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Wondering what is the best dog food for Shih Tzus? When it comes to providing optimal nutrition for your precious pup, there’s no room for compromise. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide on the best dog food for Shih Tzu. Whether you are looking for the best dry dog food for Shih Tuzs or the best food for Shih Tzu puppies, our team of experts has researched and analyzed various brands, formulas, and ingredients to bring you the top recommendations based on the specific needs of this breed.
Just as our royal canine companions once dined alongside Chinese emperors, we’re here to treat them like the nobility they are with a kingly feast of nutritious goodness. Let’s get started!
Providing your Shih Tzu with the appropriate food from weaning to maturity is crucial for their overall health and happiness. Before we recommend the top dog food options for your Shih Tzu, it’s important to understand how food affects their well-being.
As a small breed, Shih Tzu has distinct nutritional needs that require careful consideration. The ideal food for your Shih Tzu should be of high quality and tailored to their unique dietary requirements, taking into account factors such as:
Health
Activity level
Age
Weight (size)
Food & Shih Tzu Health
Generally, Shih Tzus are healthy dogs, but like any breed, they are susceptible to several health concerns. Although certain health issues that Shih Tzu may experience are congenital and beyond our control, others can be influenced by environmental and lifestyle factors, such as diet. To help maintain their health and prevent some health problems that may arise from poor nutrition, it’s essential to provide Shih Tzu with a well-balanced and nutritious diet.
Some of the most common health issues faced by Shih Tzu include the following:
Food allergies. Certain ingredients in their food can cause allergies in Shih Tzu. Food allergies in Shih Tzu may present as dry, itchy skin, ears, or paws. It’s important to note that food intolerances can also occur. However, unlike allergies, food intolerances do not involve the immune system but can lead to vomiting or diarrhea. We highly recommend conducting an at-home dog food allergy test like the 5Strands kit. This particular kit can test for up to 255 ingredients and determine which ones may cause food intolerance in your dog. Once you receive the results, you can use the list to avoid dog food formulas that contain potential allergens.
Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome(BOAS). Due to their short faces, Shih Tzus are a brachycephalic breed, which can result in respiratory issues.
Eye problems. Shih Tzus are known to have various eye issues, including retinal dysplasia, keratitis, cataracts, infections, and dry eyes (keratoconjunctivitis sicca), which can cause symptoms such as eye discharge, redness, crusting, and excessive blinking.
Dental issues. Shih Tzus are prone to dental problems, with periodontal or gum disease being common, affecting as many as 90% of dogs by the age of two.
Hip dysplasia. Hip Dysplasia is a common and painful genetic health problem seen in Shih Tzus. This condition occurs when a dog’s hip joints develop abnormally which can have different indications depending on the severity.
Collapsing trachea. The cartilage that gives the trachea its shape can weaken and it will make the structure flatten. The dog’s breathing will become difficult and can become a relevant health risk.
Epiphora. Epiphora is a condition in which there is excessive production of tears or improper drainage of tears, resulting in watery eyes and tear staining on the face.
Patellar luxation. This condition occurs when the kneecap (patella) slips out of place, causing pain and mobility issues.
Intervertebral disk disease. Occurs when a disk slips out and presses against the spinal cord.
Hypothyroidism. It affects the thyroid gland of the dog and results in a lack of thyroxine, a hormone that controls the metabolism of the dog.
Kidney and liver problems. Shih Tzus can be predisposed to kidney problems, such as renal dysplasia and kidney stones. The Shih Tzu is more likely than other breeds to have a liver disorder called portosystemic shunt (PSS).
