Shih Tzus are lively, friendly, and playful small breed dogs that need to be on an excellent diet that nourishes their beautiful coat, strong body, and health. Proper food in adult canines as well as in Shih Tzu puppies can deter allergies, ensure digestion, and enhance a healthy immune system.
You might wonder:
- What is the optimal dog food for Shih Tzus?
- Do I have to feed dry, wet, or homemade food?
- How can I avoid food allergy and sensitivity in my Shih Tzu?
Well, then you are at the right place! We have extensively walked through the top dog foods for Shih Tzus of 2025 based on nutrition, ingredients, and health benefits.
Nutritional Needs of Shih Tzus
Shih Tzus are tiny dogs but have high dietary needs. They require high-quality protein, easily absorbed carbohydrates, essential fats, and micronutrients to keep them energized, have a healthy immune system, and a healthy coat.
Protein Needs – Why Animal Protein of High Quality is Essential
Protein is the muscle-building block of a Shih Tzu’s hair, skin, and muscles. A high-protein diet for a Shih Tzu is required to keep:
- Muscle building and maintenance
- Immune system operation
- Coat health and skin repair
In finding the best dog food for Shih Tzus, remember:
- Chicken, turkey, or duck – Lean and easy to digest
- Salmon or fish meal – Rich in omega-3s for coat health
- Lamb or venison – Excellent alternatives for dogs with poultry allergies
Steer clear of meat by-products and low-quality protein sources, as they can lead to digestive problems.
Carbohydrates & Fiber – Selecting Digestible Carbs for Small Breeds
While Shih Tzus do not require high-carb diet, they adore slowly digesting, fiber-containing carbohydrates that:
- Maintains digestive health
- Prepares long-burning energy
- Prevents obesity
Best carbohydrate sources for Shih Tzus:
- Sweet potatoes and brown rice – Offers long-term energy
- Pumpkin and carrots – Maintains digestion and prevents constipation
- Quinoa – Grain alternative safe for grain-free diet for Shih Tzu
Do not use corn, wheat, and soy as they become food sensitive and allergic.
Healthy Fats & Omega-3s – Why Shih Tzus Need Omega Fatty Acids
Shih Tzus sport gorgeous flowing, long coats that need omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to stay healthy and shiny. Healthy fats also help maintain:
- Brain and heart health
- Skin moisture and coat gloss
- Less inflammation and allergies
Healthy fat sources:
- Salmon oil & fish oil – Filled with omega-3s for a glossy coat
- Chicken fat & flaxseed – Stay healthy, shed less
- Coconut oil – Supports immune and digestion function
Vitamins & Minerals – All Important Micronutrients for Overall Health
Shih Tzus require a balance of vitamins and minerals to stay healthy:
- Calcium & phosphorus – Support bone and teeth health
- Vitamin A & E – Support eye sight and skin health
- Zinc & biotin – Support hair development and decrease shedding
- Probiotics & prebiotics – Support digestion and GI health
When Choosing Dog Food for Shih Tzus
Dry vs. Wet vs. Raw Food – Which is Best?
| Food Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Kibble | Good for dental health, convenient, long shelf life | May lack moisture |
| Wet Canned Food | High in moisture, great for picky eaters | Can cause plaque buildup |
| Raw Diet (BARF) | Mimics a natural diet, nutrient-dense | Risk of bacterial contamination |
For the majority of Shih Tzus, a blend of high-quality dry and wet food is ideal. If your dog suffers from allergies, utilize the best Shih Tzu dog food with allergies, free from common allergens.
