Now for the grooming part. How can you cut your Shih Tzu’s hair? How do you bathe him? These little details can feel overwhelming, especially for new dog owners. If you’re like me, I thought I could handle grooming a Shih Tzu perfectly on my first try. But my little Cooper had other plans. The moment he heard the clipper turn on, he ran and hid under the bed!
Later on, I realized it’s completely normal for Shih Tzus to feel scared of new sounds during grooming. A helpful tip when using clippers is to slowly introduce the sound. (More about this later!)
In this guide, I’ll show you exactly how to groom a Shih Tzu at home, step-by-step. Whether it’s brushing, bathing, trimming, or nail care, you’ll find tips to make Shih Tzu grooming easier, less stressful, and even enjoyable. With the right routine, grooming your Shih Tzu at home becomes a simple and rewarding part of caring for your pup.
Things You’ll Need – What’s in your grooming kit?
1. Clippers
Electric clippers for dogs are helpful equipment for grooming your dog. Electric clippers aren’t technically necessary. You can do the job with a sharp pair of rounded-end scissors, but they’ll do a better and more efficient job.
2. Combs
Combing is not really needed for short coats, but it is useful if you have long-haired Shih Tzus. A high-quality comb will remove any remaining mats and tangles from the body and face, leaving a neat, shiny coat.
3. Brush
Brushing Shih Tzu hair regularly is the best way to keep it healthy.
You will need a brush when grooming your Shih Tzu. Because you need to go through all that dense outer layer to get to that wooly inner layer, their double coat might make it difficult.
4. Shampoo and Conditioner
Choose a shampoo for Shih Tzus that eliminates dirt and oils without drying out the skin.
If regular dog shampoos irritate the skin, which occurs when the skin beneath the coat turns red, and your dog develops a scratching habit around those areas, you can switch to organic shampoos. Choose a high-quality conditioner to maintain your dog’s coat lustrous, glossy, and moisturized.
5. Nail Clippers and Grinders
Another must-have item in your grooming kit is nail clippers. Your Shih Tzu’s nails will need to be clipped when they’re already touching or clicking the floor, so even if your groomer takes care of them during haircut time, you’ll have to do it yourself in between visits.
Nail clippers are available in various sizes and have two basic designs: guillotine and scissors.
6. Ear Cleaner, Ear Powder, and Cotton Balls
As important as trimming nails, your dog needs proper ear cleaning. When grooming Shih Tzu ears, liquid ear cleaners and ear powders are recommended to remove excess hair easily.
7. Toothbrush and Toothpaste
Brushing your dog’s teeth is very important, so always choose a toothbrush with a soft bristle to make your dog comfortable while brushing.
Avoid using toothpaste made for humans because it will result in an upset stomach and digestive disturbances.
Step-by-Step Guide to Grooming a Shih Tzu at Home
Step 1. Prepare everything you will need.
Before you begin, gather all the tools you’ll need:
- Clippers (electric or manual)
- Brushes and combs (especially for long-haired Shih Tzus)
- High-quality dog shampoo and conditioner
- Nail clippers or grinders
- Ear cleaner, ear powder, and cotton balls
- Toothbrush and dog-friendly toothpaste
Set up in a space where your dog can’t easily escape, like a bathroom or a fenced-in yard.
Step 2. Comb your Shih Tzu’s hair.
When getting your Shih Tzu ready for a bath, the first thing you should do is comb out its coat.
Brushing or combing their hair and eliminating any tangles will be a lot easier while their hair is dry than trying to remove them after they’ve been washed. Begin at the bottom (the matted hair’s tips) and work your way up, carefully working out the tangles one at a time with the brush.
This is also a perfect time to help your pet relax. Try petting and praising your Shih Tzu while it sits in your lap. This will assist in calming your dog and preparing it for grooming.
Step 3. Give your Shih Tzu a bath.
You can bathe your dog in your sink or tub, depending on what is most convenient for you and your dog.
