Shih Tzu Grooming Guide: Coat, Face and Topknot

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Shih Tzu was bred as a companion, and their flowing coat and expressive face are a large part of the appeal. The breed has a long double coat and a flat face with prominent eyes, which together create real grooming demands. See also the Shih Tzu breed profile.

The coat

A Shih Tzu has a soft undercoat beneath a long, silky outer coat. Hair grows continuously, and tangles easily, especially behind the ears, under the legs and around the collar. See silky-coat grooming.

Brushing the long coat

Daily brushing is ideal.

1. Mist with a detangling spray or diluted conditioner.
2. Divide the coat in layers and brush each from the skin outward with a pin brush.
3. Check with a comb, paying attention to behind the ears, armpits, belly and the backs of the legs.

See pin brush vs bristle brush for dogs and how to prevent dog hair matting.

The easy option: a puppy clip

Many pet Shih Tzus wear a short puppy clip, about one to two inches. It is far easier to brush, quicker to dry and looks adorable. See how to give a dog a puppy cut at home. Book a groomer every six to eight weeks for this style.

Face care

The Shih Tzu face needs daily attention.

• Eyes. Wipe gently to remove discharge. See how to clean dog eyes safely.
• Tear stains. See how to remove tear stains from dogs.
• Hair around the eyes. Keep it trimmed to avoid corneal irritation. See how to trim the hair around a dog's eyes.
• Beard. Wipe after meals to avoid odor and staining.
• Skin folds. Check and dry any wrinkles on the muzzle.

Topknots

A topknot keeps long hair out of the eyes. Use a soft, snag-free band, gather the hair loosely and avoid pulling the skin tight. Take it down at night, brush the hair and redo it daily.

Bathing

Bathe every two to four weeks for long coats. Brush first, use a gentle shampoo and conditioner and dry thoroughly. See how to bathe a dog at home.

Ears

Shih Tzus have drop ears and hair in the canal, so check regularly for wax, redness and odor. See how to clean a dog's ears.

Teeth and nails

Small, flat-faced dogs have crowded teeth and are prone to dental disease, so brush them often. See how to brush a dog's teeth. Trim nails regularly. See how to trim dog nails safely.

Sanitary and paw trims

Keep hair around the rear and feet short. See how to do a sanitary trim.

Heat sensitivity

Flat-faced dogs overheat easily. Keep coats trimmed in summer and avoid exercise in the heat. See dog hot weather safety.

A daily Shih Tzu routine

1. Wipe the eyes and face with a damp pad.
2. Brush the coat in sections, with a spritz of conditioning spray.
3. Check the topknot and redo it with a clean, soft band.
4. Wipe the beard after meals.
5. Brush teeth and reward your dog.

Coat changes and coat length

Puppies have a softer, shorter coat that thickens and lengthens by about a year. Whatever length you choose, keep a regular rhythm of brushing and bathing, and revisit the style with your groomer as your dog ages and your lifestyle changes.

The takeaway

Choose between daily brushing for a long coat or a short clip, and give the face and teeth regular care. A groomed Shih Tzu is a joy.