iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.<\/em><\/strong><\/h6>\nDoes your Shih Tzu have chronic kidney disease? You\u2019re not alone. Members of our I Love My Shih Tzu Facebook community recently shared their insights on the following question: What food would you recommend for a Shih Tzu with kidney disease? <\/strong>We received hundreds of helpful replies, and below we have compiled some of the best responses.<\/p>\nAlways remember to consult your veterinarian before making any health changes to your Shih Tzu\u2019s diet, especially if the dog suffers from chronic kidney disease (CKD). iHeartDogs is reader-supported, so some of the links below may be affiliate links where we receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/iheartdogs.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/shih-tzu-1794593_1280-1-350x233.jpg\")
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22 Best Dog Foods for a Shih Tzu with Chronic Kidney Disease<\/h2>\nVital Essentials Freeze Dried Dog Food<\/span><\/h3>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/iheartdogs.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/81vAlBb2U5L._AC_SL1500_-312x350.jpg\")
<\/strong><\/p>\nI cooked rice, sweet potatoes, and a variety of veggies, then mixed in a small amount of Vital Essentials freeze-dried beef for a high-quality protein source. My Shih Tzu did well for over 2 yrs until she contacted immune mediated hemolytic anemia. Either the disease or the meds to cure it totally fried her kidneys, and in less than 2 weeks, she was gone.<\/p>\n
Author: <\/strong>Lynda S.<\/p>\nLikes: <\/strong>0<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/iheartdogs.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/buyamazon.png\")
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When our first shih tzu had it, we boiled hamburger, added cooked rice, boiled eggs, and smashed up Tums tablets. Mixed that all together, and that is all he ate for over a year. This was recommended by the vet. I\u2019m sorry your dog is going through this! It\u2019s horrible to watch your baby suffer.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
Author: <\/strong>Karen Kruger J.<\/p>\nLikes: <\/strong>14<\/p>\nJustFoodForDogs Vet RX Pantry Fresh Prescription Dog Food<\/span><\/h3>\n![\"JustFoodForDogs](\"https:\/\/iheartdogs.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/81sGq2iRn1L._AC_SX679_-329x350.jpg\")
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My was just diagnosed. I got the Hills food from the vet, but saw the \u2018just for dogs\u2019 on Chewy and think it may be a better choice. It\u2019s more like people food. She\u2019s not liking the other food even though I\u2019m slowly mixing it into her old food. Good luck, it\u2019s so hard<\/p>\n
Author: <\/strong>Kelly Curry D.<\/p>\nLikes: <\/strong>7<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Hill\u2019s Prescription Diet k\/d Kidney Care Dry Dog Food<\/span><\/h3>\n![\"Hill's](\"https:\/\/iheartdogs.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/71mJTEqBBeL._AC_SX679_-215x350.jpg\")
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Hill\u2019s Science Diet KD. Had to be prescribed. But it kept her kidney labs at a steady level and did not increase. But my dogs were Science Diet fed from the breeder.<\/p>\n
Author: <\/strong>Terri J.<\/p>\nLikes: <\/strong>7<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
I made homemade dog food and added nutrients and things he needed. I had to research it. It\u2019s been several years, and I\u2019ve forgotten now. I do remember I would grind up calcium tablets (unflavored Tums) and add a little of that. His favorite was chicken, rice, and green beans.<\/p>\n
Author: <\/strong>Cyndi W.<\/p>\nLikes: <\/strong>9<\/p>\nJustFoodForDogs Vet RX Pantry Fresh Prescription Dog Food<\/span><\/h3>\n![\"JustFoodForDogs](\"https:\/\/iheartdogs.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/81sGq2iRn1L._AC_SX679_-1-329x350.jpg\")
