10 Best Dog Food for Shih Tzus 2026: Stomach-Safe Picks

Royal Canin's Small Puppy formula is tailored for small breed puppies, with kibble small enough for Shih Tzu mouths and a recipe that includes DHA for cognitive development. The chicken-based formula with fish oil and prebiotics supports healthy growth and digestion. For owners seeking a vet-recommended, breed-specific diet for their puppy under 10 months, this is a focused option — just be prepared to transition slowly, as some puppies may have loose stools when switching foods.

At under $1.22 per pound, this Pedigree formula offers the lowest cost for small-breed kibble. The small pieces are easy for Shih Tzus to chew. However, some dogs may experience vomiting or diarrhea — this food works best for adult small dogs with no known sensitivities.

Hill's Sensitive Stomach & Skin delivers consistent digestive relief for small breeds prone to loose stools and gas. The formula includes prebiotic fiber and omega-6 to support gut health and skin condition, and the tiny kibble is easy for small mouths to chew. Owners of Shih Tzus notice firmer stools within days of switching, and many see improvements in coat quality as well.

This food is best for Shih Tzus with chronic sensitive stomachs, not for healthy dogs on a budget. The premium per-pound cost can add up, and a minority of picky eaters may refuse the taste without a topper. For dogs with persistent digestive issues, the reduced vet visits and better stool quality typically justify the higher price.

Dogs tend to love the combination of crunchy kibble and tender shredded pieces, making this a strong choice for picky Shih Tzus who refuse standard kibble. The formula includes guaranteed live probiotics to support digestive health, though some dogs still experience loose stools – a tradeoff to consider for sensitive stomachs.

This food suits active adult Shih Tzus who benefit from higher protein and owners wanting a texture that encourages eating. For dogs with known digestive sensitivity, start with a smaller bag and transition slowly. The mid-range price offers good value for a probiotic-enriched formula that balances quality and palatability.

Real chicken is the first ingredient, and the formula avoids corn, wheat, soy, and by-products — a clear advantage for owners who prioritize whole grains and natural ingredients. The drawback? Some dogs develop vomiting or diarrhea, so this food suits Shih Tzus without known food allergies or digestive sensitivities. For those with delicate systems, the top pick offers better digestive stability.

Hill's Science Diet Senior 11+ Small & Mini is designed to support joint, heart, and kidney function in very old small dogs. The tiny kibble is easy for seniors with worn teeth. It is best for Shih Tzus 11 years and older who need targeted organ support, though the premium price and possible digestive upset in some dogs mean owners should monitor their pet's response. Not meant for younger dogs.

The Beneful IncrediBites variety pack offers beef, chicken, and salmon in small 3 oz cans that are convenient for Shih Tzus. Most dogs go for the flavor and the chunk-in-gravy texture. However, the formula can cause loose stools or diarrhea in dogs with sensitive stomachs, making it better suited for Shih Tzus that have no history of digestive issues.

Purina ONE Small Bites Beef delivers real beef as the first ingredient in a budget-friendly formula with kibble sized for small mouths. However, the beef flavor is not universally accepted — some dogs simply refuse it, making this a gamble for owners of picky eaters.

Kibbles 'n Bits Mini Bits delivers solid value and taste for small breeds at under $0.94 per pound. Most dogs enjoy the crunchy-chewy texture and tiny kibble size. However, digestive upset occurs in some Shih Tzus, making this suitable only for dogs with no history of stomach sensitivity.