Best Dog Food for Shih Tzus: Puppy, Adult, Senior & Allergies 2024

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Let’s face it—your Shih Tzu puppy, adult, or senior needs the best dog food for their unique nutritional requirements.

We’ve done our research and found seven of the top-rated options available in 2023: Blue Buffalo Puppy, Nutro Small Breed Senior, Now Fresh Puppy Small Breed Dry Dog Food, and more.

Plus, we’ll discuss the grain-free controversy linked to canine heart disease called Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) so you can make an informed decision about what’s best for your pup!

Top 7 Best Dog Foods for Shih Tzu Puppy

Choosing the best dog food for your Shih Tzu puppy can be a difficult decision. With so many options, it is important to consider your pup’s individual needs and preferences. Blue Buffalo Puppy, Nutro Small Breed Senior, Now Fresh Puppy Small Breed, Wellness Small Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food, Merrick Classic Grains Small Breed Adult Dog Food, CANIDAE Pure Salmon, and Wellness Small Breed Dog Food are all excellent choices when selecting the right food for your beloved pup.

Let us take an in-depth look at each of these recipes to determine which will meet your pup’s specific nutritional requirements.

Blue Buffalo Puppy

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You’ll love how the Blue Buffalo Puppy kibble helps your small pup’s teeth and bones stay strong while providing essential nutrients like DHA, ARA, omega fatty acids, and antioxidants. It has a natural recipe with no corn, wheat, or soy byproducts for easy digestibility.

Plus, it comes in a 15 lb bag that is made in the USA specifically for puppies and small breeds.

Many owners have reported positive experiences with this food since switching to it from other brands – their pups seem to really enjoy it! With high-quality proteins for muscle growth, plus vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants for immune health, you can trust that your puppy will be getting all they need nutritionally from this product.

Nutro Small Breed Senior

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Discover how Nutro Small Breed Senior Dry Dog Food provides senior Shih Tzu with tiny kibble pieces, real chicken as the first ingredient, and a plethora of antioxidants for complete balanced nutrition.

This 5-pound bag is crafted from non-GMO ingredients like brown rice and ancient grains such as quinoa to offer joint health support. Omega fatty acids promote healthy skin and coat, while prebiotics aid digestion along with probiotics for immune system support.

Many pet parents praise this food’s quality ingredients, but some have found that their picky eaters don’t enjoy the taste or texture. While the small kibble size is perfect for older dogs who may find larger bits difficult to chew through, there are also reports that it can be inhaled instead, which could cause issues down the line if not monitored properly.

Finally, feeding guidelines should be followed closely since overfeeding can lead to weight gain in seniors, despite its smaller caloric content per cup than standard adult foods (370 kcal).

Now Fresh Puppy Small Breed

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Treat your pup to the fresh taste of Now Fresh Puppy Small Breed for a complete and balanced meal that’s tailored to their age. This grain-free recipe is specifically formulated for small breeds and features deboned turkey, salmon, and duck as the first ingredients.

It also includes omega-3 and 6 fatty acids that aid in healthy brain development, while prebiotics provide digestive support.

Whole eggs are used as a complete protein source, and antioxidant-rich superfoods such as broccoli are added in for additional nutrition – all without artificial flavors or preservatives! The convenient kibble size makes it easy on tiny mouths, while picky eaters love its delicious flavor.

Plus, pet nutritionists have crafted this premium food just right, so you know they’re getting the best possible care during their growth stage.

Wellness Small Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food

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Experience the whole body nutrition of Wellness Small Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food with its smaller kibble size for easy eating, no meat by-products, fillers, or artificial preservatives. Fortified with omega fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins to promote healthy development in your puppy – this food is sure to please both you and your pup.

Perfect for extra small or small breed puppies up to 12 months old in age, the high-quality ingredients will provide all they need nutritionally while still tasting delicious! Some picky eaters may take a bit longer than others, but most have an easy transition from previous foods as long as their hunger builds first.

Merrick Classic Grains Small Breed Adult Dog Food

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Try Merrick Classic Grains Small Breed Adult Dog Food for your pup’s joint health, complete nutrition, and delicious flavor. This dry dog food is specially formulated for small breeds, with real deboned chicken as the first ingredient.

It includes brown rice and ancient grains like quinoa, omega fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin for joint health.

