Struggling to keep your Shih Tzu’s coat looking fresh and clean? These adorable dogs need regular grooming to stay healthy and happy. With the right tools and simple tips, you can manage their grooming at home like a pro.
Keep reading to make grooming your new favorite routine!
Key Takeaways
- Brush your Shih Tzu’s coat daily or every 1-3 days to prevent tangles. Use a slicker brush and comb for best results on their thick fur.
- Trim nails every 6 weeks, avoiding the quick, and clean between paw pads to keep them comfortable and healthy.
- Bathe with dog-safe shampoo like hypoallergenic products. Avoid human shampoos as they can irritate sensitive skin.
- Clean ears weekly using a cotton ball and alcohol-based solution to prevent infections from dirt or moisture buildup.
- Professional grooming is recommended every 4-6 weeks for haircuts like the Teddy Bear Cut and handling tricky areas safely.
Essential Grooming Tools for Shih Tzus
Every Shih Tzu owner needs the right tools in their grooming kit. These essentials keep your pup looking tidy and feeling comfy.
Slicker Brush and Comb
A slicker brush helps remove loose hair and dirt. It is perfect for working through a Shih Tzu’s thick double coat. Use it to gently untangle knots and keep their fur smooth. A de-matting comb can tackle stubborn mats without pulling too much.
Brush 2-3 times a week or daily, especially during shedding seasons. The pin brush (16–20 mm) works well on longer coats, while the bristle brush is better for shorter ones. Choose tools that suit your dog’s coat length and texture to avoid irritation or discomfort.
Grooming Scissors and Clippers
After brushing your Shih Tzu’s coat, it’s time to trim and shape. Use grooming scissors for delicate areas like the face, ears, and paws. Choose rounded-tip scissors to avoid accidents near sensitive spots.
An electric hair clipper with a Number 10 blade works best for most of the body. It trims evenly and keeps their coat manageable.
Popular cuts include the Teddy Bear Cut or Puppy Cut, which are easier to maintain. Start slowly if you’re nervous about clipping. Go in small sections and keep movements steady to avoid nicking their skin.
Always clean tools after each use to prevent infection or irritation from leftover hair or oils.
Nail Trimmers
Long nails can hurt your Shih Tzu’s paws and joints. If you hear a “click-clack” on floors, it’s time to trim them. Use nail trimmers made for small dogs, as these are easier to handle.
Cut only the white part of the nail and avoid hitting the quick—the pink area inside—to prevent bleeding.
Trim their nails every 6 weeks. Hold each paw gently but firmly before clipping. Offer treats or praise during grooming to keep your dog calm. Check for any cracks or signs of infection while trimming, and clean between toes if needed.
Dog-Safe Shampoo and Conditioner
Clip those nails, then grab the right products for bath time. Shih Tzus have sensitive skin, so pick a dog-safe shampoo and conditioner. Avoid human shampoos—they can dry out their skin or cause irritation.
Earthbath Grooming Wipes are handy for quick cleans between baths too.
Stick to hypoallergenic or natural options like Natural Dog Company’s products. These help moisturize while keeping fur shiny and soft. Choose gentle formulas free of harsh chemicals or scents that may harm your pup’s coat.
Caring for their coat keeps it healthy and tangle-free!
Preparing for Grooming
Set up a calm space, keep your Shih Tzu relaxed, and get ready for smooth grooming ahead!
Creating a Comfortable Grooming Space
Choose a quiet spot in your home with good lighting. Use a nonslip mat or surface to keep your Shih Tzu steady. If grooming outside, check the weather first—wind or cold can make them uncomfortable.
Keep tools like a slicker brush, comb, and dog-safe shampoo nearby for easy access.
Lay out towels to catch hair clippings or water spills. For anxious dogs, place their favorite blanket or toy nearby for comfort. A small table at waist height helps reduce strain on your back while working.
Once the space feels calm and inviting, you’re ready to start calming your Shih Tzu before grooming!
Calming Your Shih Tzu Before Grooming
Start by creating a quiet space. Keep noises and distractions low. Use soothing words in a calm tone to reassure your Shih Tzu. Pet them gently, especially under the chin or behind their ears, as these are comforting spots for most dogs.
