How to Groom a Shih Tzu? Step by Step Home Grooming Guide

Families often ask how to groom a Shih Tzu, and the answer is more straightforward than it seems. Shih Tzu grooming comes down to gentle brushing, consistent bathing, and keeping their adorable face tidy. Once it becomes routine, grooming turns into one of the easiest and sweetest ways to bond with your dog.

What Makes Shih Tzu Grooming Different

Shih Tzus have a long, silky coat that grows continuously, much like human hair. This means they need regular upkeep to stay clean and comfortable. Because our puppies come from genetically tested AKC adults with healthy skin and coat lines, the grooming process is usually smooth when families start early and stay consistent. Their affectionate and people-loving nature also makes them naturally easier to groom than many other small breeds.

The First Step: Brushing Your Shih Tzu

Daily brushing is the heart of Shih Tzu grooming. It prevents tangles, keeps the coat shiny, and stops mats before they start. A slicker brush and a metal comb made for long coats work best. Always brush in small sections from the bottom up. For puppies, keep sessions short and fun, turning grooming into a positive part of their day.

Bathing Your Shih Tzu

Bathing every three weeks works well for most Shih Tzus. Use lukewarm water and a gentle dog shampoo. Rinse thoroughly and follow with a conditioner to keep the hair soft and manageable. Dry with a towel first, then finish with a blow dryer on a low setting while brushing. Bath time is also an excellent opportunity to check your dog’s skin and ears for early signs of dryness or irritation.

Caring for the Face and Eyes

Shih Tzus are famous for their expressive eyes, but this means they need daily attention in that area. Tear staining can happen, especially in lighter-colored dogs. Gently wipe under the eyes with a warm, damp cloth each day. Keeping the hair around the eyes trimmed short reduces irritation and helps prevent staining.

Essential Nail, Paw, and Ear Care

These areas are easy to overlook but matter just as much as the coat. Nails should be trimmed every two to three weeks. If you hear clicking on the floor, they are too long. Ears benefit from weekly checks and a gentle wipe with a dog-safe ear cleaner. Trimming the fur between the paw pads keeps debris out and prevents slipping.

Choosing the Right Coat Style

There is no single “correct” way to groom a Shih Tzu’s coat. Families often choose one of these styles.

Puppy cut

Short, simple, and perfect for busy households.

Teddy bear trim

A bit fluffier and very cute, but it needs more brushing.

Long coat

Elegant and flowing, but requires daily brushing and regular professional grooming.

Choose the style that fits your lifestyle. Grooming should never feel overwhelming.

Our Real-Life Experience Grooming Shih Tzus

Grooming has always been a natural part of life in our home. Our Shih Tzus grew up being brushed by our children, learning early that grooming is a calm and positive experience. Over time, we saw how much they enjoyed the routine. Many would happily trot over and sit down as soon as they saw the brush come out.

We love seeing this confidence in the puppies who go to new families. When grooming becomes part of their daily rhythm, Shih Tzus feel proud after a bath or trim. They look brighter, act happier, and carry themselves with that sweet little “I know I’m cute” attitude.

When a Professional Groomer Is the Right Choice

Even with good home maintenance, most Shih Tzus benefit from a professional groom every four to six weeks. Professional groomers handle shaping the coat, trimming the face, managing the undercoat, and cleaning areas that are tricky to do at home. It creates a perfect partnership between home care and expert care.

Living With a Well-Groomed Shih Tzu

A well-groomed Shih Tzu feels lighter, more comfortable, and more expressive. Their eyes stay bright, their coat stays soft, and their skin stays healthy. Grooming is not just about appearance. It directly supports comfort, joy, and overall quality of life.

Why Families Trust Champaign Shih Tzu

Our puppies are raised in our family home alongside our children, which means they are handled gently from day one. This makes grooming far easier for new families. Every parent dog in our program is AKC registered and fully genetically tested, giving each puppy a strong foundation for healthy skin, coat, and overall wellness. We stay connected with families long after adoption to help them build confidence with grooming and daily care.

FAQ

How often should I groom a Shih Tzu?  Light brushing daily and a full professional groom every four to six weeks keeps them comfortable.

What tools do I need to groom a Shih Tzu?  A slicker brush, metal comb, gentle dog shampoo, conditioner, nail trimmer, and a dog-safe ear cleaner.

Do Shih Tzus need regular haircuts?  Yes. Their hair grows continuously, so trims keep them clean, comfortable, and mat-free.

How do I clean my Shih Tzu’s face?  Use a warm, damp cloth daily to wipe under the eyes to prevent staining gently.

When should grooming start for a puppy?  Start right away with short, gentle brushing sessions to build trust and confidence.

Can I groom my Shih Tzu at home?  Yes. Brushing, baths, eye cleaning, and light trimming can be done at home. Haircuts are usually easier with a professional.

Why does my Shih Tzu mat quickly?  Their long hair can tangle without consistent brushing. Short daily sessions work best.

What coat style is easiest for new owners?  The puppy cut is the simplest and requires the least daily upkeep.

Contact Us

If you would like grooming advice or want to learn more about our upcoming AKC Shih Tzu litters, feel free to contact us anytime. We love helping families prepare for life with their new puppy.