Best Thinning Shears for Shih Tzu: Honest Review of Top Picks for Grooming at Home

Best Thinning Shears for Shih Tzu

Keeping my Shih Tzu groomed has been a real learning curve. I thought using clippers was already a nightmare—so when I first heard about thinning shears, I had no idea what I was getting into. But grooming isn’t just about making your dog look cute (though that’s a plus). It’s about keeping their thick coat healthy, avoiding painful mats, and making sure they’re comfortable—especially around the face, ears, and paws where things get tricky fast.

After trial and error (and a few frustrated sighs), I looked into thinning shears. Below, I’ve broken down some of the most popular options based on quality, ease of use, safety, and what other real dog owners are saying. If you’re just starting out like I was, this comparison might save you some stress—and possibly your Shih Tzu’s patience.

6 Best Thinning Shears for Shih Tzu for Sale 2025 Review & Ratings

1. FAIGEO Dog Grooming Kit – Best for All-In-One Grooming

 FAIGEO Dog Grooming Kit – Best for All-In-One Grooming

Rating: 4.5 / 5

Includes: Thinning shears, curved scissors, grooming comb, cleaning cloth

This grooming kit provides a complete set for beginners. It includes tools for trimming thick and long coats, with a design that balances safety and usability.

Quick Overview:

The FAIGEO grooming kit comes with two scissors: one curved, one thinning. Both have rounded tips for added safety. A grooming comb and cleaning cloth are also included. The materials feel sturdy, and the blades are made from 4CR titanium-coated stainless steel.

What We Like:

  • Safety First: The rounded tips prevent accidental pokes, especially useful near sensitive areas like eyes and ears.
  • Beginner-Friendly Design: Rubber rings on the handles make the grip more comfortable. You can also remove the rings if your fingers don’t fit.
  • Sharpness: Most users praise the scissors for cutting thick hair with ease. They handle both fine and matted coats well.
  • Adjustable Tension: The central screw allows you to modify the tension. This is helpful whengrooming different parts of your dog.
  • Complete Kit: The included comb and cloth make this more than just a set of scissors. It’s a complete mini grooming kit.

Where It Falls Short:

  • Inconsistent Quality Control: Some users report dull blades or poor alignment right out of the box.
  • Durability Issues: A few reviewers say the scissors became dull after a few uses or wouldn’t open smoothly.
  • Curved Scissors Complaints: In several cases, the curved scissors were not functional or sharp enough to use effectively.

What Customers Say:

“I’m not a professional groomer, but I managed to trim my Shorkie’s coat easily. He stayed calm throughout.”

“Great kit for a beginner. The blunt tips made me feel confident around my dog’s face and paws.”

“Scissors dulled after three uses. They started pulling hair instead of cutting. Very frustrating.”

“Curved scissors didn’t cut at all. Total disappointment.”

“Good value for the price. But if you’re grooming often, these might not last long.”

2. Doscpe Curved Dog Grooming Scissors – Best for Face and Paws

 Doscpe Curved Dog Grooming Scissors – Best for Face and Paws

Rating: 4.4 / 5

Includes: One curved scissor

If you’re looking for a tool specifically for delicate areas like your Shih Tzu’s face, this Doscpe curved scissor may be all you need.

Quick Overview:

Made of stainless steel, this single scissor is designed with both right- and left-handed users in mind. The curved blades help shape around facial features, paws, and other curved areas. It has a blunt tip to reduce the risk of injury.

What We Like:

  • Reversible Use: Can be used by right- or left-handed groomers. The symmetrical handle design is a practical feature.
  • Safety Tip: The rounded tip prevents nicks and cuts near your dog’s sensitive areas.
  • Quiet Operation: The rubber muffler reduces sound during cutting, which is great for noise-sensitive dogs.
  • Precision Curves: Ideal for shaping around the eyes, nose, and mouth.
  • Adjustable Screw: Lets you modify the blade tension for smoother control.

Where It Falls Short:

  • Not for Thick Coats: This is not a thinning shear, so it’s not ideal for removing volume.
  • No Extras Included: Unlike kits, this is a single tool. You’ll need to buy a comb separately.
  • May Require Sharpening: Some users note that sharpness dulls with frequent use.
  • Risk of Injury to Owner: A few reviewers accidentally cut themselves while cleaning or drying.

What Customers Say:

“Works perfectly around my Yorkie’s eyes. Easy to hold, and my dog stayed calm.”

“I sliced my finger drying them off, so be careful. But that just proves how sharp they are.”

“I like the curved design. It gives a natural look when trimming facial hair.”

“You’ll need a comb to go with this. Makes the job easier.”

“Solid construction. Nothing fancy, but it does the job well.”

