DIY Shih Poo Haircuts: Should You Do Them?

Matthew Farthing 27.04.2023 0

Introduction: Why Cut Your Shih Poo’s Hair?

Maintaining your Shih Poo’s hair can be a challenge, but it is an essential part of pet grooming. Regular haircuts can give your furry friend a neat and polished look while preventing matting and tangling of the fur. Trimming your Shih Poo’s hair may seem like a daunting task, but it is not as complicated as you may think, and it has numerous benefits.

A well-groomed Shih Poo is not only pleasing to the eyes but also a healthier and happier pet. Long and tangled hair can lead to skin irritation, matting, and even infection. Regular haircuts are essential to maintain your pet’s hygiene and keep your furry friend comfortable. Besides, trimming your Shih Poo’s hair at home can save you a lot of money on professional grooming services.

While it may seem like a good idea to leave the haircuts to a professional, many pet owners choose to groom their pets at home, which can be an incredible bonding experience. Petting, brushing, and trimming your Shih Poo’s hair at home is an opportunity to develop a deeper connection with your furry friend.

However, some risks come with DIY haircuts. Without adequate expertise or the right equipment, you may end up with an uneven cut or cause injury to your pet. But, with the proper tools, practice, and patience, you can give your Shih Poo a salon-quality haircut at home.

This article will guide you through DIY Shih Poo haircuts, highlighting the benefits and risks, offering tips and tricks, and advising you on when it’s time to visit a professional groomer. The tips in this article will make the process less intimidating and more manageable for you and your furry friend. So, it’s time to grab your tools and give your Shih Poo a haircut to help keep it healthy and fashionable. Check out our article on Shih Poo Haircuts for more information about maintaining your pet’s coat.

Benefits of DIY Shih Poo Haircuts

DIY Shih Poo haircuts can be an excellent way to save money while also spending quality time with your furry companion. Additionally, cutting your Shih Poo’s hair yourself can give you greater control over the cut and allow you to experiment with different styles. However, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before taking on this task. Let’s take a closer look at the benefits of DIY Shih Poo haircuts. For more tips on grooming your Shih Poo’s coat, check out our article on Shih Poo coat tips.

1. Saves Money

When it comes to saving money on grooming expenses, DIY Shih Poo haircuts can be a great option. Regular visits to a professional groomer can quickly add up, but investing in some basic tools and taking the time to learn how to cut your Shih Poo’s hair can help you save a significant amount of money in the long run.

The Cost of Professional Grooming

According to statistics from the National Dog Groomers Association of America, the average cost of grooming a small dog like a Shih Poo is around $45 per session. Depending on your location, the price tag could be even higher. If you take your dog to the groomer once every six to eight weeks, you’ll end up spending hundreds of dollars each year on grooming alone.

The Savings of DIY Shih Poo Haircuts

On the other hand, investing in some basic grooming tools like clippers, shears, brushes, and combs can cost you anywhere from $50 to $200 upfront, depending on the quality of the tools you choose. However, once you have these tools, you can use them for years to come, which can save you hundreds or thousands of dollars on grooming expenses.

Additionally, with practice, you can learn to give your Shih Poo a professional-looking haircut without the expense of going to a groomer. You can even adjust the frequency of haircuts based on your dog’s needs, which can save you money in the long run. For more information on the best frequency for grooming your Shih Poo, check out our article on ‘Shih Poo Haircut Frequency: How Often Should You Groom Your Dog?‘

Expense	Professional Grooming	DIY Grooming
Grooming tools and equipment	N/A	$50-$200 (one-time expense)
Cost per grooming session	$45 on average	$0
Yearly grooming cost (5 sessions)	$225	$0

While DIY grooming isn’t for everyone, it can be a great way to save some money while taking care of your furry friend’s grooming needs. Just make sure to invest in high-quality grooming tools and do your research to learn the proper techniques for a safe and effective grooming experience. For more information on the evolution of Shih Poo haircuts and the best grooming accessories for your pup, check out our articles on ‘The Evolution of Shih Poo Haircuts‘ and ‘Perfect Shih Poo Haircut Grooming Accessories: A Guide to Top Products‘.

