Shih Tzu Feeding Guide: How Much to Feed by Age & Weight

Shih Tzus are charming companion dogs with a reputation for being particular about their meals. Weighing between 9 and 16 pounds, these small dogs with flat faces present unique feeding challenges that go beyond simple portion calculation. Their brachycephalic anatomy affects how they eat, their dental issues influence what they can comfortably chew, and their selective palate means finding the right food can take patience.

Originally bred as lap dogs for Chinese royalty, Shih Tzus have retained their preference for being pampered, which extends to mealtime. Understanding how to work with their quirks rather than against them will keep your Shih Tzu well-nourished and at a healthy weight.

Shih Tzu Daily Feeding Chart by Age & Weight

Note: Shih Tzus have a long lifespan (10-16 years) and may not be considered senior until age 10. Adjust portions based on individual activity level and body condition.

Calorie Needs for Shih Tzus

Adult Shih Tzus need between 350 and 550 calories per day. Their low-to-moderate activity level means they burn fewer calories than more energetic small breeds like Jack Russell Terriers or Miniature Pinschers.

• Sedentary Shih Tzu: 350-400 calories (primarily indoor with short daily walks)
• Moderately active: 400-500 calories (regular walks plus play sessions)
• Active Shih Tzu: 500-550 calories (longer walks, active play, agility training)
• Spayed/neutered adjustment: Reduce by 10-15% from baseline

Managing the Picky Shih Tzu Eater

Shih Tzus are among the most selective eating breeds. Before assuming behavioral pickiness, rule out physical causes:

Physical Reasons for Food Refusal

• Dental pain: Shih Tzus are extremely prone to dental disease. Red gums, bad breath, or difficulty chewing suggests dental issues that need veterinary attention.
• Flat face difficulty: Their brachycephalic structure makes picking up certain kibble shapes physically challenging.
• Breathing while eating: Flat-faced dogs must breathe through their mouth while eating, making large or dry foods difficult to manage.

Behavioral Strategies for Picky Eaters

• Offer food for 15-20 minutes, then remove it regardless of how much was eaten
• Warm food slightly (10 seconds in microwave) to enhance aroma
• Add a tablespoon of warm water or low-sodium broth to dry food
• Mix a small spoonful of wet food into kibble for palatability
• Avoid switching foods constantly, as this trains your dog to hold out for something better
• Never hand-feed unless medically necessary, as this creates dependency
• Reduce treats to increase hunger at mealtimes

Dental Health and Food Choices

Shih Tzus have crowded, misaligned teeth in their small jaws, creating pockets where food debris and bacteria accumulate. Diet plays a role in dental maintenance:

• Kibble size matters: Choose small-breed kibble that your Shih Tzu can actually crunch, providing some mechanical cleaning.
• Avoid sticky foods: Soft, sticky textures cling to teeth and accelerate plaque buildup.
• Dental-specific formulas: Some brands offer dental-care kibble with textures designed to scrub teeth during chewing.
• Raw carrots as treats: Crunchy, low-calorie, and provide mild tooth-cleaning benefits.
• Water additives: Enzymatic water additives can help reduce bacteria between brushings.

Flat-Face (Brachycephalic) Feeding Considerations

The Shih Tzu's pushed-in face creates specific feeding requirements that owners must accommodate:

• Bowl selection: Use shallow, wide bowls or flat plates. Deep bowls force them to push their entire face into food, causing eye irritation and breathing difficulty.
• Slight elevation: A 1-2 inch platform reduces neck strain and helps with swallowing.
• Kibble shape: Flat, disc-shaped or small triangular kibble is easier for flat-faced dogs to grip than round or large pieces.
• Wet food option: Many Shih Tzus eat more comfortably with wet food or a wet/dry mix, as it requires less effort to pick up and chew.
• Post-meal face cleaning: Wipe facial folds after eating to prevent moisture-related skin infections.

Recommended Food Characteristics

• Small breed formula: Calorie-dense per piece so small portions still meet nutritional needs.
• Protein 24-28%: Moderate protein supports lean muscle without overtaxing small-breed kidneys.
• Fat 12-16%: Provides palatability and essential fatty acids while managing weight.
• Omega fatty acids: Critical for coat health in this long-haired breed.
• Probiotics included: Shih Tzus can have sensitive digestion, and probiotic-enriched foods support gut health.
• No artificial colors or flavors: This breed is prone to allergies and skin sensitivities.

Weight Management for Shih Tzus

Shih Tzus gain weight easily due to their low activity level and owners' tendency to indulge them with treats and table food. Maintaining ideal weight is critical for their breathing, joint health, and overall comfort:

• A healthy Shih Tzu has a visible waist when viewed from above
• You should feel ribs with gentle pressure through the coat
• The belly should not hang below the chest line when viewed from the side
• Weigh monthly on a kitchen or baby scale for accurate tracking
• A gain of just one pound on a 12-lb Shih Tzu represents an 8% increase in body weight

Hypoglycemia in Shih Tzu Puppies

Very small Shih Tzu puppies (especially those under 4 pounds) are susceptible to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). To prevent this:

• Feed puppies 3-4 small meals per day rather than 2 larger ones
• Never let a puppy go more than 4-5 hours without food
• Keep a glucose supplement (like Nutri-Cal) available for emergencies
• Watch for signs: lethargy, shaking, glassy eyes, or unsteadiness

Get precise feeding recommendations tailored to your Shih Tzu's exact weight and lifestyle with our Dog Food Calculator.