3. TINMARDA Professional Dog Grooming Scissors Kit – Best Complete Set for Home Groomers

TINMARDA Professional Dog Grooming Scissors Kit – Best Complete Set for Home Groomers

Rating: 4.6 / 5

Includes: Thinning shears, curved scissors, straight scissors, grooming comb, cleaning cloth, storage case

This grooming kit is ideal for pet parents looking for a reliable all-in-one solution. It offers a broad toolset at a budget-friendly price.

Quick Overview:

The TINMARDA kit includes five key tools: thinning, curved, and straight shears, a grooming comb, and a cleaning cloth, all packed in a black storage box. Made from titanium-coated 4CR stainless steel, the blades are built for durability and precision.

What We Like:

  • Comprehensive Kit: Everything you need to perform a full grooming session at home is included.
  • Rounded Safety Tips: The rounded ends help prevent accidental injuries, especially around the eyes, paws, and ears.
  • Comfortable Grip: Rubber inserts in the finger holes provide a better grip and reduce slipping.
  • Sharp Blades: Sharp convex edges help make smoother cuts and better blending.
  • Storage Case: Keeps all tools organized and protected between grooming sessions.

Where It Falls Short:

  • Mixed Sharpness Reports: Some users say the blades dull quickly or arrive dull.
  • Build Quality Varies: In some cases, the shears did not close properly or felt misaligned.
  • Not Groomer-Grade: While good for occasional use, daily grooming may wear the blades down fast.

What Customers Say:

“Sharp but safe. I accidentally nipped myself. Still, I prefer these over pointed scissors.”

“Curved scissors are great for shaping my Shih Tzu’s face. I’m a beginner, but these helped a lot.”

“I got a decent teddy bear cut on my poodle-Shih Tzu mix. The thinning shears helped reduce bulk.”

“These changed how I groom my dogs. I no longer feel anxious working near sensitive areas.”

“Unfortunately, the scissors are dull and don’t cut well. Waste of money. Very disappointed.”

4. LovinPet Pet Grooming Scissors – Best Budget Option for Sensitive Areas

Rating: 4.4 / 5

Includes: One curved scissor with blunt tip

This curved grooming scissor offers a simple yet effective way to trim around your dog’s face, paws, and ears without the fear of injury.

Quick Overview:

The LovinPet grooming scissors are 7 inches long and built with Japanese 4CR stainless steel. Designed with blunt tips and curved blades, they help pet owners safely trim delicate areas.

What We Like:

  • Blunt Tip Test-Proven: Designed to avoid accidents, even when your dog moves unexpectedly.
  • Safe for Sensitive Areas: Ideal for trimming facial hair, paws, and under the eyes.
  • Good Ergonomics: Cushioned handles and finger rests help reduce hand fatigue.
  • Lightweight Design: Easy to control for quick grooming touch-ups.
  • Budget-Friendly: Priced lower than most multi-piece sets without compromising on key features.

Where It Falls Short:

  • Not for Heavy-Duty Grooming: Best used for quick trims between professional sessions.
  • Inconsistent Sharpness: Some users say the blades didn’t align or cut well.
  • Dulls Quickly: Blades may lose edge after only a few uses.
  • Stiff Action: A few users report the scissors are hard to open and close.

What Customers Say:

“Works well around the ears. I wouldn’t use it for a full haircut, though.”

“Nice sharp edge, but dulled after a few trims. Not for professional use.”

“Blades didn’t close properly, and they didn’t cut at all. Had to return.”

“Hand started hurting after a few minutes. The grip was hard, and scissors tarnished fast.”

5. PINKIELINK Professional Grooming Scissors Set – Best for Precision Trims and Delicate Areas

PINKIELINK Professional Grooming Scissors Set – Best for Precision Trims and Delicate Areas

Rating: 4.5 / 5

Includes: 6-inch small shears, 6.6-inch large shears

This two-piece grooming scissors set is designed to help pet parents handle everything from facial trims to full-body maintenance.

Quick Overview:

This set includes two stainless steel scissors—one smaller and one larger—each suited for different trimming tasks. The smaller shears work well for delicate areas like the eyes, nose, and paws. The larger shears handle the main coat. Both scissors come with safety round tips for added protection.

What We Like:

  • Two Sizes Included: Small and large scissors help with different coat areas.
  • Rounded Safety Tips: Safer for use around sensitive spots like the eyes and ears.
  • Sharp Stainless Steel: Cuts well on most coat types and holds up to regular use.
  • Ergonomic Handles: Cushioned finger inserts make it easier to grip.
  • Noise Reduction: Built-in tension knob helps reduce grooming noise.

Where It Falls Short:

  • Quality Control Issues: Some users report dull blades or sharp handle edges.
  • Grip Safety: A few reviews mention accidental cuts from rough metal in the finger ring.
  • Performance Varies: May struggle with thick or curly coats if not brushed well before use.

