Best Dog Food for Shih Tzus in Canada: Small Breed Nutrition, Sensitive Stomachs and Top Brands

Shih Tzus are charming, affectionate dogs with very specific dietary needs that set them apart from larger breeds. If you are searching for the best dog food for Shih Tzus in Canada, you have likely already discovered that not every kibble or wet food is a good fit for this breed. From their compact jaw structure to their tendency toward sensitive stomachs and skin issues, Shih Tzus require thoughtful nutrition choices. As of 2026, Ashario Pets — located at 1111A Finch Ave W, Unit 2, North York, Ontario — carries a curated selection of premium dog food brands specifically suited to small breeds like the Shih Tzu, available in-store daily from 9 AM to 11 PM, 365 days a year.

This guide breaks down everything Canadian Shih Tzu owners need to know about feeding their dogs well, from caloric density and ingredient quality to breed-specific formulas and sensitive stomach options.

Understanding Shih Tzu Nutritional Needs

Shih Tzus are a small breed, typically weighing between 4 and 7 kilograms. Their small size comes with a faster metabolism than larger dogs, meaning they need calorie-dense food in smaller portion sizes. Choosing a food formulated specifically for small or toy breeds helps ensure they receive the right ratio of protein, fat, and micronutrients without overfeeding or underfeeding.

Key nutritional priorities for Shih Tzus include:

• High-quality animal protein — Supports lean muscle mass and energy in an active small breed
• Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids — Essential for the Shih Tzu's signature long coat and skin health
• Smaller kibble size — Shih Tzus have a flat, brachycephalic (short-nosed) facial structure, making oversized kibble difficult to chew
• Digestive support — Prebiotics, probiotics, and highly digestible protein sources help manage this breed's sensitive digestive system
• Controlled calorie content — Prevents weight gain, which puts excess pressure on their joints

Always consult your veterinarian to confirm the right feeding amount and formula for your individual dog, especially if they have known allergies, gastrointestinal issues, or other health conditions.

Dry Dog Food for Shih Tzus: What to Look For in Canada

Small breed dry dog food remains one of the most popular choices for Canadian Shih Tzu owners because of its convenience, dental benefits, and long shelf life. When selecting the best kibble for a Shih Tzu in Toronto or anywhere across Canada, look for formulas that feature real meat as the first ingredient, avoid excessive fillers like corn syrup or artificial preservatives, and are appropriately sized for small mouths.

At Ashario Pets in North York, the dry dog food collection includes several brands well-suited to small breeds:

• Royal Canin — Offers a breed-specific Shih Tzu formula designed with the exact kibble shape, size, and nutrient profile for this breed. Royal Canin's Shih Tzu formula is one of the most recognized options in Canada for this breed.
• Farmina — An internationally recognized brand with grain-free and grain-inclusive small breed formulas using high-quality protein sources like chicken, lamb, and fish
• Acana — A Canadian-made premium dry food featuring fresh regional ingredients with high protein content and no artificial preservatives
• Orijen — Another Canadian-made brand offering biologically appropriate recipes with 85% quality animal ingredients, suitable for Shih Tzus needing protein-rich diets
• Go! Solutions — A Canadian brand offering small breed options with easily digestible proteins and added omega fatty acids for coat health
• Fromm — A family-owned brand known for consistent quality and small breed friendly recipes
• Hill's Science Diet — A veterinarian-recommended option with small and toy breed formulas, widely used in Canada

Explore the full premium pet food selection at Ashario Pets to browse current in-store availability.

Royal Canin Shih Tzu vs Farmina: Which Is Right for Your Dog?

Two of the most commonly compared options for Shih Tzu owners in Canada are Royal Canin's breed-specific formula and Farmina's premium small breed lines. Both are available at Ashario Pets in North York, and both offer distinct advantages depending on your dog's specific needs.

• Royal Canin Shih Tzu — Breed-specific kibble with a unique shape designed for Shih Tzu jaw structure. Formulated to support coat quality, skin health, and digestive sensitivity. A structured, scientifically developed option backed by veterinary nutritionists.
• Farmina N&D (Natura & Dieta) — Available in grain-free and ancestral grain formulas. Uses high fresh meat inclusion rates and lower carbohydrate content. Ideal for owners seeking a more natural or minimally processed dry food approach for their Shih Tzu.

Neither is universally superior — the right choice depends on your individual dog's tolerances, activity level, and any known sensitivities. Consulting your veterinarian before switching formulas is always recommended. For more guidance on matching food to your dog's specific health needs, visit the best pet food for specific needs page at Ashario Pets.

Shih Tzu Sensitive Stomach Food in Canada

Digestive sensitivity is common in Shih Tzus. Symptoms like soft stools, gas, intermittent vomiting, or lack of appetite can often be linked to food intolerances rather than serious illness — though it is always important to rule out medical causes with your veterinarian first.

