The Shih Tzu was bred as a companion dog for Chinese royalty — a lineage that produced a charming, long-lived breed with a sensitive digestive system that genuinely rewards gentle, fresh food over heavily processed diets.
Shih Tzus are small, gentle-natured dogs that often live well into their mid-teens — longevity that speaks to the breed's fundamental hardiness. But they come with predictable vulnerabilities. Sensitive skin and digestive tract, crowded teeth, susceptibility to kidney disease as they age, and the potential for liver shunts in younger dogs all have dietary management implications.
The approach for Shih Tzus is simple and gentle: digestible proteins, omega-3 for skin and kidney support, moderate portions to prevent obesity, and avoiding the common allergen triggers that make sensitive dogs itch. Homemade food is particularly well-suited to this breed because it gives you direct control over every ingredient.
Shih Tzus have an elevated incidence of portosystemic shunts (PSS). A dog with a confirmed PSS needs a low-protein diet designed by a veterinarian — the standard high-protein approach is not appropriate for them. If your young Shih Tzu seems disoriented, experiences seizures, or behaves strangely after meals, have your vet test for PSS before proceeding with any diet.
Shih Tzus frequently develop allergic skin disease. Food allergies most commonly involve beef, wheat, soy, corn, and dairy. Keeping ingredients simple and using a novel protein that your dog hasn't been repeatedly exposed to is the most practical first step. Omega-3 from salmon oil reduces the inflammatory component of skin reactions and improves coat quality.
Like many small breeds, Shih Tzus can develop chronic kidney disease as they age. Adequate hydration (wet food is much better than kibble for this), controlled phosphorus, and avoiding unnecessary high-sodium ingredients all support long-term kidney health. If your Shih Tzu has been diagnosed with kidney disease, work with a vet on a specifically formulated low-phosphorus diet.
Shih Tzus' flat faces mean crowded teeth and a higher rate of periodontal disease than most breeds. While diet isn't a complete solution, wet homemade food is gentler on crowded teeth than hard kibble. Supplement with daily tooth brushing and appropriate dental chews.
Salmon oil daily. Reduces skin inflammation, supports kidney function, improves coat. Critical for this breed's two main vulnerability areas.
Chicken, turkey, white fish — all easy to digest. Not too high in protein if kidney disease is present. Quality matters more than quantity.
Wet homemade food contributes to daily fluid intake, supporting kidney health and urinary tract function. Much better than dry kibble for this.
Well-cooked white rice, sweet potato, or oats. Easy on sensitive digestion. Avoid raw or undercooked grains.
¼ tsp per serving, cold. Balances calcium-phosphorus ratio in meat-based meals for healthy dogs. Adjust under vet guidance for kidney-affected dogs.
Keep ingredient list short. Avoid beef, wheat, soy, corn, dairy if your Shih Tzu has skin issues. Identify triggers before introducing new proteins.
Simple, hypoallergenic ingredients for sensitive Shih Tzus. Chicken and white rice is the classic gentle-diet combination that most dogs digest without issue.
Hypoallergenic · Easy digestion · Skin-friendly · Makes 5–6 servings (small dog)
Turkey is an excellent novel protein for Shih Tzus that may be reacting to chicken. Paired with sweet potato for vitamin A and antioxidants.
Novel protein · Skin health · Omega-3 · Makes 5 servings (small dog)
Shih Tzus are small — portions look tiny but are correct. Use a digital kitchen scale for accuracy.
| Weight | Daily Amount | Per Meal (2x daily) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 kg | 80–100g | 40–50g | Weigh every portion with a scale |
| 5 kg | 100–125g | 50–63g | Adjust if gaining or losing weight |
| 6 kg | 120–150g | 60–75g | Body condition check every 2 weeks |
| 8 kg | 160–200g | 80–100g | 8kg is upper range for the breed |