Best Food for Shih Tzu in the Philippines (2026 Guide)

Last updated: February 2026

The Shih Tzu is one of the most popular dog breeds in the Philippines, and for good reason. They are compact, affectionate, endlessly charming, and perfectly suited to condo and apartment living in Metro Manila. Walk through any village in Makati or subdivision in Quezon City and you will spot a Shih Tzu or three being walked by their devoted owners.

But here is the thing: while Shih Tzus may be small, their nutritional needs are anything but simple. This breed has specific dietary requirements driven by their size, metabolism, coat type, and predisposition to certain health issues. Feeding your Shih Tzu the wrong food, or even the right food in the wrong amounts, can lead to problems ranging from skin allergies and tear staining to obesity and liver issues.

In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about feeding your Shih Tzu in the Philippines: their unique nutritional needs, common health issues that diet can address, how much to feed based on weight, and our top food recommendations for 2026.

Understanding the Shih Tzu: Breed Basics That Affect Nutrition

Before diving into food recommendations, it helps to understand what makes Shih Tzus unique from a nutritional standpoint. These breed characteristics directly influence what and how much you should feed them:

• Small breed, fast metabolism. Shih Tzus typically weigh between 4 and 8 kilograms as adults. Small breeds have a higher metabolic rate per kilogram of body weight compared to large breeds, which means they burn energy faster and need calorie-dense food relative to their size.
• Brachycephalic (flat-faced). That adorable squished face comes with a downside: Shih Tzus can struggle with eating certain food shapes and textures. They may have difficulty picking up small, hard kibble pieces, and some dogs eat too quickly because of their jaw structure. Soft, easily chewable food is often better tolerated.
• Long, dense coat. The Shih Tzu's signature flowing coat requires significant nutritional support. Healthy hair growth depends on adequate protein, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, zinc, and biotin. A poor diet shows up quickly in a Shih Tzu's coat as dullness, excessive shedding, or dry, brittle hair.
• Prone to allergies. Shih Tzus are among the breeds most susceptible to food allergies and environmental allergies. Common food triggers include chicken, beef, wheat, corn, and soy. Allergic reactions often manifest as itchy skin, ear infections, and excessive licking of paws.
• Sensitive digestive system. Many Shih Tzu owners report that their dogs have sensitive stomachs, with loose stools, gas, or vomiting when fed low-quality food or when food is changed too abruptly.

Mga Common Health Issues ng Shih Tzu na Nakakaapekto sa Diet

Diet plays a much bigger role in your Shih Tzu's health than most pet parents realize. Several common Shih Tzu health issues are directly influenced by what they eat:

Skin Allergies and Itching

Shih Tzus are notorious for skin problems. If your dog is constantly scratching, has red or inflamed skin, gets recurring ear infections, or licks their paws obsessively, food allergies could be the culprit. The most common allergenic proteins for dogs are chicken, beef, and dairy, while grain-based triggers include wheat and corn. Switching to a limited-ingredient diet with a novel protein source, or a fish-based recipe like McDuffy's Coastal Blend, can make a dramatic difference.

Beyond specific allergens, the overall quality of the diet matters enormously for skin health. Dogs fed highly processed food with artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors tend to have more skin issues than dogs fed fresh, whole-food diets. The anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids found in fish are particularly beneficial for Shih Tzus with skin problems.

Tear Staining

Those reddish-brown streaks under your Shih Tzu's eyes are called tear stains, and they are one of the most common cosmetic concerns for Shih Tzu owners. While tear staining has multiple causes (including eye shape and tear duct anatomy), diet is a significant factor. Dogs fed low-quality food with artificial additives, fillers, and excessive minerals tend to have worse tear staining. Many Shih Tzu owners report significant improvement in tear staining within weeks of switching to a fresh, additive-free diet.