2. Bonding Experience

Grooming your Shih Poo can be more than just a task that needs to be done. It can also be a bonding experience between you and your furry companion. By taking on the responsibility of cutting your Shih Poo’s hair yourself, you are showing them that you care about their appearance and well-being.

Here are some ways DIY Shih Poo haircuts can be a bonding experience:

Time spent together: Grooming your Shih Poo can take anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours, depending on the length and thickness of their fur. This gives you a chance to spend quality time with your pet and strengthen your bond.
Trust building: By taking on the task of cutting your Shih Poo’s hair, you are showing them that you can be trusted to take care of them. This can help build trust between you and your pet.
Working together: Grooming your Shih Poo can be a team effort. Your pet may need to be held still while you trim their fur, and they may need breaks to relax. By working together, you can accomplish the task as a team.

However, it’s important to remember that while DIY Shih Poo haircuts can be a bonding experience, they can also be risky. Without the proper knowledge and equipment, you could accidentally injure your pet or give them an uneven haircut. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons before deciding to take on this task.

3. Control Over Cut

One of the benefits of DIY Shih Poo haircuts is having complete control over the cut. Every dog is unique and has individual needs when it comes to grooming. By taking on the task yourself, you can customize the haircut to suit your Shih Poo’s specific requirements.

Here are some tips to help you maintain control over the cut while using scissors or clippers:

Start small: Begin by trimming small sections of hair and gradually work your way up to the desired length.
Take breaks: It’s essential to take breaks and stretch your hands and fingers to avoid cramping or slipping with the scissors/clippers.
Use thinning shears: These specialized scissors can help create a more natural and even look while reducing bulk and preventing jagged edges.
Invest in quality tools: Having the right tools can make all the difference in achieving a professional-looking haircut.
Refer to pictures: Keep photos of previous haircuts that you or a professional groomer have done so that you can reference them for guidance.

Remember to go slow and steady when cutting hair since it is easy to make a mistake, unintentionally creating an uneven cut or nicking your Shih Poo’s skin. However, with practice and patience, you can become skilled at grooming your pet and enjoy the benefits of complete control over the cut.

Risks of DIY Shih Poo Haircuts

While there are certainly benefits to giving your Shih Poo a haircut at home, it’s important to acknowledge that there are also risks involved. As a pet owner, it’s natural to want to save money and bond with your furry friend by taking on this task yourself. However, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential downsides and make an informed decision based on the safety and wellbeing of your beloved companion. Let’s explore some of the potential risks associated with DIY Shih Poo haircuts.

1. Uneven Cuts

One of the main risks of performing a DIY Shih Poo haircut is the potential for uneven cuts. Without proper training and experience, it can be difficult to achieve a smooth, even cut. This can lead to an unsightly appearance and even discomfort for your furry friend.

Why Uneven Cuts Happen

Uneven cuts can happen for a variety of reasons, including:

Reasons	Description
Inexperience	If you’re new to grooming your Shih Poo, you may not have the knowledge or skills to achieve an even cut.
Dull Clippers	Clippers that have become dull over time can create an uneven cut, making it difficult to control the length of the hair.
Skipping Steps	If you skip important steps such as brushing out mats or trimming the nails, it can be difficult to achieve an even cut.

The Consequences of Uneven Cuts

If your DIY Shih Poo haircut results in an uneven cut, there can be several consequences. Firstly, it can simply be an unsightly look that you and your pup have to put up with until the hair grows back. However, more severe consequences can arise such as infections or wounds. If the cut is particularly jagged, it can leave sharp edges that can be painful or potentially cause skin damage.

