How to Get a Picky Shih Tzu to Eat: Causes and Practical Tips
How we researched this guide: This article is based on guidance from the American Kennel Club, veterinary nutritionists at the Tufts Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, PetMD, and the Royal Veterinary College. It is not a substitute for a vet exam. Last reviewed: September 2026.
Shih Tzus have a reputation for being fussy eaters. Some really are picky. Others turn up their nose at dinner because they are full of treats, stressed, or feeling unwell. The first step is to figure out which one you have.
See your vet if: your puppy skips a meal, your adult Shih Tzu refuses food for more than a day, or poor appetite comes with vomiting, diarrhea, low energy, pain, a swollen belly, or heavy drinking. The AKC advises contacting your vet if an appetite change lasts longer than 12 to 24 hours. PetMD notes that puppies and dogs with conditions such as diabetes cannot go as long without food.
Picky Eating or a Health Problem?
Tufts veterinary nutritionists point out that a change in appetite can be a sign that something is wrong. Rule out these common causes with your vet first:
- Dental pain. Gum disease is the most common health problem in Shih Tzus, according to a 2024 Royal Veterinary College study. A sore mouth makes eating hard. See our teeth care guide.
- Stomach upset. Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. See our vomiting guide.
- Illness or medicines. Many conditions and some medicines reduce appetite.
- Food aversion. Tufts notes that pets can learn to dislike a food they ate while feeling sick.
The AKC notes that senior dogs that seem to want to eat but do not, or will only eat soft food, need prompt vet attention.
Common Causes of Picky Eating
- Too many treats and table scraps. The AKC notes that dogs who refuse their own food but happily take table scraps are showing learned picky behavior.
- Free-feeding. Food left out all day loses its appeal.
- Frequent food changes. Constant switching can teach a dog to hold out for something better.
- Stress. Tufts notes that owner anxiety at mealtime can pass to pets.
How to Get a Picky Shih Tzu to Eat
- Set meal times. Offer food at the same times each day. The AKC recommends leaving food down for no longer than 15 to 20 minutes, then picking it up until the next meal.
- Cut back on treats. Tufts recommends keeping extras to no more than 10 percent of daily calories. Fewer snacks mean more appetite at meals.
- Stop sharing table food. Everyone in the house needs to follow the same rule.
- Try a small, safe topper. Tufts lists options such as plain cooked chicken breast, homemade unsalted broth, and low-fat cottage cheese. Add it before your dog refuses the meal, so you do not reward refusing.
- Try different textures. Tufts suggests experimenting with stews, pates, chunks, or different kibble shapes. Small-breed kibble is easier for a Shih Tzu to chew.
- Warm wet food slightly to boost the smell. Stir well and test the temperature.
- Lower mealtime stress. Feed in a quiet spot, away from other pets, and step back.
- Use clean bowls. Tufts suggests fresh or disposable dishes if your dog has turned against a food.
Switching to a New Food
If you do change foods, do it gradually over about 10 days, mixing a little more of the new food each day. The AKC recommends this approach to avoid stomach upset. Our sensitive stomach guide includes a day-by-day schedule. For food picks, see our puppy food guide and our adult feeding guide.
What Not to Do
- Do not offer a new food every time your dog refuses a meal.
- Do not replace meals with treats.
- Do not feed foods that are unsafe for dogs. Read which human foods are safe.
- Do not ignore a sudden change in appetite in a dog that used to eat well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my Shih Tzu so picky about food?
Common reasons include too many treats or table scraps, food left out all day, frequent food changes, and stress. Dental pain and illness can also reduce appetite, so check with your vet if the change is new.
How long can a Shih Tzu go without eating?
Puppies should not skip meals. The AKC advises contacting your vet if an appetite change lasts longer than 12 to 24 hours, and sooner if there is vomiting, diarrhea, low energy, or pain.
Should I leave food out all day for my picky Shih Tzu?
No. The AKC recommends leaving food down for no more than 15 to 20 minutes and picking it up until the next meal.
What can I add to my Shih Tzu’s food to make it tastier?
Tufts veterinary nutritionists list plain cooked chicken breast, homemade unsalted broth, and low-fat cottage cheese as safe toppers. Keep extras under 10 percent of daily calories.
Can bad teeth make my Shih Tzu stop eating?
Yes. Gum disease is the most common health problem in Shih Tzus, and a painful mouth can make eating hard. Ask your vet to check your dog’s teeth.
Sources
- American Kennel Club: Why is my dog a picky eater?
- Tufts Petfoodology: How do I get my picky pet to eat?
- PetMD: Dog not eating? Causes and when to call your vet
- Dale F, Brodbelt DC, West G, Church DB, Lee YH, O’Neill DG. Demography, common disorders and mortality of Shih Tzu dogs under primary veterinary care in the UK. Companion Animal Health and Genetics, 2024
This article is for general information. It is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Read our medical disclaimer.
