15 Best Dog Foods for Shih-Poos – 2024 Reviews & Top Picks
By Jordyn Alger
Updated on
Are you looking for the best dog food for your Shih-poo? Maybe their old food does not suit them anymore, or maybe you just recently welcomed your Shih-poo into its forever home. Whatever the reason you have for looking for new dog food, you have to do a lot of research before making a decision.
This article reviews and analyzes a selection of products so that you don’t have to. Our goal is that after you finish this article, you will be able to make a well-informed decision that will suit the needs of yourself and your dog.
So, let’s dig in!
A Quick Comparison of Our Winners (2024)
| Rating | Image | Product | Details | |
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Best Overall
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Ollie Lamb with Cranberries (Fresh Dog Food Subscription) |
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Click Here to Save 50% |
Budget Buy
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Iams Adult Small & Toy Breed Dog Food |
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Check Price |
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ORIJEN Original Grain-Free Dog Food |
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Check Price |
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Royal Canin Small Puppy Dog Food |
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Check Price | |
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Castor & Pollux Small Breed Grain-free |
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Check Price |
The 15 Best Dog Foods for Shih-Poos
1. Ollie Fresh Lamb Dog Food Subscription – Best Overall
| Main ingredients: | Lamb, butternut squash, lamb liver, kale, rice, cranberries |
| Protein content: | 10% min |
| Fat content: | 7% min |
Our pick for the overall best dog food for a Shih-poos is Ollie Lamb with Cranberries Recipe.
Ollie is an excellent brand that strives to develop only the best dog food formulas. They are dedicated to creating recipes personalized to your dog’s breed, age, activity levels, and other life factors.
In this recipe, Ollie blends lamb with other quality ingredients to prepare a fresh, wholesome meal for your Shih-poo. It is a healthy option for a smaller dog, making this recipe our top pick.
Don’t like one of the ingredients included? That’s fine. Ollie has plenty of other options to choose from, including turkey, beef, and chicken.
- Avoids common allergens
- Fresh, quality ingredients
- Customizable plans
- Needs to be stored in a fridge or freezer
2. Iams Adult Small & Toy Breed Dry Food – Budget Buy
| Main ingredients: | Chicken, chicken by-product meal, ground whole grain corn, ground whole grain sorghum, dried plain beet pulp |
| Protein content: | 27% min |
| Fat content: | 17% min |
For a more affordable option, Iams Adult Small & Toy Breed Dry Dog Food is the way to go. This formula is our pick for the best dog food for a Shih-poo for the money. The recipe is specially designed to supply the nutrition your dog needs, as it uses chicken as the first ingredient and contains healthy antioxidants.
Benefits of this recipe include a boost to the immune system as well as a shinier, healthier coat. Your dog’s skin will also reap the rewards of the omega-6 fatty acids in this meal.
- Affordable
- High protein
- Contains antioxidants to promote a healthy immune system
- Includes chicken by-product meal
3. ORIJEN Original Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
| Main ingredients: | Chicken, turkey, flounder, whole mackerel, chicken liver |
| Protein content: | 38% min |
| Fat content: | 18% min |
Orijen’s Original Grain-Free recipe is our premium pick for several reasons. First, it is packed with quality ingredients—especially proteins. There are multiple animal ingredients in this formula, such as chicken, turkey, and fish. Orijen boasts that the first five ingredients in this bag are fresh or raw, meaning they are filled with nutrients that other recipes might not have.
The main downside is that it is grain-free and contains lentils. Grain is an important part of a healthy dog’s diet, as long as they are not allergic, and removing it is not always advised1. As for lentils, there is a possible connection between legumes and heart conditions in dogs2.
Before making any decisions about grain-free diets or formulas with legumes, speak to your veterinarian.