What Customers Say:

“They fit well in the hand and are perfect for trimming close to the eyes.”

“Great quality! Sharp, and the two sizes are handy. I use them on my Shih Tzu puppy.”

“Nice rounded tips. I feel safer using these on my squirmy dog.”

“One pair didn’t cut at all. Total waste of money.”

“Sharp metal in the finger loop cut my hand. Poor manufacturing oversight.”

6. Pets First Grooming Scissors – Best Dual-Use Set for All Coat Types

Pets First Grooming Scissors – Best Dual-Use Set for All Coat Types

Rating: 4.4 / 5

Includes: Large body scissors and small facial trimming scissors

This grooming set from Pets First features a long-blade scissor for thick fur and a smaller one for facial grooming. Both are built for safety and ease.

Quick Overview:

With stainless steel blades and rounded safety tips, these scissors aim to deliver safe, effective trims. The handles are ergonomically designed for comfort, and the set works on all types of coats, including wiry, curly, or thick fur.

What We Like:

  • Two Sizes for Versatility: Includes one pair for the body and one for the face.
  • Blunt Safety Tips: Helps reduce the chance of nicks or cuts, especially for restless pets.
  • Sharp Stainless Blades: Cuts even thick or matted fur without pulling.
  • Lightweight and Comfortable: Designed for longer grooming sessions.
  • Good Starter Set: Budget-friendly option for first-time pet groomers.

Where It Falls Short:

  • Blades Dull Quickly: Not built for heavy-duty, long-term use.
  • Inconsistent Sharpness: Some users report blades were dull right out of the box.
  • Poor Assembly: In a few cases, the scissors fell apart after just one use.
  • Misleading Safety: Tips may be rounded when closed but can still appear sharp when open.

What Customers Say:

“Exactly what I needed for trimming around the eyes. Safe and effective.”

“Nice two sizes. My Yorkie looks better between grooming visits.”

“The handles are comfy, and the blunt tips give me peace of mind.”

“Unfortunately, the scissors didn’t cut well and hurt my wrist after use.”

“One pair broke after the first trim. Won’t buy again.”

Conclusion: Which Thinning Shears Are Best for Your Shih Tzu?

Choosing the right grooming scissors can make a big difference in how you maintain your Shih Tzu’s coat. With their long, dense, and often curly fur, Shih Tzus require tools that are not only sharp and effective but also safe and easy to use around sensitive areas like the face, paws, and tail.

From budget-friendly options to kits designed for more professional results, the six products reviewed in this guide each offer something useful. Sets like the FAIGEO Dog Grooming Kit and the TINMARDA 5-in-1 Kit are ideal if you want multiple tools in one purchase. These are great for pet owners who prefer to handle grooming at home without booking a salon appointment every month.

If you’re looking for tools specifically designed for trimming hard-to-reach or delicate spots, the PINKIELINK and Pets First sets provide smaller, safety-tipped scissors that are more suited for facial trimming and minor touch-ups. On the other hand, the Doscpe Curved Shears or the LovinPet Professional Grooming Scissors may be better suited for those who want slightly larger tools with curved blades for better control over the coat’s shape.

Still, no product is perfect. While all the reviewed items have sharp blades and rounded safety tips, some customers report dullness over time, poor blade alignment, or comfort issues during longer use. For this reason, it’s important to choose based on your dog’s coat type, how often you plan to groom, and your comfort level with using grooming tools.

Ready to start grooming with confidence?

Explore the top-rated shears featured in this blog and find the perfect kit for your Shih Tzu.

Let grooming be a time of comfort, not stress—for both you and your furry companion.

Author

  • me and Cooper hiking

    About Elena - Founder & Writer, The Shih Tzu Guide

    Hi, I'm Elena—the voice behind The Shih Tzu Guide and a writer for nearly 10 years. My journey into the world of Shih Tzus began unexpectedly five years ago, when my son's wish for a dog brought Cooper into our lives.

    What started as a simple effort to care for a small "hybrid" pup (as we call them here) quickly turned into a full-blown learning experience. From puppy rashes to chicken allergies, I found myself navigating a maze of trial, error, and endless research.

    Along the way, I realized I wasn't alone—many Shih Tzu owners were also looking for clear, honest advice on how to care for these lovable companions.

    That's when The Shih Tzu Guide was born.

    This blog is more than just a collection of tips. It's a personal journey—a growing archive of everything I've learned while raising Cooper, who's now five years old and joining us on hikes and family adventures.

    Whether you're dealing with skin issues, food sensitivities, or just want to know if your Shih Tzu can join you on the trail, I'm here to help.

    I created this guide to make your life as a Shih Tzu parent a little easier—and to make sure our dogs live their happiest, healthiest lives.