Shih Tzu Grooming Made Easy: Step-by-Step Guide & Essential Tools for a Healthy Coat

If you have a Shih Tzu, you already know that their long, flowing coat is both beautiful and high maintenance. 

When I first got my Shih Tzu, I had no idea how much Shih Tzu grooming they actually needed! 

Regular Shih Tzu grooming isn’t just about keeping them looking cute—it’s essential for their comfort and overall health. 

The best part? You don’t need to be a professional groomer to do it yourself at home. 

With a little patience and the right dog grooming tools, I’ve learned how to groom my Shih Tzu at home, and I’m here to help you do the same!

In this guide, I’ll walk you through a simple, step-by-step grooming routine, share must-have grooming tools, and give you tips that have made DIY dog grooming easier for me. 

Whether your Shih Tzu resists bath time or turns into a tangle monster, I’ve got practical solutions that will make the process smoother for both of you!

Understanding Your Shih Tzu’s Unique Coat

Shih Tzus have a thick, double-layer coat that keeps growing, which means regular maintenance is a must. When I first brought my pup home, I underestimated how quickly their fur could mat if I skipped brushing for just a couple of days!

Common Grooming Challenges:

• Matting & Tangles – If I don’t brush my dog regularly, mats form quickly and can be painful to remove.
• Tear Stains – Shih Tzus are prone to watery eyes, which can lead to noticeable brownish stains.
• Ear Infections – Their floppy ears trap moisture, making them a breeding ground for bacteria.
• Nail Overgrowth – Long nails aren’t just uncomfortable; they also affect how they walk.
• Hygiene Trims – Keeping the hair around their eyes, paws, and sanitary areas trimmed helps prevent irritation and messes.

Once I developed a routine, Shih Tzu grooming became second nature. Let’s start with the right tools to make things easier.

Essential Grooming Tools You’ll Need

You don’t need an expensive salon setup, but having the right tools will make home dog grooming much easier and less stressful.

Brushing & Detangling:

• Pin Brush & Slicker Brush – Essential for keeping their coat smooth and free from tangles.
• Wide-Tooth Comb – My go-to for gently working through knots without pulling.
• Dematting Tool – This was a game-changer for tackling stubborn mats without hurting my pup.

Bathing & Drying:

• Gentle Dog Shampoo & Conditioner – I always opt for a hypoallergenic formula to avoid skin irritation.
• Soft Towels & Pet-Friendly Blow Dryer – Helps speed up drying without overheating their sensitive skin.

Trimming & Clipping:

• Quality Dog Clippers & Scissors – Clippers for body trimming, rounded-tip scissors for facial and paw areas.
• Nail Clippers or Grinder – I prefer a grinder because it smooths out the edges and reduces the risk of cutting too deep.

Face, Ear & Dental Care:

• Tear Stain Remover & Soft Cloth – A must-have for keeping their eyes clean.
• Dog-Safe Ear Cleaner & Cotton Pads – I use these weekly to keep ear infections at bay.
• Pet Toothbrush & Toothpaste – Good dental hygiene helps prevent bad breath and gum disease.

Now that we have our tools, let’s dive into the Shih Tzu grooming routine!

Step-by-Step Guide to Grooming a Shih Tzu at Home

Step 1: Brushing (Daily or Every Other Day)

• I start with a pin brush to remove loose fur and prevent tangles.
• If I find knots, I use a dematting tool before moving on to a comb for a smooth finish.
• Working from the ends of the fur upward helps minimize discomfort.

Step 2: Bathing & Drying (Every 3-4 Weeks)

• I use lukewarm water and massage in a gentle dog shampoo to lather.
• Rinsing thoroughly is key—any leftover shampoo can cause irritation.
• I towel-dry and then use a blow dryer on low heat, brushing as I go to prevent matting.

Step 3: Trimming the Coat (Every 4-6 Weeks)

• I go for the puppy cut because it’s easy to maintain.
• Clippers handle the body, while I use scissors for the face, paws, and sanitary areas.
• Around the eyes, I’m extra careful—Shih Tzus have sensitive, bulging eyes that can get irritated easily.

Step 4: Cleaning the Eyes & Ears (Weekly)

• I wipe away tear stains with a soft cloth and tear stain remover.
• Checking for wax buildup or bad smells helps catch infections early.
• A quick wipe with dog-safe ear cleaner keeps ears fresh and clean.

Step 5: Nail Trimming (Every 3-4 Weeks)

• I gently hold my pup’s paw and trim small amounts at a time.
• Avoiding the quick (the pink part inside the nail) is crucial to prevent bleeding.

Step 6: Dental Care (Daily or Weekly)

• I brush their teeth using a soft-bristled toothbrush and dog-safe toothpaste.
• When brushing isn’t possible, dental chews or water additives help maintain oral hygiene.

Final Thoughts – Keeping Your Shih Tzu Well-Groomed & Happy

Shih Tzu grooming at home took practice, but now it’s second nature. With the right dog grooming tools, patience, and a consistent routine, your pup will always look and feel their best. Plus, grooming is a great bonding time!

Have you tried DIY dog grooming for your Shih Tzu? Share your experience and tips in the comments below!