The Best Dog Food for Shih Tzus According to Pet Owners and Experts

Concerned about giving your dog the best food and nutrition? In this guide, you'll see what foods are recommended by pet owners and experts.

Posted by Robert Mundras
— 15 min read
The Best Dog Food for Shih Tzus According to Pet Owners and Experts


Looking for the best dog food for Shih Tzus?

If you're looking for the best dog foods for your Shih Tzus, you've come to the right place! Shih Tzus are a breed of dog that is known for being small and high-energy. They need a diet that will meet their needs both physically and mentally. That's why we've put together a list of some of the best dog foods for Shih Tzus on the market. We'll discuss what makes these foods stand out and why they might be a good choice for your Shih Tzu. So read on to learn more about the best dog foods for Shih Tzus and see which one is right for your dog!

How we choose the best dog food for Shih Tzus

Determining the best dog foods for your Shih Tzu can be tough since so many options are available. With all the different types of food, brands, and ingredients on the market, it's hard to know which is best for your pup. We have looked at hundreds of Amazon reviews to determine the best dog food for Shih Tzu. This article will look at some of the best food on Amazon at different price points to help you decide what is the best dog food for Shih Tzu like yours and what is the best choice for you.

Adult Dry Dog foods for Shih Tzu.

Merrick Classic Healthy Grain Dry Dog Food with Real Meat

Great Dog Food

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Why we like it.

Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Dry Dog Food with Real Meat is perfect for feeding your Shih Tzu at every life stage. With high-quality ingredients and real whole foods, Merrick has a 5 start promise to deliver superior nutrition and to improve the lives of the Shih Tzu and their parents.

The healthy grains in this food are naturally nutrient-rich and help support overall health. They also help build and maintain healthy muscle tissue. The five-star promise assures you that you are feeding your dog the best possible food for Shih Tzu and that you are doing everything you can to keep your dog healthy and happy.

What you should know.

Real deboned chicken is always the first ingredient giving Shih Tzus the protein they need. Small breed dry dog food with grain, including quinoa, supports healthy digestion. Whole grain dog food with leading levels of glucosamine and chondroitin for dogs supports healthy hips and joints. Omega fatty acids for healthy skin and coat health.

A unique blend of whole grains to help support healthy digestion. No peas, lentils, or potatoes. These ingredients have all been selected to provide your small breed dog with the nutrients they need for a long and healthy life, which is why it is on our list of the best dog foods for Shih Tzus.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection True Solutions Small & Mighty Small Breed

Great Dog Food

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Why we love it.

Looking for dog food that's just right for your Shih Tzu? Check out Blue Buffalo True Solutions Small & Mighty Small Breed Formula. This food is specifically designed to meet the needs of little dogs, with high-quality protein to support their everyday energy needs. Plus, it's enhanced with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients to keep them healthy and happy which makes it a great option for dog food for Shih Tzus.

And for added benefits, it features LifeSource Bits - an antioxidant-rich blend of nutrients that's clinically proven to support digestive health. Plus, there's prebiotic fiber to help maintain a healthy digestive system. And it is a natural, dual-action nutrient blend, that works with your adult dog's biology to support immune function and digestive health. So, you can feel good knowing you're giving your dog the very best food for Shih Tzu.

What you should know.

Blue Buffalo True Solutions Small & Mighty Small Breed dry dog food is formulated with high-quality protein to support energy needs. It also contains prebiotic fiber and is clinically proven to support digestive health. Real chicken is the first ingredient, and the food is enhanced with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients.

Blue Buffalo True Solutions Small & Mighty Small Breed also contains antioxidant rich LifeSource Bits and TruMune, a licensed trademark of Diamond V Mills, LLC. This science-based dog food has NO chicken (or poultry) by-product meals and NO corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives. It is one of the best dog foods for Shih Tzus.

Ziwi Peak Air Dried Dog Food

Great Dog Food

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Why we love it.

ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food provides your Shih Tzu with holistic, natural food, a grain-free option that is rooted in New Zealand culture and sustainable living. Their farmers and fisherman believe in their role as guardians of the land and sea, and ethical, sustainable living isn't just a standard for us--it's a way of life.

This food is rich in meat and organs in authentic ratios to provide high-quality protein, free from unnecessary carbohydrates, and grain free. The wild, sustainable blue mackerel in this food comes from the remote waters of New Zealand's North Island, and the grass-fed lamb is raised on a diet of lush grass and clover. This food can be served as a topper or a complete meal. Either way, you can rest assured that you are providing quality food for Shih Tzu with the best possible nutrition.