Ingredients to Seek (Real Meat, Whole Foods)
- Real meat as the primary ingredient (chicken, fish, lamb)
- Natural fiber sources (sweet potatoes, pumpkin, brown rice)
- No artificial additives or fillers
Ingredients to Avoid (Artificial Additives, Fillers)
- Artificial preservatives (BHA, BHT, ethoxyquin)
- Meat by-products and fat renderings
- Corn, soy, and wheat (potentially allergenic to sensitive dogs)
1. Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Dog Food – Best Breed-Specific Formula
For a breed-specific formula for Shih Tzus, the best Shih Tzu dog food is Royal Canin. The breed-specific food offers quality ingredients that support healthy skin, digestion, and immunity.
Shih Tzus have flowing, long coats, and skin care is necessary. It is enriched with omega-3 (EPA & DHA) and omega-6 fatty acids, which condition the coat and skin and give it luster. It also contains biotin and vitamin A, which prevent shedding and dryness.
Small breed digestive health is common, and the food has been designed with easily digestible protein and prebiotics to promote maximum nutrient intake. If your Shih Tzu experiences difficulty chewing, the kibble was designed with consideration of the Shih Tzu’s short muzzle so that it is simple to pick up and chew.
This dog food is an excellent choice for owners who prefer a breed-specific dog food that meets all the Shih Tzu nutritional needs.
2. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Small Breed – Best Natural Ingredients Choice
Blue Buffalo Life Protection is the best dry dog food for Shih Tzu for owners who prefer natural dog food. It features real chicken as the first ingredient, which provides lean protein to maintain muscle and energy.
Perhaps most fascinating about this formula is its blend of superfoods, including blueberries, cranberries, and carrots. They’re full of antioxidants, which are what keep the immune system in tip-top shape and protect against disease. Brown rice and barley are good sources of digestive carbohydrates, which offer a sustained boost of energy all day long.
Since Shih Tzus are prone to joint problems, the food includes glucosamine and chondroitin to help with bones and joint well-being. There are supplementary omega nutrients that contribute to healthy coats and silky skin. This is an excellent option for best Shih Tzu food for allergy since this food does not have any artificial preservatives, wheat, corn, and soy.
3. Wellness CORE Small Breed High-Protein – Best High-Protein Shih Tzu Food
Shih Tzus are not small animals and require moderate amounts of energy in their body. For remaining healthy, they require adequate amounts of proteins in their diet. The highest amount of protein in Shih Tzu food is Wellness CORE Small Breed containing 34% of the protein from excellent ingredients like deboned turkey and chicken meal. It provides normal body weight as well as muscular power.
Because small breeds have delicate stomachs, the food is grain-free, using sweet potatoes and lentils as an added source of energy. Fiber content and probiotics in the form of pumpkin and flaxseed are also added to support better digestion and firmer stools.
Its rich content of valuable omega fatty acids is one more wonderful benefit that supports skin moisture and shiny coat. This is also a grain-free Shih Tzu food that is wonderful if your Shih Tzu is prone to itching or suffers from food allergy.
It is perfect for active Shih Tzus or Shih Tzus with additional muscle support requirements, as well as easy to digest for the sensitive stomach.
4. Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin – Digestive Health Best
If your Shih Tzu has frequent digestive issues, then Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin is a veterinarian-recommended option. The ingredient supports easy and healthy digestion and is among the top dog foods for Shih Tzu allergies.
The star of this food is prebiotic fiber, which supports the well-being of gut bacteria and the quality of stools. It also includes easily digestible chicken meal and brown rice, which are gentle on the stomach and useful for improved nutrient absorption.
In addition to digestive well-being, the food promotes skin and coat health from omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E. Dryness of the skin and itching are a problem with Shih Tzus, but this food helps to decrease the irritation and keeps the coat shining and smooth.
For optimal Shih Tzu food with allergy or digestive intolerance, owners may employ this food as a well-balanced and healthy one.
5. Taste of the Wild Appalachian Valley – Best Grain-Free Food for Shih Tzu
If your Shih Tzu has a grain allergy, Taste of the Wild Appalachian Valley is one of the best grain-free Shih Tzu foods. This food utilizes distinctive protein sources like venison, lamb meal, and duck, which are less likely to upset the stomach compared to widely used proteins like chicken or beef.
