The Shih Tzu's long, flowing double coat is beautiful — but it demands daily attention. Without regular brushing, their hair mats quickly and can cause painful skin problems. Here you'll find everything from daily brushing routines and bathing schedules to professional grooming tips and the most common mistakes that damage your Shih Tzu's coat.
Educational resource only. Always consult a veterinarian or certified trainer for your Shih Tzu's specific needs.
Brush your Shih Tzu every day with a pin brush and metal comb. Always mist the coat with detangler spray first — brushing dry hair causes breakage. Start from the ends and work up to the roots.
Bathe every 3-4 weeks using a gentle, pH-balanced dog shampoo. Always brush out mats before bathing — water tightens tangles and makes them impossible to remove. Dry thoroughly to prevent skin infections.
Schedule professional grooming every 6-8 weeks for coat trimming, nail clipping, ear cleaning, and sanitary trims. Find a groomer experienced with brachycephalic breeds.
Clean around the eyes daily with a warm, damp cloth to prevent tear staining. Keep facial hair trimmed or tied up to avoid eye irritation. Use a tear stain remover if discoloration persists.
Common Shih Tzu care mistakes — skipping dental care, wrong harness type, overfeeding, poor socialization and more. Learn what to fix and why it matters for your dog's health.
Read guide →
Everything a Shih Tzu owner needs to know in one guide — daily care routine, grooming schedule, health monitoring, training basics, and common behavior solutions.
Read guide →
Practical tips for tear stain removal, preventing tracheal collapse, easing separation anxiety, and simplifying grooming. 6 care shortcuts from experienced Shih Tzu owners.
Read guide →
Brushing dry coat, skipping ear cleaning, using wrong tools — 11 grooming mistakes that cause matting, skin irritation, and pain in Shih Tzus. Learn how to avoid each one.
Read guide →See grooming techniques in action — step-by-step demonstrations on our YouTube channel.
Watch on YouTube →