What you should know.

If you're looking for high-quality, grain-free, nutritious dog food, then look at Ziwi Dog Peak Air Dried Dog Food. Made with 96% wild-caught mackerel and free-range lamb, organs, bone, and New Zealand green mussels for protein, this food is safely air-dried and contains no carbohydrates. It's ideal for food-sensitive dogs and is free of fillers such as grain, potato, or peas.

Plus, the holistic ingredients support digestion, healthy skin and coat, and joint health, reduce inflammation, and promote heart and brain health. Whether you use it as a topper or a complete meal, Ziwi Dog Peak is perfect for all life stages.

And because they only use 100% free-range, grass-fed, grass-finished meats and wild-caught seafood in their food, you can rest assured that there are no added hormones, antibiotics, or growth promotants, and is grain free. Give your Shih Tzu one of the best dog foods with Ziwi Dog Peak Air Dried Dog Food.

Taste of the Wild High Prairie Dog Food

Great Dog Food

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Why we love it.

Taste of the Wild High Prairie formula dog food is a unique blend designed to provide complete nutrition and a taste that you can’t find anywhere else outside the wild. 32% of this formula is protein, highly digestible, giving the energy they need, vegetables, legumes, grain-free, and fruits provide powerful antioxidants, and a roasted flavor your dog will crave, as well is grain-free which makes it one of the best dry dog foods for Shih Tzus.

K9 Strain Probiotics were added after the cooking process to ensure viability, and provide 80 million live, active cultures to support healthy digestive and immune systems. So, give your Shih Tzu the best of both worlds with Taste of the Wild High Prairie formula dry dog food!

What you should. know.

Another food we think is one of the best dog food for Shih Tzus is Taste of the Wild Dog Food which contains only the best ingredients to help support your dog's health. The first ingredient is real meat, which is a high-protein food to help support bones, joints, and lean strong muscles. The food is also nutrient-rich and provides the energy your Shih Tzu will need to thrive.

It includes vitamins and minerals from fruits and superfoods, as well as omega fatty acids for healthy skin and coat. Each serving of Taste of the Wild Dog Food also includes species-specific K9 Strain Proprietary Probiotics, plus antioxidants and prebiotics, to help support healthy digestion, immune system, and overall health and wellness. The premium ingredients in Taste of the Wild Dog Food are from trusted, sustainable sources around the world. Taste of the Wild is also grain free.

There are no added hormones, antibiotics, or growth promotants in the meat we use. So, you can feel good about feeding your dog Taste of the Wild Dog Food knowing they're getting only the best ingredients to help them stay healthy and happy, which makes it a very good dry dog food for Shih Tzus.

Orijen Dog Original Recipe

Great Dog Food

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Why we love it.

Orijen Dog Original Recipe is a high-quality, grain-free nutritious dry dog food made with 85% animal ingredients, and this food contains free-run real chicken and turkey, wild-caught fish, and cage-free eggs. These ingredients are rich in protein and provide your dog with the nourishment they need to stay healthy and thrive. This is why it is on our list of the best dog food for Shih Tzus

The 15% vegetable and fruit content rounds out the recipe with essential vitamins and minerals. This food is also grain-free, gluten-free, and potato-free, with no artificial flavors making it perfect for dogs with allergies or sensitivities. And because it's Biologically Appropriate, it mirrors the diet that dogs would eat in the wild. So, if you want to give your Shih Tzu the best possible nutrition, Orijen Dog Original is a good dog food for feeding your Shih Tzu.

What you should know.

A diet rich and varied in fresh, whole animal ingredients is essential for dogs' health and well-being. ORIJEN's Biologically Appropriate, grain-free diet is formulated to meet dogs' evolutionary needs, using fresh and raw animal ingredients including meat, organs, cartilage, and bone. This unique approach mirrors the natural diet that dogs have evolved to eat, providing them with the nutrients they need to thrive. ORIJEN's Fresh Regional Ingredients are delivered to our kitchen fresh or raw, ensuring that they retain all of their natural goodness. This commitment to quality means that ORIJEN is able to provide your Shih Tzu with the nourishment they need to live long and healthy lives.

Shih Tzu Puppies

Orijen Dog Small Breed Recipe

Great Puppy Food

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Why we love it.

