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Do you own a Shih Tzu?Or are you project to adopt one ?
Well , you should know that grooming is one of the most crucial prospect of owning this frankfurter stock .
preparation is just as important as exercise and grooming , and this web log can beyourultimate guide on how to groom a Shih Tzu .
learn how to groom a frump in good order is significant !
Pet owner should recognise the staple even if it is n’t a full - military service groom .
Shih Tzusare renowned for their thick , flowy whisker .
They have a soft , retentive , double coat of hair that needs regular dressing , especially if kept long and flowy or else of short .
They have various pelage colors and different pattern .
Below , we ’ll guide you stone’s throw - by - footstep to ensure your Shih Tzu is clean and salubrious .
But first , let ’s talk about why you need to ascertain how to groom a Shih Tzu .
Why Learn How to Groom Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus has a beautiful coat that only throw minimally , which is gravid , especially for favourite possessor with a sib , parent , or children with allergies .
But why learn how to groom a Shih Tzu ?
Shih Tzus ’s silky long hairmust be regularly groomed to avoid getting tangled and keep matting .
If you ’re a long - clip Shih Tzu possessor , you ’d make out that this breed take to be cut down , specially during the hot or warm season .
And regular visits to a professional groomer can be costly .
On the other hand , groom at homecan be very difficult , especially if you ’re doing it alone with no help .
But with this guide , you may learn how to dress a Shih Tzu at home , and you ’ll be able to save immense amounts of money for not regularly booking appointments to the grooming salon .
Shih Tzu Grooming Kit: What are the Tools Needed?
Now that we ’ve convinced you to set off find out how to curry a Shih Tzu , you ’ll require the proper tools to do it !
corrupt a mellow - qualitygrooming kitis a great investment .
A near grooming outfit by and large comes with various putz like hair clippers , a combing , nail clippers , supererogatory clipper blades , scissors , clipper ship oil , and sometimes , a de - shedding skirmish .
But having anat - nursing home groom kitdoesn’t need to be lavish . you’re able to just start with a simple kit .
bug out familiarizing yourself and wait for your pup to feel more easy with grooming , and then you may add up to it .
In addition , on a regular basis sweep your Shih Tzu will not only keep your frump ’s coat healthy and mat - free , but it can also foreclose parasites such as flea and check mark , skin lesions , and other potential illnesses .
Basic Grooming Supplies Needed
Your basic home plate grooming kit should have , at the very least , the chase :
Groomer Vs. At-Home
Many pet owners bring their Shih Tzu to their most rely groomer . And for some of the tasks below , it ’s the better choice to do so .
So , what are the advantage of get an appointment with a groomer vs. doing it all by yourself ?
Professional Groomer
A professional groomer can give your Shih Tzu right trims and cuts .
This dog breed ’s coats grow fast , andan experienced groomer can be the honest option for trims and creating specific hairstyles .
There are also dog owners who feel nervous when it ’s time to clip their dog ’s nails .
clearly so . Who would want to hurt their dog ’s paw by chance ?
And as talk about above , some pet possessor go to the beauty parlour to get their dog ’s anal glands expressed .
However , some owners avoid rifle to groomers since their puppy or hound is uncomfortable or uneasy during visit .
A dog normally remove 3 to 5 visits to feel somewhat relaxedor acclimate to the salon or the specific groomer .
you could always choose a grooming beauty salon that offer visitor windows where you could watch your Shih Tzu be groom .
This way , you may monitor everything being done and how your click reacts .
Grooming At Home
Easy project such as brush , bathing , eye and ear cleansing , nozzle care , and more are easy done at home .
Dogs get accustomed to these since these job are done regularly .
brush , bath , eye care , face wiping , paw , nail trimming , and nose care will all need to be done at plate since these need to be done frequently .
How To Groom A Shih Tzu At Home:Step-by-step Guide
Before protrude , it ’s of import tohelp your dog experience comfortable first .
You should bonk that the skin and hair of a cad are tender , and just one minor mistake can hurt Fido .
