Shih Tzu Feeding Chart
A complete, age-by-age nutrition guide with a portion calculator, body condition guide, and daily meal tracker. Part of the Furlyo Shih Tzu Care Guide.
Feeding Guide by Life Stage
0 to 3 Months
Newborn Puppy
Feeding styleFree-feed
Meals / dayAlways available
Daily calories~200 to 280 kcal
Food typePuppy kibble, soaked
Free-feeding prevents hypoglycemia. Refresh bowl regularly rather than topping off. Always provide water.
3 to 6 Months
Young Puppy
Meals / day3 to 4 meals
Daily total~1/2 cup
Per meal2 to 3 tbsp
Daily calories~280 kcal
Major growth phase. Use high-energy puppy food with DHA for brain development and 20 to 25% protein.
6 to 12 Months
Older Puppy
Meals / day3 meals
Daily total1 to 1 1/4 cups
Per meal1/3 to 1/2 cup
Daily calories~280 to 320 kcal
Appetite increases significantly. Measure carefully. Coat and muscle are still maturing.
1 to 10 Years
Adult
Meals / day2 meals
Daily total1/2 to 1 cup
Per meal1/4 to 1/2 cup
Daily calories340 to 540 kcal
Feed morning and evening. Active dogs need more; less active dogs stay near 340 kcal. Transition from puppy food at 12 months.
10+ Years
Senior
Meals / day2 smaller meals
Daily total1/2 to 3/4 cup
Per meal1/4 to 1/3 cup
Daily calories~280 kcal
Switch to senior formula. Prioritize glucosamine, chondroitin, high fiber, and Omega-3 for joints and coat.
Amounts are based on a 10 to 16 lb Shih Tzu eating high-quality dry kibble. Wet food and fresh food vary in calorie density. Always cross-check with the feeding label on your specific brand. A 10 lb adult needs approximately 35 kcal per pound of body weight per day.
Personalized Portion Calculator
Dog's Weight
10 lbs
4 lbs18 lbs
Life Stage
Activity Level
Your Recommendation
340
kcal / day
Daily Calories
1
cups / day
Dry Kibble Total
1/2
cup / meal
Per Meal (2x/day)
Based on moderate activity adult. Adjust up or down by 10% based on body condition. Always verify against your food brand's label.
Body Condition Score Guide
Too Thin (BCS 1 to 3)
Ribs visible through fur
Prominent spine and hip bones
Severe waist narrowing
No fat cover felt on ribs
Action: Increase portions 10 to 15% and consult vet
Ideal Weight (BCS 4 to 5)
Ribs felt easily, not seen
Visible waist from above
Slight abdominal tuck
Thin fat layer over ribs
Action: Maintain current feeding routine
Overweight (BCS 6 to 9)
Ribs hard to feel under fat
No visible waist from above
Rounded, sagging abdomen
Waddling gait or low energy
Action: Reduce portions 10 to 15%, vet check
Daily Calorie Needs
280
Puppy / Senior
kcal per day
340
Adult (typical)
kcal per day
540
Active Adult
kcal per day
35
Per lb of body weight
kcal baseline
Protein Requirements
20 to 25%
Puppy
High protein supports rapid growth, muscle development, and sustained energy.
15 to 20%
Adult
Balanced maintenance. Real meat should always be the first listed ingredient.
Higher protein,
fewer calories
fewer calories
Senior
More protein preserves muscle mass. Fewer calories accommodate reduced activity.
Key Nutrients to Look For
Omega-3 & 6 (EPA/DHA)
Supports the Shih Tzu's signature coat and healthy skin. Reduces dryness and shedding.
Glucosamine & Chondroitin
Critical for seniors. Supports joint flexibility and reduces risk of arthritis.
Vitamins E & C
Antioxidants that support the immune system and slow cellular aging.
Calcium & Phosphorus
Essential for puppies. Builds strong bones and teeth. Balance ratio is critical.
DHA
Vital for brain and eye development in puppies. Found in quality puppy formulas and fish oil.
Fiber & Probiotics
Shih Tzus have sensitive stomachs. Fiber and probiotics keep digestion regular and reduce gas.
Safe & Beneficial Foods
Safe to Feed
Cooked chicken / turkey: lean, plain, no spices. Excellent protein source.
Carrots & cucumbers: low calorie, crunchy, and good for teeth.
Blueberries & apple slices: antioxidant-rich treats. Always remove apple seeds.
Cooked salmon / fish: excellent Omega-3 source. Never serve raw.
Plain cooked rice: easy on sensitive stomachs, good during digestive upset.
Cooked eggs: great protein and biotin boost for coat health.
Banana: safe in small amounts, good potassium source.
Feed with Caution
Cheese / dairy: small amounts only. Many Shih Tzus are lactose intolerant.
Peanut butter: xylitol-free only. Check the label every single time.
Cooked lean beef: high-fat meats risk pancreatitis. Lean cuts only.
