With their adorable faces and luxurious coats, Shih Tzus are one of the most cherished toy breeds. Known for their affectionate and friendly nature, these small breed dogs make fantastic companions. However, maintaining their health and vitality requires special attention to their nutrition.
Shih Tzus need a balanced diet that ensures their coats stay shiny, their energy levels remain high, and they avoid or manage common health issues. Understanding what ingredients and which dog foods are best for your pup can help them live a long and happy life.
Common Shih Tzu Health Issues
Shih Tzus typically do well on any high-quality properly formulated dog food as long as it is formulated for their age and life stage. However, there are a few things to remember when choosing a dog food recipe for your pup. Because of their unique brachycephalic facial structure and small stature, Shih Tzus are vulnerable to some health issues that can be managed with diet, including:
- Obesity. Shih Tzus are adorable but relatively sedentary, so they are prone to packing on the pounds, which can lead to health issues like diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease. To keep your Shih Tzu fit and healthy, focus on a balanced diet based on high-quality protein and limit treats to less than 10% of their daily calories. Ensure they exercise 20 to 30 minutes daily, such as brisk walks or playtime.
-
Hip Dysplasia. Hip dysplasia in Shih Tzus occurs when the hip joint doesn’t develop properly, causing pain and mobility issues. To support their joints, feed your pup a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids from sources like wild-caught salmon and flaxseed; consider joint supplements containing methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), which help reduce inflammation and improve joint health.
-
Periodontal Disease. Shih Tzus often suffer from periodontal disease due to overcrowded teeth, leading to tartar and plaque buildup. This can cause gum inflammation and tooth loss. To help manage it, provide a diet that includes plenty of water and small pieces of raw vegetables like carrots to reduce plaque. Regular dental check-ups and brushing can also help keep their teeth healthy.
Ingredients To Look For
When choosing food for your Shih Tzu, focusing on the right ingredients can make a big difference in their health and happiness. High-quality protein sources, like chicken, lamb, or fish, should be at the top of the list, as they provide the building blocks for strong muscles and overall health. Healthy fats, such as fish oil or flaxseed, are vital for maintaining glossy coats and supporting brain function.
Whole grains like brown rice, millet, and quinoa are excellent sources of energy and fiber. They help with digestion and keep your pup full and satisfied for weight management. Fruits and vegetables such as sweet potatoes, blueberries, and carrots provide essential vitamins and antioxidants like beta-carotene and Vitamin E, boosting your pup’s immune system and supporting eye health.
Ingredients To Avoid
While there are many excellent dog food options available, there are also some ingredients you should avoid to keep your Shih Tzu healthy. Avoid dog foods that contain artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, as these can cause digestive issues or allergic reactions in some dogs. Low-quality fillers like corn, wheat, and soy can also be hard for your Shih Tzu to digest and may not provide the necessary nutrients.
Also, be cautious of dog foods that list meat by-products as primary ingredients. These products and meals can vary in quality and may not provide the consistent, high-quality nutrition your Shih Tzu needs.
Top Dog Foods for Shih Tzus
At Open Farm, we offer a selection of premium, ethically sourced foods formulated to support your Shih Tzu health. Some of our most popular options include:
-
Small Breed Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food. This nutrient-dense dry dog food, with its smaller kibble size, is perfect for Shih Tzus. It offers high-quality protein with humanely raised chicken, turkey, and ocean fish meal. Sweet potatoes, pumpkin, apples, and blueberries add antioxidants and fiber, supporting digestion and promoting a shiny coat.
-
Chicken & Salmon Pâté for Dogs. This chicken and salmon pâté is perfect for Shih Tzus. It provides a delicious texture with humanely raised chicken and nutrient-rich salmon. Carrots and flaxseed add fiber and omega-3s, promoting healthy digestion and strong joints. Plus, its grain-free formula suits sensitive stomachs, ensuring your pup thrives.
-
RawMix Tide & Terrain Freeze Dried Raw Recipe. This formula has a tender, morsel texture that's easy for Shih Tzus to chew and enjoy. With humanely raised beef, organ meats, and wild-caught pollock and salmon, it provides the protein-rich nutrition they naturally love. Serve it as a complete meal or sprinkle it over their kibble for a tasty, nutrient-packed topper that keeps your pup excited for mealtime.
-
Puppy Gently Cooked Recipe. Shih Tzu puppies have different nutritional needs than adults, and this slow-cooked recipe provides them with everything they need for healthy growth. With humanely raised chicken and pork, wild-caught salmon, beef liver, and non-GMO veggies, it supports joint development and digestion, keeping your puppy strong and active.
Why Open Farm Is a Great Choice for Your Shih Tzu
Choosing the right food for your Shih Tzu is essential for their health, happiness, and longevity. You can ensure your pup thrives with the right balance of high-quality proteins, healthy fats, and essential nutrients. Open Farm offers a fantastic range of options for Shih Tzus, with recipes that focus on transparency, sustainability, and high-quality ingredients. From protein-rich dry kibble, to nourishing wet food, Open Farm’s products are developed to meet the specific needs of your Shih Tzu, supporting their health from puppyhood through their senior years. Treat your pup to the best and see the difference it makes. Browse Open Farm’s selection and give your Shih Tzu the nutrition it deserves.
This article is meant only as an example meal with fully balanced nutrition, please reach out to our customer experience team if you have any questions about your pet’s own unique circumstances! To ensure these products are a good fit for your dog, we also recommend consulting your dog’s vet about any new supplement or diet changes, especially if there is a medical concern. They should be able to help as you and your vet know your dog’s medical history best!