- High protein
- Quality ingredients
- Multiple animal sources
- Fresh and raw ingredients
- Grain-free
- Expensive
- Includes lentils
4. Royal Canin Small Puppy Dry Dog Food
| Main ingredients: | Brewer’s rice, chicken by-product meal, chicken fat, wheat gluten, corn gluten meal |
| Protein content: | 29% min |
| Fat content: | 18% min |
For little Shih-poo puppies, the Royal Canin Small Puppy Dry Dog Food is a great option. This formula is designed for small breed puppies, providing nutrients for their energy needs and using special kibble for their smaller jaws.
Some health benefits include bolstering the immune system and supporting digestion with a combination of antioxidants and prebiotics. This recipe contains proteins, vitamins, and minerals that boost your puppy’s health as they grow. It has a high protein content to fuel even the most rambunctious of puppies.
The main downside to Royal Canin is that the ingredients are not of the best quality. Chicken by-product is the main animal ingredient in this recipe, meaning that some pet parents who prefer meals with whole meat should choose another brand.
- High protein content
- Kibble adapted for puppies
- Provides immune support with antioxidants and vitamins
- Fewer quality ingredients
5. Castor & Pollux ORGANIX Organic Small Breed Recipe
| Main ingredients: | Organic chicken, organic chicken meal, organic sweet potatoes, organic potatoes, organic peas |
| Protein content: | 26% min |
| Fat content: | 15% min |
Our fifth choice is Castor & Pollux ORGANIX Organic Small Breed Recipe Grain-Free Dry Dog Food. It is a healthy, wholesome choice for your pet—plus, it is organic.
Most of the ingredients listed are organic, which already gives this recipe a boost in our book. The first two ingredients are organic chicken and organic chicken meal, meaning that your pup will be getting plenty of protein. It also includes superfoods such as blueberries, sweet potatoes, and flaxseed—all organic.
ORGANIX is grain-free and contains peas. As stated before, grain-free diets and formulas that contain legumes have been called into question due to potential adverse health effects. Be sure to speak with your vet before making any choices regarding this food.
- Organic ingredients
- High protein content
- Two animal-sourced ingredients
- Contains peas
- Grain-free
6. ACANA Wholesome Grains Red Meat Recipe Dry Food
| Main ingredients: | Beef, deboned pork, beef meal, oat groats, whole sorghum |
| Protein content: | 27% min |
| Fat content: | 17% min |
Acana Wholesome Grains Red Meat Recipe Dry Food brings a great meal to the table, and they are dedicated to using fresh and raw ingredients whenever possible. With beef and deboned pork as the first two ingredients, this formula is packed with healthy proteins that can serve your pup well. The protein content in this recipe is high, meaning your dog will be fueled up for the day’s activities after each meal.
Health benefits include fibers to support digestive health, vitamins to bolster the heart, and quality ingredients to create a highly nutritional meal. Likewise, ACANA contains no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.
- Quality ingredients
- High protein
- Slightly more expensive
7. VICTOR Classic Hi-Pro Plus Formula Dry Dog Food
| Main ingredients: | Beef meal, grain sorghum, chicken fat, pork meal, chicken meal |
| Protein content: | 30% min |
| Fat content: | 20% min |
The VICTOR Classic Hi-Pro Plus Formula Dry Dog Food has a lot to recommend it. It has plenty of protein and multiple animal ingredients and is made in the United States. With animal ingredients from beef, chicken, and pork, this recipe packs a lot of fuel into one meal. This will help your dog to have the energy they need to live each day to its fullest potential. Plus, the proteins are supplemented with amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids.
If you are looking for a high-protein diet with a variety of animal ingredients, this option could be perfect for your pup.
- Multiple animal-sourced ingredients
- High protein content
- Sourced from animal meal
8. Farmina N&D Ancestral Grain Medium & Maxi Adult Dry Food
| Main ingredients: | Lamb, dehydrated lamb, whole spelt, whole oats, dried whole eggs |
| Protein content: | 28% min |
| Fat content: | 18% min |
The Farmina N&D Ancestral Grain Lamb & Blueberry blend contains quality ingredients that will put a smile on any dog’s face.
