Does your adorable Shih Tzu constantly scratch, lick, or chew at their skin? That incessant itching can be heartbreaking to watch, and it’s a common struggle for many Shih Tzu owners. You want your little companion to be comfortable and happy, but navigating the crowded pet food aisle feels overwhelming. Finding the perfect food that soothes those irritated patches feels like a never-ending quest filled with trial and error.
The truth is, what you feed your dog directly impacts their skin health. Wrong ingredients can trigger painful allergic reactions, leading to redness, hot spots, and sleepless nights for both of you. This guide cuts through the confusion. We will explore exactly what causes that frustrating itch in Shih Tzus and pinpoint the specific ingredients you need to look for—and the ones you must avoid.
By the end of this post, you will feel confident choosing a high-quality, specialized diet proven to calm sensitive skin. Get ready to swap the scratching sessions for happy cuddles. Let’s dive into finding the best food to bring relief to your itchy friend today.
Top Dog Food For Itchy Shih Tzu Recommendations
- FORMULATED FOR PUREBRED SHIH TZUS: Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Dry Dog Food is designed to meet the nutritional needs of purebred Shih Tzus 10 months and older
- SPECIALIZED KIBBLE: Unique kibble shape is designed for a small breed’s short muzzle and underbite
- SKIN SUPPORT: Promotes healthy skin and coat with an exclusive complex of nutrients including EPA, DHA, and vitamin A
- COAT HEALTH: A combination of omega-3 fatty acids, omega-6 fatty acids, and biotin maintains a healthy coat
- OPTIMAL STOOL: Highly digestible proteins, precise fiber content, and high-quality carbohydrate sources help reduce amount of stools and stool odor
- FORMULATED FOR PUREBRED SHIH TZUS: Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Dry Dog Food is designed to meet the nutritional needs of purebred Shih Tzus 10 months and older
- SPECIALIZED KIBBLE: Unique kibble shape is designed for a small breed’s short muzzle and underbite
- SKIN SUPPORT: Promotes healthy skin and coat with an exclusive complex of nutrients including EPA, DHA, and vitamin A
- COAT HEALTH: A combination of omega-3 fatty acids, omega-6 fatty acids, and biotin maintains a healthy coat
- OPTIMAL STOOL: Highly digestible proteins, precise fiber content, and high-quality carbohydrate sources help reduce amount of stools and stool odor
- FORMULATED FOR PUREBRED SHIH TZUS: Royal Canin Shih Tzu Puppy Dry Dog Food is designed to meet the nutritional needs of purebred Shih Tzus 8 weeks to 10 months old
- SPECIALIZED KIBBLE: Unique kibble shape is designed for a Shih Tzu’s short muzzle and underbite
- HEALTHY DEVELOPMENT: Helps protect puppy development of their immune system and natural defenses with an exclusive complex of antioxidants including vitamin E
- SKIN AND COAT: Promotes healthy skin and maintains a Shih Tzu’s growing, long coat with specific nutrients
- OPTIMAL STOOL: High-quality proteins and prebiotics for your small breed’s digestive health helps reduce amount of stools and stool odor
- Provides relief for itchy, scaling and sensitive skin with the mild oatmeal and aloe formula! A gentle shampoo is more suitable for dogs with sensitive skin or allergies!
- Hypoallergenic formula is safe for use with topical flea control treatments! Keep your dog fresh and clean with the delicious Pina Colada scent!
- pH balanced! Healthy Breeds offers a high-quality oatmeal shampoo that is gentle and soap-free! Help restore natural moisture and emollients in your dog’s skin and coat!
- MADE IN THE USA! Buy with confidence! All shampoos made in federally regulated manufacturing facilities! Excellent customer service and return policy. 100% satisfaction guaranteed!
- Healthy Breeds also offers a Deodorizing Shampoo and a Bright Whitening Shampoo for lighter/whiter coats to bring back the puppy shine! Search for your breed and product!
