Here’s exactly how we decide what to recommend, so you can judge our advice for yourself.
1. We start with the breed, not the product
Before we look at a single product, we ask what a Shih Tzu actually needs:
- A long double coat that mats easily
- A flat face that affects breathing, eating, and heat tolerance
- Large eyes that tear and stain
- A small jaw prone to dental crowding
- A 9–16 lb body that most “small dog” gear doesn’t fit well
A product only makes it into a guide if it solves a real problem tied to one of these traits.
2. How we research
Every recommendation goes through the same steps:
- Labels and specs. We read ingredient lists, materials, and product specifications, not just the marketing copy.
- Sizing charts. We check measurements against a typical Shih Tzu’s size, because “small” often still means too big.
- Long-term owner reviews. We look past the star rating for patterns: problems that show up after weeks of use, sizing complaints, quality changes, and feedback specifically from Shih Tzu and other small-breed owners.
- Trusted sources. For breed traits and care basics, we rely on established organizations such as the American Kennel Club, the American Shih Tzu Club, and veterinary resources like VCA Animal Hospitals.
- Our own dogs. I live with a Shih Tzu and a rescued Himalayan Sheepdog. When we’ve used a product ourselves, it’s tested in real daily life, not in a one-day trial.
3. We tell you which is which
Not every product we recommend has been used by our own dogs, and we won’t pretend otherwise. Each review makes the basis clear:
- 🐾 Tested with our dogs: we’ve used it ourselves and share what we saw firsthand.
- 🔍 Research pick: recommended based on the research process above, not personal use.
4. What earns a recommendation
A product makes our list when it:
- Solves a real Shih Tzu-specific problem
- Fits the breed’s size
- Holds up well for owners over time
- Is reasonably priced for what it does
Every pick gets at least one honest drawback. If a popular product isn’t worth it, we’ll say so.
5. What we don’t do
- We don’t accept payment for reviews, rankings, or guaranteed placement.
- We don’t let affiliate commissions decide what we recommend.
- We don’t invent test results, ratings, or personal stories.
- We don’t diagnose health problems or replace your vet.
6. Keeping content current
Products get reformulated, resized, or discontinued, and prices change constantly. We review and update our guides regularly, and each post shows when it was last updated.
Spotted something out of date or wrong? Tell us. We’ll check it and fix it.
Last updated: October 9, 2026