How to groom a Shih Tzu — a practical guide
A step-by-step grooming guide for Shih Tzu owners — what to do, how often, and the honest truth about keeping that coat beautiful.
Shih Tzus are famous for their luxurious coats, but that beauty comes with work. This guide covers everything Pepper's humans have learned — from daily brushing to professional grooms — so you can keep your pup happy, healthy, and less tangled.
The grooming routine
Daily brushing
Use a pin brush or slicker brush to work through the coat in sections, starting at the ends and moving toward the skin. Pay extra attention behind the ears, under the legs, and around the collar — these are tangle hotspots. A quick 5–10 minutes each day prevents mats from forming and keeps the coat silky.
Bathing
Shih Tzus need a bath every 2–4 weeks. Use lukewarm water and a gentle, pH-balanced dog shampoo. Massage the coat thoroughly, rinse until the water runs clear, and follow with conditioner for easier brushing. Dry with a low-heat dryer or towel — damp undercoat can lead to skin issues.
Face & eye cleaning
Those big eyes produce tear stains. Wipe the face daily with a soft, damp cloth or dog-safe eye wipes. Keep the hair around the eyes trimmed short — it reduces irritation and keeps their vision clear. Be gentle; the area is sensitive.
Ear care
Shih Tzus have floppy ears that trap moisture. Check ears weekly for wax, odor, or redness. Clean the outer ear with a vet-recommended ear cleaner and a cotton pad — never insert anything into the ear canal. Dry ears thoroughly after baths.
Nail trimming
Trim nails every 1–2 weeks, or when you hear them clicking on hard floors. Use a guillotine-style clipper or grinder. If you nick the quick, styptic powder stops the bleeding. Go slow, reward with treats, and do one paw at a time if your pup is restless.
Paw & hygiene trim
Trim the hair between paw pads to prevent slipping and matting. Keep the sanitary area tidy with blunt-tip scissors. A neat topknot or ponytail keeps hair out of the eyes — use a soft band, never elastic that can snag.
Tools you'll need
You don't need a professional setup — just a few reliable tools and a patient pup.
Pin brush & slicker brush
A pin brush for daily detangling and a slicker brush for working out small mats.
Metal comb & scissors
A fine-tooth comb for checking for hidden tangles. Blunt-tip scissors for safe paw and sanitary trims.
Gentle dog shampoo & conditioner
A mild, pH-balanced formula. Conditioner makes brushing easier and keeps the coat soft.
Eye wipes & ear cleaner
Soft, pre-moistened wipes for daily face cleaning. A gentle ear cleaner for weekly maintenance.
Grooming schedule
A realistic routine you can actually stick to.
The honest truth? Some days Pepper gets a full brush. Other days we settle for a quick face wipe and a promise to do better tomorrow. Consistency matters more than perfection.
Still have questions?
Every Shih Tzu is a little different. If you want tips for your specific situation, send Pepper a message.