The smaller kibble size makes it easy to eat, while the delicious taste encourages even picky eaters to try it out! Made in Hereford, Texas, USA, this 4lb bag of goodness ensures that you can trust what your pup consumes – only natural ingredients without any meat by-products or artificial preservatives! Plus, its grain-free formula helps reduce allergy risks, making sure that there are no digestive issues due to the transition from regular foods.

CANIDAE Pure Salmon

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Provide your pup with the perfect meal of CANIDAE Pure Salmon, a grain-free, limited ingredient formula for small breed adult dogs that’s packed with protein and natural nutrients!

This 10 lb bag contains real salmon as the first ingredient. It also includes peas and lentils. The kibble is raw coated to preserve its natural nutrition, while omega fatty acids promote skin and coat health.

Antioxidants plus probiotics provide additional immune support, and it’s still easy on sensitive stomachs. Picky eaters love the taste too! Plus, it’s made in the USA, so you can trust even more in this premium food choice.

Wellness Small Breed Dog Food

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Wellness Small Breed Dog Food is the perfect choice for your pup, with real deboned chicken as the first ingredient, plus omega fatty acids and antioxidants to keep them healthy. It’s made in the USA without any corn, wheat, or soy – so you can trust that this food will provide only wholesome nutrition for your furry friend.

This protein-rich formula has been known to improve tear staining, breath, and digestion in one chihuahua while providing balanced nutrients. Owner reviews are positive overall; many have found it a great value with high-quality ingredients that their picky eaters love! Plus, Wellness contains no artificial colors or preservatives—so you can feel good about feeding it to your small breed pup.

Shih Tzu Puppy Nutrition

As a small breed, it’s essential to feed your Shih Tzu puppy properly. Adjusting the feeding for ideal body weight is key and can help prevent costly health issues in later life. Puppy food has more calcium, protein, and histidine than adult food and should be fed until 9-12 months old.

At least 4 meals daily are recommended up to 6 months old. The kibble size and texture of the food are especially important for brachycephalic breeds like this one – not only that, but due to their proneness to allergies, you must limit ingredients to include omega-3/6 fatty acids too.

Adjust Feeding for Ideal Body Weight

Keep an eye on your Shih Tzu’s weight and adjust their meals accordingly to ensure they stay at a healthy body size. Overweight dogs are more prone to costly health issues like luxating patella, IVDD, hip dysplasia, and breathing problems.

To prevent these diseases from worsening, pick foods with fewer calories and fat servings, as well as high-quality proteins for muscle growth. Look for omega fatty acids, probiotics, taurine, plus vitamin A and antioxidants to boost immune health.

Puppy Food Has More Calcium, Protein, Histidine

You should look for puppy food that has more calcium, protein, and histidine than adult food to support healthy growth. A Shih Tzu puppy’s diet should include: 1) Omega-3s for eye health; 2) Grain-free options if necessary; 3) High-quality proteins such as named animal meats; 4) Calcium intake adjusted to their current weight.

Feeding frequency matters too – puppies need at least four meals a day until they’re six months old, and kibble size is important for brachycephalic breeds like the Shih Tzu.

Feed Puppy Food Until 9-12 Months Old

Feed your Shih Tzu puppy food until they reach 9-12 months old to ensure adequate calcium, protein, and histidine intake for proper growth.

Meal frequency should be at least 4 times a day up until the 6-month mark; this helps with their development of healthy eating habits.

Smaller breeds have unique nutrition needs that must be met. Look to kibble size and texture, as well as ingredients like omega fatty acids, for allergy management.

Puppy foods are fortified with vitamins A & D, while adult formulas contain antioxidants important for immune health in older dogs.

Finding the right balance is critical when it comes to providing essential nutrients throughout each life stage – no artificial coloring or preservatives necessary!

Feed at Least 4 Meals Daily Until 6 Months Old

For optimal health, provide your Shih Tzu puppy with at least four meals each day until they reach six months old. Studies have shown that puppies who are fed this way are 30% less likely to develop nutritional deficiencies.

Understand feeding amounts and how to manage picky eaters. Pet insurance is recommended due to potential costly health issues associated with the breed. Look for foods rich in omega 3s for immune health, plus FDA-approved ingredients like organ meats and probiotics.

Variety can help keep their diet interesting while ensuring essential vitamins and minerals are included too! Ensure longevity by providing a balanced diet tailored specifically for your pup’s needs – it’ll pay off in the long run!

Kibble Size and Texture Important for Brachycephalic Breeds

It’s essential to select a kibble size and texture that is suitable for brachycephalic breeds, such as Shih Tzus. Look for limited ingredients with omega fatty acids to help manage allergies and pet insurance early on in case of costly health issues.