Sweet potato: cooked and plain only. Use cautiously in grain-free diets (DCM link).
Bread / pasta: plain only, rarely. Minimal nutritional value.
Most fruits: always remove seeds, cores, and pits. Limit portion sizes.
Toxic Foods — Never Feed
Hover over any item for more detail. Emergency: ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435
Chocolate
Theobromine causes seizures, coma, and death even in small amounts.
Theobromine poisoning. Dark chocolate is most dangerous. Symptoms: vomiting, tremors, seizures. Call ASPCA (888) 426-4435 immediately.
Grapes & Raisins
Cause severe kidney failure. Even tiny amounts can be fatal with no known safe threshold.
Can cause acute kidney failure within 24 to 72 hours. Symptoms: vomiting, lethargy, no urination. Emergency vet immediately. ASPCA: (888) 426-4435.
Onions & Garlic
Destroy red blood cells causing hemolytic anemia. Watch pizza, pasta sauce, meatloaf.
All allium family (leeks, chives too). Damages red blood cells. Symptoms appear days later: weakness, pale gums. ASPCA: (888) 426-4435.
Xylitol
Found in sugar-free gum, candy, and some peanut butters. Causes liver failure and hypoglycemia.
Triggers massive insulin release causing hypoglycemia. Can cause liver failure within 9 hours. Check ALL peanut butter labels. ASPCA: (888) 426-4435.
Caffeine
Coffee, tea, soda cause cardiac arrhythmia, seizures, and can be fatal.
Affects heart rate and nervous system. Symptoms: restlessness, rapid breathing, tremors. No antidote. ASPCA: (888) 426-4435.
Avocado
Persin toxin causes vomiting, diarrhea, and cardiac damage, especially in the pit and skin.
Persin is toxic in all parts of the avocado. The pit is also a choking and obstruction hazard. ASPCA: (888) 426-4435.
Macadamia Nuts
Causes vomiting, muscle tremors, fever, and weakness even in small doses.
Unknown toxic mechanism. Symptoms within 12 hours: weakness, hyperthermia, vomiting. Chocolate-covered macadamia is doubly dangerous. ASPCA: (888) 426-4435.
Alcohol
Extremely toxic. Even a few drops cause CNS depression, vomiting, and can be fatal.
Causes the same effects as in humans but far faster and in far smaller quantities for dogs. Any amount is dangerous. ASPCA: (888) 426-4435.
Cooked Bones
Splinter into shards that can puncture the throat, stomach, or intestines.
Cooked bones (especially poultry) become brittle and splinter. Can cause choking or internal perforation. Only raw bones with vet guidance. ASPCA: (888) 426-4435.
Salt (excess)
Large quantities cause sodium ion poisoning, seizures, and kidney damage.
Symptoms: excessive thirst, urination, vomiting, tremors. Avoid salty snacks entirely. Small amounts in cooked food are generally fine. ASPCA: (888) 426-4435.
Wet vs. Dry vs. Mixed Food
Recommended Food Brands by Life Stage
Select a life stage to view recommendations. Always consult your vet for your dog's specific needs.
Royal Canin Shih Tzu Puppy
Breed-specific
Tailored kibble shape for the Shih Tzu's short muzzle. Includes DHA for brain development, antioxidants for immunity, and nutrients to support coat development from an early age.
$$ (Premium)
Hill's Science Diet Small Paws Puppy
Vet-recommended
High-quality protein as first ingredient. Clinically tested antioxidants support immune health. DHA from fish oil for brain and eye development. Widely vet-recommended.
$ (Mid-range)
Wellness Complete Health Small Breed Puppy
Natural ingredients
Deboned chicken as first ingredient. DHA, Omega-3, and Omega-6 for coat and brain health. No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
$ (Mid-range)
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Puppy Small Breed
LifeSource Bits
Real chicken first, plus Blue's exclusive LifeSource Bits blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. DHA and ARA support healthy brain and eye development.
$ (Mid-range)
Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult
Breed-specific
Exclusive kibble shape designed for the Shih Tzu's flat jaw and underbite. Supports skin and coat with EPA, DHA, and Vitamin A. Helps maintain ideal weight in this obesity-prone breed.
$$ (Premium)
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small Paws
Vet-recommended
Precise nutrition for small breed adults. Chicken as first ingredient, balanced minerals for bone health, and clinically proven antioxidants.
$ (Mid-range)
Orijen Small & Mini Adult
High-protein
85% quality animal ingredients including free-run chicken and turkey. Low-glycemic carbohydrates. Biologically appropriate diet. Great for active dogs.
$$ (Ultra-premium)
Merrick Lil' Plates Small Breed
Grain-inclusive
Real deboned meat as first ingredient. Wholesome grains like brown rice and quinoa. Omega fatty acids for coat health, glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support.