Food & Shih Tzu Activity Level
The food that a Shih Tzu consumes can have a significant impact on its activity level. The activity level of your Shih Tzu will impact their caloric needs, which in turn affects the amount and type of food they require. A more active Shih Tzu will need a higher caloric intake to maintain their energy levels and sustain their physical activities
On the other hand, a less active or more sedentary Shih Tzu will require fewer calories to prevent weight gain and related health issues. Overfeeding a less active dog can lead to obesity, which in turn can contribute to various health problems such as joint issues, heart disease, and diabetes. To ensure your Shih Tzu maintains a healthy weight and activity level, adjust their food intake accordingly, and monitor their body condition regularly.
It’s essential to strike the right balance between your Shih Tzu’s activity level and their diet to maintain optimal health.
Food & Shih Tzu Age
Shih Tzus have specific nutritional needs at different stages of their life, and providing them with a diet that meets these needs is essential for their overall health and well-being.
Shih TzuPuppies. Require a diet that is higher in calories and protein to support their growth and development. They also need a balanced calcium and phosphorus diet for healthy bone growth. Feeding high-quality puppy food formulated explicitly for Shih Tzu puppies can help ensure they receive the necessary nutrients during this crucial stage.
Adult Shih Tzu. Require a diet that is lower in calories and protein to maintain their weight and prevent obesity. They also need a balanced diet of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins to support their overall health and energy needs.
Senior Shih Tzu. Senior dogs may require a diet lower in calories and fat to maintain a healthy weight and higher fiber to support digestive health. Senior dog foods often contain joint supplements to help mobility and joint health.
Shih Tzu-Specific Dog Food Qualities To Look For
Here are the desirable characteristics of Shih Tzu dog food.
Avoid common allergens. Shih Tzu often develops food allergies or intolerances, so it may be helpful if your Shih Tzu dog food is free from common allergens, such as corn, wheat, chicken, and beef.
Probiotics. Shih Tzus can have sensitive digestive systems. Look for a dog food that adds probiotics to its formula. Dog Probiotics support a healthy digestive system and immune system. Probiotics also help to reduce your Shih Tzu’s inflammatory responses to allergens and immunological attacks.
Digestibility. Shih Tzu can be prone to digestive issues, so look for dog food that is minimally processed, such as fresh dog food or homemade dog food for Shih Tzu. Lower-quality kibble may contain fillers, artificial preservatives, and other ingredients that can be harder to digest and may cause digestive upset in some dogs.
Joint support. Look for dog food containing glucosamine and chondroitin, which can help maintain joint health and reduce the risk of hip dysplasia and other joint issues.
Small kibble size. Shih Tzus have short faces and may have difficulty eating large kibble. Opting for dog food with a small kibble size can make it easier for them to eat and digest their food.
Easy-to-chew texture. Shih Tzus are prone to dental issues, so choosing dog food with an easy-to-chew texture can help promote dental health and reduce the risk of periodontal problems.
Low phosphorus content. For dogs with kidney problems, look for food with low phosphorus levels, as high phosphorus can contribute to the progression of kidney disease.
Lower sodium content. Reduced sodium content in dog food can help manage high blood pressure, an issue in dogs with kidney or liver problems.
L-arginine and L-carnitine. These amino acids can support liver function and may benefit dogs with liver problems.
Vitamin A. Look for dog food containing vitamin A, such as sweet potatoes, pumpkin, and carrots. Vitamin A is essential for maintaining the health of the retina and supporting night vision.
Lutein and Zeaxanthin. These carotenoids are known to promote eye health and help protect the eyes from harmful blue light. Ingredients like spinach, kale, and other leafy greens are natural sources of lutein and zeaxanthin.
Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids, such as those found in fish oil, can help promote healthy skin and coat in Shih Tzus, who may be prone to skin issues due to allergies or other factors.
Epiphora(teat stains). If your Shih Tzu suffers from Epiphora, dog food for tear stains is your best option.
Other General Tips To Pick The Best Food For Shih Tzu
AAFCO approved
High-quality protein as the first ingredient
Avoid meat meals or meat-byproducts
Made in the USA
Avoid food that contains fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
Your dog’s preferences
Keep in mind that every Shih Tzu has specific dietary needs. Seeking advice from a veterinarian can assist you in selecting the best food that meets your Shih Tzu’s requirements.
