Shih Tzu Feeding Guide
Published by DosageGuide · Reviewed
How much to feed your Shih Tzu, daily calories, portion sizes, and feeding schedule
The Shih Tzu, a small breed hailing from China, sits at #20 on the AKC popularity chart. Bred in the palaces of imperial China for over a thousand years, the Shih Tzu's name means 'lion dog' in Mandarin, referencing its resemblance to the guardian lions of Chinese mythology. As one of the smallest dog breeds, the Shih Tzu has nutritional needs that differ significantly from larger dogs. Small breeds have faster metabolisms per pound of body weight, meaning they need calorie-dense food in smaller, more frequent portions to maintain stable blood sugar and energy. An adult Shih Tzu needs between 271 and 418 calories per day, though this varies with age, weight, activity level, and individual metabolism.
An adult Shih Tzu weighing 9 to 16 lb needs about 271 to 418 kcal a day, around 347 kcal for a neutered dog at a healthy weight with moderate activity. On a dry food of 380 kcal per cup that is 0.7-1.1 cups daily, roughly 74 to 116 grams, split into two meals; on wet food alone, 1.1-1.7 cans of 250 kcal; on a raw diet, 3-8 oz of food, about 2-3% of body weight. Weigh the ration rather than measuring it by cup, since kibble density varies by up to a third between brands, count treats inside that total rather than on top of it, and keep them under ten per cent of the calories. A Shih Tzu that gains or loses weight on these amounts needs a vet's opinion, not simply a different scoop: these figures are a starting point for a healthy dog, and they assume the 10-to-18-year life stage and activity level described below rather than pregnancy, illness or working days.
Two of the conditions this breed is screened for change how it should be fed, and the less common one matters more here because it is the one a general feeding guide never mentions. With intervertebral disc disease, every extra pound is leverage on the discs, and in this breed the difference between a lean dog and a heavy one is often the difference between a mobile dog and a surgical one. With patellar luxation, a lean dog luxates less often, and the difference between a dog at the top and the bottom of its weight range is visible in how often the knee gives way. Neither is a reason to choose a different food off the shelf; both are reasons to weigh the ration rather than estimate it.
A double coat is grown and shed twice a year, and that growth is made of protein: a dog moulting heavily needs the same ration but genuinely benefits from adequate protein and from omega-3, which is one of the few supplements whose effect on coat quality is visible within two months. For a Shih Tzu, that is the check worth making weekly.
Males and females of this breed differ enough in size that one ration does not fit both: around 13 lb against 11 lb on average, a gap of 19 per cent. Feeding both from the same scoop overfeeds one and underfeeds the other, and the figures on this page should be read against the dog in front of you rather than against the breed average.
An adult Shih Tzu's daily food intake is typically 0.5–0.3 cups of high-quality kibble, fed in two meals. Adults typically weigh 9 to 16 pounds. Despite their luxurious coat, they are surprisingly solid and muscular underneath all that hair.. At 9–16 lbs with energy level 2/5, Their flat face creates breathing challenges, and their prominent eyes are prone to injuries and dryness. Regular veterinary eye exams are recommended..
Daily Calorie Needs for Shih Tzu
Adult
271-418
kcal/day
Puppy (peak)
394
kcal/day (6-9 mo)
Senior
241-371
kcal/day
Note: Feeding guidelines are estimates based on standard veterinary formulas. Every dog is different, consult your veterinarian for personalized advice.
Feeding Strategy for Shih Tzus
With a calm, low-energy temperament, the Shih Tzu is particularly susceptible to overfeeding. Their daily requirement of 0.7-1.1 cups may seem surprisingly small, but exceeding it regularly leads to weight gain. A weight-management or light formula can help, and measuring every meal with a proper cup, not estimating, is essential for this breed.
Feeding a Flat-Faced Shih Tzu
As a brachycephalic (flat-faced) breed, the Shih Tzu faces unique feeding challenges related to their shortened skull and compromised airways. Eating and breathing compete for the same airway space, making mealtimes potentially stressful. Shih Tzus are more prone to gagging, regurgitation, and aspiration during meals. Additionally, their reduced ability to pant efficiently means they overheat more easily, a concern during and after mealtimes, especially in warm environments.
