best dog food for shih tzu
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Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Breed Specific Dry Dog Food | Amazon |
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Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Breed Specific Wet Dog Food | Amazon |
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Royal Canin Shih Tzu Puppy Dry Dog Food | Amazon |
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Healthy Breeds Shih Tzu Multi-Vitamin Soft Chews |
Amazon |
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Healthy Breeds Shih Tzu Omega HP Fatty Acid Skin and Coat Support Soft Chews | Amazon |
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Healthy Breeds Shih Tzu All in One Multivitamin Soft Chew |
Amazon |
Choosing the right dog food for Shih Tzu and supplements is important to keep your pet healthy and happy. Shih Tzus have unique nutritional needs due to their small size, long coat, and sensitive digestion. There are many products available, including dry and wet food, as well as vitamins and supplements to support their skin, coat, joints, and overall health. Whether you are looking for breed-specific dog food like Royal Canin Shih Tzu formulas or Healthy Breeds multivitamins, each product is designed to provide essential nutrients for your furry friend.
Royal Canin offers both dry and wet food options specially made for Shih Tzus. Their Shih Tzu Puppy Dry Dog Food supports immune system development, healthy digestion, and coat growth, while the Adult Breed-Specific Dry and Wet Dog Food helps maintain skin and coat health, heart function, and digestion. The unique kibble shape is also designed for the Shih Tzu’s short muzzle and underbite, making it easier to chew. These foods contain high-quality ingredients such as omega fatty acids, vitamins, and easily digestible proteins to support their overall well-being.
In addition to food, supplements like Healthy Breeds Omega HP Soft Chews and All-in-One Multivitamins provide extra health benefits. The Omega HP Soft Chews help maintain a shiny coat, support joint and heart health, and boost the immune system with fish-derived omega fatty acids. Meanwhile, the All-in-One Multivitamin Soft Chews offer a complete blend of vitamins, minerals, probiotics, and joint support ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin. These supplements are made in the USA and provide an easy way to improve your Shih Tzu’s overall health. However, not all dogs may respond the same way to these products, so it’s important to choose the best option based on your pet’s specific needs.
1 Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Breed Dry Dog Food
Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Breed Specific Dry Dog Food is specially made to meet the unique needs of Shih Tzu dogs that are 10 months or older. This dry dog food is designed with a specialized kibble shape that suits their short muzzle and underbite, making it easier for them to eat. It contains essential nutrients like omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, biotin, and vitamins to promote a healthy coat and skin. Additionally, it supports digestion with high-quality ingredients that help reduce stool odor and maintain overall gut health.
This dog food provides complete and balanced nutrition tailored for Shih Tzus, ensuring they get the right nutrients for their overall well-being. With a focus on coat health, digestion, and skin support, Royal Canin aims to help your furry companion look and feel their best. However, while it offers many benefits, it may not be suitable for every dog. Some pet owners might find the cost higher than other brands, and some dogs may have different dietary needs. Let’s explore the pros and cons of this product in more detail.
| Brand | Royal Canin |
| Flavor | Chicken |
| Age Range (Description) | Adult |
| Item Form | Dry |
| Specific Uses For Product | coat |
✔ Breed-Specific Formula: Specially made for Shih Tzus, ensuring they receive the right nutrients for their unique needs. This is important because generic dog foods may not support their specific health concerns, like coat and skin health.
✔ Kibble Shape for Easy Eating: The unique shape of the kibble is designed for the Shih Tzu’s short muzzle and underbite, making it easier to chew and digest. Many small breeds struggle with regular kibble shapes, leading to eating difficulties.
✔ Supports Coat Health: Contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, biotin, and vitamin A to maintain a shiny and healthy coat. Shih Tzus have long, thick fur, which requires special care to stay soft and smooth.
✔ Promotes Healthy Digestion: Includes highly digestible proteins and fiber to support gut health and reduce stool odor. This is helpful for pet owners who want to minimize mess and bad smells in their home.
✔ Veterinarian Recommended: Royal Canin is a trusted brand often recommended by vets for breed-specific nutrition, ensuring high-quality and well-researched ingredients.
✘ Not Suitable for All Dogs: While it is ideal for Shih Tzus, other small breed dogs may not benefit from the same formula. Some may require different protein sources or lower fat content.
✘ Contains Grains and Other Fillers: Some dogs have grain allergies or sensitivities, and this food contains grains that may not be suitable for all pets. Owners looking for grain-free options may need to consider other brands.