With lamb and dehydrated lamb as the first two ingredients, this formula provides plenty of healthy proteins for your dog. The vitamins in the recipe use a special coating that allows them to be retained within the food, so you know your dog is receiving the essential vitamins they need.
Another benefit is that it is low glycemic. If your Shih-poo needs special food to keep its blood sugar from spiking, Farmina is definitely one to consider.
- Low-glycemic
- Two animal-sourced ingredients
- High protein content
- Expensive
9. Diamond Naturals All Life Stages Dry Dog Food
| Main ingredients: | Chicken, chicken meal, whole grain brown rice, cracked pearled barley, white rice |
| Protein content: | 26% min |
| Fat content: | 16% min |
Diamond Naturals Chicken & Rice Formula is made in the United States by a family-owned company passionate about ensuring every dog gets the excellent meals they deserve. This mission is reflected in the formulas they make.
Chicken and chicken meal are the first two ingredients, making this recipe packed with protein. This helps to support your dog’s joints, bones, and muscles. Plus, it provides your pup with plenty of energy for the day.
There are superfoods in the blend, including yummy fruits such as oranges and blueberries. Likewise, the recipe is packed with minerals, vitamins, probiotics, and antioxidants that provide support for the overall health of your dog.
- Made with cage-free chicken
- Includes superfoods
- Chicken could be an allergen
10. Hill’s Science Diet Adult Small Bites Dry Food
| Main ingredients: | Chicken, cracked pearled barley, whole grain wheat, whole grain corn, whole grain sorghum |
| Protein content: | 20% min |
| Fat content: | 11.5% min |
The Hill’s Science Diet Adult Small Bites recipe with chicken and barley is a great option for your Shih-poo. Chicken is the first ingredient, providing quality protein to boost your dog’s lean muscle and keep their energy levels up. Since the recipe is designed with smaller breeds in mind, the kibble is specially developed to suit tiny jaws.
Beyond the excellent protein and the special kibble, it also contains omega-6 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins to support immunity as well as the health of the skin and coat. Also, it has no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
- Promotes lean muscles
- Supports digestion
- Fewer quality ingredients
11. Nutro Ultra Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
| Main ingredients: | Chicken, chicken meal, whole grain sorghum, whole grain oats, whole grain brown rice |
| Protein content: | 26% min |
| Fat content: | 17% min |
Nutro’s Ultra Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food is an excellent option for smaller dogs. Nutro sources ingredients from trusted suppliers and tests them to ensure their food quality and safety, and you can rest easy feeding this formula to your furry friend.
Nutro is full of protein, and it contains chicken, lamb, and salmon. There are 15 different superfoods packed into this meal, including chia, kale, coconut, and blueberries. This combination provides your dog with some stellar nutrition! Not to mention, this recipe has no artificial flavors, artificial preservatives, or added colors.
- Contains 15 superfoods
- Affordable
- Top ingredients are less nutritional
12. Bil-Jac Adult Select Formula Dry Dog Food
| Main ingredients: | Chicken, chicken by-products, corn meal, chicken by-product meal, dried beet pulp |
| Protein content: | 27% min |
| Fat content: | 18% min |
The Bil-Jac Adult Select Chicken Recipe is another great choice. It is made in the United States, and the brand boasts that they never add unhealthy fillers to their meals.
This recipe has plenty of nutrition for little dogs, with chicken as the top ingredient in the formula. It also includes fatty acids, such as omega-3 and omega-6, to promote the health of your dog’s skin and coat. The oatmeal and corn meal are specially cooked to bring out the carbohydrates that can fuel your pup, and the recipe is supplemented with healthy vitamins and minerals.
- High protein content
- Supports the immune system
- Contains chicken by-product
13. Nulo Frontrunner Ancient Grains Adult Dry Dog Food
| Main ingredients: | Deboned chicken, chicken meal, oats, barley, brown rice |
| Protein content: | 27% min |
| Fat content: | 16% min |
Nulo’s Frontrunner Ancient Grains Chicken, Oats & Turkey recipe is packed with excellent proteins. It has deboned chicken and chicken meal as the first two ingredients, ensuring each meal contains high-quality protein. The amino acids in the proteins are useful for sustaining lean muscle and boosting the health of the heart.