Do you want to give your Shih Tzu puppy the best possible nutrition? Then take a look at ORIJEN Small Breed Dog food. This biologically appropriate dog food is made with fresh, whole animal ingredients that will give your Shih Tzu Puppies the nutrients they need to thrive. Plus, the raw ingredients are kept refrigerated or frozen at the peak of freshness to preserve all those vital nutrients. Orijen is also grain-free. So why not give ORIJEN a try? Your Shih Tzu puppies will love it and so will you.

What you should know.

If you're looking for grain-free food that will make your Shih Tzu puppies happy and healthy, ORIJEN Small Breed is a great option for all stages of life which makes it a great food for your Shih Tzu puppy. Made with turkey, chicken, wild-caught fish, cage-free eggs, and quail, this food is packed with protein and nutrients to support higher energy needs and a strong immune system. The unique kibble shape is easy for your Shih Tzu puppy to eat, and the lutein-enriched eggs help support healthy eyes. Plus, your Shih Tzu will love the taste of the freeze-dried liver-infused kibble. With ORIJEN Small Breed, you can be confident you're giving your puppy the best possible nutrition.

Wet Dog Food for Shih Tzus

Blue Buffalo Delights Natural Adult Small Breed Wet Dog Food

Great Wet Dog Food

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Why we love it.

Looking for the best wet food for your Shih Tzu? Blue Buffalo Delights wet food tray variety packs are perfect for smaller dogs like Shih Tzus. Our gourmet entrées are sure to please your dog member. They’re formulated to meet the nutritional requirements of your small breed dog and packed with natural ingredients and enhanced with vitamins and minerals to support their healthy lifestyle as well as being grain free with no artificial flavors Your Shih Tzu will love these delicious dishes, which are made with only the finest ingredients.

What you should know.

If you're looking for a wet food that is high in protein and low in fillers, grain-free this is the perfect option for your small-breed dog. Real beef provides the essential nutrients for healthy muscle maintenance, and the added vitamins and minerals support the higher energy needs of small breed dogs. This natural dog food also contains no chicken by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives. As a result, you can feel confident that you're feeding your dog a nutritious meal that's also delicious. Order today and see the difference this dog food can make in your Shih Tzu’s health and overall well-being.

Food for Senior Shih Tzus

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Senior Small Breed Dry Dog Food

Great Senior Dog Food

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Why we love it

Blue Buffalo Life Protection is the perfect pet food for senior Shih Tzus because it caters to their nutritional requirements and supports their overall health and well-being. Blue Buffalo's formulas are made with premium-quality ingredients like real meat, fruit, and vegetables that small breed dogs like Shih Tzus love eating. Their formula contains all of the essential nutrients to help meet their specific needs. Blue Buffalo makes sure that senior dogs get the nutrition they need for a healthy life, while at the same time providing a delicious meal that'll make them look forward to each mealtime.

What you should know

All dogs age, and as they get older their needs change.Just like people, dogs need differen t things as they age in order to stay healthy.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula is designed specifically for senior small breed dogs. It contains glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health and mobility, and essential proteins and carbohydrates to maintain energy requirements for a healthy lifestyle.

A precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals has been selected by holistic veterinarians and animal nutritionists to support immune system health and healthy oxidative balance. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula is a great choice for your aging Shih Tzu.

Multifunctional Supplements for Dogs

Multifunctional supplements for dogs are not food they provide many nutrients that will help keep your Rottweiler healthy and happy.

Zesty Paws 8 in 1 Bites

Great Multivitamin for Dogs

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Why do we like it

These functional supplement chews provide your Shih Tzu with all the essential nutrients they need in delicious tasting treats made with premium ingredients that support physical performance, antioxidants, hip & joint, heart, immune, skin, liver, and gut health. Plus, these chews contain no grain, corn, or soy derivatives so you know you're providing your dog with only the best! Made for dogs of all ages, breeds, and sizes

What you should know

It's hard to keep your pet healthy when you're always on the go. Between work, errands, and social obligations, it can be tough to find time to fit in a trip to the vet. And even if you do have time, it can be expensive. Zesty Paws 8-in-1 Bites are multifunctional supplements designed with your pet's health in mind.

The premium ingredients include Cod Liver Fish Oil and Vitamin E for skin and coat health, Kaneka Q10 to help reduce oxidative stress, MSM for muscular support, Glucosamine HCl and Chondroitin Sulfate for hip and joint support, a five-strain Probiotic Blend (500 million CFU per chew).

Digestive Enzymes and Niacin promote healthy digestion and gut flora. Plus, Zesty Paws bites contain Heart Health antioxidants like Kaneka Q10, a premium CoQ10, Cod Liver Fish Oil, and Vitamins A, C, & E to promote healthy cardiovascular function and liver health.