✘ Limited Flavor Options: Available only in a chicken-based formula, which may not be ideal for picky eaters or dogs that prefer variety in their meals. Some dogs may get bored of eating the same flavor daily.
✘ Bag Size is Small: The 2.5 lb bag may not last long for multiple-dog households, requiring frequent purchases and making it less convenient for owners looking to buy in bulk.
2 Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Breed Specific Wet Dog Food
Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Breed Specific Wet Dog Food is specially made to meet the unique dietary needs of Shih Tzus aged 10 months and older. This wet dog food comes in a soft, pâté-style texture with a tasty sauce, making it easy for Shih Tzus to eat and enjoy. It contains important nutrients such as EPA, DHA, and vitamin A to support healthy skin and a shiny coat. Additionally, it includes ingredients like taurine and L-carnitine, which help maintain heart health, ensuring overall well-being for your furry friend.
This wet dog food can be served alone or mixed with dry kibble for added variety. It is formulated to be highly digestible, making it a good option for Shih Tzus with sensitive stomachs. While it provides many benefits, it may not be suitable for all dogs. Some pet owners may find it expensive compared to other brands, and certain dogs may prefer different flavors or textures. Below, we will explore the pros and cons of this product in more detail.
| Brand | Royal Canin |
| Flavor | Unflavored |
| Age Range (Description) | Adult |
| Item Form | Chunk |
| Specific Uses For Product | Heart |
✔ Made for Shih Tzus: Specially formulated to meet the unique nutritional needs of purebred Shih Tzus, ensuring they get the right balance of nutrients for their health. Generic dog food may not support breed-specific concerns as effectively.
✔ Soft and Easy to Eat: The pâté texture with sauce makes it easy for small dogs like Shih Tzus to chew and digest, which is especially helpful for older dogs or those with dental issues.
✔ Supports Healthy Skin and Coat: Contains omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) and vitamin A, which help maintain a soft, shiny coat and prevent skin problems common in Shih Tzus.
✔ Promotes Heart Health: Includes taurine, L-carnitine, and controlled sodium levels, which support good heart function. This is important for Shih Tzus, as they are prone to heart-related issues.
✔ Can Be Mixed with Dry Food: Provides flexibility for pet owners who want to mix it with dry food to add variety and enhance flavor, making meals more enjoyable for picky eaters.
✘ Limited Flavor Options: The food is only available in a single variety (Loaf in Sauce), which may not suit dogs that prefer different flavors or textures. Some dogs might get bored with the same taste.
✘ Contains By-Products: Includes ingredients like pork and chicken by-products, which some pet owners may prefer to avoid in favor of whole meat sources.
✘ Small Can Size: Each can is only 3 oz, meaning that multiple cans may be needed per day, making it less convenient for owners with larger Shih Tzus or multiple dogs.
✘ May Not Suit All Dogs: While it is designed for Shih Tzus, some dogs may have allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients, such as corn flour or carrageenan.
3 Royal Canin Shih Tzu Puppy Dry Dog Food
Royal Canin Shih Tzu Puppy Dry Dog Food is specially made to support the health and growth of purebred Shih Tzu puppies from 8 weeks to 10 months old. The unique kibble shape is designed to be easy for small puppies to chew, especially since Shih Tzus have a short muzzle and underbite. This food contains essential nutrients, including antioxidants like vitamin E, to support a developing immune system, as well as omega fatty acids to promote a healthy coat. Additionally, it helps with digestion by using high-quality proteins and prebiotics to reduce stool odor and improve gut health.
This puppy food provides a balanced diet to ensure your Shih Tzu grows strong and healthy. It supports their small digestive system and helps maintain their signature long, silky coat. While it offers many benefits, it may not be the best choice for every puppy. Some owners may prefer grain-free options, and the price may be higher compared to other brands. Below, we will explore the pros and cons of this product in more detail.
| Brand | Royal Canin |
| Flavor | Chicken |
| Age Range (Description) | Puppy |
| Item Form | Pellet |
| Specific Uses For Product | small |
✔ Specifically Made for Shih Tzu Puppies: Formulated with the right nutrients to support the unique growth needs of Shih Tzu puppies, unlike generic puppy foods that may not provide breed-specific benefits.
