Shih Tzus are famous for their beautiful, flowing coats – but that beauty comes with responsibility. As a breeder with over 10 years of experience at Delasa Forever Shih Tzu, I've learned that consistent, proper grooming is essential for your Shih Tzu's health and happiness. This guide will help you master grooming at home.
Essential Grooming Tools
- Slicker brush: For removing tangles and loose undercoat
- Stainless steel comb: With both fine and wide teeth
- Pin brush: For daily maintenance brushing
- Dog-safe nail clippers or grinder
- Dog shampoo and conditioner: Tearless, hypoallergenic formula
- Ear cleaner: Veterinary-approved solution
- Detangling spray: Helps loosen mats before brushing
Daily Grooming Routine (10 minutes)
Step 1: Brush Thoroughly
Start with the pin brush to remove surface tangles, working in small sections. Follow with the slicker brush, brushing in the direction of hair growth. Finally, run the metal comb through to check for hidden tangles. Pay special attention to armpits, behind ears, and the tail area.
Step 2: Tear Stain Removal
Gently wipe the eye area with a damp cloth or specialized tear stain wipe. Keep hair around eyes trimmed short to prevent irritation and infection.
Step 3: Quick Ear Check
Look for redness, swelling, discharge, or odor. Healthy ears are pink and clean. If you notice debris, clean with vet-approved ear cleaner.
Weekly Grooming Tasks
Bathing Your Shih Tzu
Bathe every 2-3 weeks using lukewarm water. Brush thoroughly first (water makes mats tighter), use tearless shampoo, rinse completely (residue causes itching), and blow dry on low heat while brushing simultaneously.
Nail Trimming
Trim nails every 2-3 weeks. Identify the "quick" (pink area) and cut at a 45-degree angle below it. Keep styptic powder handy for accidental bleeding.
Professional Grooming
Most Shih Tzu owners schedule professional grooming every 4-6 weeks. Popular cuts include:
- Puppy Cut (most popular): Even length all over (1-2 inches), low maintenance
- Summer Cut: Very short body (½ inch), longer on head, ideal for hot weather
- Show Cut: Floor-length coat requiring daily intensive grooming
A typical professional grooming appointment costs $50-100 and includes brushing, bath, haircut, nail trim, ear cleaning, and teeth brushing.
Starting Young: Puppy Grooming
Begin handling your puppy's paws, ears, and mouth daily from day one. Schedule a "puppy groom" around 12-16 weeks – this introductory appointment focuses on getting comfortable with the process. At Delasa Forever Shih Tzu, all our puppies are handled daily and introduced to brushing before going to their new homes.
Handling Mats and Tangles
Never try to cut out mats with scissors – Shih Tzus have thin, loose skin that easily catches in blades. Use detangling spray and a mat splitter, or schedule a professional groomer for severe mats.
