Shih Tzu Care

Proper Shih Tzu Care Starts With Great Hair

Shih Tzu show dogs rely on impeccable grooming for competing in shows. Their characteristic look is dependent on strict grooming guidelines and meticulous care of the long, flowing double coat. For Shih Tzu that are kept as pets, grooming is no less important in order to maintain the dog’s health and wellbeing. For pets, owners can usually handle most daily and weekly grooming requirements, but periodic visits to the groomer are a good idea.

Home Care Tips For Shih Tzu Coats

Caring for Shih Tzu puppies and dogs is not particularly difficult, but does require a good amount of dedicated time. Daily combing and brushing is the first and best step for taking care of any dog, especially long haired breeds like the Shih Tzu. A daily brushing habit will drastically cut down on tangles and mats while keeping the hair shiny and healthy. The face area should also receive a daily cleaning and washing. A weekly bath is also required and should take place after a thorough combing. Shih Tzu should be blow-dried for health reasons to prevent colds, as there is a lot of hair for such a small stature.

For families who want a low maintenance pet, it would be best to have the coat cut short by a groomer. Keeping a well trimmed coat will reduce a lot of the necessary grooming. They can be trimmed at home or brought to a groomer for an eye-catching and stylish cut; however, the long coat is one of the breed’s best aesthetic qualities! Long hair on the head allows the characteristic top knot and bow, which is a must for show dogs.

Promiseland Shih Tzu Show Dogs

When it comes to Shih Tzu show dogs, appearance is vital, so Promiseland Shih Tzu performs all of the grooming and care while getting ready to compete at a show and in between shows. All of the same care guidelines apply whether the dog is for show or a pet in the home. While never being really cut, a trim of feet and hygenic areas must be precise when a Shih Tzu is being shown. Impecable grooming is very important for champion Shih Tzu and Shih Tzu show dogs.

Show Dog Coat Requirements

The long, flowing double coat is the trademark Shih Tzu style. The coat should be trimmed to the length so it gently brushes the ground on all sides of the dog. The hair surrounding the face and eyes is also pulled up and styled into a top-knot with bow while it flows down around the ears and avoids covering their beautiful faces. The eyes and face require extra care and cleaning in order to prevent staining.  Promiseland Shih Tzu keeps up with all grooming requirements and uses the time to build a bond of love, trust and friendship with each of our Shih Tzu.

Other Care

Besides grooming, Shih Tzu are generally not fussy eaters and enjoy quality dry food. Supplements at meal time can be utilized to help promote a shiny coat and overall health. Shih Tzu are well-suited to indoor living and require only light daily exercise to maintain their vigor. When properly groomed and cared for, the Shih Tzu is a beautiful breed that can be a champion show dog or a loving pet.