🏆 Complete Buyer's Guide · Dog Care Products

Expert Picks: Best Dog Subscription Box for Shih Tzus 2026

Flat-faced Shih Tzus need soft toys and low-cal treats. We recommend BarkBox Small Breed Super Chewer, designed to prevent choking and weight gain. Compare 5 top boxes for 2026.

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ProPawPicks Editorial Team
ProPawPicks Reviewer
Updated

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🐾New to the breed? Read our full Shih Tzu breed guide for temperament, care, health and lifespan. BarkBox Small Breed Super Chewer ★ Top Pick: BarkBox Small Breed Super Chewer Check Price on Amazon →
5-10 lbs
Average Shih Tzu Weight
8-12 toys
Toys per Year (Monthly Box)
2-5 treats
Treats per Box
$20-$35
Monthly Cost Range
⚡ Key takeaways
  • Best Overall: BarkBox Small Breed Super Chewer. This subscription is tailored for small dogs with durable toys that withstand moderate che.
  • Best for Puppies: PupBox Small Breed Subscription. PupBox offers age-appropriate toys and treats for puppies up to 12 months.
  • Best Natural Treats: Pet Treater Natural Dog Box. This box focuses on all-natural, limited-ingredient treats and chews.
  • Best for Heavy Chewers: BullyMake Box Small Breed. BullyMake offers tough toys and chews for small dogs that are heavy chewers.
  • Best Fresh Food Add-On: The Pets Table Fresh Food & Treats Box. This subscription delivers human-grade fresh food and treats, which can be a healthy addit.
At a Glance

Quick Comparison

ProductBest For
BarkBox Small Breed Super Chewer Best Overall Check price →
PupBox Small Breed Subscription Best for Puppies Check price →
Pet Treater Natural Dog Box Best Natural Treats Check price →
BullyMake Box Small Breed Best for Heavy Chewers Check price →
The Pets Table Fresh Food & Treats Box Best Fresh Food Add-On Check price →

Quick answer

The best dog subscription box for Shih Tzus is the BarkBox Small Breed Super Chewer plan. It delivers appropriately sized, durable toys and high-quality treats. For a more budget-friendly option, try the PupBox Small Breed plan. If your Shih Tzu has food sensitivities, consider the Pet Treater Natural Box.

What to consider for Dog Subscription Box For Shih Tzus

Shih Tzus are small brachycephalic dogs with delicate jaws and a tendency to gain weight. Choose a subscription box with toys sized for small mouths (avoid anything smaller than your dog’s mouth to prevent choking). Treats should be low-calorie and made with limited ingredients to avoid allergies. Look for dental chews that are soft enough to not damage teeth but still help reduce plaque. Also consider the dog’s chewing strength: many Shih Tzus are light to moderate chewers, so heavy-duty toys may be unnecessary.

What to look for in a toy or chew (chew toy, puzzle, lick mat or dental chew)

When selecting items for a Shih Tzu, prioritize size: toys should be too large to swallow but easy to pick up. Durability should match a light to moderate chewer; avoid hard nylon or antlers that can crack teeth. Non-toxic materials are essential; look for FDA-approved food-grade silicone or natural rubber. For dental chews, choose those with the VOHC seal of acceptance. Enrichment value matters: puzzle toys or lick mats can provide mental stimulation and reduce boredom.

How we chose these picks

  • Evaluated toy size and safety for small breeds
  • Reviewed treat ingredient lists for common allergens
  • Considered subscription flexibility and cancellation policies
  • Checked for VOHC-accepted dental chews where applicable
  • Assessed enrichment value of toys (puzzles, textures)
  • Read customer reviews for real-world feedback on durability
  • Compared price per box and value for money
  • Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission

What to avoid

  • Toys small enough to swallow or lodge in the throat
  • Hard chews like antlers or hard nylon that can fracture teeth
  • Toys that shed pieces or have loose parts (e.g., squeakers)
  • Leaving any chewer unsupervised, even with safe toys

For more guidance, visit our dog guides and check out dog care products or dog nutrition pages.

Why this matters

Shih Tzus have flat faces and delicate jaws, so subscription boxes with soft, flexible toys and low-calorie treats are ideal to prevent choking and weight gain.