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Yes, I did. She ended up living much longer than expected after I put her on a prescription diet through Just Food For Dogs<\/p>\n
Author: <\/strong>Summer W.<\/p>\nLikes: <\/strong>4<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet KS Kidney Support Dry Dog Food<\/span><\/h3>\n![\"Blue](\"https:\/\/iheartdogs.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/71AunOJPZjL._AC_SX679_-237x350.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
I used a couple of different brands before we settled on Blue Buffalo. It kept Brandi going for over two years after being diagnosed with kidney disease. Sadly, she crossed the Rainbow Bridge last August.<\/p>\n
Author: <\/strong>Steve R.<\/p>\nLikes: <\/strong>2<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Primal Freeze Dried Raw Dog Food Nuggets<\/span><\/h3>\n![\"Primal](\"https:\/\/iheartdogs.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/81JSnCJPajL._AC_SY300_SX300_QL70_FMwebp_.webp\")
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My girl stopped eating the Rx food. I put her on Primal Freeze Dried Duck, added Persian or Hot House Cucumbers, and a little warm water. She lived to be 15.5. Stay away from chicken; it causes inflammation. Stick with Duck, it takes inflammation away.<\/p>\n
Author: <\/strong>Ginny B.<\/p>\nLikes: <\/strong>4<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Hill\u2019s Prescription Diet k\/d Kidney Care Dry Dog Food<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/p>\n
I regret giving our little guy KD food by Hills since he had a sensitive stomach. It was too high in fat. Do your own research, wish I had. He died 8 months later, but was vomiting earlier on. Towards the end, I was making my own food. White rice, veggies, salmon, chicken, and pumpkin. Max was 14<\/p>\n
Author: <\/strong>Deborah S.<\/p>\nLikes: <\/strong>3<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Hill\u2019s Prescription Diet i\/d Low Fat Digestive Care Wet Dog Food<\/span><\/h3>\n![\"Hill's](\"https:\/\/iheartdogs.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/71fERFYG4yL._AC_SX679_-218x350.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
Ours is 13 next week and has had many serious health problems\u2026 A liver shunt at 5 yrs..surgically fixed, bladder stones, bladder tumor, and more stones\u2026all surgically fixed, pancreatitis\u2026 No surgery for that, but a 3-night stay in hospital\u2026 Now on a low-fat diet \u2026and she is not overweight!!!\u2026 She loves the canned Hills Science ID\u2026was on Bladder stone food<\/p>\n
Author: <\/strong>Jackie Miller M.<\/p>\nLikes: <\/strong>4<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
I had to make a food out of white rice, low-sodium chicken or beef broth, blueberries, sweet potatoes, green beans & a bit of pure maple syrup for my dog. Vet said No Protein of any kind, which eliminated all but the 2 prescription kidney diets that my dog absolutely HATED. I found I could alternate mixing a little of the canned or dry prescription diet with the homemade rice mixture to get him to eat. He still was not thrilled, but would at least eat enough to sustain him. Good luck. If your dog is stubborn, this can be difficult.<\/p>\n
Author: <\/strong>Tanya S F.<\/p>\nLikes: <\/strong>0<\/p>\nPro Plan Veterinary Diets Purina UR Urinary Ox\/St Canine Formula Dog Food<\/span><\/h3>\n![\"Pro](\"https:\/\/iheartdogs.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/71dO6FJMGfL._AC_SY300_SX300_QL70_FMwebp_.webp\")
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My Shih Tzu had bladder stones about 2 years ago. Ever since I\u2019ve had her on Purina Pro Plan UR. She didn\u2019t want it at first. Now she loves it. Good luck!<\/p>\n
Author: <\/strong>Chelsea S.<\/p>\nLikes: <\/strong>2<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Hill\u2019s Prescription Diet k\/d Kidney Care Dry Dog Food<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/p>\n
