What’s the best dog food for a shih tzu?
The answer to that crucial question depends on the AGE of YOUR particular dog.
That’s because…
Shih tzu puppies… adults… and seniors… EACH have different nutritional needs… to provide optimal long-term health.
Which means…
A dog food designed for an adult shih tzu may contain too little calcium for a growing puppy… or too little protein… and too many calories for a less active senior.
And there are other important differences, too..
For example…
A shih tzu puppy needs 0.44% histidine (an essential amino acid)… while an adult requires less than half that amount… just 0.19% of the same nutrient.
In contrast…
A senior shih tzu benefits from a dog food containing more protein… and fewer calories per serving.
Here’s the point…
Since there are no official nutrient standards for ANY particular breed…
And to optimize your dog’s long-term health…
It’s critical to choose a food that’s designed to match the AAFCO nutrient profile for your shih tzu’s age… and stage of life.
The 3 Life Stages of a Shih Tzu
Since dogs age at different rates, life stage ranges for any breed are never exact.
The age data found in the following table were obtained from multiple sources and should be used to help you find the best possible food for your shih tzu.
| Life Stage | Age |
|---|---|
| Puppy | Under 9-12 months |
| Adult | Over 9-12 months |
| Senior | 11+ years |
Our Top Recommendations
On this page…
We’ll share The Dog Food Advisor’s best dog food for shih tzus based on the life stage of your pet.… and we’ll answer the 6 most frequently asked questions we get about feeding this super-popular small breed dog.
Best Dog Food for Shih Tzus
September 2023
Here are The Dog Food Advisor’s best dog food brands for Shih Tzus for September 2023.
Nutro Ultra Small Breed
Nutro Ultra Small Breed Adult is one of 9 dry recipes rated in our review of the Nutro product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken, chicken meal, whole grain sorghum, whole grain oats, whole grain brown rice
- Type: Grain-inclusive (sorghum, oats, brown rice)
- Profile: Maintenance
- Best for: Adults only (not suitable for puppies)
This small breed recipe derives most of its animal protein from fresh chicken as well as chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 29% protein, 19% fat and 44% estimated carbs… creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 65%.
A holistic blend of “superfoods” containing a balanced mix of 3 premium (lean) proteins, antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, and healthy whole grains… ideal for optimal small breed nutrition. Highly recommended.
Sample buyer review… “I am a huge fan of Nutro. My dogs are picky and have sensitive stomachs. The small breed ultra is their favorite. We purchase a bag once every 3 weeks and it suits my two 15 lb boys.”
Ollie Fresh Dog Food
Ollie Turkey is one of 5 fresh cooked recipes included in our review of the Ollie product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Turkey thigh, pumpkin, turkey liver, turkey heart, carrot
- Type: Grain-free
- Profile: All Life Stages
- Best for: Adult shih tzus as well as puppies
This Ollie recipe derives the lions share of its animal protein from turkey thigh, turkey liver, and turkey heart. Dry matter label analysis reveals the formula contains 39% protein, 25% fat and 28% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 64%.
A nutritionally balanced, fresh-cooked meal that’s as close to homemade as you can get… but without all the fuss and hard work. Ollie’s made in small batches, custom packaged and delivered fresh, right to your door.
A super-tasty, healthy option ideal for smaller dogs. Highly recommended.
Sample buyer review… “Jolene has been with Ollie from the beginning. She never has digestive issues or allergies. Her coat is shiny, she has energy, and I’m thankful I can get fresh food for her delivered at my door.””
Blue Buffalo Small Breed Puppy
Small Breed Puppy is one of 21 dry recipes analyzed in our review of the Blue Buffalo Life Protection product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Deboned chicken, chicken meal, oatmeal, barley, fish meal
- Type: Grain-inclusive (oatmeal, barley)
- Profile: Growth
- Best for: Shih tzu puppies
This Small Breed Puppy formula obtains the better part of its animal protein from fresh deboned chicken, chicken meal, and fish meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 32% protein, 19% fat and 41% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 59%.
We also note this recipe is fortified with taurine, an amino acid many veterinary professionals believe may help reduce the risk of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a type of heart disease found in certain breeds.
An affordable choice for those shih tzu parents who prefer a quality, grain-inclusive recipe. Highly recommended.