Try offering a favorite toy or treat to keep them relaxed. Short walks before grooming can help burn off extra energy. Lavender-scented dog-safe sprays may also promote calmness if your pet is anxious.
Brushing and Detangling
Keep your Shih Tzu’s coat smooth and tangle-free by brushing gently, it’s easier than you think!
How to Brush a Shih Tzu’s Coat Properly
Brushing a Shih Tzu’s coat keeps it healthy and shiny. It also prevents painful tangles and mats.
- Start with a slicker brush to remove loose hair and dirt. Brush gently, using short strokes to avoid hurting your dog’s skin.
- Use a comb after brushing to check for hidden tangles. Focus on areas like behind the ears, under the legs, and around the tail.
- Spray a small amount of dog-safe detangler on hard knots. Work through knots slowly with your fingers before using the comb again.
- Brush in sections instead of all at once. Divide the coat into small parts for better control and easier brushing.
- Always brush in the direction of hair growth. Brushing against the grain can cause irritation or breakage.
- Finish by fluffing the coat lightly with a bristle brush for that soft, smooth look Shih Tzus are known for.
- Stick to daily brushing if possible, especially if your Shih Tzu has long hair or gets baths often.
- Reward your pet with praise or treats during grooming time to keep them calm and happy.
Tips for Removing Tangles and Mats
Tackling tangles and mats in a Shih Tzu’s coat can feel tricky but becomes simple with patience. Use the right tools and take it one section at a time.
- Start with a slicker brush to gently work through the top layer of fur. Brush in small sections instead of sweeping across large areas. This avoids pulling on hair too harshly.
- Switch to a comb for deeper tangles. Hold the fur near the skin while combing out knots, so you don’t hurt your dog.
- Apply detangling spray if mats are stubborn or tight. Spray lightly on trouble spots, then use your fingers to loosen knotted clumps.
- For thick mats, use grooming scissors carefully. Snip along the mat’s edges instead of cutting straight through it.
- Work slowly around sensitive areas like ears or bellies where fur tends to knot more often.
- Comb thoroughly after removing all mats to check for hidden knots beneath longer layers of hair.
- Regular brushing every 1-3 days helps prevent future tangles, especially if your Shih Tzu has long hair.
Take breaks if either you or your pup gets restless during grooming sessions!
Bathing Your Shih Tzu
Bathing your Shih Tzu, while a bit messy, keeps their coat shiny and skin healthy—stick around to learn how to make bath time easy!
Choosing the Right Products for Sensitive Skin
Pick a dog-safe shampoo, like Earthbath Grooming Wipes, to avoid irritating your Shih Tzu’s sensitive skin. Human shampoos are too harsh and strip oils from their coat. Natural Dog Company’s Snout Soother also helps soothe dry patches or redness.
Avoid products with strong scents or artificial colors. Look for shampoos labeled hypoallergenic and free of sulfates or parabens. Use Musher’s Secret Paw Wax to keep paw pads soft after baths.
Always patch-test new products on a small area first!
Steps for a Proper Bath
Giving your Shih Tzu a proper bath keeps their coat clean and healthy. It also helps prevent skin issues and keeps them comfortable.
- Fill the tub or sink with lukewarm water. Test it with your hand to ensure it’s neither too hot nor too cold.
- Use a detachable showerhead or cup to wet the coat thoroughly. Avoid getting water in their eyes, ears, and nose.
- Apply dog-safe shampoo made for sensitive skin. Focus on areas prone to dirt, like paws and under the belly.
- Gently massage the shampoo into their coat using your fingers. Work from head to tail, but skip near the eyes for now.
- Rinse out all shampoo completely with lukewarm water. Leftover product can irritate their skin.
- Clean around the eyes during this step using a gentle motion. Wipe away mucus (rheum) to avoid fur discoloration.
- Condition the coat if needed using a dog-friendly conditioner. Let it sit briefly before rinsing out thoroughly.
- Dry your Shih Tzu with a soft towel first, then use a pet-safe blow dryer on low heat if they’re comfortable with it.
- Brush the coat gently after drying to remove any tangles or loose hair left behind from washing sessions!
Trimming and Shaping the Coat
A neat coat makes your Shih Tzu look adorable, so grab those scissors and give their fur a fresh touch!