Added benefits include omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to nourish your dog’s skin and coat as well as probiotics that support the health of the digestive system and immune system. The grains included are low-glycemic, so your pup’s blood sugar will be steady.
- High protein content
- Quality ingredients
- Expensive
14. Go! Solutions Skin + Coat Care Dry Dog Food
| Main ingredients: | Salmon meal, oatmeal, potatoes, whole oats, de-boned salmon |
| Protein content: | 22% min |
| Fat content: | 12% min |
If you are looking for an especially healthy option for your shih-poo’s coat and skin, the Go! Solutions Skin + Coat Care Salmon Recipe may be the way to go. This formula contains salmon and flaxseed, both of which are excellent sources of omega fatty acids. Omega fatty acids are vital to maintaining great skin and a shiny coat. Go! Solutions also include fruits, vegetables, and dried chicory root to support overall health. The primary areas they bolster are your dog’s immune system, energy resources, and digestion.
When it comes to overall health, this recipe has a lot to recommend to it.
- Packed with omega fatty acids
- Good for sensitive digestion
- First ingredient sourced from animal meal
15. Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Small Breed Recipe Adult
| Main ingredients: | Deboned chicken, chicken meal, brown rice, barley, turkey meal |
| Protein content: | 27% min |
| Fat content: | 16% min |
Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Small Breed Recipe is full of quality ingredients, making this an excellent pick for any small dog. With deboned chicken and chicken meal as the first two ingredients, the protein in the formula is definitely high quality.
Also, there are plenty of omega fatty acids to improve the condition of the skin and coat. There are also natural compounds that boost the health of the bones and joints, and this recipe contains minerals and vitamins that promote overall health.
- High in protein
- Quality ingredients
- Somewhat expensive
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Best Dog Food for Shih-Poos
When you set off to pick a recipe option for your shih-poo, what should you look for?
Ingredients that Should Be Included
First, look at the ingredients. Meat should make up the greater part of their diet, but it should not be the only part. Dogs absorb nutrients from plenty of sources, especially sources that are not meat.
Quality dog food should include meat, vegetables, fruits, and grains. Of course, if your dog has specific allergies that prevent any of these categories from being met, that would be an exception. In that instance, talk to your vet about how to ensure your dog is getting proper nutrition.
What Are Your Dog’s Nutritional Needs?
Depending on your dog’s weight, age, and breed, the nutrition needed to maintain health may look different. For instance, Shih-poos are small breed dogs. You would not want to feed them food specific to a German Shepherd.
If you are uncertain about your pet’s nutritional needs, take a look at Merck’s Veterinary Manual.
Look for the AAFCO Standard
The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) has established a standard to ensure that manufacturers meet certain nutritional requirements to make their food complete and balanced. If a formula has the AAFCO sign of approval on it, it contains the minimum amount, at least, of all nutritional needs for your dog.
Find the Guaranteed Analysis
The guaranteed analysis is a minimum amount of crude protein and fat and the maximum amount of crude fiber and moisture in a particular formula. Although the guaranteed analysis cannot offer an exact amount of each item in a particular bag, it provides an estimate so that the product can be reasonably evaluated.
Any More Questions?
If you have more specific questions regarding dog food, examine the American Kennel Club’s article on the subject. It provides extensive advice on various topics, including myths and misinformation about dog food.
Conclusion
These reviews have covered some excellent products. The best overall is Ollie Lamb with Cranberries Recipe, which allows for personalization. Our best value is Iams Adult Small & Toy Breed recipe, while Orijen’s Original Grain-Free recipe has five different animal ingredients, making it our third choice.
Any of these dog foods are great picks, but you know what suits your dog best. We hope that this article has given you insight and that one of these formulas ends up in your Shih-poo’s tummy soon!
Featured Image Credit: Lim Tiaw Leong, Shutterstock
