Feeding · Toy group
Shih Tzu Feeding Chart: Portions by Age and Weight
Shih Tzus are brachycephalic toys with dental and renal considerations. Here's the portion chart.
Shih Tzus are brachycephalic companion toys — friendly, low-activity, prone to dental disease, allergies, and breed-specific renal issues. Feeding precision and dental routine matter.
Daily portion guide (adult)
| Adult weight | Low activity | Moderate activity |
|---|---|---|
| 9 lb (4 kg) | ½ cup | ⅔ cup |
| 12 lb (5.5 kg) | ⅔ cup | ¾ cup |
| 16 lb (7 kg) | ¾ cup | 1 cup |
Split into 2 meals. Reduce 10% for neutered.
Puppy (8 weeks - 10 months)
Toy / small-breed puppy formula. 3-4 meals until 4 months, then 2-3.
Senior (10+ years)
Adult -10%. Renal screening + dental + eye care critical.
What makes feeding a Shih Tzu different
Brachycephaly. Slow-feeder bowl. Slight elevation acceptable.
Dental disease. Crowded mouths; daily brushing + small-kibble or dental-formula + annual cleaning.
Allergies. Common. Skin / ear / paw flares → vet conversation.
Renal dysplasia / kidney issues. Some Shih Tzu lines are predisposed. Annual senior bloodwork including kidney values; if diagnosed, prescription renal diet.
Eye sensitivity. Eye-prominent face; eat-area cleanup helps reduce eye irritation from food / water.
Coat-skin nutrition. Long-coated; quality omega-3 + complete-balanced AAFCO-validated food supports coat condition.
Common breed concerns and feeding
- Brachy-eating: slow-feeder.
- Dental: small kibble + daily brushing.
- Allergies: elimination diet for chronic flares.
- Renal: annual bloodwork; prescription diet if abnormal.
Sample daily routine
Adult Shih Tzu, 12 lb:
- 7am: ⅓ cup breakfast (slow feeder)
- 7:30am: 15-min walk
- 5pm: 15-min walk
- 6pm: ⅓ cup dinner
- Daily teeth brushing
- Eye-area cleaning
What to track in Flok
- Dental routine.
- Skin / ear / paw flares.
- Weight monthly.
- Senior bloodwork dates (kidney values).
FAQ
How do I clean my Shih Tzu’s eyes?
Damp cloth wipe daily; remove debris from face folds. Tear-staining is common — prescription products available; talk to vet.
Are Shih Tzus prone to kidney disease?
Some lines are. Annual senior bloodwork (BUN, creatinine, SDMA, urinalysis) helps catch early.
What about dental cleaning frequency?
Annual professional cleaning (under anesthesia) is standard. Daily brushing extends intervals.
Sources
Related
This is a general guide. Caloric needs vary by individual. Consult your vet for personalized portions. Last reviewed: 2026-04-28.
All breed feeding guides Dog daily routine pillar First-year puppy guide