Instead of grains, this food is filled with sweet potatoes and chickpeas that provide sustained energy without much of a digestive strain. It also contains omega fatty acids that maintain the coat in good health and not irritated.
One of the most impressive ingredients in this food is the inclusion of K9 Strain Probiotics, which support the integrity of the digestive system and keep stomach upset at bay. In case your Shih Tzu has bloating and diarrhea, this formula will balance digestion and increase nutrient absorption.
It is one of the best grain-free food for Shih Tzu, particularly for Shih Tzus with sensitive stomachs or food sensitivities.
6. Merrick Lil’ Plates Small Breed Recipe – Top Wet Food for Shih Tzu
If your Shih Tzu prefers wet food, Merrick Lil’ Plates Small Breed Recipe is one of the top wet food for Shih Tzu. The grain-free food includes good-quality sources of protein like real deboned chicken, beef, or lamb to give your pet the necessary nutrients to support muscle building.
Wet food is a wonderful choice for Shih Tzus that can’t chew on kibble or have dental problems. The flavor is easy to chew and one of the wonderful choices for senior Shih Tzus or finicky eaters.
Apart from that, this food includes omega fatty acids and glucosamine for healthy joints and skin. If your Shih Tzu has a sensitive stomach, this grain-free Shih Tzu food is the perfect kibble substitute.
For owners seeking a wet food that is nutritionally balanced, Merrick Lil’ Plates is an acceptable choice.
7. Nutro Ultra Small Breed Adult – Top Pick for Coat & Skin Health
Shih Tzus possess a long, flowing coat, and diet is very important in maintaining their coat healthy and shiny. Nutro Ultra Small Breed Adult is a best food for Shih Tzus as it has high levels of omega fatty acids that keep the skin moist and lead to a healthy coat.
This dinner consists of actual chicken, lamb, and salmon and has high amounts of protein and amino acids. Blueberries, kale, and coconut constitute some of the superfoods with antioxidants for immunity.
Since Shih Tzus are food-sensitive, this food contains no artificial preservatives, fillers, or by-products. If you prefer a highly nutritional formula that is excellent for coat and skin health, Nutro Ultra is an excellent choice.
8. Honest Kitchen Dehydrated Dog Food – Best Homemade Food for Shih Tzu (Easy Prep)
Most Shih Tzu owners prefer to feed their dogs homemade dog food, but nutritionally sound meals are difficult to make. Honest Kitchen Dehydrated Dog Food is human-grade, minimally processed food that provides the advantages of homemade food with the convenience aspect.
This recipe uses actual, whole foods such as free-range chicken, sweet potatoes, and spinach. Because it is dehydrated, you just add water to create a new, healthy meal for your Shih Tzu.
Another great benefit of this food is that it has no artificial preservatives, GMOs, and fillers, thereby making it one of the best homemade food for Shih Tzu without meal prep.
If you desire home-style, nutritious food for your pet but do not have enough time to make it, then this superior quality dehydrated food is your best option.
9. Canidae Pure Small Breed – For Allergic Dogs
Shih Tzus are also prone to food allergy, leading to skin itching, stomach upset, and digestive problems. In the event your dog has a sensitive skin or food intolerance, the best Shih Tzu food with allergy is Canidae Pure Small Breed.
This 8 major ingredient limited ingredient diet minimizes the risk of an allergic reaction. It employs top-quality protein sources such as salmon, lamb, or duck and easily absorbed carbs such as peas and lentils.
Aside from the absence of common allergens such as wheat, corn, and soy, this food also contains probiotics and antioxidants to enhance digestion and immune system function.
If your Shih Tzu is plagued by itchy skin, ear infections, or persistent upset stomach, switching to a limited-ingredient diet such as Canidae Pure may be a blessing.
