How to Groom and Bathe a Shih Tzu Puppy

Adult shih tzu dogs have a long and flowing coat. Frequent grooming, preferably daily, is essential for an adult shih tzu, otherwise their coats will become matted and uncomfortable. Shih tzu puppies 10 months old or younger have a much shorter and more manageable coat, but regular grooming is still advisable to keep your pet clean and happy. Grooming your shih tzu puppy regularly will also help it become accustomed to being groomed this will make the procedure much easier through out the dog's life..

Things You'll Need

  • Pin brush
  • Metal dog comb
  • Cotton balls
  • Scissors
  • Dog shampoo
  • Towel
  • Non-slip rubber bath mat
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place your puppy on a raised, flat surface so that you will not have to bend down to the floor to groom it. This could be a counter top, table or a specialist grooming table.

    • 2

      Brush your shih tzu puppy, using the pin brush. Brush through the coat on the back, neck, stomach and legs.

    • 3

      Comb through the areas you have just brushed using the metal dog comb. If any areas of matted hair have developed, gently work them out with the comb. The most common locations for mats are in the arm pits, behind the ears and on the back of the thighs. You will also need to carefully comb your shih tzu puppy's face.

    • 4

      Trim any hair which is getting into your puppy's eyes with the scissors, as this can cause infection and discomfort.

    • 5

      Wipe your shih tzu puppy's ears and eyes with damp cotton balls. Use a clean cotton ball for each ear and each eye.

    • 6

      Bathe your puppy every six to eight weeks, or more frequently if necessary. Place your puppy in your bath tub, with a non-slip rubber bath mat secured inside, and wet the dog with your shower head. Apply dog shampoo and massage it into your puppy's coat, avoiding the eyes and nose. Rinse out all the soap from your puppy's coat and dry the puppy using a towel.