Equations are derived for analyzing the flow of inelastic, non‐Newtonian lubricants in short journal bearings. A realistic bearing geometry is used along with the power‐law fluid model to study the influence of lubricant shear thinning on the load‐bearing capacity under isothermal conditions. The results are useful for designing journal bearings to achieve desired values of the friction coefficient or the minimum oil film thickness for steady as well as time‐varying loads. These results show that the idea of using the viscosity corresponding to the shear rate in the bearing for evaluating engine oil flow characteristics is a reasonable one.