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When seen floating across the show ring, the long, flowing Shih Tzu coat is dramatic and eye-catching. Comprised of two distinct layers, the Shih Tzu coat comes in many colors. Their topcoat is long and silky, while the undercoat is fleecy and feathery. But maintaining that coat requires bathing, brushing, and consistent care.
In This Article
Get to Know Your Dog’s Coat
Not all Shih Tzu coats are the same, so it may take a little trial and error to get just the right grooming system down. Some coats are thicker, while others are softer. Many Shih Tzu coats can also change when the dog is around 10 to 12 months old. Mats can form, so keeping on top of it will prevent headaches later.
Finding the Right Haircut
Many Shih Tzu owners keep their dogs’ hair clipped short. As with other toy breeds with long, silky coats, a skilled groomer can give your dog a “puppy clip.” This haircut is an especially good choice if your dog’s coat tends to tangle easily or if you’re just not up for maintaining a show-ready coat. Shih Tzus with this haircut typically need to be groomed about every four to six weeks.
Establishing a Grooming Routine
Shih Tzu with longer coats require daily brushing with a good-quality wire brush. Be sure to use one with flexible pins and don’t forget to layer the dog’s hair so you reach their skin. You must also comb their mustache and topknot daily. To help keep the dog’s coat clean, it’s important to also give them a bath about every three or four weeks.
While they’re certainly cute, a top knot is also an easy way to protect a Shih Tzu’s dark, expressive eyes. Along with their mustache, this hair on top of the head in should be combed daily, so it’s important to carefully remove and change the top knot each day. Shih Tzu owners can also keep this hair trimmed short.
Key Takeaways
- The Shih Tzu has a double coat consisting of a silky outer coat and a soft undercoat.
- Coat texture varies between dogs, and many Shih Tzu experience coat changes during adolescence.
- A puppy clip can make grooming more manageable and typically requires professional maintenance every four to six weeks.
- Long-coated Shih Tzu require daily brushing and bathing about every three to four weeks.
- The mustache and topknot need daily care to prevent tangles and help protect the eyes.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How often should a long-coated Shih Tzu be brushed?
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A long-coated Shih Tzu should be brushed daily to prevent mats and tangles from forming throughout the double coat. Brushing in layers helps ensure the entire coat is maintained, not just the surface hair.
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What is a puppy clip for a Shih Tzu?
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A puppy clip is a shorter haircut that makes a Shih Tzu’s coat easier to maintain. Many owners choose this style if they prefer less daily grooming or if their dog’s coat tangles easily. -
How often should a Shih Tzu with a puppy clip visit a groomer?
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Most Shih Tzu with a puppy clip benefit from professional grooming every four to six weeks to keep the coat neat and manageable.
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Why does a Shih Tzu need a topknot?
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A topknot helps keep hair away from a Shih Tzu’s eyes, reducing the risk of irritation. It also helps manage the long facial hair that is characteristic of the breed.
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How often should a Shih Tzu's mustache and topknot be combed?
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A Shih Tzu’s mustache and topknot should be combed daily to prevent tangles, maintain cleanliness, and keep the facial hair comfortable and well maintained.
This article is intended solely as general guidance, and does not constitute health or other professional advice. Individual situations and applicable laws vary by jurisdiction, and you are encouraged to obtain appropriate advice from qualified professionals in the applicable jurisdictions. We make no representations or warranties concerning any course of action taken by any person following or otherwise using the information offered or provided in this article, including any such information associated with and provided in connection with third-party products, and we will not be liable for any direct, indirect, consequential, special, exemplary or other damages that may result, including but not limited to economic loss, injury, illness or death.