Here are Canine Bible’s top picks for the best dog food for Shih Tzu.
Our research team chose all dog foods listed below based on AAFCO’s nutrient guidelines, Shih Tzu’s exclusive nutrition needs, customer reviews, price, and more. This Shih Tzu food list also includes food for specific needs such as weight loss, allergies, and more.
Flavors: Beef, chicken, turkey & lamb┊ Life stage: All ages ┊ Food type: Fresh Ingredients: Human-grade ┊ Manufactured: USA ┊ Nutrition: AAFCO
Overview
•Flavors: Beef, chicken, turkey & lamb •Life stage: All ages •Food type: Fresh •Ingredients: Human-grade •Manufactured: USA •Nutrition: AAFCO
Why We Picked & Recommended It
Ollie wins the spot for the best dog food for Shih Tzu. This brand stands out because they use human-grade ingredients to create recipes that are portioned and delivered straight to your door. Feeding your dog fresh food like Ollie offers many research-backed health benefits, including longer lifespans, better digestibility, higher energy levels, and more. It’s also ideal for dogs with food allergies, sensitive stomachs, or other dietary concerns because they avoid cheap fillers, additives, and harmful chemicals. Unlike traditional kibble, Ollie dog food is gently cooked from scratch, ensuring all nutritional integrity is retained. This means that your Shih Tzu will receive the healthiest and most nutritious meal with every serving.
What Sets It Apart From Competitors
Ollie stands out from other dog food brands by taking a personalized approach to nutrition. Many dog food brands offer one-size-fits-all recipes, but Ollie takes the time to create a custom formula for each dog, considering factors like age, weight, and activity level to ensure that your dog gets the perfect balance of nutrients for their unique needs. You can tell them about your dog’s food allergies, tear stain issues, bad breath, joint problems and more and they will cook and personalize your dog’s meals to meet your pet’s needs.
Key Features
Vet-designed. All recipes are made by board-certified veterinary nutritionists that comply with AAFCO standards.
Human-grade. Cooked in human-grade kitchens with human-grade ingredients.
Excellent ingredient sourcing. They only source from reputable food suppliers, local farms, and other human food purveyors that meet USDA standards.
Pros
Level of customization is unmatched
Packaged as daily portions for easy serving
Non-processed food (zero chemicals)
Nom never uses feed-grade ingredients
Does not process ingredients to be shelf-stable
Cons
It’s on the expensive side
Our readers have access to save 50% off your first order of Ollie. Just use this link to get started. The discount will be applied automatically.
A Pup Above Food Cubies dog formula is our top pick for the best all-around dry dog food for Shih Tzu. Unlike traditional dry dog food, Food Cubies is less processed and has half the cost of fresh dog food. Think of Food Cubies as freshly homemade dog food with the convince of kibble without the nasty preservatives, additives, and cheap fillers. It’s perfect for Shih Tzu because it’s been formulated to surpass the specific nutritional requirements of most dry dog foods.
What Sets It Apart From Competitors
Food cubies recipes are gently dried using our unique process, which gently dries out whole foods to preserve nutrients and flavor and maximize nutritional integrity. Some recipes use organ meats, one of the most nutrient-dense foods you can give your dog. In fact, entrails contain as many (or more) vitamins, minerals and other valuable nutrients as lean muscle meat.
Key Features
100% human-grade. Real ingredients
Simple, limited ingredients. Use radically simple recipes ideal for a picky eater or dog with food allergies.
Superherbs. Boosted with super herbs for join, immunity, digestive support and more
What We Like & Don’tLike
Pros
Meals customized for your dog’s weight, breed and activity level
Exceeds industry standards
Cheaper than fresh dog food
Crunchy texture
GMO and hormone free
Custom plans and scoops
Cons
It’s a bit more expensive than traditional kibble. NUTRO Ultra dry dog food is another great alternative if you want a more traditional dry dog food that’s less expensive.
