How to Groom Shih Tzu Dogs

The Shih Tzu is a small, sturdy breed of dog that originated from China and Tibet. It's one of the oldest breeds known and is a cross between the Tibetan Mountain Dog, the Lhasa Apso and the Pekingese. The breed was introduced to the U.S. during the two World Wars when American soldiers bought them home after service and was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1969. Shih Tzus are popular due to their perceived cuteness, calm temperament and intelligence. Due to the fact that Shih Tzus have long hair, they need to be groomed at least every other day.

Things You'll Need

  • Bristle brush
  • Steel comb
  • Scissors
  • Bath mats
  • Shampoo
  • Dog hair conditioner (optional)
  • Towel
  • Dog nail clippers
  • Q-tips
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Instructions

    • 1

      De-tangle your Shih Tzu's coat using first a bristle brush and then a comb. The comb's teeth should be 3 to 4 inches in length so the entire coat can be groomed. If your dog's hair is particularly matted, you may have to cut some of its coat away with scissors. Trying to free a very knotted section of hair can be painful for your dog and in the worst cases can tear its skin. Make sure that all knotting is removed before putting your dog into a bath as water can aggravate tangled hair.

    • 2

      Place the bath mats in a bath so that your dog doesn't slip while it's being washed and fill the tub with lukewarm water to a level no higher than the dog's chest.

    • 3

      Place your dog in the bath and apply shampoo to its coat. Work the shampoo into your Shih Tzu's coat leaving its head until last. Shih Tzus generally cooperate well when being bathed. Take particular care when washing around the dog's eyes and ears. Rinse your dog thoroughly with lukewarm water once it has been washed. Repeat the process with dog hair conditioner if required.

    • 4

      Remove your dog from the bath and gently towel it dry. Keep your dog wrapped in a towel for at least 20 minutes to allow it dry properly and then comb its hair with a clean comb.

    • 5

      Trim your dog's nails with clippers. As Shih Tzus don't require as much exercise as other breeds of dog, their nails can quickly become too long. Although this will not need to be done during every grooming session, it's important to keep your dog's nails trimmed as they can present a health hazard if they are allowed to grow unmonitored.

    • 6

      Clean your dog's ears gently with a Q-tip.