My Ollie has kidney disease, and my Vet told us to watch his protein intake. He is on Hills KD Dry, which is a prescription. My vet said I could mix pure canned pumpkin or chicken broth with it. He absolutely loves the pumpkin. Good luck<\/p>\n
Author: <\/strong>Brenda C.<\/p>\nLikes: <\/strong>2<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
I cook from fresh every day: Kale, Carrots, Broccoli, Chicken breast, or lean minced steak. Commercial dog foods are not really good for your dogs\u2026they still need protein. Phosphorus is the kidneys\u2019 enemy, so use a Phosphorus binder mixed in with their meal\u2026I also give a kidney supplement and milk thistle, which is a liver supplement. My dog was diagnosed a year ago, and he is doing great on the above diet and has actually gained weight. There are some great kidney help groups on fb which have a wealth of fantastic advice and information<\/p>\n
Author: <\/strong>Wanda Leonie Gay W.<\/p>\nLikes: <\/strong>5<\/p>\nFRESHPET Grain Free Beef & Lamb Recipe Dog Food<\/span><\/h3>\n![\"FRESHPET](\"https:\/\/iheartdogs.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/61okeKFTb1L._SX679_-350x350.jpg\")
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I fed my baby Freshpet Vital. My vet said to keep her away from chicken because that elevated some of the labs<\/p>\n
Author: <\/strong>Rebecca S.<\/p>\nLikes: <\/strong>0<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Shih Tzu Adult Dry Dog Food<\/span><\/h3>\n![\"Royal](\"https:\/\/iheartdogs.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/71Sbuyy9wKL._AC_SY300_SX300_QL70_FMwebp_.webp\")
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Did you try putting a little beef or chicken broth on it or beef or chicken gravy? Sometimes the scent of one of them helps their appetite. Our Shih Tzu is healthy, but has always been on Royal Canin for Shih Tzu<\/p>\n
Author: <\/strong>Judy D.<\/p>\nLikes: <\/strong>1<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
She wouldn\u2019t eat the dog food that the vet recommended. We let her eat whatever. I gave her cooked liver and roast beef. Hamburger chicken. She loved spaghetti. Cheese. From one day to another, her taste was different. We brought her bowl and held it for her to drink when she started getting weaker. She ate on her last day, too<\/p>\n
Author: <\/strong>Linda M.<\/p>\nLikes: <\/strong>0<\/p>\nDr. Harvey\u2019s Canine Health Miracle Dog Food<\/span><\/h3>\n![\"Dr.](\"https:\/\/iheartdogs.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/71Y4hZfk-LL._AC_SY300_SX300_QL70_FMwebp_.webp\")
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Dr Harvey\u2019s with organic boiled chicken<\/p>\n
Author: <\/strong>Ben L.<\/p>\nLikes: <\/strong>0<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
4 lbs ground chicken 4 cups white rice (don\u2019t use brown rice, it\u2019s not good for them!) 9 cups water, 2 32-ounce cans of pumpkin puree (not pie filling!)<\/p>\n
Boil the thawed chicken in the 9 cups of water. Drain the chicken, but save the juices; there should be at least 8 cups, if not, just add a little water. <\/span><\/p>\nPour the following into a turkey-sized roasting pan with a sealed lid. <\/span><\/p>\nFirst, mash or hand blend the chicken close to a puree. <\/span><\/p>\nAdd the 4 cups of white rice. <\/span><\/p>\nAdd the remaining 8 cups of juice from the chicken and mix well. <\/span><\/p>\nBake with lid vents closed for one hour at 350\u00b0 F. <\/span><\/p>\nRemove from oven and let cool without removing the lid. <\/span><\/p>\nOnce cooled, start blending the mix. I find a hand blender works best. <\/span><\/p>\nAdd the 2 cans of pumpkin puree and blend well. <\/span><\/p>\nWe reuse sandwich-sized Ziploc bags to store and freeze our dogs\u2019 meals. <\/span><\/p>\nHe weighs just under 16 lbs, and we feed him a 1\/3 cup twice per day. <\/span><\/p>\nThe moisture level in the food is quite high. Our dog is rarely at his water dish, only on warmer days. He\u2019s about 16 and has yet to have any bladder issues. Just arthritis, poor vision, and diminishing hearing. But the diet seems to help with his arthritis as well. He developed a sensitive stomach a couple of years ago, so this is the diet the vet recommended.