10. Solid Gold Mighty Mini – Delight of Pickiest Eaters
Does your Shih Tzu not like to eat some foods? If that’s the case, Solid Gold Mighty Mini is one of the greatest dog food for picky dogs. It’s a grain-free, high-protein mix that will definitely entice even the pickiest of dogs with its irresistible flavor and highest quality components.
It contains actual chicken, pumpkin, and sweet potatoes, and is packed with lean protein, fiber, and vitamins. It also contains an abundance of probiotics and prebiotics that maintain the body in digestive harmony and smoothie cruise control.
But another wonderful benefit of this food is the very tiny size of the kibble, so very easy to swallow and digest by small breeds such as the Shih Tzu. If your finicky pet dog requires a change, switching to a superpalatable, healthy food such as Solid Gold Mighty Mini can stimulate increased appetite and overall well-being.
Final Summary the Best Shih Tzu Dog Food
Selecting the optimum dog food for Shih Tzus is crucial to keeping them healthy, full of vigor, and sporting a gorgeous coat. Because Shih Tzus are special creatures, selecting healthy ingredients that favor their small-breed personality, digestive system, and possible sensitivity to foods must be a prime concern.
In selecting the best food for Shih Tzus, never forget their age, level of exercise, and special dietary needs. Offering a balanced amount of food with excellent quality protein, easily digestible carbohydrates, and necessary vitamins will keep your Shih Tzu cheerful, healthy, and flourishing in the long term.
FAQs on Feeding Shih Tzus
1. What is the best dog food for Shih Tzus?
The highest quality Shih Tzu dog food should contain high-quality animal protein, omega fatty acids, and vitamins for their coat, skin, and overall well-being. Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Dog Food is an excellent breed-specific food, and Wellness CORE Small Breed High-Protein provides a grain-free, high-protein alternative for energetic dogs.
2. Can Shih Tzus eat grain-free food?
Yes, most Shih Tzus thrive on grain-free food, particularly if they are grain-intolerant or allergic. A good option is Taste of the Wild Appalachian Valley, which contains real venison and great protein sources without grains. But first, always consult your vet about changing to a grain-free diet.
3. What is the best dog food for Shih Tzu with allergies?
Allergy is treated in Shih Tzus with limited-ingredient diets that exclude common culprits such as wheat, soy, and fillers. The best dog food for Shih Tzu with allergy is Canidae Pure Small Breed since it consists of just eight primary ingredients to reduce allergy complications.
4. Do I feed wet or dry food to my Shih Tzu?
Both wet and dry are beneficial. Wet food such as Merrick Lil’ Plates Small Breed Recipe is wonderful for dental-stroubled or fussy dogs, and dry food such as Nutro Ultra Small Breed Adult is utilized to help dental health and is a crunchy texture that the small breeds will love. Both can also be mixed together for a healthy meal.
5. What is the best homemade food for Shih Tzus?
If you prefer to feed with homemade food, ideal homemade food for Shih Tzu should contain lean protein, good fat, and easily digestible carbs. Ideal back-up diet is Honest Kitchen Dehydrated Dog Food where you can have home-cooked-style diet with minimal effort. Always keep homemade food balanced nutrition for your dog based on his requirement.
6. How often I should feed my Shih Tzu?
Shih Tzus that are adults must be fed two or three times daily to maintain stable energy and digestion. Puppies need to be fed more often (three or four times a day) due to their higher energy requirements. Correct portion control guards against obesity and indigestion.
7. What are the best high-protein food options for Shih Tzus?
If your Shih Tzu requires a high-protein diet, consider Wellness CORE Small Breed High-Protein, with 34% protein to support muscle and energy. Highly active Shih Tzus can indulge in high-protein diets but must be supplemented with good fats and fiber.
By making the proper dietary choice, you can guarantee that your Shih Tzu has a happy, long, and healthy life. If you’re unsure of what to feed your pet, speak with your veterinarian for personalized advice!