Remember that frankfurter remember these thing , and future grooming session can be much unvoiced than the last one due to a bad experience .
Be patient and take special care when grooming .
Start by brushing his hairsbreadth with your hands just like you ’re petting him . congratulate how good he looks and give him band of love .
Once he starts to feel comfy , begin the grooming mental process .
1. Prepare your workspace and grooming tools
Before you start your preparation physical process , you must find a well-off place to have your session .
Find a sporting orbit and aflat tablethat can serve as your train workspace .
But if Fido tends to be fidgety , assay getting an adjustable dressing arm , preferably with an adjustable clinch and a haunch bearer .
We urge thisPet Adjustable Grooming Table Armfrom the Breeze Touch Store .
Grooming arms greatly helps pet owners , specially if you ’ll groom your Shih Tzu alone .
It is comfy , and it can aid control excessive move .
2. Brushing a Shih Tzu
Now , permit ’s get disembarrass of mat and convoluted haircloth by brush .
Removing matte or tangled hair can assist make bathing prosperous ( which we ’ll do later , so prepare for that ! ) .
Dogs ' thick knots of hair will be denser when fuddled and harder to remove . Also , tangle in their coats can hook the clipper .
You ’ll need to recover theright groom toolsto curry your whelp effectively .
prefer the right detent brush will assist make the dressing experience more enjoyable for both of you .
Using the amiss brushwood for your dog ’s coat type will still make problem such as shedding and matting .
Well , there are several different kinds of brush , each with a specific use .
get ’s discuss them !
A slicker light touch can be used for short - haired , long - hairy , double - coated , hypoallergenic , wire - haired , and curly coat .
Used dear for take away mats , shit , and debris . It can also help prevent knot and snarl .
A bristle brush can be used for little - haired , long - haired , hypoallergenic , and curly coat .
It is beneficial for eliminating dirt and debris on your Fido ’s pelage .
As the name indicates , the Tick and Flea Brush polish off tick , fleas , and their eggs . It is suited for almost all character of heel coats .
This thicket can help eliminate these parasites in their larvae degree or when they are not well seeable to the naked eye .
It is best used for daily brushing , removing tiny knots and mats , freeing tangles , and massaging .
The de - spiller brushwood is best for reducing shedding and absent old or damaged fur .
A forked - sided brush can be used for shortsighted , long , double - coated , hypoallergenic , wire - hirsute , and curly coat .
It removes mats , dirt , and debris and prevents knots and tangles .
“ So , Mitch , what would you recommend I utilize ? ”
Well , we recommend using a pin brush for long - hairy adult Shih Tzus .
For short - haired Shih Tzus , try a slicker brushto eliminate debris and promiscuous strands without causing scathe to your ducky .
A slicker brush can also help take away mat and tangle .
3. Bath Time!
After successfully remove tangled pilus and mats in your Shih Tzu ’s hair , the next step is to bathe Fido to ensure he is clean .
“ What shampoo should I use ? ”
Use quality dog shampoo and conditioner to keep your Shih Tzu ’s stunning , salubrious coat .
now , some shampoo are specifically made for pawl .
All - natural detent shampoo and conditioners are free from chemicals or artificial dyes .
Some shampoos are made to help lighten itching and dry skin , and some are for sensible or pissed off tegument .
If you ’re struggling to pick what shampoo to buy , tryHealthy Breeds Shih Tzu Chamomile Soothing Dog Shampoo .
When dry out your Shih Tzu , do gentle pats . Do n’t hale it or raspingly rub your deary !
Use a hairdryer on the downcast heat while gently brushing the coat with your hands .
4. Keeping the Eyes Clean
Shih Tzus can modernise discolored areas around the center due to normal centre discharge . That ’s one of the reason why it ’s important to clean your Shih Tzu ’s centre .
It is best to append this to your daily dressing process for your pup .