✔ Special Kibble Shape: The small kibble is designed for a Shih Tzu’s short muzzle and underbite, making it easier to chew and digest compared to regular puppy food.
✔ Supports Immune System: Contains a special blend of antioxidants, including vitamin E, to help develop a strong immune system, which is crucial for young puppies.
✔ Promotes Healthy Skin and Coat: Includes omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, fish oil, and biotin to keep a Shih Tzu’s long, soft coat healthy as they grow.
✔ Aids Digestion and Reduces Stool Odor: High-quality proteins and prebiotics help with digestion and stool quality, reducing both the amount and smell of stools.
✘ Contains Grains and By-Products: Includes ingredients like corn, wheat gluten, and chicken by-product meal, which some owners may want to avoid due to allergies or a preference for whole meat sources.
✘ Limited Flavor Options: Available only in a chicken-based formula, which may not be ideal for picky eaters who prefer different protein sources.
✘ Small Bag Size: The 2.5 lb bag may not last long, requiring frequent purchases, which can be inconvenient for owners of fast-growing puppies.
✘ Not Suitable for All Small Breeds: While it is perfect for Shih Tzu puppies, other small breeds may need different nutrition, making it less versatile than some other puppy foods.
4 Healthy Breeds Shih Tzu Multi-Vitamin Soft Chews
Healthy Breeds Shih Tzu Multi-Vitamin Soft Chews are specially designed to provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support your dog’s overall health. These tasty bacon-flavored soft chews are easy to administer and help improve skin and coat health, digestion, and bladder support. Whether your Shih Tzu is a puppy, adult, or senior, this supplement is made to maintain their well-being at every stage of life.
Made in the USA in FDA, USDA, and FSIS-regulated facilities, these chews are formulated with high-quality ingredients that are tested for purity and potency. They serve as a great addition to your dog’s regular diet to ensure they receive the necessary nutrients for optimal health. However, while these soft chews offer many benefits, they may not be suitable for every dog, especially those with specific dietary restrictions or picky eating habits. Below, we explore the pros and cons of this product in more detail.
| Item Form | Soft Chew |
| Brand | Healthy Breeds |
| Flavor | Bacon |
| Allergen Information | Banana Free |
| Manufacturer | Healthy Breeds |
✔ Vet-Recommended Formula: Contains a blend of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health, ensuring your Shih Tzu gets proper nutrition.
✔ Supports Multiple Health Areas: Helps with skin and coat health, digestion, bladder function, and immune support, making it a well-rounded supplement for dogs of all ages.
✔ Tasty Bacon Flavor: The bacon-flavored soft chews are appealing to most dogs, making them easy to feed compared to traditional pills or powders.
✔ Easy to Administer: Soft chews are simple to give as a treat or mixed with food, making them more convenient than capsules or tablets.
✔ Made in the USA: Manufactured in FDA, USDA, and FSIS-regulated facilities, ensuring high safety and quality standards.
✔ Suitable for All Life Stages: Can be given to puppies, adults, and senior dogs, making it a long-term supplement option.
✘ Not a Replacement for a Balanced Diet: While beneficial, these chews should not be used as a substitute for a proper diet with complete nutrition.
✘ May Not Suit Picky Eaters: Some dogs may not like the bacon flavor, making it harder to get them to eat the supplement regularly.
✘ Potential Allergens or Sensitivities: Contains multiple ingredients, and some dogs may have sensitivities or allergies to specific components, even though it is banana-free.
✘ Limited to General Health Support: While it provides many benefits, it does not target specific medical conditions, so dogs with special health needs may require additional supplements.
✘ Small Quantity: A 60-count container may not last long for multiple-dog households or larger dogs needing higher doses, requiring frequent repurchases.
5 Shih Tzu Omega HP Fatty Acid Skin and Coat Support Soft Chews
Healthy Breeds Shih Tzu Omega HP Fatty Acid Soft Chews are designed to support your dog’s skin, coat, joints, heart, immune system, and overall health. These fish-flavored soft chews provide essential fatty acids that dogs cannot produce on their own, making them an important dietary supplement. Sourced from fresh-caught fish in cold ocean waters, the fatty acids are extracted quickly to ensure maximum purity and potency. Regular use can help improve a Shih Tzu’s long, silky coat while also promoting brain and eye function.