Choose foods with antioxidants, DHA/ARA, calcium/phosphorus plus vitamins A & E, and taurine.

Senior dogs should look into Nutro Small Breed Senior or Merrick Classic Grains formulas. Avoid grain-free dog food linked to DCM reports (4 reported cases in Shih Tzus).

Prone to Allergies – Limit Ingredients, Include Omega-3/6 Fatty Acids

Since Shih Tzu puppies are prone to allergies, it’s important to limit ingredients and include omega-3/6 fatty acids in their diet. Look for quality proteins like fresh deboned turkey and salmon meal, as well as novel diets free of corn, wheat, and soy.

Benefits of omega-3s range from allergy prevention to healthier skin and coat. To further reduce allergen risk, try limited ingredient recipes with real meat sources that are easily digestible.

Adult Shih Tzu Nutrition

As an experienced pet owner, you know that when it comes to feeding your adult Shih Tzu, timing is key. Once your pup has finished growing at around 11-12 months of age, vets recommend a switch to small breed adult food and three meals daily.

Controlling weight can help prevent exacerbating any existing health issues. Limited ingredient diets with novel proteins may also be beneficial for managing allergies. The Farmer’s Dog Fresh Human-grade Food is often recommended as a top choice by veterinarians and owners alike.

Other highly rated dry foods include Open Farm, Solid Gold, Merrick, and Nutro Small Breed Recipes.

Feed Adult Food Around 11-12 Months When Finished Growing

Once your Shih Tzu reaches 11-12 months, they’re ready for a switch to adult food. Provide them with 3 meals daily of small breed kibble and watch their weight to prevent health issues like luxating patella or hip dysplasia.

Consider limited ingredient diets with novel proteins if they have allergies, plus meat meals from named animals instead of by-products.

Picky eaters may just be seeking attention; stick with a healthy food choice but check for appetite loss, which could indicate illness. Exercise is key too – adjust feeding amounts accordingly and avoid treats that can lead to overfeeding.

Vets Recommend 3 Meals Daily of Small Breed Adult Food

Vets recommend providing your small breed Shih Tzu with three nutritionally balanced meals every day. Proper feeding guidelines can help control weight, while limited ingredients may assist in managing allergies.

Pet insurance should be considered early to help cover any costly health issues that could arise. Be aware of the grain-free controversy and look for chicken meal or canola meal as healthy protein sources rather than by-products.

Aim for a fat-to-protein ratio of at least 5:1 and select an appropriate serving size based on your dog’s activity level.

Control Weight to Prevent Exacerbating Health Issues

Managing your pup’s weight is key to preventing costly health issues, so be sure to monitor their daily intake. Opt for food with fewer calories and fat servings; this is especially important as they enter all life stages of adulthood.

Protein sources should come from named animals like chicken or turkey meat meals rather than by-products, and fats such as chicken fat. Nutrients, including omega fatty acids, will keep immune systems healthy while helping avoid hip dysplasia and other conditions associated with weight gain – plus, many can now be found online at Chewy.

Wet dog foods are great options too; just watch portion sizes when switching over from dry kibble or puppy formulas that may contain more nutrients than adult versions do.

Limited Ingredient Diets With Novel Protein Can Help Manage Allergies

By introducing limited ingredient diets with novel proteins, you can help manage your Shih Tzu’s allergies. Many common allergy triggers, such as grain and poultry by-products, are avoided in these diets.

Human foods, like Whole Earth Farms, offer novel proteins to meet dietary needs that help maintain immune health.

Dry dog food typically contains a specific amino acid profile, which is important for overall health. So, it’s important to consider the quality of ingredients – not just novelty – when choosing pet insurance coverage or switching from grain-free to grain-inclusive formulas.

Consider adding human-grade food options full of antioxidants and omega fatty acids for an extra boost of nutrition.

The Farmer’s Dog Fresh Human-grade Food is Top Choice

For a complete and balanced meal, try The Farmer’s Dog fresh human-grade food for your Shih Tzu. With pet insurance early on, you can be prepared for any health problems that may arise.

This novel protein option is raw-coated to preserve nutrients and flavor. It’s grain inclusive with omega fatty acids plus vitamins and minerals like AAFCO nutrient buyer reviews rate highly – halo effect!

Perfectly suited to senior dogs, this food provides all the needed nutrition without sacrificing taste or quality of ingredients – no preservatives either! Your pup will thank you every time they dive into their bowl of deliciousness knowing it was made just for them.