Shih Tzu ’s big eyes are more prone to excessive tearing , which can lead totear stainsand bacterial infections .
utilize pet rub for dogs and lightly wipe them around your Shih Tzu ’s center . you’re able to also use a fresh , damp cloth .
Remove mucus , dry rent , or debris around the optic . And while doing it , you’re able to also clean their whole face .
no matter of your dog ’s breed , cleaning a dog ’s eyes and checking for any problems is of import .
5. Clean the ears
Next , you ’ll need to pick your Shih Tzu ’s ears . This physical process is best done with anear - cleaning solution .
Pick a gentle capitulum cleaner to make clean and deodorize a dog ’s external capitulum canal .
Try out theVirbac Epi - Otic Advanced Ear Cleanser for Dogs .
Virbac Epi - Toic Advanced Ear Cleanser is a non - irritating resolution used during the routine cleansing of dog with sensitive auricle .
It helps remove dust and undue wax and dry the auricle canal .
This Cartesian product is commend for dearie with chronic otitis externa , which is inveterate inflammation of a dog ’s external ear canal .
But whatever mathematical product you select , espouse the manufacturer ’s instruction .
If you still need clearing , consult with your vet .
We recommend pouring a few drops of ear cleanser over a cotton fiber wool lump .
mildly rub it into your Shih Tzu ’s ears , then pass over away any leftover solution with a dry cotton ball subsequently .
Ear cleaning solutions should be order in the capitulum and let sit in the channel for a few minute .
Regularly cleanse your dog ’s pinna can help preventear infections . Clean your Shih Tzu ’s pinna around one to two times weekly .
6. Brushing your Shih Tzu’s teeth
Of naturally , do n’t draw a blank tobrush your Shih Tzu ’s tooth . In fact , thisshould be admit in their hebdomadal grooming routine .
Even daily brushing of tooth is good for preventing tartar buildup and removing bacteria hang around inside their mouths .
Do n’t bank on treats or kibble that say they can scavenge your andiron ’s tooth because the truth is , it is not enough to keep your Shih Tzu ’s mouth healthy and clean .
Try using adual - headed toothbrushfor small dogs , as it help simplify cleaning heart - to - reach areas .
Put a modest amount of toothpaste specifically for dogs and softly and light hold pressure but tauten enough to strip their teeth .
7. Nail Trimming
Now for your pup ’s pedicure ! Nail trim is also part of Shih Tzu ’s grooming cognitive process .
Regularnail trimmingprevents overgrowth , uncomfortableness , and potential injuries .
When trimming their nails , a good pattern is never to let them touch the ground .
If you ’ve recently adopt a puppy , it ’s skilful to expose them to the sounds and feeling of have his nail trim back so that he can get familiarise while they ’re still young .
But before you start , you could make a first assistance outfit with a clotting agent likestyptic powder .
If you reach thequick , which is the vein in the midriff of the nail , you should forthwith pat hemostatic powder to lay off the bleeding .
Finding a position where your Shih Tzu feels relaxed or comfortable is important .
bulge by thinly touching your cad ’s paw . disturb the areas around and in between their toe .
you’re able to also give your Shih Tzu his favorite treats while doing this so he ’ll be more accepting and assort the bodily process with a plus experience .
However , remember only to reward your pup when they display good behavior . Do n’t give them treat when they are too move , biting , or resist .
Once your Shih Tzu is calm , obedient , and still , you could start clipping Fido ’s nails . Take it dull and be soft .
Make small cuts on the nail and only cut the white portion of the nail . Once you see the pitch-black pane , it ’s your cue to finish trim back since it indicates the start of the quick .
If you want to make thing loose , use anail grinderinstead of a nail clipper . However , this creature is normally more costly .
8. Expressing the Anal Glands
“ state the what now ? ”
anal retentive sacs or anal retentive glandsare the scent glands found on both side of the dog ’s rectum .
Dogs apply these glands to check their district and communicate with other dogs .
They in reality regularly express or empty their Sac in humble amounts because if they do n’t , it can be dreadful , and potential health problems can happen .
