If you’re like me, you want to be sure your Shih Tzu received the best nutrition possible. That means providing them with the right food, but what if your Shih Tzu is picky? It can make finding a good dog food that much more difficult. To help here are some of the best dog food for picky Shih Tzu.
Your Shih Tzu’s Nutritional Needs
Your Shih Tzu may be small but that doesn’t mean they don’t have big opinions on what they eat. If Truman had his way, (learn more about Truman in Truman’s Corner) he would eat nothing but sweets all day long, but then who wouldn’t?
Actually, though, most Shih Tzus should have about 50 calories, per day for each pound of bodyweight.
According to Jennifer Coates, DVM at PetMD, “If you feed your dog too little, they can suffer from nutritional deficiencies. However, If you feed your dog too much, it will eventually result in obesity and its related health issues.”
Older dogs need a little less and puppies, because they are still growing a little more. Truman weighs in at a healthy 10 pounds, so he gets 500 calories per day give or take a few here and there.
If you’re unsure how much food to give your Shih Tzu, it is best to ask your veterinarian as they have a good handle on your dog’s specific needs.
The Best Dog Food for a Picky Shih Tzu
I’ve listed some of the top dog foods you might want to consider here. Truman has rated them for you based on a scale of 1 to 5 paws with 5 paws being the best.
No list would be complete without the dog food made specifically for Shih Tzus.
1.Royal Canin – Shih Tzu Adult Dog Food
For: Shih Tzus 10 months old or older, adult dogs
Pros include:
- The shape of the kibble is designed specifically for a Shih Tzu which makes it easier for them to eat.
- Contains DHA, EPA, and vitamin A
- Has omega-6, fatty acids, biotin, and omega-3 fatty acids to help your Shih Tzu have a soft coat.
- Reduces the number of stools and makes them less smelly
Truman Review: 5 Paws
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2. Hill’s Science Diet – Sensitive Stomach & Skin Small Bread Adult Formula
One of the reasons Shih Tzus can be picky eaters is that they have sensitive stomachs. That’s the case for Truman. He is super picky and would go without eating before he ate food he didn’t like.
Even with his sensitive stomach, he can eat this brand of dog food without issues.
For: Adult Dogs
Pros include:
- Promotes digestive health
- Is a good source of prebiotic fiber
- Contains omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E
- Made in the USA
- Number 1 veterinarian recommended
Truman’s Review: 5 Paws
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3. Nutro Wholesome Essentials for Small & Toy Breeds
For: Adult dogs
Pros include:
- Made to meet small breed’s specific nutritional needs
- Contains omega-6 fatty acids and omega-3 fatty acids
- Made with Non-GMO ingredients
- Number 1 ingredient is farm-raised chicken
Truman’s Review: 4.5 Paws
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4. Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Dog Food
For: Adult dogs
Pros include:
- Gluten-Free
- Contains essential amino acids for strong muscles
- Limited ingredient diet
- Contains lamb meal and brown rice
- No corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or colors
Truman’s Review: 4.7 Paws
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5. Wellness CORE Natural Grain Free Wet Canned Dog Food
While there is nothing wrong with having dry dog food as your Shih Tzu’s go-to food, it is nice to top it off with a little wet dog food from time to time. It’s a nice added treat and, of course, can be used as your dog’s full-time food as well.
For: Adult Dogs
Pros include:
- Premium protein balanced with superfoods for a complete and balanced food.
- Grain and grain-free options
- No fillers, limited ingredient options available
- Created by veterinarians and nutritionists
Truman’s Review: 5 Paws
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6. Rachael Ray Nutrish Natural Dry Dog Food
For: Adult Dogs
Pros include:
- No filler and no poultry by-product meal
- Added vitamins and minerals
- U.S farm-raised chicken as the first ingredient
Truman’s Review: 4.5 Paws
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7. Blue Buffalo – Freedom Small Breed Dry Dog Food for Puppies
If your Shih Tzu is still a puppy and a picky eater, you might want to consider this option.
For: Puppies
Pros include:
- Real chicken is its first ingredient.
- Grain-free
- Contains a blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals
- No by-products, wheat, soy, corn, preservatives, or artificial flavors
Truman’s Review: 4.6 Paws
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8. Wellness CORE Natural Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
For: Adult dogs
Pros include:
- Made in the USA
- Complete and balanced dog food with superfoods and premium protein
- Grain and grain-free recipes
- Limited ingredient diets for dogs with food sensitivities
Truman’s Review: 4.7 Paws
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9. Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult 7+ for Senior Dogs, Small Paws
For: Senior Dogs, 7 years old and older
Pros include:
- Supports kidney, bladder, and heart function in senior small-breed dogs.
- Contains omega-6 and vitamin E
- Has a small kibble that easy to digest ingredients for older dogs
- Supports the immune system
- Veterinarian recommended
Truman’s Review: 4.6 Paws
You might also enjoy:
What Fruits Can a Shih Tzu Eat?
What Vegetables Can My Shih Tzu Eat?
Foods You Should Never Feed Your Shih Tzu
Since we’re on the subject of dog food and what to feed your Shih Tzu, I wanted to include a few items you should never feed your dog.
These foods can be toxic and even fatal when ingested by a dog.
They include:
- Chocolate
- Raisins
- Grapes
- Avocados
- Fruit seeds and pits
- Onions
Related Questions:
What is a Shih Tzus Favorite Food?
That’s going to depend on the Shih Tzu, but I’ve found that mine enjoy both fruits and veggies and especially romaine lettuce and apple slices. Just be sure to take all the seeds out first as seeds can be toxic to dogs.
How much food should a Shih Tzu eat a day?
Look on the back of your bag or can of dog food. It will have a chart that shows you approximately how much food your Shih Tzu should eat. A good rule of thumb is 50 calories for every pound of your Shih Tzu. If in doubt, ask your veterinarian.
To Sum it All Up:
Having the right dog food will help your picky Shih Tzu get the nutrition they need. The best option is to try a few of the best dog foods for Shih Tzus and then stick with the one that works for your pup. All of the dog foods listed here are great choices to consider.
Please Note:
This article is informational only and does not substitute for veterinary advice. Always check with your veterinarian before changing your Shih Tzu’s food. If your Shih Tzu has any health issues you should not change their diet without consulting your veterinarian. This article should not be considered in any way as veterinarian advice.
