What to Feed a Shih Tzu

Picking the right food for your Shih Tzu can feel, well, overwhelming. The pet store aisles are just packed with so many options, you might be standing there for a good while, right? I know I have. And you’re just trying to figure out what's the best food for a Shih Tzu so your little guy can be healthy and happy.
Don't worry. It's actually a lot simpler than it looks. The key is to know what to look for, and what to avoid. Let’s break it down.

1. Know Your Goals: A Healthy Coat & Tummy

A Shih Tzu has two big needs when it comes to food: a shiny, beautiful coat, and a sensitive tummy. Their food should have ingredients that support both of these things.

• Protein is King: Look for a food where a real meat (like chicken, lamb, or fish) is the very first ingredient. Protein is essential for muscle, skin, and, yeah, that luscious hair.

• Healthy Fats are a Must: Ingredients like Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids (found in fish oil and flaxseed) are your best friend. They're what give that Shih Tzu coat its famous shine.

• Small Kibble Size: This might seem obvious, but a Shih Tzu has a small mouth and a flat face. Trying to eat giant kibble is just not fun for them. Make sure it's a size they can easily chew.

2. Puppy vs. Adult: A Big Difference

You might be thinking, "What's the difference?" And it's a good question.

• Shih Tzu Puppy Food: Puppies are growing, fast! They need extra calories, protein, and nutrients to support their development. A food specifically labeled for puppies is a must-have for the first year of their life.

• Adult Food: Once they hit about 12 months, it's time to switch to an adult food. This will help them maintain a healthy weight without all those extra calories they no longer need.

3. A Few Things to Avoid

Just as important as knowing what to look for is knowing what to avoid. Some of these ingredients don't offer much nutritional value and can cause stomach upset.

• Fillers: Look out for a bunch of "filler" ingredients like corn, wheat, or soy in the top ingredients.

• Artificial Stuff: Words like "artificial colors" or "preservatives" on the ingredients list. Yikes.

• Too Much of a Good Thing: Overfeeding is a big problem. Always follow the feeding guide on the back of the bag and adjust based on your dog's activity level.

A Quick Look at Our Top Picks

To save you some time, here are a few brands that generally fit the bill for what you should be feeding a Shih Tzu. These are widely available and well regarded in the pet community.

• Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Dry Dog Food: This food is specifically formulated for the breed, with a kibble shape made just for their jaws.

• Purina Pro Plan Small Breed Formula: A reliable brand with high quality ingredients and a small kibble size.

• Merrick Lil’ Plates Grain Free Small Breed: A popular grain-free option with high protein content and a focus on natural ingredients.

Picking the right food is one of the best ways you can show your little buddy you care. And with a bit of research, you'll feel confident knowing you're giving them everything they need to live a long, happy life.