However, if you wash your dog with a spray nozzle attachment, it will be much easier. Wet your Shih Tzu thoroughly from the top of the head down after cleaning out all mats and tangles with your brush.
For the time being, avoid your Shih Tzu’s face. Instead, wipe their face and cleanse their eyes with a face cloth.
Apply the shampoo the same way, starting at the top and working your way down.
Rinse them off gently once they’ve been properly shampooed. Avoid getting water in their ears and protect their eyes and nose from irritation from the shampoo.
Step 4. Trim the nails.
Cut with your fingers while holding the nail clippers in your palm. Make a quick, clean cut by inserting your dog’s nail into the opening in the clippers. This will assist in keeping their nails from fraying.
Make sure only the white section of the nail is clipped. The quick, which is live tissue, is found in the pink region and will bleed if sliced.
If you’re worried about clipping your dog’s nails, have your groomer or vet tech demonstrate how to do it and how much to trim.
You might also use a nail grinder to polish your dog’s nails back.
If your dog’s nails bleed accidentally, put some cornstarch on them to stop the bleeding.
Step 5. Cut your Shih Tzu’s hair.
Trim your Shih Tzu’s hair with an electric hair clipper with a Number 10 blade. The Number 10 is long enough to keep your dog’s skin from being cut.
Most Shih Tzu haircuts involve shaving the rest of the dog’s body to the appropriate length after removing the beard and ear hair on the face.
Use the trimmer to get your Shih Tzu’s hair as short as you want it.
Pro Tip:
It’s completely normal for Shih Tzus to feel scared of new sounds during grooming, especially the clipper. If this is your dog’s first grooming experience at home, take time to help them adjust.
You can turn the clipper on and gently hold it near your Shih Tzu’s body without actually cutting any hair. Let them hear the sound and feel the vibration through your hand. Do this over a few short, calm sessions.
This small step made a huge difference for my dog, Cooper — and it will help your Shih Tzu, too. They’ll feel safer and less anxious when it’s finally time for their haircut.
Step 6. Clean the ears.
Do not use alcohol-based or hydrogen peroxide cleaners because it can irritate your dog’s ears. Once you have found a quality ear cleaner, put it into the ear canal and leave it there for a few minutes or as instructed.
Do it one ear at a time, carefully massaging the ear from the base to the outside of the ear. This will aid in the removal of all debris and wax.
Wipe the area and excess solution with a Muslim cloth or cotton pads. You can use a Q-Tip to gently wipe your dog’s ear folds, but never insert it into the ear canal since this will make your dog anxious.
Continue in the same way with the next ear.
Once you are done, release your hold and let your shih tzu shake its head.
Step 7. Brush their teeth.
Shih Tzus need regular brushing because they have smaller teeth than other dogs. Their teeth are also jammed, having small spaces that can easily have plaque and tartar.
Use a toothbrush with two sides and dog toothpaste. Scrub your dog’s teeth and gums as gently as possible with the toothbrush. Begin slowly and gradually increase the length of your sessions as your dog adjusts to the new routine.
Common Mistakes When Grooming a Shih Tzu at Home
1. Neglecting dental hygiene
Failing to brush a Shih Tzu’s teeth regularly leads to tartar buildup, gum disease, and expensive dental treatments down the line. Dental hygiene should be a consistent part of grooming, not an afterthought.
2. Bathing before brushing out mats
Mats and tangles should always be brushed out before bathing. Water will tighten existing mats, making them harder to remove and potentially causing discomfort or skin irritation.
3. Cutting nails too short and hitting the quick
Clipping too far down can cut into the quick, causing pain and bleeding. Always trim conservatively if you’re unsure where the quick ends. If in doubt, ask your vet or groomer for guidance.
4. Using human shampoo instead of dog-specific products
Human shampoos, even baby shampoos, can disrupt a Shih Tzu’s sensitive skin pH and lead to irritation, dryness, and allergic reactions. Always choose a gentle, dog-formulated shampoo.
