Quick answer
The best raw dog food for Shih Tzus is Stella & Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Raw Dinner Patties, because it offers balanced nutrition in a small, easy-to-chew patty. For sensitive stomachs, Primal Pet Foods Raw Frozen Nuggets are excellent. If you’re on a budget, Nature’s Variety Instinct Raw Boost Mixers provide a convenient topper that adds raw nutrition without breaking the bank.
What to consider for Raw Dog Food For Shih Tzus
Shih Tzus are brachycephalic (flat-faced), which can make chewing difficult, so opt for small, soft pieces or freeze-dried patties that rehydrate easily. Their small size means they need calorie-dense food to meet energy needs without large portions. Additionally, Shih Tzus are prone to dental issues, so raw food’s natural texture can help scrape plaque, but ensure the pieces are appropriately sized to prevent choking. Always choose a formula that is AAFCO complete and balanced for your dog’s life stage.
What to look for in a dog food
Look for a raw dog food that is AAFCO complete and balanced for your Shih Tzu’s life stage (puppy, adult, or senior). The first ingredient should be a named meat source like chicken, beef, or lamb. Protein levels should be moderate, around 30 to 40% on a dry matter basis, with fat between 15 to 25% to support energy without causing weight gain. For small breeds, smaller kibble or patty size is important. Added omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil or flaxseed support skin and coat health, and glucosamine and chondroitin can help joint health as Shih Tzus age.
How we chose these picks
- We evaluated products based on ingredient quality, sourcing, and nutritional adequacy.
- We prioritized brands with a history of safety and transparency.
- We considered small-breed specific formulations where available.
- We looked at customer reviews for palatability and digestive tolerance.
- We checked for AAFCO statements confirming complete and balanced nutrition.
- We compared price per pound to ensure value.
- We assessed the ease of preparation and feeding (freeze-dried vs frozen).
- Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission.
What to avoid
- Avoid unnamed “meat meal” as the primary protein source; always look for a named meat first.
- Be cautious with grain-free or legume-heavy recipes due to the ongoing FDA investigation into a potential link with canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Grain-inclusive diets are generally safer unless your vet advises otherwise.
- Do not feed “all life stages” food to a large-breed puppy, but for Shih Tzus (small breed), it’s usually acceptable, though life-stage specific is better.
- Avoid abrupt diet switches; transition gradually over 7 to 10 days to prevent digestive upset.
For more guidance, visit our dog guides, dog food, and dog nutrition sections.