Top Dry Foods: Open Farm, Solid Gold, Merrick, Nutro Small Breed Recipes

You can trust that your pup is getting the complete nutrition they need with top dry foods like Open Farm, Solid Gold, Merrick, and Nutro’s small breed recipes. Each of these is designed to meet a Shih Tzu’s individual needs for feeding size and weight gain prevention.

Look for limited-ingredient diets with novel proteins that help manage allergies, plus omega fatty acids for immune health. Avoid fillers or by-products – real meat should be the first ingredient listed on any best dog food label! Rice or oatmeal may also be tolerated if grain intolerant.

Give your pup only the very best in nutrition to keep them healthy inside and out!

Senior Shih Tzu Nutrition

As your Shih Tzu enters their senior years, it is important to start feeding them a senior-formulated diet at around 10 years old. Look for formulas with smaller calories and fat servings in order to help prevent weight gain.

Additionally, choose foods that contain antioxidants, which are known to support the immune system. Nutro and Merrick both offer great options designed specifically for small breeds like yours.

Feed Senior Food Around 10 Years Old

At around 10 years old, it’s time to switch to senior food for your Shih Tzu. Picky eaters may require special attention, and pet insurance can help cover costly health issues. Look for smaller calorie/fat servings to avoid weight gain and incorporate immune-boosting antioxidants into their diet.

Rice or oatmeal are good grain options if they are intolerant. Also, include omega fatty acids, probiotics, taurine, and organ meats in meals.

Feed amounts depend on size, but aim for 3/4 – 2 cups daily using a properly sized bowl.

Look for Smaller Calories/fat Servings to Prevent Weight Gain

To keep your senior Shih Tzu healthy, look for smaller servings of calories and fat to prevent weight gain.

• Calorie intake that’s appropriate for their size – too much can cause weight gain, which could exacerbate luxating patella, IVDD, hip dysplasia, or breathing issues.
• Dietary needs such as omega fatty acids for immune health and antioxidants to support the body’s natural defenses against disease or the aging process.

Engage in an experienced style when crafting meals for your beloved pup – focusing on their individual dietary needs will help ensure they live a long, happy life!

Choose Foods With Antioxidants for Immune Health

Choosing foods with antioxidants may help boost your senior Shih Tzu’s immune system. To make the right diet selection, look for premium-quality dog food that offers antioxidant sources such as omega-3 fatty acids and beta-carotene.

Vitamin A is also beneficial for strengthening their eyesight, while taurine helps improve heart health in older dogs. Make sure you keep an eye on their weight by avoiding excessive calories and fat servings.

Pet insurance can be used to cover any potential medical costs that may arise due to poor nutrition or overfeeding.

Nutro and Merrick Make Great Senior Formulas for Small Breeds

Try Nutro and Merrick senior formulas designed for small breeds to boost your pup’s immunity! With limited calories/fat, they help maintain a healthy weight, which can reduce the risk of costly health issues like luxating patella or hip dysplasia.

These recipes include antioxidants, omega fatty acids, probiotics, and taurine for immune system support.

Plus, pet insurance should be considered early on due to Shih Tzus’ susceptibility to certain conditions.

Shih Tzu Health Considerations

As a Shih Tzu owner, you should be aware of the health considerations for your pup. It is important to consider pet insurance early, as Shih Tzus are prone to costly health issues. Meat meals from named animals can provide healthy protein sources, while looking for omega fatty acids, probiotics, taurine, and organ meats in their diet can help strengthen their immune system and overall well-being.

Finally, consulting with your vet on any special nutritional needs will ensure that they get the best care possible.

Prone to Costly Health Issues – Consider Pet Insurance Early

Pet insurance is an important consideration for Shih Tzu owners, as this breed can be prone to costly health issues. With the recent reports of DCM linked to grain-free diets, it’s wise to get veterinary advice on your pet’s diet and potential risks.

A novel protein food may help reduce allergies while providing balanced nutrition with omega fatty acids. Pet insurance can ease the financial burden if unexpected medical costs arise due to its tendency towards luxating patella, IVDD, or hip dysplasia-related problems.

Protective cover ensures peace of mind in case of illness or injury. However, always feed a quality diet for optimal longevity and wellbeing!

Meat Meals Can Be Healthy Protein Sources if From Named Animal

Look for meat meals from named animals to provide your Shih Tzu with a healthy protein punch that packs a wallop. Natural sources like chicken, beef, and lamb are ideal. Avoid by-products, which can carry risks.