Shih Tzu FAQ

How much should you feed a Shih Tzu?

As a general rule of thumb, a Shih Tzu should consume about 1-2 cups of food per day. However, you should always consult with your veterinarian to get tailored feeding advice based on your dog's specific needs.

Some factors influencing how much food your Shih Tzu needs include age, activity level, and weight. It's important to ensure they're not overeating or undereating, as both can harm their health.

Should I feed My Shih Tzu wet or dry food?

There is no definitive answer to this question. Some people believe that wet food is better for dogs because it contains more moisture and is healthier, while others believe that dry food is better because it helps clean teeth and reduce plaque. Ultimately, the decision about what to feed your Shih Tzu will come down to personal preference and what you think is best for your dog.

What human food can you feed a Shih Tzu?

You can feed a Shih Tzu most human food, but some foods are better than others. Dogs are omnivores and can digest various food items, but there are some important nutrients that they need to have in their diet. These nutrients include proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.

Some good human foods for dogs include cooked rice, cottage cheese, boiled chicken or beef, scrambled eggs, and canned dog food (containing protein as the main ingredient). You should avoid feeding your dog chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes or raisins, and anything else that is toxic to dogs. Always consult with your veterinarian to make sure you are providing your dog with a balanced diet.

Is it OK to feed Shih Tzu twice a day?

Yes, it is OK to feed Shih Tzu twice a day. In fact, many veterinarians recommend feeding small-breed dogs like the Shih Tzu twice a day in order to help regulate their blood sugar levels and prevent obesity. A good rule of thumb is to divide the dog's total daily caloric intake by two and feed that amount in two meals. So if your dog needs 500 calories per day, you would divide that by two and give him 250 calories at each meal.

Is Shih Tzus always hungry?

Shih Tzus are not always hungry. They may be more inclined to beg for food because they are so cute, but they don't always need to eat. Like all dogs, Shih Tzus should have two meals per day - one in the morning and one in the evening. And as with all dog breeds, it's important to keep an eye on their weight and adjust their food portions accordingly. A healthy Shih Tzu should have a slim waistline and a little bit of a round belly - not too thin or too heavy.

Is it okay to feed my Shih Tzu once a day?

There are pros and cons to feeding a dog once per day. The main pro is that it's easier for people to remember since dogs only need one meal per day. The main con is that it can be harder for dogs to digest all that food at once, which can lead to problems like gastritis, pancreatitis, and constipation.

Some people also believe that dogs who eat only once per day tend to gain more weight because their metabolism slows down when they don't have food available all the time. So it's important to monitor your dog's weight if you decide to switch from feeding them twice a day to once a day. And if your dog starts putting on too much weight, you can always switch

What times should I feed my Shih Tzu?

There is no one perfect answer to this question since every dog is different and will have different needs. However, a good rule of thumb is to feed your Shih Tzu two meals per day - one in the morning and one in the evening. always consult your veterinarian to get specific feeding instructions tailored to your individual dog.

How many times a day should a Shih Tzu poop?

The general consensus is that a Shih Tzu should poop once a day. However, some may poop up to three times a day, and others only once every other day. As long as your dog appears healthy and isn't overly straining or having accidents in the house, then everything is probably normal.

Pooping habits can often be influenced by diet, exercise, and the age of the dog. Puppies usually have more frequent bowel movements than adult dogs, for example, and dogs that eat a high-quality diet will generally have more regular bowel movements than those who don't. Likewise, dogs that get plenty of exercise are also likely to have more regular bowel movements than those that don't. And older dogs typically have

How many walks a day does a Shih Tzu need?

One to two walks a day should be sufficient. However, it is also important that your Shih Tzu has plenty of opportunities to run and play in an open area. A securely fenced-in yard is ideal, but if you don't have one, try taking your dog to a park or other large open space where he can get plenty of exercise.

How often do you bathe a Shih Tzu?

Generally, bathing a Shih Tzu is recommended every two weeks. But it's important to bathe your Shih Tzu more frequently if he or she becomes particularly dirty (e.g., after playing outside), as this will help keep them clean and healthy.

Conclusion

If you are a Shih Tzu owner, then you know how important it is to find the best dog food for Shih Tzus. The good news is that there are some great options out there. From kibble to wet food, there is something for every dog's taste. With so many choices, it can be hard to decide which one is right for your Shih Tzu.

After seeing our list of choices you now have a better understanding of some of the best foods, so you can make an informed decision about what would be the best food to feed your Shih Tzus.


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