If you see your whelp scooting all over the floor , it may be time for these gland to be express .
And let me give you a head up : expressing anal retentive secretor can be smelly and mussy .
That ’s why many favorite owners prefer to have it done by a professional groomer or at the clinic .
Bring Fido to the vet , specially if he has full or impacted glands .
But we can do the job ourselves if they need help clearing their glands .
It sounds intimidating , sure , but it ’s easy than you might think .
Just lightly squeeze them to get the fluid out .
But it ’s still best to learn this function from a professional groomer or your most trusted vet to protect your Shih Tzu from injuries or infections .
9. Shih Tzu Haircuts
Last in the neaten process is haircuts .
If you own a Shih Tzu or design to assume one , you should bang there are three vulgar Shi Tzu haircuts : puppy cut , show cut , andteddy bear .
First , we have the puppy track .
This is where the Shih Tzu ’s hair is cut to one to two column inch long .
Grooming a Shih Tzu with the puppy cut is promiscuous and must only be done at least every three months .
Even though this is the perfect elan for them during the summertime , be careful not to allow your Shih Tzu get a erythema solare .
persist in to brush their hair day by day to keep it light and beautiful .
Next , the Shih Tzu show cut is the key signature flair of the stock .
The haircut include a longsighted flowing coating that elegantly sweeps across the floor when they walk .
It also has a touch top grayback at the top of their heads .
However , the show baseball swing requires the most maintenance to keep the coat intelligent and snarl - free .
If you need help to clean which coiffure is unspoilt for your pup , relate it to how much time you have to commit during preparation .
For case , you could pick out the show cut for Shih Tzu possessor who are always at home base and have lots of time on their hand .
But if your meter is limited , opting for the shorter hairstyle or puppy cut might be the best .
On the other hand , the teddy bear haircut is my favourite since it ’s the cutest fashion for the stock ( well , at least for me , it is ) .
It is also the perfect low - criminal maintenance hairdo that testify the playful personality of a Shih Tzu .
A teddy bear haircut is all about being pear-shaped . dress a round face , round leg , and round manus .
The hair on the head and cheek is prune , but the trunk is clipped tight to give that extra flossy and cute appearance .
For more Shih Tzu haircut options , chequer out this article:12 Best Shih Tzu Haircut and Hairstyles to Try
How Often Should I Groom My Shih Tzu at Home?
Every dog is unique , and many hotdog breed have different or special grooming need .
So , how often should yougroom your Shih Tzu ?
you may adjust the prison term of doing each task based on your dog ’s specific needs .
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you groom a Shih Tzu yourself?
Yes ! The Shih Tzu ’s cunning physiques are usually observe by regular grooming and haircuts .
And if you plan to depend on professional groomers , it ’ll cost you a ton of money .
That ’s why many Shih Tzu owners learn and groom their Shih Tzu at home .
How often should a Shih Tzu be bathed?
It is counsel to bath your Shih Tzu once every three weeks .
However , if your Shih Tzu just recently played in your cloudy yard , then it definitely ask a bath .
Is it okay not to cut Shih Tzu’s hair?
Generally , Shih Tzus should be groomed every 4 to 6 week . Without regular grooming , their coating will become hard mat up .
Shih Tzus will have difficulty seeing and walking due to the mats on their coat .
How To Groom A Shih Tzu At Home: Before You Go…
Grooming is a very important scene of maintaining yourShih Tzu’shealth .
Regular brushing , bathing , nail clipping , ears and center cleaning , and teeth brushing avail your dog keep their adorable aesthetics and promote healthy skin and pelt .
you could hear how to dress your Shih Tzu at home with the right tools , procedure , and patience .
Initially , it wo n’t be easy , and your dog might get anxious .
That ’s why it ’s in effect to be serene and do everything possible to help them find relaxed and dependable .
Proper grooming can go a long way . It can help keep your Shih Tzu well-chosen , good for you , and beautiful .
Want to learn more about taking care of yourShih Tzu ? determine out our recommended articles below !