Shih Tzu Dog Food: What Owners Need to Know

For a breed whose name means “lion,” the Shih Tzu faces health risks that are anything but fierce. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the breed, claiming 12.5% of these dogs, a rate significantly higher than the 7.1% average across all breeds studied by the Royal Veterinary College VetCompass. This single statistic reframes the Shih Tzu from a simple lap dog to a breed with complex, life-limiting health concerns that diet can directly influence.

Their small size and low energy levels create a razor-thin margin for error in feeding. An extra handful of kibble for a Shih Tzu isn’t like an extra potato chip for a person, it’s a significant caloric surplus that can lead to obesity. This excess weight then strains their joints and, critically, further compromises their already restricted airways.

Feeding a Shih Tzu is an exercise in precision. It requires a deep understanding of their unique physiology, from their brachycephalic face to their predisposition for skin allergies. Getting it right means protecting them from the very traits that make them so recognizable.

Last Verified: May 25, 2026 · 9 minute read · Methodology

TL;DR

Calorie control is the most critical factor in feeding a Shih Tzu.

This breed’s low activity level and small frame create a high risk for obesity, which worsens their other major health issues. The National Research Council estimates a typical inactive 12-pound Shih Tzu needs only about 300 kcal per day NRC, 2006. Exceeding this regularly contributes to weight gain, which puts more stress on joints prone to patellar luxation and hip dysplasia, and severely exacerbates the breathing difficulties common in brachycephalic breeds.

Beyond calories, their predisposition to skin issues demands a diet rich in skin-supportive nutrients. Skin disorders are the most common category of disease in the breed, affecting 17.6% of Shih Tzus in a large UK study VetCompass. At Sniff, we believe the best approach is a precisely portioned, calorie-appropriate food that includes high levels of omega-3 fatty acids to support skin and coat health. You can see our top-rated foods for the breed by reading our guide to the best dog food for Shih Tzus.

What makes feeding a Shih Tzu different

The Shih Tzu was bred for one purpose: companionship. As a member of the Toy Group, their entire history is one of palace life, not fieldwork. This heritage as a pampered lap dog defines their nutritional needs today. They are a low-energy breed in a small package, officially weighing between 9 and 16 pounds AKC.

Their functional class is best described as “lower-energy toy breeds.” Unlike a terrier bred to hunt, a Shih Tzu’s daily energy expenditure is minimal. This is the central challenge for their owners. A generic “small breed” dog food can easily be too calorie-dense, leading to rapid weight gain.

Every meal must be measured.

This isn’t about being stingy, it’s about being accurate. Their small bodies have small requirements, and respecting that is the foundation of responsible feeding.

The health profile every Shih Tzu owner should know

A Shih Tzu’s charming looks conceal a set of serious, interconnected health risks. Diet is a powerful tool for managing these predispositions, but only if you know what you’re up against.

Weight, Breathing, and Heart Health

The Shih Tzu’s brachycephalic (short-nosed) facial structure is a primary health concern. A Cambridge University study found that 45.5% of seemingly healthy Shih Tzus showed clinical signs of Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) during exercise tests [Packer et al. 2015 (boas)]. This means nearly half the breed has subclinical breathing issues. Adding even a small amount of excess weight can turn this structural challenge into a daily struggle for air.

Obesity is the accelerator for BOAS. It’s also a key risk factor for heart disease, which is the breed’s number one killer. Heart disease accounts for 12.5% of all deaths in Shih Tzus, a rate far above the canine average VetCompass. Managing your dog’s weight by sticking to a strict caloric budget of around 300 kcal per day is the single most effective way to mitigate these risks.

Skin Allergies

If you own a Shih Tzu, you are likely familiar with itching, scratching, and skin irritation. Skin disorders are the most common health issue in the breed, with one study finding 17.6% of all Shih Tzus had at least one skin-related diagnosis VetCompass. These issues are often linked to environmental or food allergies.

If a food allergy is suspected, a veterinarian may recommend an elimination diet. It’s critical to know that for these trials to be effective, they must last a minimum of 8 weeks to rule out a food-based cause Mueller & Olivry, 2018. Diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids from sources like fish oil can help support the skin barrier.

Orthopedic and Eye Issues

For a small dog, the Shih Tzu has notable orthopedic problems. The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) reports a 10.6% prevalence of hip dysplasia based on 1,173 evaluations OFA. Patellar luxation (dislocating kneecaps) is also common, with a 5.3% prevalence across 3,421 evaluations OFA. Keeping a Shih Tzu at a lean body weight is crucial to minimize stress on these vulnerable joints.

Their large, prominent eyes are a breed trademark, but also a source of trouble. Corneal ulceration affects 4.0% of the breed, and keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS or “dry eye”) affects 3.5%, a rate significantly higher than in mixed-breed dogs VetCompass. While diet cannot prevent these injuries, some nutrients support overall eye health.

Puppy years: what to get right before age two

A Shih Tzu puppy’s first year sets the stage for its entire life. The goal is slow, steady growth, not rapid gains. Overfeeding a puppy can lead to lifelong weight struggles and put undue stress on developing bones and joints.

Choose a puppy food specifically formulated for small breeds. These formulas have the correct balance of calcium and phosphorus to support healthy skeletal development without accelerating growth. Given the breed’s 10.6% rate of hip dysplasia, controlled growth is not just for large breeds.

