well-being.
Nevertheless, it’s crucial to seek personalized advice from your veterinarian to tailor the diet according to your Shih Tzu’s individual requirements. A veterinarian’s guidance can ensure that your furry friend receives optimal nutrition, taking into account factors such as age, weight, and any specific health considerations.
Choosing the right dog food, like Royal Canin, with its focus on small breeds, supports the lively and affectionate nature of Shih Tzus, laying the groundwork for a joyful and thriving life for your beloved companion.