Sample buyer review… “My Shih Tzu loves this kibble puppy dry dog food. With vet’s instructions, I weaned her off what the breeder had been feeding her. She took to it easily without any stomach issues and was eager to eat it, unlike the food the breeder sent home with us. Best decision ever to make this switch. Our vet stamp-approved the decision 100%.”
Health Extension Little Bites
Little Bites Chicken and Brown Rice is one of 6 dry recipes evaluated in our review of the Health Extension product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Organic deboned chicken, chicken meal, ground brown rice, chicken fat, lamb meal
- Type: Grain-inclusive (brown rice)
- Profile: All Life Stages
- Best for: Adult shih tzus as well as puppies
Little Bites gets the better part of its meat protein from fresh deboned chicken, chicken meal, and lamb meal . Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 27% protein, 20% fat and 45% estimated carbs… which creates a fat-to-protein ratio of about 75%.
The formula contains 8 different probiotic ingredients to help support healthy digestion… as well as zinc polysaccharide complex and 4 other costly chelated minerals for superior absorption and balanced nutrition.
A classic, grain-inclusive design that’s ideal for shi tzus of all ages. Easily recommended.
Sample buyer review… “I have two small dogs. Recently our regular food had not been agreeing with the older of the two. Both of my dogs Love. This. Food! When I was introducing it with their old food, they would pick it out and leave the old food all over the floor. My older dog no longer gets bloated after eating and both dogs seem to have energy. This is our new regular food.”
Merrick Lil’ Plates Wet Food for Small Breeds
Teeny Tiny Steak Tip Dinner is one of 8 wet recipes included in our review of the Merrick product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Beef, beef broth, venison broth, beef liver, dried egg whites
- Type: Grain-free
- Profile: Maintenance
- Best for: Adult shih tzus only
Merrick Lil’ Plates derives most of its animal protein from fresh beef. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 44% protein, 17% fat and 31% estimated carbs… delivering a fat-to-protein ratio of about 38%.
Contains above-average levels of omega fatty acids as well as glucosamine and chondroitin for healthy skin and joints. Complete and balanced design with both prebiotics and probiotics to aid in digestion.
A top pick for smaller breeds. Highly recommended.
Sample buyer review… “My dog gets picky sometimes, so I added these into her food rotation and she loves them.”
Merrick Lil’ Plates Small Breed
Texas Beef and Sweet Potato is one of 9 dry recipes included in our review of the Merrick product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Deboned beef, lamb meal, sweet potatoes, peas, potatoes
- Type: Grain-free
- Profile: All Life Stages
- Best for: Adult shih tzus as well as puppies
Merrick Lil’ Bites Small Breed derives most of its animal protein from fresh deboned beef and lamb meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 43% protein, 17% fat and 32% estimated carbs… delivering a fat-to-protein ratio of about 39%.
We note this formula contains BOTH prebiotics and probiotics for healthy digestion. Lil’ Bites also includes naturally sourced levels of glucosamine and chondroitin for optimal point health.
Reasonably priced. A top quality kibble option for smaller breeds. Recommended with confidence.
Sample buyer review… “I have been giving my furbaby the chicken recipe of this Merrick small breed kibble. He likes it, so I decided to try the beef and he loves it. Merrick kibble is an excellent product free of corn, grains and fillers etc. I know I am feeding my sweet boy quality food. As a result he is a healthy senior with a full, silky, shiny coat. I add a bit of pumpkin and he seems to really enjoy both the chicken and the beef. I highly recommend this kibble (and the chicken too).”
Instinct Raw Boost Small Breed
Small Breed with Real Chicken is one of 12 dry recipes contained in our review of the Instinct product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken, chicken meal, chickpeas, tapioca, chicken fat
- Type: Grain-free
- Profile: All Life Stages
- Best for: Adult shih tzus as well as puppies
This Instinct Raw Boost formula receives the major part of its meat protein from fresh chicken and chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 38% protein, 22% fat and 32% estimated carbs… creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 57%.
It’s not only made with cage-free chicken, the recipe contains no corn, wheat, soy or artificial colors or preservatives. The formula also includes zinc proteinate and 3 other chelated minerals, costly supplements for superior nutrition… ingredients found in better quality dog foods.
Highly recommended.
Sample buyer review… “Our almost 3 year old Shih-Tzu is a bit of a food snob and so we were relieved to find out that he approved of this and didnt just sniff it and walk away. We wanted to switch up his kibble so that he could have some variation and not get bored. I add a little bit of warm water, mix it up and then drain it out (he seems to prefer all of his food prepared this way.) He does pick out the freeze dried pieces first and gobbles them down but always returns to his bowl to finish.”