- Healthy Breeds Omega HP is a high potency, veterinary recommended, comprehensive blend of essential fatty acids for your dog that are essential for optimal health and must be obtained through their diet as it is not produced in the body
- Made with the freshest ingredients and carefully tested for purity. Harvested from fresh-caught fish in cold ocean waters, the fatty acids are extracted quickly to optimize purity and potency
- Supports the health of your dog’s skin and coat, joints, heart, immune system, bone structure, as well as brain and eye function
- Made in the USA so you can buy with confidence. Healthy Breeds Omega HP Soft chews are made in federally regulated manufacturing facilities. Excellent customer service and return policy
- Healthy Breeds offers an assortment of dog healthcare products, grooming products and treats for over 200 breeds! Make sure to search for your breed! Click the Healthy Breeds hyperlink above the title to see our amazon storefront!
- Small Breed Dog Food – This dry dog food small breed kibble features high-quality protein and a bite-sized dog kibble perfect for small dogs like Chihuahuas, Shih Tzus, Yorkies, and Dachshunds. Great for adult dogs and toy breeds with tiny teeth
- Real Lamb First Ingredient – This high protein dog food is made with real pasture-raised lamb as the #1 ingredient to support strong muscles, energy levels, & meaty flavor for picky eaters. A flavorful choice of healthy lamb dog food for small breeds
- Grain & Gluten Free – Free from grains, gluten, soy, corn or artificial preservatives, this grain free dog food small breed kibble is ideal for dogs with allergies or sensitivities. It's a great small bites dog food for extra skin & digestion support
- Digestion & Gut Health Support – With 90 million probiotics per pound, this small dog food dry kibble has probiotics to help maintain healthy digestion & gut flora, plus fiber to support nutrient absorption—great for sensitive stomach dog food needs
- Immune, Skin & Coat Support – With omega fatty acids, vitamins & NutrientBoost, this dog food for small dogs promotes immune, skin & coat health. Ideal dry dog food for small dogs, senior small breed dog food & healthy dog food for small dogs
- USDA Certified Organic, Non-GMO Verified.
- Main ingredient is organic chicken! No wheat, corn, or soy!
- The perfect bite sized training treats made in small batches for freshness, quality, and safety!
- MADE IN THE USA! Buy with confidence! All Healthy Breeds products are made in federally regulated manufacturing facilities. All raw materials utilized are of the highest quality and are evaluated for purity and potency prior to use.
- Healthy Breeds offers an assortment of dog products including health care, grooming, dental care and treats for over 200 breeds! Make sure to search for your breed! Click the Healthy Breeds hyperlink above to see our Amazon storefront. Excellent customer service and return policy. 100% satisfaction guaranteed
- FORMULATED FOR PUREBRED SHIH TZUS: Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Wet Dog Food is designed to meet the nutritional needs of purebred Shih Tzus 10 months and older
- TASTY LOAF IN SAUCE: Adult dog food featuring Loaf in Sauce for a paté that appeals to a Shih Tzu’s appetite and is easy for them to eat
- SKIN SUPPORT: Supports skin health and promotes a healthy coat with an exclusive complex of nutrients including EPA, DHA, and vitamin A
- HEART HEALTH: Targeted levels of sodium, taurine, and L-carnitine for healthy cardiac function promote heart health
- COMPLETE AND BALANCED: Canned dog food can be fed alone or mixed with Royal Canin Shih Tzu Adult Dry Dog Food
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Finding the Best Food for Your Itchy Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are wonderful companions, but many struggle with itchy skin. Food often plays a big role in this discomfort. Choosing the right diet can make a huge difference in keeping your little dog happy and scratch-free. This guide helps you navigate the options.
Key Features to Look For in Itch-Relief Dog Food
When you shop for food to help your itchy Shih Tzu, look for specific things on the label. These features target skin health directly.
- **Limited Ingredient Diets (LID):** These foods use fewer ingredients. This makes it easier to avoid common allergens that trigger itching.
- **Novel Proteins:** If your dog reacts to chicken or beef, try proteins they haven’t eaten before, like duck, venison, or fish.
- **Skin-Soothing Supplements:** Check for added Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA). These fight inflammation and calm irritated skin.
- **Digestive Support:** Ingredients like prebiotics or probiotics help gut health. A healthy gut often means healthier skin.
Important Ingredients: What Makes the Cut?