Do not supplement with extra calcium. A well-formulated puppy food that meets AAFCO nutrient profiles for growth already has the right amount. Adding more can disrupt the delicate balance and cause harm. Focus on feeding the right amount of a high-quality food, and keep your puppy lean.

Adult years

Adulthood for a Shih Tzu is a long maintenance phase focused on one primary goal: preventing weight gain. The breed standard calls for a weight of 9 to 16 pounds AKC, and the daily energy need for an inactive 12-pound adult is only about 300 kcal NRC, 2006.

This is your north star.

Use a measuring cup, and be honest about treats. A single biscuit can be 10% of their daily calorie budget. This discipline is not about deprivation, it’s about protecting them from obesity’s cascade of consequences: worsened breathing, increased joint pain, and higher risk of heart disease. If skin issues are a concern, this is the time to ensure the diet contains supportive ingredients like fish oil or other sources of omega-3s.

Senior years

With a median lifespan of 12.7 years, a Shih Tzu can be considered a senior around age 8 or 9 VetCompass. This is when their nutritional needs begin to shift again. The biggest mistake owners make is switching to a low-protein “senior” diet.

This is exactly the wrong approach.

As dogs age, they experience sarcopenia, the gradual loss of muscle mass. To combat this, senior dogs need more high-quality protein, not less. The NRC recommends a higher protein floor for senior dogs to maintain lean body mass. Look for a senior diet with high-quality, easily digestible protein from named animal sources like chicken meal or deboned salmon. Calorie needs may decrease slightly if they become less active, so continue to monitor their body condition closely.

What Sniff recommends and why

For the Shih Tzu, our recommendations prioritize managing their key health risks. The evidence points to a clear, focused dietary strategy.

Strict Calorie and Portion Control. This is non-negotiable. Given their low energy needs (~300 kcal/day) and high risk of obesity, every calorie counts. We recommend a food with moderate fat and a clear feeding guide, which you must follow using a measuring cup.
A Focus on Skin Support. With 17.6% of the breed affected by skin disorders, diet must play a role in management. We recommend foods that contain high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA from marine sources like fish oil or whole fish.
No BEG Ingredients. While the Shih Tzu was not a top breed reported in the FDA’s investigation into diet-associated DCM, heart disease is the breed’s #1 killer VetCompass. As a precaution, we recommend avoiding foods that replace traditional grains with high amounts of peas, lentils, and other legumes. You can read more about this in our guide to DCM.
High-Quality, Digestible Protein. Especially for senior dogs, maintaining muscle mass is critical. We recommend foods that use named animal protein sources as the first ingredients.

Based on these principles, Sniff has identified a shortlist of the best formulas for the breed. You can find our specific, ranked recommendations on our best dog food for Shih Tzus page.

What we don’t know

While the research on Shih Tzus provides a clear picture of their primary health risks, there are still gaps in our knowledge.

We lack specific studies on the ideal dietary protein-to-fat ratio for managing Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) beyond general weight management.
There are no breed-specific studies demonstrating that particular micronutrients can reduce the high prevalence of KCS (dry eye) or corneal ulcers.
While we know heart disease is the leading cause of death, we do not have dietary intervention studies in Shih Tzus that prove a specific diet can prevent the types of heart disease most common in the breed. Our recommendations are based on general cardiological best practices.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best dog food brand for a Shih Tzu? No single brand is best. We recommend focusing on a specific formula that is calorie-appropriate and contains skin-supportive ingredients. See our full list at best dog food for Shih Tzus.

Is grain-free food safe for my Shih Tzu? Generally, yes for this breed. The Shih Tzu was not one of the most frequently reported breeds in the FDA’s investigation into diet-associated DCM. Read our guide to grain-free food and DCM for the full context.

When should I switch my Shih Tzu to a senior food? Around age 8 or 9. Look for a formula with high-quality protein to combat muscle loss, not the low-protein formulas common in the past. Our methodology details what to look for in a senior diet.

Is a raw diet good for a Shih Tzu? Sniff does not recommend raw diets. They carry a high risk of bacterial contamination and nutritional imbalances that are difficult to manage, which is why we explain our position in our methodology.

What ingredients should I avoid for my Shih Tzu? Avoid foods with vague ingredient lists and high-calorie fillers. Focus on what’s in the food: a named animal protein source first, and beneficial supplements like fish oil.

How often should I feed my Shih Tzu? Twice a day is best. Splitting their small daily calorie budget into two meals helps manage hunger and maintain a stable metabolism.

Does my Shih Tzu need supplements? Usually not with a complete diet. A high-quality, AAFCO-compliant food provides all necessary nutrients. The exception may be an omega-3 supplement like fish oil for skin health, which should be discussed with your vet.

The bigger picture

The Shih Tzu was created to be a cherished companion. That role has not changed in centuries. What has changed is our understanding of the responsibility that comes with it. Their physical traits, the very things that make them unique, also create significant health vulnerabilities.

Feeding them with precision is not about spoiling them, it is about protecting them. It is a modern expression of the same devotion that ancient emperors showed their prized “lion dogs.”

By carefully managing their diet, you are giving your Shih Tzu the best possible chance at a long, comfortable, and healthy life by your side. You are honoring the bond that this breed was born to share.

Last Verified: May 25, 2026. This page is informational and does not constitute veterinary advice. If your Shih Tzu has a health condition, consult a veterinarian, ideally one who is board-certified in internal medicine (DACVIM) or nutrition (DACVIM-Nutrition). Read our full methodology and our affiliate disclosure.