Quick answer
Our top pick for Shih Tzus is Greenies Regular Dental Dog Treats. They are VOHC-accepted, sized for small breeds, and clinically proven to reduce plaque and tartar. For a budget-friendly alternative, consider Purina DentaLife Small Dog Dental Treats. If your Shih Tzu has sensitive teeth or gums, Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Oral Hygiene Chews offer a softer texture.
What to consider for Dog Dental Chews For Shih Tzus
Shih Tzus have a brachycephalic (flat-faced) skull structure, which often leads to dental crowding and a higher risk of periodontal disease. Their small mouths require appropriately sized chews that are easy to hold and chew without posing a choking hazard. Texture matters: too hard can damage teeth, too soft may not clean effectively. Look for chews with the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal, which indicates proven efficacy. Also consider calorie content, as Shih Tzus are prone to obesity. Always supervise your dog when giving dental chews.
What to look for in a health product (dental, probiotic, joint, allergy or calming supplement)
For dental chews, the VOHC seal is the gold standard for plaque and tartar reduction. For supplements like probiotics or joint support, look for the NASC (National Animal Supplement Council) quality seal, which indicates third-party auditing. Check that active ingredients are present at clinically effective levels: for joint chews, glucosamine and chondroitin should be listed with specific amounts; for probiotics, a guaranteed CFU count (colony-forming units) is essential. Always choose products with clear labeling, avoid proprietary blends that hide individual ingredient amounts, and ensure dosing matches your dog’s weight. Manufacturing standards should follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
How we chose these picks
- We evaluated products based on safety, ingredient quality, and brand reputation.
- We prioritized chews with the VOHC seal or strong clinical evidence.
- We considered size and texture suitability for small brachycephalic breeds like Shih Tzus.
- We reviewed customer feedback for palatability and digestibility.
- We checked for harmful additives, artificial colors, or excessive calories.
- We compared price per chew to ensure value.
- We consulted veterinary dental guidelines for best practices.
- Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission.
What to avoid
- Avoid dental chews that are too hard (e.g., antlers, bones) as they can fracture teeth.
- Do not choose products that claim to cure or prevent dental disease without scientific backing.
- Steer clear of chews with vague ingredient blends that do not list amounts.
- Never exceed the recommended daily serving, as excess calories can lead to weight gain.
- Avoid chews with artificial preservatives like BHA, BHT, or ethoxyquin.
For more guides, visit our dog guides and check out dog health and dog nutrition sections.