Pick food with omega fatty acids for skin and coat health, along with antioxidant-rich superfoods such as blueberries or broccoli. Pet insurance is also key in helping cover any costly medical issues these dogs may be prone to; consider it early on! When switching from grain-free diets to grain-inclusive ones, always consult the vet first.

Look for Omega Fatty Acids, Probiotics, Taurine, Organ Meats

You should include omega fatty acids, probiotics, taurine, and organ meats in your Shih Tzu’s diet to keep them healthy. Omega-3s and 6s help maintain skin and coat health while supporting the immune system.

Probiotics aid digestion, which helps protect against illness due to a weakened immune system caused by poor nutrition. Taurine is essential for heart health, and it can also improve vision in some breeds like Shih Tzus, who are prone to eye problems.

Consider pet insurance early on so you’re covered if any costly medical issues arise down the road from lack of proper nutrition or other factors.

Consult Vet on Any Special Nutritional Needs

It’s important to consult your vet about any special nutritional needs for your Shih Tzu, as over 500 cases of canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) have been reported from 2014-2019.

Vet selection is key – make sure they can effectively manage allergies and weight control while properly guiding you on feeding amount.

Your pup will need a complete diet rich in omega fatty acids, probiotics, taurine, and organ meats for optimal immune health.

When choosing food options for your pup, consider ingredients that are natural with no by-products or artificial flavors/preservatives.

Although it may seem daunting at first to find the right nutrition plan tailored specifically to them, once you get into the groove of proper puppy care, it becomes second nature!

Grain-Free Dog Food Controversy

Grain-free dog food has been linked to canine heart disease called dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Over 500 cases of DCM have been reported between 2014 and 2019; 16 brands are mostly grain-free formulas.

Currently, there have been no recalls yet, but it is recommended that you consult with your veterinarian about switching from grain-free to a more inclusive diet if needed.

Linked to Canine Heart Disease Called Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)

Be aware that grain-free diets have been linked to a serious canine heart disease called dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Sixteen brands are associated with DCM reports, primarily grain-free formulas. Over 500 cases have been reported from 2014 to 2019, including four Shih Tzus.

Consider pet insurance early and switch to a grain-inclusive diet if recommended by a vet.

Novel proteins can help manage allergies, while a raw coating preserves nutrients and flavor without artificial preservatives or colors. A premium food crafted by nutritionists is best for small breeds like the Shih Tzu.

It helps provide complete and balanced meals with the right amount of calories/fat servings, as well as omega fatty acids, probiotics, and taurine for immune health.

16 Brands Linked to DCM Reports, Mostly Grain-free Formulas

Recent reports have linked 16 brands of grain-free dog food to cases of canine dilated cardiomyopathy, making you aware that what your pup eats could affect their heart health. Consider pet insurance to protect against costly treatments and consider switching from grain-free formulas if DCM is a concern.

Omega 3s are essential for the diet. Raw coated kibble may provide additional nutrition, but investigate each brand carefully. Avoid byproducts or artificial preservatives as these can be harmful. Be sure to look into omega fatty acids, probiotics, taurine, and organ meats in order to build a complete meal plan for your pup’s long-term health.

Over 500 DCM Cases Reported From 2014-2019

Over the past five years, more than 500 cases of canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) have been reported – seemingly an astronomical amount! Though researchers are still uncertain as to the exact cause of DCM, some believe that a diet switch from grain-inclusive to grain-free may be responsible.

Pet owners should consider pet insurance for their Shih Tzu puppies and consult with vets about potential dietary switches or switching back to grains. Alternatives such as rice and oatmeal can provide adequate nutrition while being easier on digestion due to fewer protein sources used in these diets.

Ultimately, it is important for owners of small breed dogs like Shih Tzus, who are prone to costly health issues, to make sure they do proper research when considering any changes in diet or lifestyle habits.

No Recalls Yet. Consult Vet About Switching From Grain-free to Grain-inclusive

Consult your vet about switching to grain-inclusive if you’re concerned about the recent reports of canine heart disease linked to grain-free diets. Look for pet insurance that covers pre-existing conditions, and provide named animal protein sources like meat meals as healthy alternatives.

Provide a balanced diet with these elements in mind for optimal health outcomes – avoiding byproducts is key! With careful monitoring and attention to nutrition needs, Shih Tzus can remain happy and healthy well into old age.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)