<\/span><\/p>\nAuthor: <\/strong>Michael P.<\/p>\nLikes: <\/strong>1<\/p>\nPurina Beneful Incredibites With Farm-Raised Beef Natural Small Breed Dry Dog Food<\/span><\/h3>\n![\"Purina](\"https:\/\/iheartdogs.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/81DaBcpNyWL._AC_SX679_-259x350.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
BENEFUL Small bites dry dog food by Purina<\/p>\n
Author: <\/strong>Bill S.<\/p>\nLikes: <\/strong>0<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Cesar Loaf & Topper in Sauce Wet Dog Food<\/span><\/h3>\n![\"Cesar](\"https:\/\/iheartdogs.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/81sGL3KvXsL._AC_SX679_-350x296.jpg\")
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Try brown cooked rice, cooked hamburger, scrambled egg, or Little Caesars wet food. A lot of times, vets tell you the wrong thing to give them, plus they lose their appetite<\/p>\n
Author: <\/strong>Connie F.<\/p>\nLikes: <\/strong>1<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Best Foods for a Shih Tzu with Kidney Disease<\/h2>\n1. What are the best foods to feed a Shih Tzu with kidney disease?<\/strong><\/h3>\nThe best foods for a Shih Tzu with kidney disease are those low in phosphorus and protein, and rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Prescription renal diets from veterinary brands like Hill\u2019s k\/d, Royal Canin Renal Support, or Purina Pro Plan NF are commonly recommended. Home-cooked meals with lean meats (like chicken or turkey), white rice, and certain vegetables (like green beans or carrots) can also be beneficial\u2014just make sure to consult your vet or a veterinary nutritionist.<\/p>\n
2. Should I avoid high-protein foods for my Shih Tzu with kidney disease?<\/strong><\/h3>\nYes, in general. Dogs with kidney disease need lower-protein diets to reduce strain on the kidneys. However, the protein should still be high-quality. Avoid red meat, organ meats, and commercial high-protein treats. Instead, opt for controlled portions of easily digestible, lean proteins.<\/p>\n
3. Are there any harmful ingredients I should watch out for?<\/strong><\/h3>\nAbsolutely. Avoid foods high in phosphorus (like dairy, bones, and egg yolks), sodium (such as deli meats and processed treats), and excessive protein. Also, steer clear of garlic, onions, grapes, raisins, and chocolate, which are toxic to dogs.<\/p>\n
4. Can I feed my Shih Tzu homemade food if they have kidney disease?<\/strong><\/h3>\nYes, but it must be carefully balanced. Homemade diets can be excellent if formulated under veterinary guidance. Typically, a renal-supportive homemade diet includes a mix of low-phosphorus carbohydrates (like white rice or pasta), lean protein (in moderation), and healthy fats (like fish oil). Never attempt a homemade kidney diet without professional input, as imbalances can worsen the condition.<\/p>\n
5. How can I encourage my Shih Tzu to eat if they\u2019ve lost their appetite?<\/strong><\/h3>\nKidney disease can suppress appetite. Warming food, offering smaller, more frequent meals, or switching to wet or softer food textures may help. Low-sodium bone broth or vet-approved appetite stimulants can also encourage eating. Talk to your vet if the issue persists.<\/p>\n
6. Are treats safe for dogs with kidney disease?<\/strong><\/h3>\nOnly certain treats are safe. Look for low-protein, low-phosphorus, and low-sodium options. Some good choices include apple slices (no seeds), baby carrots, or prescription kidney-friendly treats. Avoid commercial dog biscuits, jerky, and anything labeled \u201chigh protein.\u201d<\/p>\n