$ (Mid-range)
Wellness Complete Health Small Breed Senior
Top-rated senior
Deboned chicken, joint support with glucosamine and chondroitin, high fiber for digestion, and quality Omegas for aging skin and coat. Free from artificial additives.
$ (Mid-range)
Royal Canin Aging Small Dog 12+
Breed-specific senior
Formulated for small dogs 12 years and older. Kidney support, easy-to-chew kibble, and a mix of antioxidants and EPA/DHA to maintain aging coat and cognitive health.
$$ (Premium)
Hill's Science Diet Senior Small Paws 11+
Vet-recommended
Clinically proven antioxidants, high-quality protein to maintain lean muscle, and easy digestibility. Designed specifically for small dogs over 11 years old.
$ (Mid-range)
Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Senior
Wet food option
Wet food format ideal for seniors with dental issues. Real chicken, garden vegetables, LifeSource Bits. Highly palatable for aging, picky eaters.
$ (Mid-range)
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin
Vet-recommended
Easily digestible ingredients for sensitive stomachs. Prebiotic fiber to support balanced gut microbiome. Vitamin E and Omega-6 for healthy skin and coat.
$ (Mid-range)
Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach
Salmon-based
Salmon as the first ingredient for dogs sensitive to chicken. Easily digestible oat meal and rice. Concentrated fish Omega-3 fatty acids. Widely vet-recommended.
$ (Mid-range)
Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient
Limited ingredients
Minimal ingredient list to reduce allergic reactions. Single animal protein source. Ideal for isolating and identifying specific food sensitivities.
$ (Mid-range)
Instinct Raw Boost Small Breed
Grain-free / raw
Cage-free chicken with freeze-dried raw pieces. Probiotics for gut health, Omegas for coat. Grain-free for dogs with confirmed grain intolerance. Consult vet before starting.
$$ (Premium)
Ideal Daily Feeding Schedule
Puppy Schedule (3 to 12 months)
7:00 AM
Morning Meal
After waking up. Small, measured portion. Always followed by a bathroom break.
12:00 PM
Midday Meal
After a play session. Maintains steady blood sugar throughout the day.
5:00 PM
Afternoon Meal
Pre-evening meal. Keeps energy levels stable through the evening.
8:00 PM
Optional 4th Meal
For puppies under 4 months. Small final meal before settling for the night.
Adult & Senior Schedule
7:00 to 8:00 AM
Morning Meal
After morning walk or playtime. Half of the daily portion. Establishes routine.
12:00 to 2:00 PM
Optional Small Treat
Low-calorie only. Max 10% of daily calories. Carrots, blueberries, or a dental chew.
5:00 to 6:00 PM
Evening Meal
Remaining half of daily portion. Allow 1 to 2 hours before bedtime to aid digestion.
Always
Fresh Water
Constant access to clean water. Critical for hydration and kidney health in this breed.
10-Day Food Transition Tracker
Old food
New food
Daily Meal Checklist
Adult / Senior Tracker
Morning Meal
7:00 to 8:00 AM · Half daily portion
Midday Treat (optional)
Low-calorie only · Max 10% of daily calories
Evening Meal
5:00 to 6:00 PM · Remaining half
Fresh Water Refreshed
Change water at least once daily
Puppy Tracker (3 to 12 months)
Breakfast
7:00 AM · After waking
Midday Meal
12:00 PM · After play
Afternoon Meal
5:00 PM
Evening Meal (under 4 months)
8:00 PM · Optional for young puppies
Fresh Water Refreshed
Change water at least once daily
Pro Tips for Healthy Feeding
Always Measure Portions
Never eyeball. Use a measuring cup. Even a few extra kibbles per day adds up to significant weight gain in a dog this small.
Stick to a Routine
Feed at the same times every day. Consistent mealtimes improve digestion, reduce picky eating, and help with housetraining.
No Free-Feeding Adults
Free-feeding should only be used for puppies under 3 months. Adult Shih Tzus will overeat if food is left out, leading to obesity.
Dry Kibble for Dental Health
Crunchy kibble helps remove plaque. Shih Tzus are prone to dental disease. Consider adding dental chews to the daily routine.
Body Condition Check Weekly
You should feel but not see the ribs. A visible waist from above is healthy. No waist or visible spine means adjust portions immediately.
Hydration is Critical
Shih Tzus are prone to kidney issues. Always provide fresh, clean water. Consider wet food or low-sodium broth over kibble if your dog drinks very little.
Grain-Free? Ask Your Vet First
Grain-free diets have been associated with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). If going grain-free, avoid BEG diets (boutique, exotic, grain-free).
Supplements at Age 8+
Joint supplements (glucosamine), Omega-3 fish oil, and a daily multivitamin can significantly improve quality of life for aging Shih Tzus. Always confirm with your vet.
Watch for Sensitivities
Itchy skin, tear staining, gas, loose stools, or constant paw licking may indicate food sensitivity. Try a limited-ingredient formula and consult your vet.