The Options

Types Explained

Chew Toys

Durable rubber or soft plastic toys designed for gnawing. They help satisfy natural chewing instincts and can be stuffed with treats.

Best for: Moderate chewers who need a safe outlet for chewing.

Puzzle Toys

Interactive toys that dispense treats when manipulated. They challenge the dog mentally and slow down fast eaters.

Best for: Boredom-prone dogs or those who need mental stimulation.

Lick Mats

Flat silicone mats with grooves for spreading soft food, peanut butter, or yogurt. They provide calming enrichment.

Best for: Anxious dogs or those who need a distraction during grooming.

Dental Chews

Edible chews designed to reduce plaque and tartar. Look for VOHC-accepted products that are appropriately sized.

Best for: Dogs who need dental care but cannot tolerate brushing.
The Rankings

Top 5 Picks

#1
BarkBox Small Breed Super Chewer
Best Overall

BarkBox Small Breed Super Chewer

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This subscription is tailored for small dogs with durable toys that withstand moderate chewing. Each box includes two toys, two bags of treats, and one chew. The toys are sized appropriately for Shih Tzus, and the treats are made in the USA. A limitation is that the treats may not suit dogs with very specific allergies.

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#2
Best for Puppies

PupBox Small Breed Subscription

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PupBox offers age-appropriate toys and treats for puppies up to 12 months. For a Shih Tzu puppy, the box includes soft teething toys, training treats, and educational materials. However, once your dog reaches adulthood, the box may no longer be suitable, requiring a switch.

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#3
Pet Treater Natural Dog Box
Best Natural Treats

Pet Treater Natural Dog Box

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This box focuses on all-natural, limited-ingredient treats and chews. It is ideal for Shih Tzus with food sensitivities. Each box contains a variety of soft chews and dental sticks. A trade-off is that the toys are less durable compared to other subscriptions, so they may not last long for aggressive chewers.

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#4
BullyMake Box Small Breed
Best for Heavy Chewers

BullyMake Box Small Breed

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BullyMake offers tough toys and chews for small dogs that are heavy chewers. The box includes durable rubber toys and natural chews like bully sticks. It is a good choice for Shih Tzus that destroy softer toys. However, some toys may be too hard for very small mouths, so supervision is needed.

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#5
The Pets Table Fresh Food & Treats Box
Best Fresh Food Add-On

The Pets Table Fresh Food & Treats Box

View on Amazon

This subscription delivers human-grade fresh food and treats, which can be a healthy addition for Shih Tzus prone to obesity. The treats are low-calorie and made with real ingredients. The downside is that it is more expensive and requires refrigeration, and the toys are minimal.

Check Price on Amazon →
Before You Buy

Key Buying Factors

01

Toy Size and Safety

Ensure toys are large enough not to be swallowed but small enough for a Shih Tzu's mouth. Avoid toys with small parts that can be chewed off.

02

Treat Ingredients

Shih Tzus often have allergies; look for limited-ingredient treats free from corn, wheat, and soy. Low-calorie options help prevent weight gain.

03

Chew Strength Compatibility

Most Shih Tzus are light to moderate chewers. Choose boxes with soft rubber or fabric toys rather than hard nylon or antlers.

04

Subscription Flexibility

Look for plans that allow you to skip, pause, or cancel easily. Some boxes offer different sizes or frequency options.

05

Enrichment Value

Puzzle toys, treat dispensers, and lick mats provide mental stimulation. Choose boxes that include at least one enrichment item per month.

Living With It

Care, Cost and Maintenance

Cleaning Toys

Wash rubber and silicone toys with warm soapy water weekly. Rinse thoroughly. For fabric toys, machine wash on gentle cycle and air dry. Discard toys with tears or loose parts.

Storing Treats

Keep treats in a cool, dry place in an airtight container. Check expiration dates. For fresh food boxes, refrigerate immediately and use within the recommended time.

Rotating Toys

Rotate toys every few days to maintain novelty. This prevents boredom and extends the life of toys. Observe which toys your Shih Tzu prefers and adjust future boxes accordingly.

Pro tip

To extend the life of subscription box toys, rotate them weekly and supervise chewing sessions. Discard any toy that shows signs of wear to prevent ingestion of small parts.