5. Ignoring tear stains around the eyes
Tear stains are common in Shih Tzus and require regular wiping with a damp cloth or a vet-approved tear stain remover. Neglecting this can lead to unsightly staining and skin irritation beneath the eyes.
6. Skipping ear checks and cleanings
Shih Tzus are prone to ear infections due to their floppy ears and hair growth inside the ear canal. Skipping routine ear checks can allow wax, debris, and moisture to build up, increasing the risk of infection.
7. Not introducing grooming tools gradually
Many owners rush grooming without allowing their dog to adjust to the sounds and sensations of clippers, dryers, and brushes. Take time to desensitize your Shih Tzu by introducing each tool gradually in short, positive sessions.
8. Rushing through grooming sessions
Grooming requires patience. Rushing can lead to mistakes, injury, or increased fear and anxiety in your dog. Set aside enough time to complete each task calmly and safely.
Summary of Grooming Task
| GROOMING TASKS | HOW OFTEN |
|---|---|
| Brushing | You should brush your dog’s hair every couple of days, regardless of the length of the coat. Brushing or combing can have a specific purpose, such as removing hair mats or helping your dog shed his seasonal coat, but most of the time, you will be brushing or combing for general purposes. |
| Bathing | You should bathe your Shih Tzu every 3 to 4 weeks. Bathing your dog frequently can reduce their coat’s natural oils, making them feel itchy. Only wash your dog when necessary, such as when it is dirty or smelly. |
| Hair Trimming | Regular hair maintenance is needed for a Shih Tzu. Avoid allowing their hair to touch their eyeballs to avoid irritation. |
| Nail Trimming | Dog nails should be trimmed or clipped about every two weeks. It is also a perfect time to trim if your dog’s nails are already touching the ground when standing. |
| Teeth Brushing | Your Shih Tzu needs frequent tooth brushing because their teeth are jammed into a smaller space. Plaque and tartar development are more likely as a result of this. |
| Ear Cleaning | Cleaning your dog’s ears once a week is recommended. |
When Should You Bring Your Shih Tzu To A Groomer
Grooming pets is a demanding, hands-on task. While it is unquestionably satisfying, it also carries the risk of dog grooming injuries and accidents.
If you have mistakenly done a routine for your dog and are now afraid to do another task, you’d better seek professional help.
They are not only qualified and competent in their work, but they may also save you time and effort. Grooming a dog, especially a fluffy one, a puppy, or one with behavioral issues, needs much attention and patience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the right haircut for a Shih Tzu?
When it comes to Shih Tzu haircuts, you have many options. They all look good, from a top knot to a teddy bear cut.
So, when it comes to the ideal haircut, it all comes down to personal preference and how much grooming you want to perform daily. But the most popular hairstyles are the teddy bear cut and the practical top knot.
Is it okay to shave a Shih Tzu?
Shaving a Shih Tzu makes grooming much easier, but you must be prepared to take steps to keep them safe from the elements before you do so. That means finding ways to keep them warm in the winter and cold in the summer and protected from the sun’s heat.
If you’re able to do so and want to have your Shih Tzu shaved so you don’t have to groom them as often, go ahead. Keep in mind that it is your responsibility to keep your Shih Tzu safe, comfortable, and pain-free.
How often should a Shih Tzu be groomed?
Brush every 2–3 days, bathe every 3–4 weeks, and trim nails every 2 weeks.
Can I groom my Shih Tzu myself at home?
Yes! With patience, practice, and the right tools, home grooming is entirely doable.
How do I calm my Shih Tzu during grooming?
Introduce grooming tools gradually, use positive reinforcement, and create a calm environment.
Conclusion
Above all, have fun! Grooming is quite easy to do at home because Shih Tzus are such good-natured and obedient dogs. If you take it slow and don’t rush through anything, you will find a lot of enjoyment in caring for your own dog. You can let your creativity shine through when you figure out how to groom your Shih Tzu.
We hope you have learned more about grooming a Shih Tzu at home and are now prepared to groom your pet. Good luck and happy fur-parenting!
You can get many more tips and tricks for your Shih Tzu here.
