Shih Tzus were bred as companion dogs, and their long, flowing coat shows it. Most pet owners choose a shorter puppy or teddy bear cut, which keeps the charm and cuts brushing time dramatically.
- Coat type: Silky / long coat
- Routine: Plan for a professional groom every 4 to 6 weeks.
- Key tools: Pin brush, fine and medium-tooth metal comb, small slicker brush
What kind of coat does a Shih Tzu have?
Shih Tzus have a double coat of long, silky hair that grows continuously and sheds little. Loose hair gets trapped in the coat, so tangles form quickly near the skin if they are not brushed regularly.
Coat type, more than breed name, is what decides how often a dog needs a bath, a brush or a haircut. Mixes and individual dogs vary, so treat the schedule below as a starting point and adjust it to your dog's lifestyle, skin and how quickly the coat gets dirty or tangled.
How often should you groom a Shih Tzu?
Plan for a professional groom every 4 to 6 weeks. Brush daily for long coats or 3 to 4 times a week for puppy cuts. Clean around the eyes daily, trim nails every 3 to 4 weeks and keep up with dental care.
How to bathe a Shih Tzu at home
- Brush and comb out completely before the bath, paying special attention to behind the ears, armpits and the collar area.
- Wet the coat with lukewarm water, letting it flow downward with the hair.
- Shampoo by smoothing it down the length of the coat instead of piling it up and scrubbing.
- Rinse well, apply conditioner from mid-length to tips, and rinse again.
- Blot with a towel, then blow-dry on low while brushing in the direction of growth.
- Clean around the eyes and keep hair out of them with a trim or a loose topknot.
Always use a shampoo made for dogs; human shampoo is formulated for a different skin pH. Keep water out of the ears, and give a treat at the end so bath time stays positive.
Brushing routine
Line brush down to the skin with a pin or slicker brush, then comb through. Pay extra attention to behind the ears, armpits and the beard.
Short, frequent sessions beat one long struggle. Two to ten minutes, a few times a week, keeps most coats in good shape and gives you a chance to spot skin problems, lumps, ticks or sore spots early.
Fitting the routine into your week
Keep a pin brush and comb somewhere visible, like next to the couch, and brush during TV time. Check the friction zones (ears, armpits, collar) every day, even if you only brush the whole coat a few times a week. Wipe the face daily and book haircuts on a regular cycle so the coat never gets ahead of you.
Tools you'll need
- Pin brush for the long coat
- Fine and medium-tooth metal comb
- Small slicker brush for the legs and feet
- Gentle dog shampoo plus a conditioner or leave-in detangler
- Soft hair ties or clips for the topknot (never tight)
- Tear-stain wipes or a soft damp cloth for the face
Common Shih Tzu grooming mistakes
- Skipping the friction spots. Mats start where things rub: behind the ears, under the collar, under the legs.
- Rubbing with a towel. It knots fine hair instantly. Blot and squeeze instead.
- Tight topknots. They pull on the skin and break the hair. Keep them loose and redo them often.
- Hair in the eyes. A Shih Tzu's facial hair can irritate the eyes. Keep it trimmed or tied up loosely in a topknot.
Shih Tzu grooming FAQ
How often should a Shih Tzu be groomed?
Every 4 to 6 weeks for most pets.
Do Shih Tzus shed?
Very little; loose hair stays trapped in the coat until it is brushed out.
What is the best haircut for a Shih Tzu?
A puppy or teddy bear cut is the easiest to maintain at home.
How do I stop Shih Tzu mats?
Brush to the skin several times a week and dry completely after baths.
How often should I bathe a Shih Tzu puppy?
Puppies usually need fewer baths than adults: bathe only when dirty, with a gentle shampoo made for dogs, and keep them warm until fully dry. Use short, positive sessions to get them used to water, brushing, nail trims and the dryer. Ask your vet when your puppy is ready for a professional groom.
Can I groom a Shih Tzu at home?
Yes, most of the routine can be done at home: brushing, baths, ear checks and nail trims. Many owners handle brushing at home and book a professional for haircuts.
This guide offers general grooming information. For skin, ear or coat problems that don't improve, talk to your veterinarian. More Pawfile breed guides.