The ingredients list tells the whole story. Focus on high-quality components that support a healthy coat and skin barrier.
High-Quality Protein Sources
Protein is essential for building healthy skin cells. Look for a named animal protein as the very first ingredient. Avoid foods that list generic “meat by-products.” Fish, like salmon or whitefish, provides excellent Omega-3s naturally.
Healthy Fats (The Skin Superstars)
Fats are crucial for reducing itchiness. Omega fatty acids (like those found in flaxseed, fish oil, or sunflower oil) lubricate the skin and reduce redness. Ensure these are listed prominently.
Carbohydrates to Choose Wisely
Some Shih Tzus react to common grains like wheat or corn. Consider grain-free options or those using easily digestible carbohydrates like sweet potatoes or peas. These provide energy without irritating sensitive systems.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Food Quality
Not all dog foods are created equal. Certain additions boost the food’s effectiveness, while others can make itching worse.
Factors That Improve Quality
- **Natural Preservatives:** Foods preserved with Vitamin E (tocopherols) or Vitamin C are better than those using artificial chemicals like BHA or BHT.
- **Whole Foods:** Ingredients you recognize, like whole vegetables and fruits, usually mean better overall nutrition.
- **Guaranteed Analysis:** High percentages of crude protein and fat (within healthy ranges) usually indicate a more nutrient-dense food.
Factors That Reduce Quality (Potential Itch Triggers)
- **Artificial Colors and Flavors:** These provide no nutritional benefit and can sometimes trigger reactions.
- **Corn, Wheat, and Soy (For Sensitive Dogs):** These are common fillers and frequent allergens. If your dog is itchy, try eliminating these first.
- **Excessive Fillers:** If the first five ingredients are mostly grains or cheap fillers, the food lacks the necessary skin-healing nutrients.
User Experience and Use Cases
How does the food perform in real life? The experience of feeding an itchy dog involves more than just the ingredients.
Owners often report noticeable improvements within 4 to 8 weeks of switching to a high-quality, limited-ingredient, or novel protein diet. You should see less scratching, fewer hot spots, and a shinier coat. If your Shih Tzu has severe, chronic itching, a prescription hydrolyzed protein diet might be necessary; always consult your veterinarian first.
Use these specialized foods when you suspect a food allergy is causing the constant licking and biting. Always transition your dog slowly over seven to ten days to prevent stomach upset, which can sometimes mimic allergy symptoms.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Dog Food for Itchy Shih Tzus
Q: How long does it take to see results after switching food?
A: Most owners notice a reduction in scratching after four weeks. It can take up to eight weeks for the skin to fully heal.
Q: Can I mix the new food with my dog’s old food?
A: Yes, but do it slowly. Mix a small amount of the new food with the old food for about a week. This prevents digestive upset.
Q: Are grain-free foods always better for itchy dogs?
A: Not necessarily. Some dogs are sensitive to grains, but others are sensitive to potatoes or peas often used in grain-free mixes. Look for the right protein source first.
Q: What is a “novel protein”?
A: A novel protein is a protein source your dog has likely never eaten before, like venison, rabbit, or salmon. This reduces the chance of an allergic reaction.
Q: Should I feed wet food or dry kibble?
A: Dry kibble is often easier for managing allergies because it is simpler. However, wet food can sometimes be more palatable if your dog refuses the new diet.
Q: What are the most common food allergens for dogs?
A: Beef, dairy, chicken, wheat, and eggs are the most common culprits that cause skin reactions.
Q: Does cheaper food work just as well?
A: No. Cheaper foods often use lower-quality ingredients and more common allergens. Investing in specialized food usually yields better skin results.
Q: Can I treat itching with just supplements instead of changing the whole diet?
A: Supplements help, but if the underlying cause is dietary, you must remove the trigger ingredient. Supplements alone are rarely a complete fix.
Q: What is the role of Omega-3s in itch relief?
A: Omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation in the body. This calms down the irritated, itchy skin.
Q: When should I see a veterinarian about my dog’s itching?
A: If the itching is severe, causes hair loss, or leads to open sores, you must see your vet immediately. They can rule out infections or other medical issues.