Obesity

Shih Tzus love to eat, and their small size means even a little bit of overfeeding adds up quickly. An extra 50 grams of food per day might not seem like much, but for a 5-kilogram dog, that can lead to significant weight gain over months. Obesity in Shih Tzus puts extra strain on their already compact joints and spine, and it increases the risk of breathing difficulties due to their brachycephalic anatomy. Portion control is absolutely critical, and knowing exactly how many calories your dog is consuming is much easier with a measured, portioned food like McDuffy.

Dental Problems

Small breeds are prone to dental issues, and Shih Tzus are no exception. Their small jaws can lead to overcrowded teeth, which creates pockets where bacteria thrive. While no food is a substitute for proper dental care (brushing and professional cleanings), a diet of soft, fresh food is generally easier on a Shih Tzu's teeth than hard kibble, which contrary to popular belief does not actually "clean" teeth as it breaks apart on contact rather than scraping plaque.

Liver Shunt (Portosystemic Shunt)

Shih Tzus have a higher-than-average incidence of liver shunt, a condition where blood bypasses the liver. Dogs with liver issues often need a carefully managed diet with moderate, high-quality protein rather than excessive protein from questionable sources. Fresh food with identifiable, human-grade protein sources allows for better dietary management under veterinary guidance.

What to Look for in a Shih Tzu Dog Food

Given all of the above, here is what you should prioritize when choosing food for your Shih Tzu:

1. High-quality, named protein sources. The first ingredient should be a specific, named animal protein: beef, pork, chicken, salmon, or similar. Avoid foods that list vague ingredients like "meat meal," "animal by-products," or "poultry derivatives." Your Shih Tzu needs protein from real, identifiable sources.
2. Adequate omega-3 fatty acids. Look for foods that include fish, fish oil, or flaxseed as a source of omega-3s. These fatty acids are essential for coat health, skin barrier function, and reducing inflammation. For Shih Tzus with skin issues, a fish-heavy recipe is often the best choice.
3. AAFCO-balanced formulation. This ensures your dog is getting complete nutrition. Many boutique and homemade dog foods in the Philippines are not AAFCO-compliant, which means they may be missing critical nutrients. For a detailed explanation of why this matters, read our guide on what AAFCO means and why it matters.
4. Limited or no artificial additives. Artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives contribute to tear staining and can trigger allergic reactions. Fresh food is naturally free of these additives.
5. Appropriate calorie density. Shih Tzus need calorie-dense food in small portions. The food should provide enough energy per gram that your dog does not need to eat a huge volume to meet their daily needs.
6. Easy to eat texture. Given their flat faces, Shih Tzus often do better with soft, pate-style food or finely chopped fresh food rather than large, hard kibble pieces.

Recommended Foods for Shih Tzu in the Philippines

Here are our top recommendations for Shih Tzu food available in the Philippine market in 2026:

Best Overall: McDuffy Fresh Dog Food

McDuffy checks every box for Shih Tzu nutrition. It is human-grade, AAFCO-balanced, made from real whole ingredients, and gently cooked to preserve nutrients. The soft, moist texture is perfect for brachycephalic breeds, and the fish content across all three recipes provides the omega-3 fatty acids that Shih Tzus desperately need for coat and skin health.

For Shih Tzus with allergies or sensitivities, the Coastal Blend (Fish) recipe is an excellent choice as a limited-ingredient, fish-based option that avoids common allergens like chicken and beef. For dogs without specific sensitivities, Surf & Turf (Beef & Fish) and Farmyard Feast (Pork, Chicken & Fish) provide variety and balanced nutrition.

At ₱239 per 500g bag, McDuffy is also surprisingly affordable for a Shih Tzu owner. Because Shih Tzus are small, a single bag can last one to two days depending on your dog's weight, making the cost per day very manageable, especially with volume discounts (up to 20% off for larger orders) and the optional 15% subscription discount.

Best Premium Kibble Option for Shih Tzus

If you prefer kibble, look for a breed-specific formula designed for small, flat-faced breeds. The best options include omega fatty acids for coat health and are AAFCO-compliant. The main drawback of any kibble is that it is heavily processed and often contains by-products, but premium breed-specific formulas are among the more reliable kibble options available in the Philippines for Shih Tzus.

