The 10 Best Dog Foods for Shih Tzu

Diet and Nutrition for Shih Tzus

Shih Tzus typically do well with any high-quality commercial dog food. It should be easy to pick up and chew since this breed usually has either an underbite or overbite. For this reason, dry kibble is often the preferred option, but with whatever you choose, be sure to factor in your dog's age for a formula appropriate to their stage in life (puppy, adult, or senior). You may also choose to make your pup's meals at home. If you do plan to go this route, run the meal plan by your vet to ensure your pup gets all the nutrition they need. Like most small breeds, Shih Tzus should be fed two or three times a day. You can help nourish your pooch's glamorous coat from the inside out, as well as support muscle mass and joint health through a diet high in fat and protein with the right balance of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids. Because Shih Tzus are not high-energy dogs, they are prone to excessive weight gain, so it's important to limit the treats you give them. Be sure to check with your vet for the proper mealtime and snack portions. Your vet is in the best position to make nutrition recommendations based on your dog's unique needs. And don't forget to keep your pup's bowl clean and filled with cool, fresh water throughout the day; they may be more thirsty than usual if they're on a dry food diet.