Wellness Complete Small Breed Senior
Small Breed Senor is one of 13 dry recipes included in our review of the Wellness Complete product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Deboned turkey, chicken meal, ground brown rice, peas, rice
- Type: Grain-inclusive (ground brown rice, rice)
- Profile: Maintenance
- Best for: Adults only (not suitable for puppies)
This Wellness Complete recipe acquires the better part of its meat protein from deboned turkey and chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 28% protein, 13% fat and 51% estimated carbs… delivering a fat-to-protein ratio of about 48%.
Features a smaller kibble size for smaller mouths and easier chewing.
Wellness Complete Health has always been one of The Dog Food Advisor’s favorite, small-breed brands. Yet even though this particular recipe is designed for seniors, it’s also available as a fully-balanced, nutritious “regular” adult dog food, too.
Highly recommended.
For More Choices: See our Best Dog Food for Seniors page
Sample buyer review… “I have tried so many dry dog foods and given them away because my Shih Tzu just won’t eat them. He gets a handful of this to go next to his wet food and eats it. Picky eater doesn’t begin it describe him and add senior into the mix, ugh. I can honestly recommend this one.”
Nom Nom Turkey Fare
Turkey Fare is one of 4 fresh human-grade recipes evaluated in our review of the Nom Nom product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Ground turkey, brown rice, eggs, carrots, spinach
- Type: Grain-inclusive (brown rice)
- Profile: All Life Stages
- Best for: Adult shih tzus as well as puppies
Nom Nom Turkey Fare receives the majority its animal protein from ground turkey. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 18% fat and 38% estimated carbs… yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 50%.
If you’ve ever wanted to serve your shih tzu a fresh home-cooked meal… but without all the time-consuming effort… then Nom Nom makes a smart choice.
Top level, human-grade ingredients and a 100% balanced recipe designed by a board-certified veterinary nutritionist. Not cheap. Yet highly recommended.
Sample buyer review… “Tula gets so excited when it’s mealtime. She no longer has skin issues, her coat looks wonderful and her stools are the best they’ve ever been. I can’t imagine ever feeding her anything but Nom Nom!”
Royal Canin Shih Tzu Puppy
Shih Tzu Puppy is one of 11 dry recipes analyzed in our review of the Royal Canin product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Brewers rice, chicken by-product meal, corn, chicken fat, wheat gluten
- Type: Grain-inclusive (brewers rice, corn, wheat gluten)
- Profile: Growth
- Best for: Shih tzus puppies
This Royal Canin breed-specific puppy recipe obtains the major part of its meat protein from chicken by-product meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the formula contains 29% protein, 18% fat and 45% estimated carbs… which produces a favorable fat-to-protein ratio of about 62%.
We also note this formula includes fish oil. Fish oil is rich in the omerga-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA, for healthy skin and coat as well as optimal joint nutrition. Recommended with confidence.
For More Choices: Visit our Best Puppy Foods page
Sample buyer review… “I was able to easily transition my shih tzu to this brand. The small kibble is easy for her to pick up and chew, and she loves it. No tummy issues, no poop issues; this brand is perfect for us. And our vet approves! This is “Presley Approved.” :)”
Nature’s Recipe Chicken and Wild Salmon Trays
Chicken and Wild Salmon is one of 3 wet recipes analyzed in our review of the Nature’s Recipe product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken, chicken broth, pumpkin, salmon, brown rice
- Type: Grain-Inclusive (brown rice)
- Profile: Maintenance
- Best for: Adults only (not suitable for puppies)
This Nature’s Recipe derives the better part of its meat protein from fresh chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 65% protein, 12% fat and 16% estimated carbs… which yields a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 18%.
We’re also pleased to note the inclusion of zinc glycine complex and 3 other chelated minerals for superior nutrition. These are more costly forms of nutritional supplements typically found only in better quality dog foods.
Reasonably priced. Highly recommended.
Sample buyer review… “my dog loves these! he is a small dog who struggles to eat and is superrrrrr picky with his food. I’ve tried so many different wet food items and this is the one he actually eats when i put it down. 10/10 recommend for dogs who are picky eaters.”
More Top Picks
To view more top recipes for your Shih Tzu… click the link below that best meets your personal feeding needs.