Best Budget Option: Fresh Food Topper + Quality Kibble

If a full fresh food diet is not in your budget right now, consider a hybrid approach. Feed a base of quality AAFCO-compliant kibble and top each meal with a few tablespoons of McDuffy fresh food. This gives your Shih Tzu the moisture, palatability, and nutritional boost of fresh food while keeping costs manageable. Even a small amount of fresh food in the diet can improve coat quality and digestion. To learn more about the differences between fresh and processed food, check out our breakdown of fresh food versus kibble.

Feeding Amounts: How Much Should a Shih Tzu Eat?

One of the most common mistakes Shih Tzu owners make is overfeeding. Because these dogs are small, even minor overfeeding leads to weight gain. Here are general feeding guidelines for adult Shih Tzus eating a fresh food diet like McDuffy:

Dog Weight	Daily Fresh Food Amount	Approximate Bags per Week	Estimated Daily Cost
4 kg	80 - 120 g	1 - 2 bags	~₱38 - ₱57
5 kg	100 - 150 g	1.5 - 2 bags	~₱48 - ₱72
6 kg	120 - 180 g	2 - 2.5 bags	~₱57 - ₱86
7 kg	140 - 210 g	2 - 3 bags	~₱67 - ₱100
8 kg	160 - 240 g	2.5 - 3.5 bags	~₱77 - ₱115

Pro Tip

These amounts are based on a moderately active adult Shih Tzu. Puppies, senior dogs, very active dogs, and dogs needing to gain or lose weight will have different requirements. Start at the lower end and adjust based on your dog's body condition.

• The range reflects the general guideline of feeding 2 to 3 percent of body weight per day.
• Split the daily amount into two meals (morning and evening) for better digestion.
• The daily cost estimates use the base price of ₱239 per 500g bag. Volume discounts and subscription pricing will reduce these costs further.
• Always monitor your dog's weight and body condition. You should be able to feel (but not prominently see) your Shih Tzu's ribs. If they are gaining weight, reduce the portion slightly. If they look too lean, increase it.

For personalized feeding recommendations, visit our feeding guidelines page or message our team directly.

Paano Mag-Switch ng Food ng Shih Tzu Mo

Shih Tzus have sensitive stomachs, so switching food should always be done gradually. A sudden change can cause digestive upset including loose stools, vomiting, and gas. Here is the recommended transition schedule:

Days	Old Food	New Food (McDuffy)
Days 1 - 3	75%	25%
Days 4 - 6	50%	50%
Days 7 - 9	25%	75%
Day 10+	0%	100%

If your Shih Tzu experiences any digestive upset during the transition, slow down and stay at the current ratio for a few extra days before increasing the new food. Most dogs adjust within 7 to 14 days. For a complete step-by-step guide on transitioning your dog to fresh food, including troubleshooting tips, read our transition guide.

One encouraging note: many Shih Tzu owners report that their dogs actually have better digestion on fresh food than on kibble, even during the transition period. Fresh food is more bioavailable and easier to digest than highly processed kibble, so the transition often goes more smoothly than expected.

Signs Your Shih Tzu's Current Food Is Not Working

Sometimes the signs of a poor diet are obvious (constant vomiting, refusal to eat), but more often they are subtle and develop gradually. Here are signs that your Shih Tzu might benefit from a diet change:

• Dull, dry, or brittle coat despite regular grooming
• Excessive tear staining that worsens over time
• Persistent itching, scratching, or licking especially at paws and ears
• Recurring ear infections (often a sign of food allergies)
• Loose, inconsistent, or foul-smelling stools
• Excessive gas
• Low energy or lethargy beyond what is normal for the breed
• Weight gain despite not overfeeding
• Bad breath that is not explained by dental disease
• Picky eating or food refusal

If you notice several of these signs, talk to your veterinarian about a diet change. Switching to a fresh, whole-food diet often resolves many of these issues within weeks. Coat improvements are typically visible within 3 to 4 weeks, digestive improvements within days, and skin and allergy improvements within 4 to 8 weeks.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Shih Tzu Food

Can Shih Tzus eat fresh dog food?