Our readers have access to save 25% off their first order when using the code “CANINEBIBLE”. Just use this link to get started.
Flavors: Blend of chicken, pork & salmon┊ Life stage: Puppies ┊ Food type: Fresh Ingredients: Human-grade ┊ Manufactured: USA ┊ Nutrition: AAFCO
Overview
•Flavors: Blend of chicken, port & salmon •Life stage: Puppies •Food type: Dry •Ingredients: Fresh •Manufactured: USA •Nutrition: AAFCO
Why We Picked & Recommended It
The Gently Cooked Open Farm puppy recipe is the best dog food for Shih Tzu. This puppy-specific formula provides the necessary nutrients for the optimal growth and development of Shih Tzu puppies, including prebiotic fiber like pumpkin and chicory root, supports healthy digestion and calcium iodate as a source of energy production, and also promotes muscular and cognitive development in puppies.
What Sets It Apart From Competitors
This formula is designed specifically for Shih Tzu puppies and has a purposeful blend of three proteins to help prevent allergies. It also has added collagen for healthy joint development.
Key Features
Human-grade meats. High-quality meats are raised without antibiotics or added hormones.
Superfoods. Boosted with chia seeds, kale, flaxseed and other wholesome ingredients.
Flavors: Beef, chicken, lamb & fish┊ Life stage: Adult┊ Food type: Dry Ingredients: Natural ┊ Manufactured: USA ┊ Nutrition: AAFCO
Overview
•Flavors: Beef, chicken, lamb & fish •Life stage: Adult •Food type: Dry •Ingredients: Natural •Manufactured: USA •Nutrition: AAFCO
Why We Picked & Recommended It
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula is great if you are looking for the most affordable dog food for Shih Tzu. For a slightly lower price than other brands, this dry food is formulated to provide your Shih Tzu pup with sustained healthy energy from high-quality animal-based proteins. This dog food helps build strong, lean muscles and maintain optimal body conditions. It is made with real meat, brown rice, and sweet potatoes, which are easily digestible and provide a balanced diet for adult dogs.
What Sets It Apart From Competitors
Blue Buffalo’s exclusive LifeSource Bits are a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support your dog’s immune system and overall health. It is made with real meat as the first ingredient, rare in most affordable dog food brands.
Key Features
Omegas. This dog food is also packed with omega-6 and -3 fatty acids to promote healthy skin and a radiant coat.
Muscle support. L-Carnitine to help burn fat while preserving lean muscles
Bone and joint health. It also contains Glucosamine and chondroitin for strong bones and joint development.
What We Like & Don’tLike
Pros
No chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors or preservatives
Cons
It may not be suitable for dogs with severe food allergies or sensitivities, as it is not specifically designed for these conditions
The inclusion of brown rice and sweet potatoes may be higher in carbohydrates than some dogs need, which could be a concern for overweight or diabetic dogs
Flavors: Chicken, turkey & fish┊ Life stage: Senior ┊ Food type: Dry Ingredients: Fresh┊ Manufactured: USA ┊ Nutrition: AAFCO
Overview
•Flavors: Chicken, turkey & fish •Life stage: Senior •Food type: Dry •Ingredients: Fresh •Manufactured: USA •Nutrition: AAFCO
Why We Picked & Recommended It
Most veterinarians consider a dog a senior once it reaches seven years old. If your Shih Tzu is in that stage of his life, it might be time to switch to a high-quality senior dog food diet. If you’re concerned about keeping your Shih Tzu healthy during his older years, Orijin Senior dog food will support long-life vitality. It’s crafted specifically for your senior Shih Tzu to help them stay healthy by supporting lean muscle mass and weight maintenance.
