The Shih Tzu is a small, affectionate, and intelligent breed known for its luxurious coat and charming personality. While their appearance might steal the spotlight, it’s their temperament and sensitivity that call for thoughtful care—especially when it comes to diet and training rewards. These dogs are prone to dental issues, have sensitive stomachs, and can gain weight quickly. That makes choosing the right treats not just important, but essential to their well-being.
What Are the Best Treats for Shih Tzus?
The best dog treats for Shih Tzus are those specifically tailored to small breeds and their particular health profiles. These treats should be soft and easy to chew, low in calories, and made with limited, high-quality ingredients. They must be free from common allergens such as corn, wheat, and soy, and should not include artificial preservatives or colors. Ideally, treats should also provide functional benefits like supporting dental health or aiding digestion.
Why Training Treats Matter
Training treats are not the same as everyday snacks. During training sessions, dogs need high-value rewards to stay motivated and focused. These treats should be aromatic, flavorful, and small in size so that multiple rewards can be given without overfeeding. Since Shih Tzus are smart but sometimes stubborn, choosing the right treat can mean the difference between a distracted pup and a well-trained companion.
Top Commercial Treats for Shih Tzu Training
One of the best in the market is Wellness Soft Puppy Bites. These treats are formulated with lamb and salmon, making them rich in protein and DHA—ideal for puppies learning commands. They’re soft, which is perfect for a Shih Tzu’s small mouth.
Another favorite is Zuke’s Mini Naturals. At just three calories per treat, they are excellent for extended training sessions. Made with real meat and devoid of fillers, they’re a hit with picky eaters.
Fruitables Skinny Minis offer a fruity twist with flavors like pumpkin & mango or watermelon. These treats are not only grain-free but also low in fat and highly palatable.
Blue Buffalo Bits are infused with omega-3 and DHA, making them beneficial for brain development while still being soft and bite-sized. They are free from poultry by-products and artificial additives.
Bil-Jac Little Jacs Training Treats are liver-based and loved for their intense flavor. This makes them great for stubborn Shih Tzus who require extra motivation.
Cloud Star Tricky Trainers are a vet-recommended choice that blends taste with health. These chewy bites come in various flavors and are free from wheat and corn.
Homemade Treats for a Personal Touch
Sometimes, the best treats are the ones made right in your kitchen. A simple recipe includes mashing a ripe banana, mixing it with natural peanut butter (xylitol-free), and a bit of oat flour. Roll them into small balls and bake at 350°F for about 10 minutes. These are nutritious, grain-free, and easy to digest.
Another popular recipe includes pure pumpkin, egg, and rolled oats. Mix the three, shape into small cookies, and bake until firm. These treats are excellent for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
Benefits of the Right Training Treats
Using the best treats during training can yield multiple benefits. It boosts your Shih Tzu’s willingness to learn and enhances the owner-dog bond. Treats also help create a positive reinforcement loop, where the dog connects the command or behavior with a reward, leading to quicker learning and better retention.
When given in moderation and paired with praise, treats become a safe and effective way to instill good behavior. They can also reduce anxiety during stressful moments like grooming or vet visits.
Choosing Treats the Smart Way
It’s easy to be overwhelmed by the options on the market, but focusing on a few key traits will help. Look for treats with whole meat as the first ingredient, and avoid those with mystery by-products or generic terms like “animal fat.”
Pay attention to caloric content per treat. Since Shih Tzus are a small breed, even a few extra calories per day can lead to weight gain over time. Treats with less than 5 calories each are ideal for training.
Consider functional ingredients. Probiotics support digestion, glucosamine aids joints, and antioxidants support immunity. These added benefits can improve your dog’s overall health while making the treat more than just a snack.
Treats to Avoid
Avoid treats with artificial preservatives like BHA or BHT, as well as added sugars and salts. Treats containing xylitol, chocolate, raisins, or onions are toxic to dogs and must be kept away at all costs.
Also, avoid treats that are too hard or large. Shih Tzus have small, delicate teeth that are prone to issues. Crunchy treats that are breed-specific for small dogs or soft, chewy textures are safer choices.
When and How to Use Treats in Training
The best time to use treats is during positive reinforcement-based training sessions. Keep the session short and engaging—about 5-10 minutes per round. Give a treat immediately after the correct behavior to reinforce the action.
Be consistent. If your dog performs the desired action, reward it immediately. Over time, you can gradually reduce treat usage and substitute with verbal praise or affection, ensuring your dog doesn’t become dependent on food rewards.
Portion Control and Safety
No matter how healthy a treat is, portion control is key. Treats should make up no more than 10% of your Shih Tzu’s daily caloric intake. For most adult Shih Tzus, this means 2-5 small treats per day during training sessions.
Always monitor for signs of allergies or digestive distress, especially when introducing a new product. Itching, diarrhea, or lethargy could indicate a poor reaction.
Storing Treats Properly
Store commercial treats in a cool, dry place, preferably in airtight containers to preserve freshness. For homemade treats, refrigerate them and use within 5-7 days. Freezing is an option for larger batches.
Check for expiry dates and inspect for mold or discoloration before each use. Even natural treats can spoil.
Vet-Approved Recommendations
Many veterinarians recommend brands like Wellness, Blue Buffalo, and Zuke’s because of their commitment to natural ingredients and breed-specific formulas. Always consult your vet before introducing new treats, especially if your Shih Tzu has existing health concerns.
Treats Beyond Training
While training treats serve a clear purpose, you can also use treats for bonding, anxiety reduction, and enrichment. Use puzzle toys filled with healthy treats to engage their mind, or offer a special reward after grooming sessions.
Conclusion
Choosing the best dog treats for Shih Tzu training and rewards isn’t just about flavor—it’s about health, motivation, and safety. From understanding ingredient labels to knowing when and how to give treats, your decisions shape your dog’s behavior and well-being. Whether you opt for trusted commercial brands or homemade recipes, remember: a treat is only as good as the care behind it.
Reward smarter—choose the best dog treats for your Shih Tzu today!