Manufactured in the USA in federally regulated facilities, these chews are tested for quality and safety, giving pet owners peace of mind. They offer an easy and tasty way to provide omega fatty acids without the hassle of liquid fish oil. While they have many benefits, they may not be suitable for all dogs, especially those with allergies or picky eating habits. Below, we explore the detailed pros and cons of this product.
| Brand | Healthy Breeds |
| Flavor | Fish |
| Item Form | Chew |
| Active Ingredients | glycerin, sorbic acid, tocopherol |
| Item Weight | 0.7 Pounds |
✔ Supports Skin and Coat Health: Rich in essential fatty acids, these chews help keep a Shih Tzu’s long coat shiny and reduce skin dryness or irritation.
✔ Provides Multiple Health Benefits: In addition to skin and coat support, the chews promote joint, heart, immune system, brain, and eye health, making them a well-rounded supplement.
✔ Vet-Recommended Formula: Contains high-potency omega fatty acids that are essential for a dog’s overall well-being and must be obtained through diet.
✔ Made from High-Quality Fish Sources: The omega fatty acids are extracted from fresh-caught fish in cold ocean waters, ensuring high purity and effectiveness.
✔ Soft and Easy to Administer: The chewable form makes it more convenient than fish oil capsules or liquid supplements, which can be messy or difficult to give.
✔ Made in the USA: Manufactured in federally regulated facilities, ensuring quality, safety, and customer satisfaction.
✘ Fish Flavor May Not Appeal to All Dogs: Some dogs may dislike the fish taste, making it difficult to get them to eat the chews regularly.
✘ Potential Allergies or Sensitivities: Contains fish-based ingredients, which may cause allergic reactions in some dogs with food sensitivities.
✘ Not a Replacement for a Balanced Diet: While beneficial, this supplement should be used alongside a well-balanced diet and not as a primary source of nutrition.
✘ Limited to General Health Support: Although it helps with skin, coat, and joint health, it does not target specific medical conditions and may not be enough for dogs with severe issues.
6 Healthy Breeds Shih Tzu All in One Multivitamin Soft Chew
Healthy Breeds Shih Tzu All-in-One Multivitamin Soft Chews provide essential nutrients to support your dog’s overall health. This 4-in-1 formula contains vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, probiotics, and joint-supporting ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin. Designed to improve skin and coat health, digestion, joint mobility, and immune function, these soft chews are a convenient way to supplement your Shih Tzu’s diet. With a tasty chicken flavor, even picky eaters will enjoy these treat-like vitamins.
Manufactured in the USA in FDA, USDA, and FSIS-regulated facilities, this supplement ensures high quality and safety. The carefully selected ingredients promote better nutrient absorption, helping your dog maintain a healthy lifestyle. However, while this multivitamin offers numerous benefits, it may not be suitable for all dogs, particularly those with dietary restrictions or allergies. Below, we explore the pros and cons of this product.
| Brand | Healthy Breeds |
| Flavor | Chicken |
| Item Form | Soft Chew |
| Active Ingredients | folic acid |
| Item Weight | 0.9 Pounds |
✔ Complete 4-in-1 Formula: Contains essential vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, joint support ingredients, and probiotics, making it a well-rounded supplement for overall health.
✔ Supports Joint and Bone Health: Includes glucosamine, chondroitin, and calcium to help maintain strong bones and flexible joints, which is beneficial for small breeds like Shih Tzus.
✔ Promotes Healthy Skin and Coat: Omega 3, 6, and 9 fatty acids contribute to a shiny coat and reduce skin issues such as dryness and irritation.
✔ Aids Digestion and Gut Health: Contains probiotics that support nutrient absorption and maintain a healthy digestive system, reducing stomach problems.
✔ Tasty and Easy to Administer: The chicken-flavored soft chews are appealing to most dogs and are easier to give than pills or powders.
✔ Made in the USA: Manufactured in federally regulated facilities, ensuring high safety and quality standards.
✘ May Not Suit All Dogs: Some dogs may have sensitivities or allergies to specific ingredients, such as shellfish-derived glucosamine or certain preservatives.
✘ Not a Replacement for a Balanced Diet: While it offers many nutrients, this supplement should be used alongside a healthy diet rather than as a primary food source.
✘ Possible Digestive Upset: Some dogs may experience mild stomach discomfort when first introduced to the supplement, especially if they have sensitive digestion.
✘ Higher Cost Compared to Basic Multivitamins: Since it includes multiple benefits in one formula, it may be more expensive than simpler vitamin supplements.