What Sets It Apart From Competitors
With rich inclusions of a whole prey diet, ORIJEN dog food is made with the most nutrient-dense, succulent parts of the prey to deliver the nutrition dogs need.
Key Features
Wholeprey diet inclusions. It uses fresh and raw animal ingredients, including meat, organs, cartilage, and bone, nourishing dogs according to their natural and biological needs. Note“ “r”w” in this context means that the ingredients are super-fresh when they arrive at the factory/kitchen. The kibble is cooked by the time it is in the bag. This is high-quality cooked pet food, not raw food.
Bones and joint support. Enhanced with Glucosamine to aid with cartilage wear and tear as your pet ages.
Flavors: Chicken, lamb & beef┊ Life stage: All ages ┊ Food type: Raw Ingredients: Raw┊ Manufactured: USA ┊ Nutrition: AAFCO
Overview
•Flavors: Chicken, lamb & beef •Life stage: All ages •Food type: Raw •Ingredients: Natural •Manufactured: USA •Nutrition: AAFCO
Why We Picked & Recommended It
As more dog parents opt to raw feed their dogs, it’s essential to understand the ins and out of a raw diet for dogs. If you are in the market for raw dog food for Shih Tzu, Instinct Frozen Raw Bites Real Beef Recipe formula is one of our top picks for the best raw dog food delivery brands. This formula is protein-packed with 85% meat and organs and 15% non-GMO fruits, vegetables, vitamins, and minerals to give your Shih Tzu a complete BARF diet. It’s minimally processed, never cooked, pure, natural nutrition to keep your best friend strong.
What Sets It Apart From Competitors
Raw dog food benefits a shinier coat, healthier skin, cleaner teeth, more energy, and smaller stool. Instinct Raw states that raw dog nutrition can promote strong, lean muscles and energize your pup.
What We Like Don’tLike
Pros
Never cooked
Non-GMO vegetables, fruits, and wholesome ingredients
All ingredients are frozen in their prime to maintain the highest level of nutrients
Cold-pressure processing to keep the nutrients and taste intact
Cons
Needs to be kept frozen until it’s your pet’s mealtime
Not as convenient as feeding dry dog food. Open Farm freeze-dried raw dog food is an excellent alternative for a more convenient way to feed raw.
Best Food For Shih Tzu With Sensitive Stomach — Hill’s
If you are looking for the best food for Shih Tzu with sensitive stomachsHill’s Science Diet For Sensitive Stomach & Skin is a top choice. This kibble is formulated to protect sensitive tummies and skin. It’s made with easily digestible ingredients, including barley, beet pulp, and brown rice, and contains no soy, wheat, or artificial that can cause upsets or skin flare-ups on your Shih Tzu.
What Sets It Apart From Competitors
Specialized formula fortified with prebiotics fiber for healthy digestion, sensitive stomachs and immune health. Prebiotic fiber nourishes healthy intestinal bacteria.
Key Features
Omega-6. Excellent source of omega-6 fatty acids to nourish your dog’s skin and help maintain a healthy, shiny coat.
Highly digestible. The food is gentle on the stomach
What We Like Don’tLike
Pros
Supports a balanced gut microbiome in your grown dog
No artificially colored, flavored, or preserved
Cons
Not recommended for puppies and pregnant or nursing dogs.
15% may still be sensitive to this diet. Another option is going fresh with a more premium option like JustFoodForDogs Balanced Remedy. Its plain composition of a single protein source, single starch source, and low-fat levels make it perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
Best Food For Shih Tzu With Allergies — Royal Canin
Flavors: Natural┊ Life stage: All ages ┊ Food type: Dry Ingredients: Hypoallergenic ┊ Manufactured: USA┊ Nutrition: AAFCO
Overview
•Flavors: Natural •Life stage: All ages •Food type: Dry •Ingredients: Hypoallergenic •Manufactured: USA •Nutrition: AAFCO
Why We Picked & Recommended It
Whether your Shih Tzu suffers from skin allergies, food allergies, or food intolerance to certain ingredients, Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein is the best hypoallergenic dog formula you feed an allergic Shih Tzu. This vet-exclusive prescription formula helps dogs with itching, hair loss, skin allergies and digestive upset. It’s also highly digestible and supports gastrointestinal and dermatological health.