For Shih Tzus with sensitive stomachs, the following food types and brands available at Ashario Pets are worth considering:

• Limited ingredient diets — Brands like Natural Balance and Zignature offer limited ingredient formulas that reduce the number of potential allergens in the bowl
• Single protein sources — Reducing exposure to multiple protein types can help identify and manage food sensitivities
• Wet dog food — Easier to digest than dry kibble for some dogs. Options from brands like Weruva, Caru, and Tiki Dog offer high-moisture, gentle formulas. Browse the wet dog food collection at Ashario Pets.
• Freeze-dried and raw food — Brands like Stella & Chewy's, Primal, and Instinct Raw offer minimally processed options that many sensitive dogs tolerate well. Explore raw dog food and freeze-dried dog food options available in-store.
• Digestive supplements — Probiotic and prebiotic supplements from brands like MOJO Pet Supplements or Canine Matrix can support gut health alongside a balanced diet

For a deeper look at managing your dog's wellness through diet, visit the dog wellness needs resource page.

Canadian-Made Dog Food Brands for Shih Tzus

Many Canadian pet owners prefer supporting domestic brands, and there are excellent Canadian-made options for Shih Tzus. As of 2026, Ashario Pets in North York carries a strong lineup of Canadian pet food brands, including:

• Acana — Made in Canada using fresh regional ingredients, with recipes appropriate for small breeds
• Orijen — Canadian-made biologically appropriate food with high meat inclusion
• Go! Solutions — Canadian brand with small breed grain-free and grain-inclusive recipes
• Open Farm — Canadian brand with transparent sourcing and humanely raised protein options
• Big Country Raw — Canadian raw food brand with a wide variety of species and cuts for rotation feeding
• Carna4 — Canadian sprouted seed food with minimal processing
• Oven-Baked Tradition — Canadian-made with small breed dry food options and oven-baked preparation

Discover the full range of made in Canada pet products available at Ashario Pets.

Treats and Supplements for Shih Tzus

Alongside a balanced diet, high-quality treats and targeted supplements can support a Shih Tzu's coat, joints, digestion, and dental health. At Ashario Pets, the dog treats collection includes options from brands like Crumps' Naturals, Kettle Craft, RedBarn, Greenies, and The Honest Kitchen — many of which offer small or bite-sized treats ideal for toy breeds.

For supplements, the dog health supplements page lists options including omega fatty acid supplements for skin and coat support, joint supplements for small breed longevity, and digestive aids. Brands like Canine Matrix, MOJO Pet Supplements, and Wellytails are available at Ashario Pets and may be appropriate for Shih Tzus depending on your veterinarian's recommendations.

Where to Buy the Best Dog Food for Shih Tzus in North York and Toronto

Ashario Pets is a premium pet supply store located at 1111A Finch Ave W, Unit 2, North York, ON M3J 2P7, open 9 AM to 11 PM daily, 365 days a year. The store carries over 79 brands of dog food, treats, supplements, and accessories, making it one of the most comprehensive pet supply destinations in the North York and Toronto area for Shih Tzu owners.

Not able to visit in person? Ashario Pets also offers delivery through Uber Eats, DoorDash, SkipTheDishes, Instacart, and Fantuan — so you can get your Shih Tzu's food delivered directly to your door across the greater Toronto area.

You can also explore current promotions and coupon codes or review the price match guarantee policy to ensure you are getting the best value on your Shih Tzu's nutrition. For questions, contact Ashario Pets directly at +1-647-564-4433.

Frequently Asked Questions: Dog Food for Shih Tzus in Canada

What is the best dog food for a Shih Tzu with a sensitive stomach in Canada?

For Shih Tzus with sensitive stomachs, veterinarians often recommend limited ingredient diets, single-source protein formulas, or high-moisture wet and raw foods that are easier to digest. In Canada, brands like Natural Balance, Zignature, Weruva, Caru, Stella & Chewy's, and Instinct Raw — all available at Ashario Pets in North York — are commonly selected for digestively sensitive small dogs. Always consult your veterinarian to confirm the right formula for your specific dog.

Is Royal Canin Shih Tzu formula available in Canada?

Yes. Royal Canin's breed-specific Shih Tzu formula is available in Canada and is carried at Ashario Pets at 1111A Finch Ave W, Unit 2, North York, ON. This formula is designed with a specific kibble shape suited to the Shih Tzu's flat jaw, and is formulated to support coat quality, digestive health, and skin condition.

What is the difference between Royal Canin Shih Tzu and Farmina for Shih Tzus?

Royal Canin Shih Tzu is a breed-specific formula developed by veterinary nutritionists with precise kibble sizing and tailored micronutrient ratios. Farmina's N&D line is a premium international brand offering higher fresh meat inclusion and lower carbohydrate content, available in grain-free and ancestral grain varieties. Both are available at Ashario Pets in North York. The right choice depends on your dog's individual health profile — your veterinarian can help determine which suits your Shih Tzu best.

Do Shih Tzus need small breed dog food specifically?

Yes, in most cases. Small breed formulas are designed with higher caloric density, smaller kibble sizes appropriate for compact jaws, and nutrient ratios that support the faster metabolism of toy and small breeds. Feeding a Shih Tzu a large breed or general adult formula may not meet their precise energy and micronutrient needs. Look for labels that specify "small breed" or "toy breed" on the packaging.

Can I feed my Shih Tzu raw or freeze-dried food in Canada?

Yes. Many Canadian Shih Tzu owners have transitioned to raw or freeze-dried diets and found improvements in coat condition, digestion, and energy levels. Brands like Big Country Raw, Primal, Instinct Raw, and Stella & Chewy's — all available at Ashario Pets — offer options suitable for small breeds. Raw feeding requires careful portioning and handling hygiene, and a transition period is recommended. Speak with your veterinarian before making a significant dietary change for your dog.