- Best Dog Foods
- Best Puppy Foods
- Best Dry Puppy Food
- Best Wet Puppy Food
- Best Small Breed Puppy Food
- Best Dry Dog Food
- Best Wet Dog Food
- Best Dog Food for Allergies
- Best Dog Food for Small Dogs
- Best Grain Free Dog Food
- Best Dog Food with Grain
- Best Fresh Food for Dogs
- Best Raw Dog Food
- Best Organic Dog Food
- Best Senior Dog Food
- Best High Protein Dog Food
- Best Dog Food for Weight Loss
- Best Budget-Friendly Dog Food
- Best Dog Food for Sensitive Stomach
- Best Low Fat Dog Food
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I switch to a new food… without making my shih tzu sick?
In the following video…
Internet vet, Dr. Gary Richter, shares a simple feeding tip that can help reduce your Shih Tzu’s risk of getting sick when you switch to a new food.
Do shih tzus need special dog food?
There are no official pet food industry standards or FDA guidelines established specifically for shih tzus. However, because shih tzu puppies, adults and seniors EACH have different nutritional needs, it’s important to choose a food that’s designed to match the life stage of YOUR particular dog.
How much dog food should I feed my shih tzu?
An important study found that dogs fed an amount of food to keep them at ideal body condition lived nearly 2 years longer… than other dogs.1
Since every shih tzu is different, it’s impossible to predict the exact serving size that’s “ideal” for every animal. So, start with the feeding amount printed on the package. Then, over time, adjust that amount up or down… to reach and then maintain your shih tzu at ideal body weight.
An important study found that dogs fed an amount of food to keep them at ideal body condition lived nearly 2 years longer… than other dogs.1
Since every shih tzu is different, it’s impossible to predict the exact serving size that’s “ideal” for every animal. So, start with the feeding amount printed on the package. Then, over time, adjust that amount up or down… to reach and then maintain your shih tzu at ideal body weight.
What’s the best dog food for a shih tzu puppy?
Since they’re considered small breed dogs, shih tzus benefit from eating foods that contain the right balance of calcium and other nutrients specifically designed for puppies. So, until he (or she) reaches 9 to 12 months, your shih tzu should be eating a dog food that meets AAFCO nutrient guidelines… and is clearly labeled “for Growth” or “for All life stages”.
In addition to the Royal Canin Shih Tzu Puppy Food above, you’ll find a complete list of The Dog Food Advisor’s Best Small Breed Puppy Foods here.
Since they’re considered small breed dogs, shih tzus benefit from eating foods that contain the right balance of calcium and other nutrients specifically designed for puppies. So, until he (or she) reaches 9 to 12 months, your shih tzu should be eating a dog food that meets AAFCO nutrient guidelines… and is clearly labeled “for Growth” or “for All life stages”.
In addition to the Royal Canin Shih Tzu Puppy Food above, you’ll find a complete list of The Dog Food Advisor’s Best Small Breed Puppy Foods here.
When can I safely switch my shih tzu puppy to adult dog food?
What’s the best dog food for a senior shih tzu?
According to VCA Hospitals, small breed dogs tend to live longer than large breeds. Shih tzus aren’t considered “senior” until they reach 11 years of age. So, if your shih tzu is 10 years (or older), you may wish to visit The Dog Food Advisor’s Best Senior Dog Foods page here.
According to VCA Hospitals, small breed dogs tend to live longer than large breeds. Shih tzus aren’t considered “senior” until they reach 11 years of age. So, if your shih tzu is 10 years (or older), you may wish to visit The Dog Food Advisor’s Best Senior Dog Foods page here.
You May Also Like
Can Small Dogs Eat Cheese, Ice Cream and Other Dairy Products?
18 People Foods That Can Be Dangerous to a Small DogA Final Word
The Dog Food Advisor does not accept money, gifts, samples or other incentives in exchange for special consideration in preparing our reviews.
However, we do receive a referral fee from online retailers (like Chewy or Amazon) and from sellers of perishable pet food when readers click over to their websites from ours. This helps cover the cost of operation of our free blog. Thanks for your support.
For more information, please visit our Disclaimer and Disclosure page.
References
- https://www.avma.org/News/Journals/Collections/Documents/javma_220_9_1315.pdf ↩
- Royal Canine: When does my puppy become an adult dog? ↩
- IAMS: How to Transition Your Puppy to Adult Food, IAMS ↩