Shih Tzu Feeding Schedule
Morning (7-8 AM)
0.4-0.6 cups kibble
Evening (5-6 PM)
0.4-0.6 cups kibble
Split Meals
Portion Sizes by Food Type
Daily Portions for Shih Tzu
Based on average adult weight and activity level
| Food Type | Daily Amount | Calories | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dry Kibble | 0.7-1.1 cups | 271-418 kcal | 2 meals/day | ~380 kcal per cup |
| Wet Food | 1.1-1.7 cans | 271-418 kcal | 2 meals/day | ~250 kcal per 13oz can |
| Raw Diet | 3-8 oz | 271-418 kcal | 2 meals/day | 2-3% of body weight |
- Amount
- 0.7-1.1 cups
- Calories
- 271-418 kcal
- Frequency
- 2 meals/day
~380 kcal per cup
- Amount
- 1.1-1.7 cans
- Calories
- 271-418 kcal
- Frequency
- 2 meals/day
~250 kcal per 13oz can
- Amount
- 3-8 oz
- Calories
- 271-418 kcal
- Frequency
- 2 meals/day
2-3% of body weight
Exercise & Feeding for Shih Tzus
The Shih Tzu has modest exercise needs, 20-30 minutes of gentle walks and indoor play daily is usually sufficient. Because of their low activity level, there is rarely a need to adjust food intake for exercise. The bigger risk is overfeeding a relatively sedentary dog. If your Shih Tzu gets less activity than usual (bad weather, recovery from illness), consider reducing portions by 10%.
Joint Health & Nutrition
Joint health is a primary nutritional concern for Shih Tzus, which are predisposed to Patellar Luxation and Renal Dysplasia. Diet plays a preventive and management role at every life stage. For puppies, controlled growth rate and proper calcium-phosphorus ratios protect developing joints. For adults, maintaining ideal body weight reduces mechanical stress on joints. Specific nutrients can slow cartilage degradation and reduce inflammation.
Recommended Joint Supplements
Dental Health Through Diet
Small breeds like the Shih Tzu are disproportionately affected by dental disease, their teeth are crowded into a small jaw, creating pockets where bacteria thrive. By age three, an estimated 80% of dogs show signs of periodontal disease, and small breeds are often affected earlier. Diet can help: the mechanical action of chewing kibble provides some cleaning benefit, and specific dental diets have VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council) approval for plaque reduction.
- Include dry kibble as at least part of the diet, the chewing action helps scrape plaque
- VOHC-approved dental chews provide clinically proven plaque and tartar reduction
- Avoid feeding exclusively soft/wet food, which offers no mechanical dental benefit
- Raw carrots and apple slices (no seeds) serve double duty as low-calorie treats and natural teeth cleaners
- Schedule professional dental cleanings annually, small breeds often need extractions earlier than larger dogs
Coat & Skin Nutrition
The Shih Tzu's Long Double Coat requires nutritional support from the inside out. Double-coated breeds undergo significant seasonal shedding (known as "blowing coat") in spring and fall, during which nutritional demands for skin and hair production increase. A diet deficient in essential fatty acids, biotin, or zinc will show in the coat quality within weeks, look for dullness, excessive shedding, or dry, flaky skin as early warning signs.
Key Nutrients for Coat Health
Common Feeding Mistakes to Avoid
Overfeeding because the Shih Tzu always seems hungry
Some breeds appear perpetually hungry due to genetics or behavior. Stick to measured portions and use low-calorie treats like baby carrots, green beans, or ice cubes. If your Shih Tzu inhales food, try a slow-feeder bowl.
Free-feeding because "they don't eat much"
Even though Shih Tzus eat small quantities, free-feeding makes it impossible to track actual intake and can lead to gradual weight gain. Measure portions and offer meals at consistent times, removing uneaten food after 15-20 minutes.
Skipping joint supplements until problems appear
For breeds predisposed to joint issues, preventive supplementation with glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acids can help protect cartilage before damage occurs. Starting these supplements early, even at 1-2 years old, is more effective than waiting for symptoms.
Giving human food scraps as treats
For a 9-16 lb dog, a single ounce of cheese is equivalent to a person eating an entire hamburger. Table scraps quickly add up to a significant portion of a small breed's daily calories. Stick to dog-appropriate treats sized for small mouths.
Assuming small dogs can eat anything without consequences
Low-energy small breeds like the Shih Tzu gain weight easily. Even 10% over their ideal weight puts strain on joints and organs. Weigh food with a kitchen scale for accuracy, measuring cups can be off by 20% or more.