Absolutely. Fresh dog food is actually ideal for Shih Tzus. The soft texture is easy for their flat faces to eat, the high moisture content supports urinary health, and the whole-food ingredients provide the omega fatty acids and protein their coats need. Fresh food like McDuffy is also free of artificial additives that can worsen tear staining and allergies in this breed.

What protein is best for Shih Tzus with allergies?

Fish is often the best protein choice for allergy-prone Shih Tzus because it is a relatively uncommon allergen and provides anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids. McDuffy's Coastal Blend recipe is fish-based and is an excellent option for Shih Tzus with chicken or beef sensitivities. If you are unsure what your dog is allergic to, your veterinarian can recommend an elimination diet to identify the specific trigger.

How many times a day should I feed my Shih Tzu?

Adult Shih Tzus do best with two meals per day, typically morning and evening. Puppies under 6 months should eat three to four times per day, gradually reducing to twice daily. Avoid free-feeding (leaving food out all day) as Shih Tzus are prone to overeating and this makes it impossible to monitor intake accurately.

Is grain-free food better for Shih Tzus?

Not necessarily. Unless your specific Shih Tzu has a diagnosed grain allergy, there is no proven benefit to grain-free food. In fact, some grain-free formulas have been associated with potential heart health concerns in dogs. The quality of the overall diet, especially the protein source and nutrient balance, matters far more than whether grains are included.

Why does my Shih Tzu have bad tear stains?

Tear staining in Shih Tzus is caused by a combination of facial anatomy (their eye shape and shallow tear ducts), excess tear production, and the porphyrin pigment in tears that turns reddish-brown when exposed to air. Diet plays a role because low-quality food with artificial additives, excess minerals (especially iron), and poor-quality water can increase tear production and porphyrin levels. Switching to fresh, additive-free food and filtered water often improves tear staining significantly.

How much does it cost to feed a Shih Tzu fresh food?

With McDuffy, feeding a 5 kg Shih Tzu costs approximately ₱48 to ₱72 per day at the base price of ₱239 per 500g bag. Volume discounts (up to 20% off for 28+ bags) and the subscription discount (15% off) can bring this cost down further. For example, a subscriber ordering 14 bags at a time would pay approximately ₱203 per bag, which works out to roughly ₱41 to ₱61 per day for a 5 kg Shih Tzu.

Can I mix McDuffy with kibble for my Shih Tzu?

Yes. Many pet parents use McDuffy as a topper or mix it with kibble. This is a great way to improve the nutritional quality of your dog's diet while managing costs. When mixing, reduce the kibble portion to account for the calories in the fresh food. There is no digestive issue with combining fresh and dry food despite the common myth that they "digest at different rates."

My Shih Tzu is a picky eater. Will they eat fresh food?

In our experience, picky Shih Tzus almost universally love fresh food. The natural aroma and texture of real, gently cooked ingredients is far more appealing to dogs than processed kibble. If your Shih Tzu turns their nose up at their current food but begs for your dinner, fresh dog food made from real ingredients is likely to be a hit. Many customers tell us their picky eaters clean their bowls for the first time after switching to McDuffy.

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Give Your Shih Tzu the Food They Deserve

Your Shih Tzu is not just a pet. For most Filipino fur parents, sila ay family. And family deserves real food, not over-processed pellets made from ingredients you cannot identify. Fresh, human-grade, AAFCO-balanced dog food gives your Shih Tzu the nutrition they need for a shiny coat, healthy skin, strong digestion, and a long, happy life by your side.

Written by the McDuffy Team. We are dog parents ourselves, and we believe every dog in the Philippines, from the tiniest Shih Tzu to the biggest Labrador, deserves to eat real food.