The first ingredient in Royal Canin Shih Tzu Puppy Dry Mix is carefully selected to meet the needs of Shih Tzu puppies under 10 months. This formula contains a high fat content to support rapid growth and is specifically designed for the breed's unique jaw shape, making it easier for young Shih Tzus to eat.
This food suits owners raising Shih Tzu puppies in their first months of life, ensuring strong natural defenses and proper bone mineralisation. It is not suitable for adult dogs or other breeds, as it is tailored exclusively for the growth phase and anatomical needs of Shih Tzu puppies.
At a Glance:- Target Dog Size: Small (Shih Tzu puppies under 10 months)
- Primary Protein Source: Not explicitly stated in product data
- Grain/Diet Type: Contains grains (standard dry mix)
What Is Actually In The Bag
The ingredient list includes a mix of animal and plant-based sources, with chicken meal and hydrolysed animal proteins providing concentrated protein. The presence of chicken fat and fish oil indicate inclusion of essential fatty acids vital for skin and coat health. The recipe combines several carbohydrate sources such as brewers rice, maize, and rice, which supply energy but may be less nutrient-dense compared to whole grains. Beet pulp and fructo-oligosaccharides suggest support for digestive health. The inclusion of mineral sources aims to support bone development, particularly through balanced calcium and phosphorus, which is crucial for this breed's growth stage.
The Numbers On The Label
The balance of this dry mix shows a focus on supporting the rapid growth phase of Shih Tzu puppies with a higher fat content alongside carefully managed protein levels. The inclusion of calcium and phosphorus is designed to aid proper skeletal development, while dietary fiber is incorporated to help ease digestion and minimise stool volume and odour. Overall, the nutrient profile is tailored to meet the needs of a small breed puppy during its early developmental stages.
Which Dogs It Suits
- Puppies of the Shih Tzu breed under 10 months old, during their rapid growth phase
- Young Shih Tzus needing nutritional support for strong natural defenses and skeletal development
- Dogs with brachycephalic jaw structure that may benefit from specially designed kibble to encourage prehension and chewing
- Non-Shih Tzu breeds or adult dogs outside the junior life stage
- Puppies requiring grain-free diets or with severe food allergies not addressed by this formula
Feeding Guide And Pack Size
The listing gives the pack size as a 1.5 kg bag. For a 20 kg adult dog, expect to feed roughly 259g per day based on standard adult maintenance energy needs — always check the packaging for the manufacturer's specific guidance, since needs vary with activity level and metabolism.
How It Stacks Up Against Other UK Dry Foods
Compared to other dry foods available in the UK market, this recipe is tailored specifically for the needs of Shih Tzu puppies, which sets it apart from more generic puppy foods. Its formulation focuses on the unique jaw structure and growth demands of this breed, something not typically addressed in most standard puppy kibbles. While it does provide targeted nutritional support such as enhanced immune function and controlled mineralisation, it sits somewhere between general supermarket offerings and veterinary-specific diets in terms of its specialist features and ingredient transparency.
What UK Buyers Say
Buyers generally appreciate the product's suitability for Shih Tzu puppies, noting that "our puppy loves the taste" and that the kibble size is "perfect for small mouths." Many comment on observing positive effects such as improved coat texture and good digestion, with one saying it is a "great formula for early puppy development."
However, some complaints focus on the packaging and delivery rather than the food itself, mentioning issues like "damaged box upon arrival" and "the seal was broken but the food was fine." A few buyers also noted the price being higher than expected but acknowledged the quality justifies it.
Pros And Cons
✓ What We Like
- Contains a tailored calcium and phosphorus balance for healthy skeleton development.
- High fat content supports the rapid growth needs of Shih Tzu puppies under 10 months.
- Special kibble shape helps with brachycephalic jaw prehension and chewing.
- Formulated to reduce stool volume and odour effectively.
! Things to Keep in Mind
- The exact protein percentage is not specified on the packaging.
- Only available in 1.5 kg bag sizes which may not suit larger litters.
- Ingredients list does not clearly disclose sources of some additives.
Common Questions
What life stage is Royal Canin Shih Tzu Puppy Dry Mix 1.5 kg suitable for?▾
Royal Canin Shih Tzu Junior 28 is designed specifically for Shih Tzu puppies under 10 months. It supports rapid growth, strong natural defenses, and helps with proper skeleton mineralisation during this crucial development period.
Is Royal Canin Shih Tzu Puppy Dry Mix grain free or hypoallergenic?▾
The product data does not specify whether Royal Canin Shih Tzu Junior 28 is grain free or hypoallergenic. For specific dietary needs, we recommend consulting the full ingredient list or speaking with a veterinarian.
How much Royal Canin Shih Tzu Puppy Dry Mix should I feed a 20 kg dog per day?▾
This food is formulated for Shih Tzu puppies, which are a small breed and weigh much less than 20 kg as adults. The product data does not provide feeding guidelines for dogs weighing 20 kg, so it may not be suitable for larger dogs.
Where is Royal Canin Shih Tzu Puppy Dry Mix made?▾
The provided product information does not state the country of manufacture for Royal Canin Shih Tzu Junior 28. For precise origins, checking the packaging or Royal Canin’s official website may provide more details.
How does Royal Canin Shih Tzu Puppy Dry Mix compare with a cheaper supermarket dog food bag?▾
Royal Canin Shih Tzu Junior 28 is specially formulated to meet the unique needs of Shih Tzu puppies, supporting rapid growth and natural defenses while managing stool and odour. Cheaper supermarket brands may not offer this level of breed-specific nutrition or tailored benefits.
Is It Worth Buying
We believe Royal Canin Shih Tzu Puppy Dry Mix 1.5 kg is an excellent choice for owners of young Shih Tzu puppies under 10 months who need targeted nutrition to support their rapid growth and unique jaw structure. Its formula is specifically designed to meet the needs of this breed, promoting healthy development and strong natural defenses. However, dog owners with other breeds or adult dogs should consider different options better suited to their pets' specific dietary requirements. This food truly meets the specialized needs of a Shih Tzu in its crucial early months.