7. Is a prescription kidney diet necessary, or can I use regular dog food?<\/strong><\/p>\nPrescription diets are strongly recommended for dogs with moderate to advanced kidney disease because they\u2019re scientifically formulated to reduce kidney workload. Regular dog food typically has too much protein and phosphorus. If cost or availability is a concern, work with your vet to find suitable alternatives or supplements.<\/p>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/iheartdogs.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/cute-shih-tzu-dog-resting-sofa-home-1-350x233.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
A Gentle Finish: Small Bites, Big Difference \ud83d\udc36\ud83d\udc9b<\/h2>\n
Caring for a Shih Tzu with kidney disease can feel overwhelming, but the right food choices truly make a meaningful difference. Each nourishing meal is a step toward better comfort, brighter eyes, and more tail wags. By choosing thoughtfully and staying attentive to your pup\u2019s needs, you\u2019re not just managing a condition, you\u2019re actively improving their quality of life.<\/p>\n
Let this be your reminder to take action with confidence. Explore, adjust, and don\u2019t be afraid to advocate for what helps your dog thrive. Because at the heart of it all is something bigger: every dog matters. When we prioritize healthy dogs and loving care, we help create happier homes and move closer to a world with empty shelters.<\/p>\n
RELATED: The Complete Dog Food Guide: Nutrition, Ingredients, Feeding & How to Choose<\/em><\/h3>\niHeartDogs is reader-supported, so some of the links above may be affiliate links where we receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.<\/em><\/strong><\/h6>\n<\/p><\/div>\n
Always remember to consult your veterinarian before making any health changes to your Shih Tzu\u2019s diet, especially if the dog suffers from chronic kidney disease (CKD). iHeartDogs is reader-supported, so some of the links below may be affiliate links where we receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n I cooked rice, sweet potatoes, and a variety of veggies, then mixed in a small amount of Vital Essentials freeze-dried beef for a high-quality protein source. My Shih Tzu did well for over 2 yrs until she contacted immune mediated hemolytic anemia. Either the disease or the meds to cure it totally fried her kidneys, and in less than 2 weeks, she was gone.<\/p>\n Author: <\/strong>Lynda S.<\/p>\n Likes: <\/strong>0<\/p>\n When our first shih tzu had it, we boiled hamburger, added cooked rice, boiled eggs, and smashed up Tums tablets. Mixed that all together, and that is all he ate for over a year. This was recommended by the vet. I\u2019m sorry your dog is going through this! It\u2019s horrible to watch your baby suffer.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Author: <\/strong>Karen Kruger J.<\/p>\n Likes: <\/strong>14<\/p>\n My was just diagnosed. I got the Hills food from the vet, but saw the \u2018just for dogs\u2019 on Chewy and think it may be a better choice. It\u2019s more like people food. She\u2019s not liking the other food even though I\u2019m slowly mixing it into her old food. Good luck, it\u2019s so hard<\/p>\n Author: <\/strong>Kelly Curry D.<\/p>\n Likes: <\/strong>7<\/p>\n Hill\u2019s Science Diet KD. Had to be prescribed. But it kept her kidney labs at a steady level and did not increase. But my dogs were Science Diet fed from the breeder.<\/p>\n Author: <\/strong>Terri J.<\/p>\n Likes: <\/strong>7<\/p>\n I made homemade dog food and added nutrients and things he needed. I had to research it. It\u2019s been several years, and I\u2019ve forgotten now. I do remember I would grind up calcium tablets (unflavored Tums) and add a little of that. His favorite was chicken, rice, and green beans.<\/p>\n Author: <\/strong>Cyndi W.<\/p>\n Likes: <\/strong>9<\/p>\n Yes, I did. She ended up living much longer than expected after I put her on a prescription diet through Just Food For Dogs<\/p>\n Author: <\/strong>Summer W.