The Shih Tzu breed is one of the most beloved dog breeds around the world – and for good reason. These small dogs are perky and irresistibly cuddly, with glamorous and flowing coats and charming floppy ears. While they may look like mere lapdogs, the Shih Tzu has an interesting history that goes back at least 1,000 years. Originating in Tibet in the 7th century, Shih Tzus were offered as presents to the Chinese royalty, a tradition that continued for centuries. Today, Shih Tzus are known as happy, little balls of fluff that just love being spoiled, and they look best with a fair amount of grooming.
While professional grooming is always an option, is it possible to groom a Shih Tzu at home? The answer is yes! With proper preparation and the right tools and equipment, you can give your furry baby a snazzy cut and a professionally groomed result. Not only does this strengthen the bond between you, but it also helps you learn how to care for your Shih Tzu better. So, if you’re ready to groom your little canine buddy at home, let’s dive into the proper steps to ensure a successful grooming session.
1. Prepare Your Workspace and Grooming Equipment
Before you start grooming your Shih Tzu, it’s important to find an area that’s roomy and comfortable enough for your grooming session, like a table with a flat, clean surface. If your Shih Tzu likes to squirm around, you may want to get an adjustable grooming arm with an adjustable clamp and a haunch holder. This will help control excessive movement while keeping your pet comfortable.
It’s also important to gather all the necessary supplies for your DIY grooming session. Here are the tools and equipment you’ll need:
For Hair Brushing:
– A dog brush with flexible pins
For Bathing:
– Dog shampoo and conditioner
– A non-slip mat
– A shower nozzle
– A hairdryer
– Clean towels
– A washcloth
For Cleaning the Eyes, Ears, and Teeth:
– Soft wet wipes for eyes
– Ear-cleaning solution
– Cotton-tipped swabs
– Cotton balls
For Nail Trimming:
– Dog nail trimmers/filer
For Doing a Puppy Cut:
– Electric clippers
– A fine slicker brush
– A dematting comb
– Blunt-tipped scissors
– A steel comb
– A spray nozzle for the sink/tub
2. Get Rid of Matted and Tangled Hair
Before bathing your Shih Tzu, it’s important to remove any matted or tangled hair to make the process easier. Use a pin brush for long-haired adult Shih Tzus or a slicker brush for short-coat Shih Tzus. A de-matting comb helps detangle hard-to-reach spots, and a steel comb gets rid of excess hair and small mats easily. To prevent unwanted matting, it’s best to maintain a brushing routine that keeps your Shih Tzu’s double coat looking great.
3. Bathe and Dry Your Dog Carefully
After getting rid of matted and tangled hair, give your Shih Tzu a nice bath using lukewarm water and quality dog shampoo and conditioner. Make sure to cleanse areas around the mouth and eyes properly while avoiding getting water on their face, especially up the nose. Use a shower nozzle to minimize spillage and rinse thoroughly to prevent residue buildup. Afterward, be sure to dry your Shih Tzu carefully by patting them gently with a towel, then using a hairdryer on the lowest heat setting while lightly brushing the coat with your fingers.
4. Keep Your Shih Tzu Relaxed
Shih Tzus can get easily frightened or anxious during grooming sessions. To ensure a less stressful experience, create a soothing background sound, like playing some calming music or TV. Playing with your dog’s paws before grooming helps your pet feel more comfortable. Incorporating simple grooming habits into your dog’s regular routine also helps. Give your Shih Tzu plenty of treats and praise throughout the grooming process, and avoid scolding them if they keep wiggling.
5. Clean That Adorable Puppy Face
Shih Tzus pick up dirt, debris, and food particles quickly that could get stuck in their double coat. Daily face cleaning is essential to keep your dog looking clean and beautiful. Grooming wipes are an effective way to get rid of tear stains, dirt, and moist buildup around the eyes.
By following these easy steps, you can properly and safely groom your Shih Tzu at home. Grooming your little furry buddy strengthens your bond with them and helps you learn how to care for them better.