✘ Quantity May Not Last Long: A 90-count container may not last as long for multi-dog households or larger dogs needing multiple chews per day, requiring frequent repurchases.
Conclusion
Taking care of a Shih Tzu’s health requires the right food and supplements. Dog food for Shih Tzu, like Royal Canin’s breed-specific dry and wet food, provides essential nutrients to support their coat, digestion, and overall well-being. These specially designed formulas help ensure that Shih Tzus get the right balance of proteins, vitamins, and fatty acids to stay active and healthy.
In addition to food, Healthy Breeds supplements such as Omega HP Soft Chews and All-in-One Multivitamins offer extra support for skin, coat, joints, and digestion. These tasty soft chews make it easier to provide additional nutrition that may not always come from food alone. However, every dog is different, so it’s important to choose the best product based on their specific needs and preferences.
By combining high-quality food with beneficial supplements, you can help your Shih Tzu live a happy, healthy life. Always check the ingredients, consider your pet’s dietary needs, and consult your vet if needed. With proper nutrition and care, your Shih Tzu will have the energy and health to enjoy every day by your side.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which food is best for Shih Tzu?
The best food for a Shih Tzu is one that meets their unique nutritional needs, including high-quality proteins, healthy fats, essential vitamins, and digestible carbohydrates. Royal Canin Shih Tzu Breed-Specific Dry and Wet Dog Food is an excellent option because it is specially formulated for Shih Tzus, supporting their skin, coat, digestion, and heart health. Other good choices include Hill’s Science Diet Small & Toy Breed, Blue Buffalo Life Protection Small Breed, and Wellness CORE Small Breed. When choosing a food, look for one with real meat as the first ingredient, omega fatty acids for coat health, and easily digestible carbohydrates to avoid stomach issues.
How much should a Shih Tzu dog eat a day?
The amount of food a Shih Tzu should eat daily depends on their age, weight, and activity level. In general:
- Puppies (2-6 months old): 3-4 small meals per day, around ½ to 1 cup of high-quality puppy food.
- Adults (1 year and older): 2 small meals per day, totaling ¾ to 1.5 cups of dry food, depending on their weight (9-16 lbs).
- Senior Shih Tzus (7+ years): Slightly less than adults to maintain a healthy weight, usually ½ to 1 cup per day.
It’s best to follow the feeding guidelines on the dog food package and adjust based on your dog’s energy levels and body condition.
What food is not good for Shih Tzu?
Several foods are harmful to Shih Tzus and should be avoided:
- Chocolate, caffeine, and alcohol – These are toxic and can cause serious health problems.
- Onions, garlic, and chives – Can lead to anemia by damaging red blood cells.
- Grapes and raisins – Can cause kidney failure.
- Avocados – Contain persin, which can be toxic to dogs.
- Dairy products – Many Shih Tzus are lactose intolerant and may develop stomach upset.
- Fatty and fried foods – Can lead to obesity and pancreatitis.
- Bones (especially cooked bones) – Can splinter and cause choking or digestive injuries.
Always provide safe and healthy food options that are specifically designed for dogs.
Should Shih Tzu eat grain-free?
Grain-free food is not necessary for most Shih Tzus unless they have a grain allergy or intolerance, which is rare. High-quality grains like rice, oats, and barley provide fiber, energy, and essential nutrients. Some Shih Tzus may benefit from grain-free diets if they have sensitivities, but for most, a balanced diet with grains is perfectly fine. If you’re unsure, consult your vet before switching to grain-free food.
Can I feed my Shih Tzu rice every day?
Yes, you can feed your Shih Tzu rice every day, but it should not be their main diet. Rice is easily digestible and can be helpful for dogs with sensitive stomachs or diarrhea. However, it lacks essential nutrients found in a complete dog food formula. If you want to include rice in their diet, mix it with high-quality dog food or lean proteins like chicken to ensure they get balanced nutrition.
Why do vets not recommend grain-free dog food?
Many vets do not recommend grain-free dog food because studies have linked it to dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a serious heart condition. Some grain-free diets replace grains with legumes like peas and lentils, which may interfere with taurine absorption, an important amino acid for heart health. Unless a dog has a true grain allergy, feeding a diet with healthy grains is often safer and more beneficial for overall health. Always check with a vet before making any significant changes to your dog’s diet.