<\/p>\n Likes: <\/strong>4<\/p>\n I used a couple of different brands before we settled on Blue Buffalo. It kept Brandi going for over two years after being diagnosed with kidney disease. Sadly, she crossed the Rainbow Bridge last August.<\/p>\n Author: <\/strong>Steve R.<\/p>\n Likes: <\/strong>2<\/p>\n My girl stopped eating the Rx food. I put her on Primal Freeze Dried Duck, added Persian or Hot House Cucumbers, and a little warm water. She lived to be 15.5. Stay away from chicken; it causes inflammation. Stick with Duck, it takes inflammation away.<\/p>\n Author: <\/strong>Ginny B.<\/p>\n Likes: <\/strong>4<\/p>\n I regret giving our little guy KD food by Hills since he had a sensitive stomach. It was too high in fat. Do your own research, wish I had. He died 8 months later, but was vomiting earlier on. Towards the end, I was making my own food. White rice, veggies, salmon, chicken, and pumpkin. Max was 14<\/p>\n Author: <\/strong>Deborah S.<\/p>\n Likes: <\/strong>3<\/p>\n Ours is 13 next week and has had many serious health problems\u2026 A liver shunt at 5 yrs..surgically fixed, bladder stones, bladder tumor, and more stones\u2026all surgically fixed, pancreatitis\u2026 No surgery for that, but a 3-night stay in hospital\u2026 Now on a low-fat diet \u2026and she is not overweight!!!\u2026 She loves the canned Hills Science ID\u2026was on Bladder stone food<\/p>\n Author: <\/strong>Jackie Miller M.<\/p>\n Likes: <\/strong>4<\/p>\n I had to make a food out of white rice, low-sodium chicken or beef broth, blueberries, sweet potatoes, green beans & a bit of pure maple syrup for my dog. Vet said No Protein of any kind, which eliminated all but the 2 prescription kidney diets that my dog absolutely HATED. I found I could alternate mixing a little of the canned or dry prescription diet with the homemade rice mixture to get him to eat. He still was not thrilled, but would at least eat enough to sustain him. Good luck. If your dog is stubborn, this can be difficult.<\/p>\n Author: <\/strong>Tanya S F.<\/p>\n Likes: <\/strong>0<\/p>\n My Shih Tzu had bladder stones about 2 years ago. Ever since I\u2019ve had her on Purina Pro Plan UR. She didn\u2019t want it at first. Now she loves it. Good luck!<\/p>\n Author: <\/strong>Chelsea S.<\/p>\n Likes: <\/strong>2<\/p>\n My Ollie has kidney disease, and my Vet told us to watch his protein intake. He is on Hills KD Dry, which is a prescription. My vet said I could mix pure canned pumpkin or chicken broth with it. He absolutely loves the pumpkin. Good luck<\/p>\n Author: <\/strong>Brenda C.<\/p>\n Likes: <\/strong>2<\/p>\n I cook from fresh every day: Kale, Carrots, Broccoli, Chicken breast, or lean minced steak. Commercial dog foods are not really good for your dogs\u2026they still need protein. Phosphorus is the kidneys\u2019 enemy, so use a Phosphorus binder mixed in with their meal\u2026I also give a kidney supplement and milk thistle, which is a liver supplement. My dog was diagnosed a year ago, and he is doing great on the above diet and has actually gained weight. There are some great kidney help groups on fb which have a wealth of fantastic advice and information<\/p>\n Author: <\/strong>Wanda Leonie Gay W.<\/p>\n Likes: <\/strong>5<\/p>\n I fed my baby Freshpet Vital. My vet said to keep her away from chicken because that elevated some of the labs<\/p>\n Author: <\/strong>Rebecca S.<\/p>\n Likes: <\/strong>0<\/p>\n Did you try putting a little beef or chicken broth on it or beef or chicken gravy? Sometimes the scent of one of them helps their appetite. Our Shih Tzu is healthy, but has always been on Royal Canin for Shih Tzu<\/p>\n Author: <\/strong>Judy D.<\/p>\n Likes: <\/strong>1<\/p>\n She wouldn\u2019t eat the dog food that the vet recommended. We let her eat whatever. I gave her cooked liver and roast beef. Hamburger chicken. She loved spaghetti. Cheese. From one day to another, her taste was different. We brought her bowl and held it for her to drink when she started getting weaker. She ate on her last day, too<\/p>\n Author: <\/strong>Linda M.