Do Shih Tzus Shed? Coat Facts to Know

Do Shih Tzus shed? Families researching this gentle breed are usually relieved to discover that Shih Tzus are considered low-shedding dogs. They do shed a little, but not in the typical way most breeds do. Because their coat is made of hair rather than fur, loose strands shed slowly and tend to remain within the coat until brushed out. 

At Champaign Shih Tzu, where we raise AKC-registered, genetically tested adults in our family home, we see firsthand how easily their shedding can be managed with the right care.

Why Shih Tzus Are Naturally Low-Shedding

The Shih Tzu coat grows continuously and does not go through heavy seasonal shedding cycles. Breeds with double coats often release large amounts of fur during spring and fall, but Shih Tzus simply do not behave that way. Their hair grows like human hair, long and silky, and sheds at a much slower rate.

This makes the breed a great match for families who prefer cleaner floors, minimal vacuuming, and a dog that will not leave piles of fur behind on bedding and furniture. Many new owners who adopt one of our puppies mention how surprised they are at the lack of visible shedding in the home.

Understanding the Real Difference Between Shedding and Matting

Owners who are new to the breed often misinterpret matting as shedding problems. Shih Tzus may shed very little, but the loose hairs that fall out stay within the coat. If those hairs are not brushed out regularly, they begin to tangle. Over time, tangles tighten into mats.

From a breeder's perspective, matting has nothing to do with coat quality and everything to do with routine care. When we start grooming conditioning early in puppyhood, our Shih Tzus learn that brushing, baths, and gentle handling are positive experiences. This early groundwork makes it easier for families to keep the coat healthy once the puppy goes to their new home.

Breeder Insight: The Puppy Coat Change Can Surprise Families

Around 6 to 12 months old, every Shih Tzu goes through a coat transition. The soft, cotton-like puppy coat changes into a denser adult coat. During this stage, families may notice slightly more loose hairs or increased tangling.

This phase often catches new owners off guard because the coat may feel different and require more frequent brushing. We always let families know in advance so they understand this is temporary. Once the adult coat fully grows in, shedding usually becomes even less noticeable and more predictable.

Daily Habits That Keep Shedding Under Control

The best way to maintain a Shih Tzu’s coat is to develop a simple, steady routine.

A few small habits make a huge difference:

• Brushing the coat several times a week

• Bathing every two to four weeks

• Using a leave-in conditioner or detangling spray

• Keeping the coat trimmed in a puppy cut if easier for your lifestyle

• Monitoring moisture around the eyes and mouth to prevent buildup

  
  

Many families find grooming to be a bonding experience. Because our puppies are introduced early to brushing and bathing, most of them relax during these moments rather than resisting.

Diet also affects coat quality. We feed Royal Canin Shih Tzu because it supports healthy skin, reduces dryness, and encourages a soft, strong coat. A well-nourished Shih Tzu will always shed less than one on a poor or inconsistent diet.

Are Shih Tzus Suitable for Allergy-Sensitive Homes

There is no such thing as a fully hypoallergenic dog. All dogs produce dander and proteins in their saliva and skin that can trigger allergies. However, some allergy-sensitive families find Shih Tzus easier to live with because they shed very little and do not release large amounts of dander into the home. Reactions vary widely from person to person, so the best way to know if a Shih Tzu will work for your family is to spend time around the breed before adopting.

Our puppies are bathed and brushed regularly, raised in a clean family environment, and handled daily. This helps support healthy skin and coat conditions from the start.

Why Ethical Breeding Affects Coat Quality and Shedding

Coat traits are inherited. When breeders choose AKC-registered, genetically tested adults with proper coat structure, the puppies inherit predictable coat patterns, texture, and growth behavior. Shih Tzus with weak coat genetics may shed more or develop chronic skin issues.

At Champaign Shih Tzu, we select breeding pairs intentionally based on temperament, health, coat texture, and structure. Families benefit from these decisions because their puppies typically grow into adults with soft, manageable coats that shed lightly and respond well to grooming.

How Families Can Support a Healthy Coat at Home

A healthy coat is not just about brushing. Families can support low shedding and coat health by:

• Keeping the home environment clean and comfortable

• Providing consistent grooming routines

• Maintaining a high-quality diet

• Scheduling regular veterinary checkups

• Monitoring for skin dryness or irritation

• Avoiding harsh shampoos or products not meant for dogs

  
  

Small lifestyle habits add up over time, and Shih Tzus reward consistent care with beautiful coats that are soft to the touch and easy to manage.

If you would like to learn more about our Shih Tzu puppies or upcoming litters, please contact us. We are always happy to guide families through the process and help them decide if this loving, low-shedding breed is the right match.

FAQ

Do Shih Tzus shed a lot? No. Shih Tzus shed very little because their coat is made of hair that grows continuously rather than fur that sheds heavily.

Why does my Shih Tzu mat if they hardly shed? Loose hairs stay in the coat and cause tangles. Regular brushing removes those hairs and prevents mats from forming.

Will my Shih Tzu shed more as a puppy? Yes, a little. During the coat change from puppy coat to adult coat, you may notice extra loose hairs. This stage is short-lived.

Are Shih Tzus better for people with allergies? Many allergy-sensitive families do well with their low-shedding coat, but Shih Tzus are not allergy-free, and reactions vary.

What reduces shedding in Shih Tzus? Routine brushing, proper nutrition, consistent grooming, early conditioning, and maintaining healthy skin all help reduce loose hair.