Frequently asked questions

Are subscription box toys safe for heavy chewers?
It depends on the box. Most small breed boxes are designed for light to moderate chewers. For heavy chewers, look for boxes like BullyMake that offer extra-durable toys. Always supervise your dog with any new toy and discard it if it shows signs of damage. No toy is indestructible, and even tough toys can pose a risk if chewed into small pieces.
How do I choose the right size toy for my Shih Tzu?
A good rule is that the toy should be too large to fit entirely inside your dog's mouth. For Shih Tzus, toys around 4 to 6 inches in diameter are often appropriate. Avoid toys with small parts that can be chewed off. If the toy has a squeaker, ensure it is securely enclosed. When in doubt, measure your dog's mouth width and compare to the toy dimensions.
Should I supervise my Shih Tzu with subscription box toys?
Yes, always supervise your dog with any new toy, especially during the first few uses. Even toys marketed as safe can break or be chewed into pieces. Check the toy regularly for wear and tear. If you notice any small parts or stuffing coming out, remove the toy immediately. Supervision is especially important for puzzle toys with small treat compartments.
What are the benefits of dental chews in subscription boxes?
Dental chews help reduce plaque and tartar buildup, promoting better oral health. They can also freshen breath and provide a chewing outlet. For Shih Tzus, who are prone to dental issues, regular use of VOHC-accepted dental chews can complement brushing. However, they should not replace professional dental cleanings. Always choose the appropriate size to prevent choking.
Can puzzle toys help with boredom in Shih Tzus?
Yes, puzzle toys are excellent for mental stimulation. Shih Tzus are intelligent and can become bored easily, leading to destructive behaviors. Puzzle toys that dispense treats encourage problem-solving and keep your dog engaged. Start with easy puzzles and gradually increase difficulty. Rotate puzzles to maintain interest. However, some dogs may get frustrated; supervise and assist if needed.
Are digestible chews better than non-digestible ones?
Digestible chews, such as bully sticks or dental chews, are generally safer because they break down in the stomach and are less likely to cause blockages. Non-digestible chews like nylon bones can pose a choking risk if large pieces are swallowed. For Shih Tzus, we recommend digestible chews that are appropriately sized. Always monitor your dog and discard small pieces to prevent ingestion.
How should I clean the toys from a subscription box?
Most rubber and silicone toys can be washed with warm water and mild dish soap. Rinse thoroughly to remove soap residue. Fabric toys can be machine washed on a gentle cycle and air dried. Avoid using harsh chemicals. For puzzle toys with small crevices, use a bottle brush. Always check the manufacturer's instructions. Regular cleaning prevents bacteria buildup.
What if my Shih Tzu has allergies to common treat ingredients?
Many subscription boxes offer natural or limited-ingredient options. Look for boxes that specify grain-free, no corn, wheat, or soy. Some companies allow you to customize treats based on allergies. Read ingredient lists carefully. If your dog has severe allergies, consider a box like Pet Treater that focuses on single-protein treats. Consult your veterinarian for specific dietary advice.
Can subscription boxes replace regular vet visits?
No, subscription boxes are not a substitute for veterinary care. They provide toys and treats but do not address medical needs. Regular check-ups, vaccinations, and dental cleanings are essential. However, the dental chews and enrichment items can support overall health. Always discuss any new products with your vet, especially if your dog has health conditions.
A note on advice: This guide is general information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Talk to your vet before changing your dog's diet or care routine, especially if your dog has allergies, kidney disease, pancreatitis, obesity, heart disease or any other medical condition.
Transparency

How we made this guide

How we chose. We compared the options on the factors that matter most for Dog Care Products, using manufacturer specifications, aggregated verified owner reviews and editorial comparison. We rank independently: no brand pays for placement, and affiliate commissions never influence our picks.

How it was written. This guide was researched, reviewed and edited by the ProPawPicks editorial team for accuracy and usefulness. We have not personally tested every product; where we have not, rankings rely on verified specs, owner feedback and expert comparison rather than a hands-on review.

Affiliate disclosure. ProPawPicks is reader-supported. If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. See our affiliate disclosure.

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