<\/p>\n Likes: <\/strong>0<\/p>\n Dr Harvey\u2019s with organic boiled chicken<\/p>\n Author: <\/strong>Ben L.<\/p>\n Likes: <\/strong>0<\/p>\n 4 lbs ground chicken 4 cups white rice (don\u2019t use brown rice, it\u2019s not good for them!) 9 cups water, 2 32-ounce cans of pumpkin puree (not pie filling!)<\/p>\n Boil the thawed chicken in the 9 cups of water. Drain the chicken, but save the juices; there should be at least 8 cups, if not, just add a little water. <\/span><\/p>\n Pour the following into a turkey-sized roasting pan with a sealed lid. <\/span><\/p>\n First, mash or hand blend the chicken close to a puree. <\/span><\/p>\n Add the 4 cups of white rice. <\/span><\/p>\n Add the remaining 8 cups of juice from the chicken and mix well. <\/span><\/p>\n Bake with lid vents closed for one hour at 350\u00b0 F. <\/span><\/p>\n Remove from oven and let cool without removing the lid. <\/span><\/p>\n Once cooled, start blending the mix. I find a hand blender works best. <\/span><\/p>\n Add the 2 cans of pumpkin puree and blend well. <\/span><\/p>\n We reuse sandwich-sized Ziploc bags to store and freeze our dogs\u2019 meals. <\/span><\/p>\n He weighs just under 16 lbs, and we feed him a 1\/3 cup twice per day. <\/span><\/p>\n The moisture level in the food is quite high. Our dog is rarely at his water dish, only on warmer days. He\u2019s about 16 and has yet to have any bladder issues. Just arthritis, poor vision, and diminishing hearing. But the diet seems to help with his arthritis as well. He developed a sensitive stomach a couple of years ago, so this is the diet the vet recommended.<\/span><\/p>\n Author: <\/strong>Michael P.<\/p>\n Likes: <\/strong>1<\/p>\n BENEFUL Small bites dry dog food by Purina<\/p>\n Author: <\/strong>Bill S.<\/p>\n Likes: <\/strong>0<\/p>\n Try brown cooked rice, cooked hamburger, scrambled egg, or Little Caesars wet food. A lot of times, vets tell you the wrong thing to give them, plus they lose their appetite<\/p>\n Author: <\/strong>Connie F.<\/p>\n Likes: <\/strong>1<\/p>\n The best foods for a Shih Tzu with kidney disease are those low in phosphorus and protein, and rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Prescription renal diets from veterinary brands like Hill\u2019s k\/d, Royal Canin Renal Support, or Purina Pro Plan NF are commonly recommended. Home-cooked meals with lean meats (like chicken or turkey), white rice, and certain vegetables (like green beans or carrots) can also be beneficial\u2014just make sure to consult your vet or a veterinary nutritionist.<\/p>\n Yes, in general. Dogs with kidney disease need lower-protein diets to reduce strain on the kidneys. However, the protein should still be high-quality. Avoid red meat, organ meats, and commercial high-protein treats. Instead, opt for controlled portions of easily digestible, lean proteins.<\/p>\n Absolutely. Avoid foods high in phosphorus (like dairy, bones, and egg yolks), sodium (such as deli meats and processed treats), and excessive protein. Also, steer clear of garlic, onions, grapes, raisins, and chocolate, which are toxic to dogs.<\/p>\n Yes, but it must be carefully balanced. Homemade diets can be excellent if formulated under veterinary guidance. Typically, a renal-supportive homemade diet includes a mix of low-phosphorus carbohydrates (like white rice or pasta), lean protein (in moderation), and healthy fats (like fish oil). Never attempt a homemade kidney diet without professional input, as imbalances can worsen the condition.<\/p>\n Kidney disease can suppress appetite. Warming food, offering smaller, more frequent meals, or switching to wet or softer food textures may help. Low-sodium bone broth or vet-approved appetite stimulants can also encourage eating. Talk to your vet if the issue persists.<\/p>\n Only certain treats are safe. Look for low-protein, low-phosphorus, and low-sodium options. Some good choices include apple slices (no seeds), baby carrots, or prescription kidney-friendly treats. Avoid commercial dog biscuits, jerky, and anything labeled \u201chigh protein.