What Sets It Apart From Competitors
This formula uses hydrolyzed soy protein (non-animal protein). Hydrolyzed protein is made by a process known as hybridization, which breaks down proteins to a size less likely to be recognized by the immune system, effectively stopping allergic reactions.
Key Features
Limited ingredients. Its limited ingredients also make it great against allergies. They use one single source of carbohydrates.
Supports GI health. Contains a special blend of fibers and prebiotics.
What We Like Don’tLike
Pros
Specially designed for canines with food intolerances or allergies
Helps to reduce skin and GI reactions caused by proteins
Support healthy skin and help reduce inflammation
Best dog food for Shih Tzu with skin allergies
Best dog food for itchy skin Shih Tzu
Cons
A bit expensive
Requires vet authorization. While we recommend Royal Canine Veterinary for the best results, unfortunately, it requires a prescription. If you can’t wait to visit your vet or don’t have the budget to afford it, ACANA Lamb & Pumpkin Limited Ingredient Diet can help also help with allergies and does not require a prescription.
•Flavors: Beef, chicken & turkey, salmon, lamb, venison & more •Life stage: All ages •Food type: Dry •Ingredients: Premium •Manufactured: USA •Nutrition: AAFCO
Why We Picked & Recommended It
Does your Shih Tzu dog suffer from grain allergies or intolerances? If so, Open Farm’s grain-free dry dog food is your best bet. We picked it because they skip the grain, corn, soy and wheat in favor of science-backed superfoods like non-GMO pumpkin, carrot, leafy greens and coconut oil for a balanced and complete diet that provide antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support Shih Tzu nutritional needs. Open Farm grain-free recipes are specifically designed for dogs with grain sensitivities.
What Sets It Apart From Competitors
It’s made responsibly from ethically sourced and sustainable ingredients free from antibiotics, hormones, and artificial preservatives, making it one of the most sustainable dog food brands.
Key Features
100% traceable ingredients. Instantly trace the origin of every ingredient in their bag of Open Farm pet food
Premium ingredients. Locally sourced non-GMO fruits and veggies
Ethically sourced protein. Only uses ethically sourced and humanely raised meats
What We Like Don’tLike
Pros
No rendered poultry or meat meals
Meats from audited higher welfare farms
High in protein
Local carbon footprint per bag
Cons
It can be more expensive than other brands on the market
Flavors: Chicken, turkey, beef, lamb & more┊ Life stage: All ages ┊ Food type: Wet Ingredients: Human-grade ┊ Manufactured: USA ┊ Nutrition: AAFCO
Overview
•Flavors: Chicken, turkey, beef, lamb & more •Life stage: All ages •Food type: Wet •Ingredients: Human-grade •Manufactured: USA •Nutrition: AAFCO
Why We Picked & Recommended It
Are you looking for the best-wet food for Shih Tzu? JustFoodForDogs Pantry Fresh is our favorite choice. JustFoodForDogs Pantry Fresh Dog Food is a convenient and healthy option for dog owners who want to feed their dogs soft-textured meals and keep them hydrated, especially those in warmer climates. Unlike traditional canned wet dog food, Pantry Fresh uses only ingredient fit for human consumption to ensure the highest quality nutrition. Additionally, they use a unique cooking process to make Pantry Fresh preserves the nutritional value and taste of the ingredients, making it a nutritious and tasty option for dogs.
What Sets It Apart From Competitors
Aside from traditional flavors, they have specialized wet food for targeting health problems including joint, skin, sensitive stomach, renal, appetite loss, metabolism and liver function.
