Quick answer
Our top pick is The Farmer’s Dog Chicken Recipe. It’s a fresh, human-grade food with balanced protein and fat, tailored to your dog’s weight and activity. For a more budget-friendly option, Nom Nom’s Turkey Fare is excellent. If your Shih Tzu has a sensitive stomach, consider Ollie’s Fresh Chicken with Spinach.
What to consider for Fresh Dog Food For Shih Tzus
Shih Tzus are a brachycephalic breed with a flat face, which can make eating difficult. Fresh dog food is often softer and easier to chew than dry kibble, reducing the risk of choking. Their long coats require omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for skin and coat health. Additionally, Shih Tzus are prone to obesity, so portion control is critical. Fresh food allows you to monitor calorie intake precisely. Finally, look for recipes with moderate protein (25 to 30% dry matter) and low to moderate fat (12 to 18%) to maintain a healthy weight.
What to look for in a dog food
Choose a fresh dog food that states it is formulated to meet AAFCO nutrient profiles for your dog’s life stage (adult maintenance or growth). The first ingredient should be a named meat (e.g., chicken, turkey, beef). Protein content should be around 25 to 35% on a dry matter basis, fat between 10 to 18%, and calories between 350 to 450 kcal per 8-ounce container. For Shih Tzus, a small breed formula with smaller kibble or soft texture is ideal. Look for added glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health, and omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) for coat and brain health.
How we chose these picks
- Evaluated ingredient quality and sourcing transparency
- Checked for AAFCO nutritional adequacy statements
- Compared macronutrient profiles suitable for small breeds
- Considered customer reviews and brand reputation
- Assessed value per serving and subscription flexibility
- Prioritized recipes with named meat as first ingredient
- Included options for different dietary needs (sensitive stomach, weight management)
- Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission
What to avoid
- Avoid foods with unnamed meat meals (e.g., “poultry meal”) as the primary protein source
- Be cautious with grain-free diets; the FDA is investigating a potential link between grain-free, legume-heavy diets and canine DCM. Grain-inclusive is safer unless your vet advises otherwise
- Do not choose an “all life stages” food for a Shih Tzu puppy; select a puppy-specific formula
- Avoid abrupt diet changes; transition over 7 to 10 days by mixing old and new food
For more guidance, check out our dog guides, dog food, and dog nutrition articles.