Puppy Cut Basics
Puppy cuts are perfect for Shih Tzus. This haircut trims the coat to 1-2 inches, making it low-maintenance. It keeps your pup cool in warm weather and helps reduce tangles or mats.
With this style, grooming is less frequent, saving time and effort.
This look gives Shih Tzus a neat, round shape while keeping them comfortable. Use grooming scissors or clippers for even trimming. Focus on staying consistent with length across the body.
Many dog owners love puppy cuts because they mix style with simplicity!
Tips for Trimming Around the Face and Ears
Use grooming scissors for precision around the face and ears. Hold your Shih Tzu’s head gently but firmly to avoid sudden movements. Trim small sections of hair at a time using slow, steady snips.
For safety, keep scissors with rounded tips close by.
A Number 10 blade clipper works well under the ears or on tight areas. Comb through the fur before cutting to spot tangles or mats. Avoid cutting too close to sensitive skin, especially near the eyes and nose, where irritation can occur easily.
Take breaks if your pup gets fidgety!
Cleaning the Face and Eyes
Keeping your Shih Tzu’s face clean prevents irritation and helps them stay fresh-faced—check out the simple steps ahead!
Wiping Tear Stains
Tear stains can make your Shih Tzu’s face look messy. Use a damp, soft cleansing pad to gently wipe under their eyes. Do this every day or up to three times if the stains are heavy.
Be careful not to touch their eyes directly.
Choose products safe for dogs with sensitive skin. Avoid harsh chemicals and perfumes that may irritate them. Wipe in small, slow motions for comfort. Keeping this area clean reduces bacteria buildup and keeps your dog healthy.
Next, explore how to maintain hygiene around their mouth!
Maintaining Hygiene Around the Mouth
Brush your Shih Tzu’s teeth daily using dog toothpaste and a double-sided toothbrush made for pets. Human toothpaste can harm dogs, so stick to pet-safe products. Pay extra attention to the back teeth where plaque tends to build up.
Clean any food debris from around their mouth after meals with soft cleansing pads or a damp cloth. This keeps bacteria and irritants away while preventing fur discoloration, especially on lighter coats.
Regular dental care boosts oral health and keeps bad breath at bay!
Paw and Nail Care
Healthy paws and trimmed nails keep your Shih Tzu comfortable, so don’t skip this step!
How to Trim Nails Safely
Trimming a Shih Tzu’s nails can feel tricky, but it doesn’t have to be. Patience and the right tools make a big difference.
- Use nail trimmers made for dogs. Human clippers won’t work well and could hurt your pet.
- Start by holding your Shih Tzu’s paw gently but firmly. Keep them calm with soothing words or treats nearby.
- Look for the pink quick inside each nail. This is where the nerves and blood vessels are located. Avoid cutting into it.
- Trim just a little bit at a time from the white tip of the nail. If you hear “click-clack” sounds on your floors, their nails are too long.
- Stop trimming immediately if you accidentally nick the quick, as it may bleed and cause pain.
- Keep styptic powder or cornstarch on hand to stop bleeding quickly in case of accidental cuts.
- Cut nails every six weeks to maintain the correct length and prevent discomfort while walking.
- Reward your Shih Tzu with praise or small snacks after trimming their nails to make this task easier next time.
- Check paw pads during trimming to remove dirt or debris stuck between them for better hygiene.
- If unsure about safety, take your dog to a professional groomer or ask for tips at an American Kennel Club-approved grooming center!
Cleaning and Moisturizing the Paw Pads
Keep your Shih Tzu’s paw pads free from dirt and cracks. Use a soft, damp cloth or Earthbath Grooming Wipes to clean them gently. Focus on removing debris stuck between the toes.
Avoid scrubbing too hard, as their paws are sensitive.
After cleaning, apply Natural Dog Company’s Snout Soother or Musher’s Secret Paw Wax. This helps lock in moisture and protects against rough surfaces like concrete or hot pavement.
Massage the balm lightly into each pad for better absorption. Healthy paws also make nail trimming safer and easier!
Ear Cleaning
Keeping your Shih Tzu’s ears clean helps prevent trouble like infections and itchiness—get the step-by-step guide next!
Preventing Ear Infections
Dry your Shih Tzu’s ears after every bath. Moisture inside the ear can lead to infections. Use a soft cotton ball and an alcohol-based solution to clean them gently. Avoid pushing anything deep into the ear canal.