Key Features
Ready-to-serve nutrition. A team of veterinarians and canine specialists formulates every recipe.
Gently cooked. This process maximizes the nutritional value and promotes a healthy immune system.
Travel friendly. 2-year shelf life and transportable Tetra Pak® packaging make it easy to store and travel with.
What We Like Don’tLike
Pros
USDA certified meats
Organ meats
A convenient way for busy people to feed their dogs a fresh diet
Offers health-specific options
A variety pack for picky eaters
Provides the benefits of fresh dog food
Cons
More expensive than traditional wet dog food
Other Best Dog Food For Shih Tzu
Best dehydrated dog food for Shih Tzu.The Honest Kitchen Dehydrated Gourmet is our favorite dehydrated food. Dehydrated food is often easier for Shih Tzu to digest. Additionally, if your dog has dental problems or is missing teeth, dehydrated dog food can be easier for them to eat than traditional kibble.
Best food topper for Shih Tzu.Portland Pet Food Company Human offers a fantastic variety of tasty fresh dog food flavors you can add as a topper to your dog’s kibble meals.
Best health-specific custom diets food for Shih Tzu.JustFoodForDogs makes creating a custom recipe for your fur baby easy. They work with your veterinarian to create a custom recipe if your Shih Tzu has a medical need for a restricted diet.
Best dog food for Shih Tzu to lose weight.Natural Balance Fat Dogs Low is great if your Shih Tzu needs to lose weight.
Best dog food for Shih Tzu to gain weight. With 484 calories per cup, Purina Pro Plan Performance is ideal for helping your Shih Tzu gain lean muscle mass.
The caloric needs of dogs are based on their weight. An adult Shih Tzu usually weighs between 9 and 15 pounds, meaning most Shih Tzu need between 322 and 472 calories daily. You can use our dog calorie calculator to find the exact caloric needs of your dog based on his weight.
How to Switch Shih Tzu Dog Food
If you decide to switch your Shih Tzu’s dog food to a new dog formula, it’s advised to adhere to the following recommendations by vets:
Week 1: 25% new food and 75% old food
Week 2: 50% new food and 50% old food
Week 3: 25% new food and 75% old food
Week 4: 100% new food
Pro tip: Never change your dog’s food abruptly. It could cause an upset stomach, diarrhea, or vomiting.
Only increase the weekly food percentage if your Shih Tzu seems to be doing well during each transition. Monitor closely, and if you notice any adverse reaction to his new food, stop feeding it to your dog.
Health Dietary Changes In Shih Tzu
If your Shih Tzu is struggling with the following health conditions, adopting a new diet or adding supplements can be beneficial to get these dog-related issues under control.
Condition
Dietary Needs & Adjustments
Coat Color Changes
Increase amino acids which can be found in protein (>75 grams per 1000 calories)
Concurrent GI Signs
Avoid foods with tryptamine and histamine, such as dairy, fermented vegetables, and meats (yes, this includes bacon); try a simple ingredient food trial.
Chronic Itching and Dermatitis
Fortify the diet with Vitamin E, B Vitamins, Zinc, omega-6, and the omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil; add a dog probiotic; try a simple ingredient food trial.
Dull Coat and Scaling
Adjust EPA and DHA levels in the diet (added fish oil being the most common way); try food with added zinc.
Dandruff and Crustiness
Add Zinc and Vitamin A levels
Best Dog Food For Shih Tzu — Conclusion
As we wrap up our exploration of the best dog food for Shih Tzus, remember that your dog is counting on you to make the right choice for their health and happiness. With the information and recommendations provided in this article, you’re now equipped to make an informed decision that will have a lasting impact on your Shih Tzu’s well-being. As you move forward, remember that a high-quality, well-balanced diet is the key to keep your dog happy and healthy. Remember to consult with your veterinarian for further guidance and to adjust your Shih Tzu diet as needed. Together, you and your beloved pet can embark on a journey toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.
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