Shih Tzu-Specific Feeding Tips
Tip 1
Tip 2
Tip 3
Tip 4
Tip 5
Tip 6
Breed-Specific Nutritional Needs
Based on health conditions common in Shih Tzus, consider these nutritional adjustments:
Phosphorus Control
Monitor phosphorus levels in food. Ensure adequate hydration. A veterinary renal diet may be recommended if kidney issues develop.
Shih Tzu Ideal Weight
Is your Shih Tzu at a healthy weight? The ideal range is 9–16 lbs (males 9–16, females 7–14). Check these three signs: Ribs: Easily felt with light pressure; not visible but not buried under fat. Waistline: A clear narrowing behind the ribs when viewed from above.
Male Shih Tzu
9-16 lbs
4-7 kg
Female Shih Tzu
7-14 lbs
3-6 kg
Related Guides
Feeding Guides for Similar Breeds
Frequently Asked Questions
An adult Shih Tzu typically needs 271-418 calories per day, which translates to approximately 0.7-1.1 cups of dry kibble daily, split into two meals. However, this is a starting point, your specific dog's needs depend on their exact weight within the 9-16 lb range, activity level, metabolism, and whether they're spayed/neutered (which reduces calorie needs by about 20-30%).
Adult Shih Tzus should be fed twice a day, ideally 12 hours apart (morning and evening). Some owners of small breeds prefer three smaller meals, which can help with digestion and energy levels throughout the day. Consistent meal times help regulate digestion, blood sugar, and make house training easier.
Look for a food that lists real meat (not meal or by-products) as the first ingredient, contains 22-30% protein, and is formulated for small breeds. Small breed formulas offer calorie-dense kibble in smaller pieces suited to your dog's jaw. Weigh the food rather than measuring it by cup: kibble density varies by up to a third between brands, so the same cup can hold 80 or 120 grams.
Given the Shih Tzu's predisposition to joint issues, consider: glucosamine HCl (250-500mg/day), chondroitin sulfate, and omega-3 fish oil (EPA/DHA). Green-lipped mussel extract is also showing promise in studies. Many premium dog foods already include glucosamine, check your current food's label before adding supplements. Start joint support early (1-2 years old) for prevention rather than waiting for symptoms to appear. Always consult your vet before starting a supplement regimen.
While Shih Tzus can technically eat standard kibble, small-breed formulas are recommended. They feature smaller kibble pieces that are easier for your Shih Tzu's small jaw and teeth to chew, reducing choking risk and improving digestion. Small-breed formulas are also more calorie-dense per cup, which matters when your dog only eats 0.7-1.1 cups per day, every bite needs to count nutritionally.
Raw (BARF) diets are an option for Shih Tzus, with proponents citing shinier coats, cleaner teeth, and better digestion. A typical raw diet provides 2-3% of body weight daily, for a Shih Tzu, that means roughly 3-8 oz per day. The diet should include muscle meat (70%), raw meaty bones (10%), organ meat (10%), and vegetables/fruits (10%). However, raw diets carry risks of bacterial contamination and nutritional imbalance if not properly formulated. Consult a veterinary nutritionist before switching.
A healthy adult Shih Tzu weighs between 9-16 lbs (males: 9-16 lbs, females: 7-14 lbs). Use the body condition score (BCS) method: you should be able to feel ribs with light pressure but not see them, observe a visible waist when viewed from above, and notice an abdominal tuck from the side. If your Shih Tzu exceeds 18 lbs or you can't feel the ribs, consult your vet about a weight management plan.
Adult Shih Tzus weigh 9–16 lbs (males: 9–16 lbs; females: 7–14 lbs). Adults typically weigh 9 to 16 pounds. Despite their luxurious coat, they are surprisingly solid and muscular underneath all that hair.. The figures on this page assume a neutered adult at a healthy weight with moderate activity; an intact, working or growing dog needs more, and a dog on restricted exercise needs less.
Feeding Guidelines Disclaimer
The feeding recommendations on DosageGuide.com are estimates based on standard veterinary nutrition formulas (RER = 70 × weight^0.75) and general guidelines from AAFCO and veterinary nutrition resources.
Every dog is unique. Actual calorie needs vary based on breed, metabolism, activity level, health conditions, spay/neuter status, and the specific food brand you use. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice.
These guides are for general reference and do not replace professional veterinary guidance. Adjust portions based on your dog's body condition score and weight trends.