Check for debris or unusual smells weekly. Redness, wax buildup, or constant scratching could mean trouble. Regular grooming keeps their floppy ears free from dirt, helping prevent health issues like infections.
Proper Steps for Cleaning the Ears
A Shih Tzu’s ears need regular cleaning to stay healthy. Dirty ears can lead to infections and discomfort. Follow these clear steps:
- Use an alcohol-based ear cleaning solution. Choose one safe for dogs to prevent irritation.
- Grab cotton balls or pads, never use Q-tips as they can hurt the ear canal.
- Gently hold your Shih Tzu’s head still, speaking softly to keep them calm.
- Lightly soak the cotton ball with the cleaner, not dripping wet but moist enough to clean well.
- Wipe the outer ear first, removing visible dirt and wax buildup carefully.
- Pour a few drops of the cleaner into the ear canal if allowed by product instructions.
- Massage the base of their ear for 20-30 seconds while holding it upright to spread the solution evenly.
- Let your dog shake their head; this helps push out loosened debris from deeper areas.
- Use a new cotton ball to wipe away any dirt or fluid that comes out after shaking.
- Look inside both ears for signs of redness, bad smell, or excess wax which may signal infection.
Shih Tzus usually need this every 1-2 weeks but flush deeper every month (or as needed). Listen closely—regular care keeps infections at bay!
Grooming Maintenance Tips
Keep your Shih Tzu looking sharp by sticking to a grooming routine, and you’ll save yourself headaches down the road!
Frequency of Grooming Tasks
Brush your Shih Tzu’s coat every 1-3 days to keep it smooth. Long coats may need daily brushing to stay tangle-free. Clip their nails about every 6 weeks. Overgrown nails can cause discomfort or affect walking.
Clean ears every 1-2 weeks to prevent infections. Check for any odor, redness, or dirt during ear care. Professional grooming works well every 4-6 weeks if you prefer a polished look.
Regular maintenance keeps them clean and happy!
Keeping the Coat Tangle-Free Between Grooming
Brush your Shih Tzu’s coat daily. This prevents tangles and mats from forming, especially if their hair is long. Use a slicker brush and follow up with a comb to reach deeper layers of the fur.
Tangles form quickly after baths. Always brush right after drying to keep the coat smooth. Focus on areas like behind the ears, armpits, and legs since these spots mat easily. Regular care makes grooming stress-free for both you and your dog!
When to Seek Professional Grooming Services
Sometimes, at-home grooming isn’t enough. Shih Tzus need professional care every 4-6 weeks to maintain their coat and health. Professional groomers offer expert haircuts like the puppy cut or teddy bear cut.
They can handle tricky areas around the face, ears, and paws with precision.
If you notice matting beyond your control or your dog’s nails clicking loudly on hard floors, it’s time for a pro. Groomers also check for ear infections, skin issues, or abnormalities during sessions.
Regular visits keep Shih Tzus show-ready and happy. Next up: tips to keep grooming maintenance stress-free!
Conclusion
Grooming your Shih Tzu can feel like a big task, but it gets easier with time. Start slow and keep things calm for both you and your dog. Use the right tools, be gentle, and focus on keeping them happy during the process.
If something feels tricky, don’t hesitate to ask a pro groomer for help. A little effort will keep your furry friend looking adorable!
FAQs
1. How often should I groom my Shih Tzu?
Shih Tzus need grooming every 4 to 6 weeks. Regular brushing with a bristle brush helps manage their long coat between sessions.
2. What are the best haircuts for a Shih Tzu?
The puppy cut and teddy bear cut are popular choices. Both keep your dog’s coat short, making it easier to maintain.
3. What tools do I need for Shih Tzu grooming at home?
You’ll need a bristle brush, quality dog shampoo, dog toothpaste, nail clippers, and ear-cleaning supplies to handle basic care.
4. Should I take my Shih Tzu to a professional groomer?
Yes, especially if you’re new to grooming or want perfect results like those seen in dog shows. A pet groomer knows how to handle tricky areas like shaving or ear care safely.
5. How does grooming affect my Shih Tzu’s health?
Proper grooming prevents tangles and mats that can irritate the skin. Cleaning their ears regularly reduces infections, while brushing their teeth protects against dental issues tied to nutrition and overall health!