Shih Tzus need balanced nutrition to be healthy and happy, and their needs are different from other dogs. A healthy diet helps keep them healthy, allowing you to have a happy dog that is well cared for. Knowing how their needs change over time can help you make the best choices as your dog gets older.
A Shih Tzu needs protein, fat, and fiber in each meal to meet all their needs. Chicken, beef, and fish are great sources of protein, healthy fats can come from fish or flaxseed oil, and you can choose pumpkins or sweet potatoes for fiber.
Shih Tzus’ specific needs change as they age or if they should have a special diet. They are small dogs and are typically less active than other breeds, so they’re more likely to become obese. Pay attention to portion control during feeding times to make sure they aren’t having too much food.
The Best Puppy Food for Shih Tzus
Shih Tzu puppies grow fast, so they need food that gives them energy. This includes protein and fat, and omega-3 fatty acids for eye and brain health. Specifically pick food that’s for puppies to make sure they get every nutrient they need at this life stage.
Puppies can chew wet dog food easier than dry food, and they may like the flavor and texture better. On the other hand, dry dog food can help with tartar buildup on the teeth, so both types have some benefits. Some of the best puppy-specific food options include:
- Royal Canin
- Hill’s Science Diet
- Orijen
Good Food for Adult Shih Tzus
Once your Shih Tzu grows up, they need protein and fat without having too many calories so they stay at a healthy weight, have energy, and maintain muscle mass.
They also need to maintain healthy joints and muscles because small breeds may get hip dysplasia or arthritis. Foods with glucosamine and chondroitin improve joint health, antioxidants like vitamin E and selenium promote immune health, and fiber helps support digestion. Choosing food with these ingredients means you can trust that your pup is getting the nutrition they need.
The best food for adult Shih tzus is typically the ones with meat as the first ingredient and no fillers. Some of the best brands to choose include:
- Blue Buffalo
- Wellness
- Nutro
The Best Food for Senior Shih Tzus
Senior Shih Tzus typically have slower metabolisms and lower energy levels. They need fewer calories but enough nutrients. You’ll still want options with glucosamine and omega fatty acids, but consider some of the issues they may be at risk of now that they’re older.
Their digestive system can be more sensitive, so consider something with probiotics or prebiotics to promote their gut health. Older dogs also commonly have kidney problems, so you may want to look for food that supports that, as well.
The best food brands for senior Shih Tzus will help with digestive, joint, and cognitive health. You can find those in the following brands:
- Hill’s Science Diet
- Royal Canin
Food Options For Shih Tzus with Allergies
Some Shih Tzus suffer from food allergies that can cause itchy skin, ear infections, and gastrointestinal problems that no one in your home will enjoy. If this happens to your pup, look into getting hypoallergenic dog food made with one of the following:
- duck
- lamb
- fish
Most food allergies for dogs come from:
- chicken
- beef
- grains
- dairy
- artificial preservatives
Changing to a food with different ingredients should help, but you may have to test out which ingredients are causing the problem. Some options for hypoallergenic food choices for your dog include:
- Hill’s Prescription Diet
- Natural Balance
- Royal Canin
Food for Shih Tzus with Sensitive Stomachs
Dogs with sensitive stomachs digest some foods easily, including chicken, rice, or pumpkin, while other options can upset their stomachs. Getting dog food with prebiotics in it helps them digest it better and promotes gut health, lessening sensitivity.
Some brands have choices with limited ingredients and only one protein source. This makes it easier to digest the food and avoid stomach irritation. The following options can help you handle your pup’s sensitive stomach:
- Royal Canin Digestive Care
- Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach
- Blue Buffalo’s Basics
Consider Making Homemade Dog Food for Shih Tzus
You’ll feel better if you know the exact ingredients that go into your dog’s food. This is possible if you make it homemade. Knowing that your Shih Tzu only eats high-quality food free of fillers, preservatives, or allergens will make you feel good since you’re in control of their health. You Shih Tzu is your family, afterall.
Recap of the Best Food for Shih Tzu Dogs
The food you choose is important because you have to keep their age, health, and preferences in mind. You’ll probably have to switch to new foods as their needs change, since each life stage differs.
You can keep yooru Shih Tzu happy and healthy by prioritizing getting them quality food that fits their changing needs. Consider the ingredients in your dogs treats is important, too, as they can cause many of the same problems. Talk to a trusted veterinarian because they can likely recommend something to fit your dog’s needs.