\u201d<\/p>\n 7. Is a prescription kidney diet necessary, or can I use regular dog food?<\/strong><\/p>\n Prescription diets are strongly recommended for dogs with moderate to advanced kidney disease because they\u2019re scientifically formulated to reduce kidney workload. Regular dog food typically has too much protein and phosphorus. If cost or availability is a concern, work with your vet to find suitable alternatives or supplements.<\/p>\n Caring for a Shih Tzu with kidney disease can feel overwhelming, but the right food choices truly make a meaningful difference. Each nourishing meal is a step toward better comfort, brighter eyes, and more tail wags. By choosing thoughtfully and staying attentive to your pup\u2019s needs, you\u2019re not just managing a condition, you\u2019re actively improving their quality of life.<\/p>\n Let this be your reminder to take action with confidence. Explore, adjust, and don\u2019t be afraid to advocate for what helps your dog thrive. Because at the heart of it all is something bigger: every dog matters. When we prioritize healthy dogs and loving care, we help create happier homes and move closer to a world with empty shelters.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n22 Best Dog Foods for a Shih Tzu with Chronic Kidney Disease<\/h2>\n
Vital Essentials Freeze Dried Dog Food<\/span><\/h3>\n
<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/p>\nJustFoodForDogs Vet RX Pantry Fresh Prescription Dog Food<\/span><\/h3>\n
<\/p>\n<\/p>\nHill\u2019s Prescription Diet k\/d Kidney Care Dry Dog Food<\/span><\/h3>\n
<\/p>\n<\/p>\nJustFoodForDogs Vet RX Pantry Fresh Prescription Dog Food<\/span><\/h3>\n
<\/p>\n<\/p>\nBlue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet KS Kidney Support Dry Dog Food<\/span><\/h3>\n
<\/p>\n<\/p>\nPrimal Freeze Dried Raw Dog Food Nuggets<\/span><\/h3>\n
<\/p>\n<\/p>\nHill\u2019s Prescription Diet k\/d Kidney Care Dry Dog Food<\/span><\/h3>\n
<\/p>\n<\/p>\nHill\u2019s Prescription Diet i\/d Low Fat Digestive Care Wet Dog Food<\/span><\/h3>\n
<\/p>\n<\/p>\nPro Plan Veterinary Diets Purina UR Urinary Ox\/St Canine Formula Dog Food<\/span><\/h3>\n
<\/p>\n<\/p>\nHill\u2019s Prescription Diet k\/d Kidney Care Dry Dog Food<\/span><\/h3>\n
<\/p>\n<\/p>\nFRESHPET Grain Free Beef & Lamb Recipe Dog Food<\/span><\/h3>\n
<\/p>\n<\/p>\nRoyal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Shih Tzu Adult Dry Dog Food<\/span><\/h3>\n
<\/p>\n<\/p>\nDr. Harvey\u2019s Canine Health Miracle Dog Food<\/span><\/h3>\n
<\/p>\n<\/p>\nPurina Beneful Incredibites With Farm-Raised Beef Natural Small Breed Dry Dog Food<\/span><\/h3>\n
<\/p>\n<\/p>\nCesar Loaf & Topper in Sauce Wet Dog Food<\/span><\/h3>\n
<\/p>\n<\/p>\nFrequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Best Foods for a Shih Tzu with Kidney Disease<\/h2>\n
1. What are the best foods to feed a Shih Tzu with kidney disease?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
2. Should I avoid high-protein foods for my Shih Tzu with kidney disease?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
3. Are there any harmful ingredients I should watch out for?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
4. Can I feed my Shih Tzu homemade food if they have kidney disease?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
5. How can I encourage my Shih Tzu to eat if they\u2019ve lost their appetite?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
6. Are treats safe for dogs with kidney disease?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
<\/p>\nA Gentle Finish: Small Bites, Big Difference \ud83d\udc36\ud83d\udc9b<\/h2>\n
RELATED: The Complete Dog Food Guide: Nutrition, Ingredients, Feeding & How to Choose<\/em><\/h3>\n
iHeartDogs is reader-supported, so some of the links above may be affiliate links where we receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.<\/em><\/strong><\/h6>\n<\/p><\/div>\n