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22 Best Dog Foods for a Shih Tzu with Chronic Kidney Disease
Vital Essentials Freeze Dried Dog Food
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.
Author: Lynda S.
Likes: 0
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’m sorry your dog is going through this! It’s horrible to watch your baby suffer.
Author: Karen Kruger J.
Likes: 14
JustFoodForDogs Vet RX Pantry Fresh Prescription Dog Food
My was just diagnosed. I got the Hills food from the vet, but saw the ‘just for dogs’ on Chewy and think it may be a better choice. It’s more like people food. She’s not liking the other food even though I’m slowly mixing it into her old food. Good luck, it’s so hard
Author: Kelly Curry D.
Likes: 7
Hill’s Prescription Diet k/d Kidney Care Dry Dog Food
Hill’s 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.
Author: Terri J.
Likes: 7
I made homemade dog food and added nutrients and things he needed. I had to research it. It’s been several years, and I’ve 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.
Author: Cyndi W.
Likes: 9
JustFoodForDogs Vet RX Pantry Fresh Prescription Dog Food
Yes, I did. She ended up living much longer than expected after I put her on a prescription diet through Just Food For Dogs
Author: Summer W.
Likes: 4
Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet KS Kidney Support Dry Dog Food
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.
Author: Steve R.
Likes: 2
Primal Freeze Dried Raw Dog Food Nuggets
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.
Author: Ginny B.
Likes: 4
Hill’s Prescription Diet k/d Kidney Care Dry Dog Food
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
Author: Deborah S.
Likes: 3
Hill’s Prescription Diet i/d Low Fat Digestive Care Wet Dog Food
Ours is 13 next week and has had many serious health problems… A liver shunt at 5 yrs..surgically fixed, bladder stones, bladder tumor, and more stones…all surgically fixed, pancreatitis… No surgery for that, but a 3-night stay in hospital… Now on a low-fat diet …and she is not overweight!!!… She loves the canned Hills Science ID…was on Bladder stone food
Author: Jackie Miller M.
Likes: 4
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.
Author: Tanya S F.
Likes: 0
Pro Plan Veterinary Diets Purina UR Urinary Ox/St Canine Formula Dog Food
My Shih Tzu had bladder stones about 2 years ago. Ever since I’ve had her on Purina Pro Plan UR. She didn’t want it at first. Now she loves it. Good luck!
Author: Chelsea S.
Likes: 2
Hill’s Prescription Diet k/d Kidney Care Dry Dog Food
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
Author: Brenda C.
Likes: 2
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…they still need protein. Phosphorus is the kidneys’ enemy, so use a Phosphorus binder mixed in with their meal…I 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
Author: Wanda Leonie Gay W.
Likes: 5
FRESHPET Grain Free Beef & Lamb Recipe Dog Food
I fed my baby Freshpet Vital. My vet said to keep her away from chicken because that elevated some of the labs
Author: Rebecca S.
Likes: 0
Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Shih Tzu Adult Dry Dog Food
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
Author: Judy D.
Likes: 1
She wouldn’t 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
Author: Linda M.
Likes: 0
Dr. Harvey’s Canine Health Miracle Dog Food
Dr Harvey’s with organic boiled chicken
Author: Ben L.
Likes: 0
4 lbs ground chicken 4 cups white rice (don’t use brown rice, it’s not good for them!) 9 cups water, 2 32-ounce cans of pumpkin puree (not pie filling!)
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.
Pour the following into a turkey-sized roasting pan with a sealed lid.
First, mash or hand blend the chicken close to a puree.
Add the 4 cups of white rice.
Add the remaining 8 cups of juice from the chicken and mix well.
Bake with lid vents closed for one hour at 350° F.
Remove from oven and let cool without removing the lid.
Once cooled, start blending the mix. I find a hand blender works best.
Add the 2 cans of pumpkin puree and blend well.
We reuse sandwich-sized Ziploc bags to store and freeze our dogs’ meals.
He weighs just under 16 lbs, and we feed him a 1/3 cup twice per day.
The moisture level in the food is quite high. Our dog is rarely at his water dish, only on warmer days. He’s 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.
Author: Michael P.
Likes: 1
Purina Beneful Incredibites With Farm-Raised Beef Natural Small Breed Dry Dog Food
BENEFUL Small bites dry dog food by Purina
Author: Bill S.
Likes: 0
Cesar Loaf & Topper in Sauce Wet Dog Food
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
Author: Connie F.
Likes: 1
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Best Foods for a Shih Tzu with Kidney Disease
1. What are the best foods to feed a Shih Tzu with kidney disease?
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’s 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—just make sure to consult your vet or a veterinary nutritionist.
2. Should I avoid high-protein foods for my Shih Tzu with kidney disease?
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.
3. Are there any harmful ingredients I should watch out for?
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.
4. Can I feed my Shih Tzu homemade food if they have kidney disease?
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.
5. How can I encourage my Shih Tzu to eat if they’ve lost their appetite?
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.
6. Are treats safe for dogs with kidney disease?
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 “high protein.”
7. Is a prescription kidney diet necessary, or can I use regular dog food?
Prescription diets are strongly recommended for dogs with moderate to advanced kidney disease because they’re 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.
A Gentle Finish: Small Bites, Big Difference 🐶💛
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’s needs, you’re not just managing a condition, you’re actively improving their quality of life.
Let this be your reminder to take action with confidence. Explore, adjust, and don’t 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.
Toledo, United States.