How much to feed a Shih Tzu
A Shih Tzu usually weighs 9–16 lb. Here’s how much food that is per day, plus a calculator for your own food.
Typical weight
- males
- 9–16 lb
- females
- 9–16 lb
In a VetCompass study (RVC, 2021) Shih Tzus were less likely to be overweight than crossbreeds.
Feeding chart by weight
Example: dry food with 380 kcal/cup, wet food with 30 kcal/oz.
| Weight | kcal/day | Dry | Wet |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9 lb | 322 | 0.85 cups | 10.7 oz |
| 11 lb | 374 | 0.98 cups | 12.5 oz |
| 14 lb | 448 | 1.18 cups | 14.9 oz |
| 16 lb | 495 | 1.30 cups | 16.5 oz |
For spayed or neutered dogs with normal activity. Intact dogs need about 12% more. The amounts only apply to food with exactly these calories; use the calculator below for yours.
Calculate with your food
per day
113 g per day
2 meals of 57 g · 424 kcal per day
Treats up to 42 kcal
Look for “Calorie Content”, e.g. “3,750 kcal/kg, 375 kcal/cup”.
A starting point – the scale has the final say. If your dog is ill, talk to your vet.
Questions
How much should a Shih Tzu eat per day?
A Shih Tzu weighing 13 lb, spayed or neutered with normal activity, needs about 424 kcal a day. That’s about 1.12 cups of dry food or 14.1 oz of wet food with the calories from the chart. Use the calculator above for your food.
How much does a Shih Tzu weigh?
According to AKC, adult males weigh 9–16 lb and females 9–16 lb.
My dog weighs more than this. Is that too much?
Not necessarily. The range is for typical dogs; large or muscular dogs can weigh more. Your dog’s shape tells you more than the number: you should feel the ribs and see a waist from above. If in doubt, ask your vet.
Sources
- AKC
- Pegram C et al. (2021): Frequency, breed predisposition and demographic risk factors for overweight status in dogs in the UK. J Small Anim Pract (RVC VetCompass)
Last checked: October 2026