Preventing Uneven Cuts

Fortunately, there are several ways to prevent uneven cuts when performing a DIY Shih Poo haircut:

Tips	Description
Use sharp clippers	Make sure your clippers are sharp so that you have more control over the length of the hair you’re cutting.
Groom regularily	To make the task of giving a haircut easier, it’s important to groom your Shih Poo on a regular basis to prevent matting and tangling that can lead to uneven cuts.
Take breaks	Give both yourself and your Shih Poo regular breaks during the grooming session to prevent fatigue and potential mistakes.

By following these tips and taking the necessary precautions, you can prevent the risk of an uneven cut and help keep your Shih Poo looking and feeling great after their DIY haircut.

2. Injury to Pet

As much as DIY Shih Poo haircuts can be a bonding experience, one of the biggest risks involved is the possibility of injury to your beloved pet. Without the proper training and expertise, you could end up accidentally hurting your dog during the grooming process.

Here are some of the potential injuries that your Shih Poo may be at risk of if you try to cut their hair on your own:

Cuts and Abrasions	If you’re not careful with the sharp grooming tools, you may end up accidentally cutting your dog’s skin, leading to painful cuts and abrasions. This can be particularly dangerous since dogs have lots of bacteria on their skin, which can easily get into the wound, causing infections.
Burns	Electric grooming tools, like clippers or trimmers, can get hot quickly, especially if you use them for long periods of time. If you accidentally press the blades too hard against your Shih Poo’s skin, you can easily burn them, causing a lot of pain and discomfort.
Eye Injuries	Shih Poos have delicate eyes, and if you’re not careful, you can easily poke or scratch them with the grooming tools. This can cause infections, pain, and even vision problems.
Ear Injuries	The hair inside a Shih Poo’s ears needs to be trimmed regularly to avoid tangling and infection. However, if you’re not careful, you can end up accidentally nicking or cutting the delicate skin inside the ear, leading to painful infections and hearing problems.

These are just a few examples of the potential injuries that can occur during a DIY Shih Poo haircut. It’s crucial to take precautions and ensure that you have the proper training and equipment before attempting to groom your dog on your own. If you’re not confident in your abilities, it’s always best to seek the help of a professional groomer to make sure your pet stays safe and healthy.

3. Lack of Expertise

While cutting your Shih Poo’s hair may seem like a simple task, it requires a certain level of expertise. Lack of experience could lead to mistakes and potentially harm your furry friend. It’s essential to be aware of the risks involved in DIY grooming and weigh them against the benefits.

Risks of Lack of Expertise in DIY Shih Poo Haircuts

Issue	Description	Potential Consequences
Cutting too short	Without proper knowledge, it’s easy to accidentally trim your Shih Poo’s hair too short, which could cause wounds or expose their skin to elements like sunburn or mosquitoes.	Pain, itching, and skin irritation.
Uneven cut	Incorrect scissoring techniques can result in an uneven cut, making it difficult to correct and requiring more experienced help to rectify.	Appearance issues, further costly grooming, and potential harm to your furry friend.
Quality of grooming tools	DIY haircuts will require the use of grooming tools. However, without the proper knowledge, you may purchase lower-quality tools, making grooming more difficult and potential harmful.	Inefficient grooming, lower-quality grooming, and potential harm to your furry friend.
Difficulty of the task	Shih Poo’s have curly and thick hair, which can be difficult to manage, especially when you lack grooming experience.	Difficult to get the job done correctly.

It is essential to consider your potential lack of expertise before deciding to groom your Shih Poo yourself. While there are benefits to DIY grooming, there are also potential risks involved. If you are unsure of how to proceed or are worried you may cause harm to your furry companion, it’s best to seek the help of a professional groomer.

Tips for DIY Shih Poo Haircuts

As with any DIY project, giving your Shih Poo a haircut can be intimidating at first. However, with the right preparation and approach, it can be a rewarding and cost-effective experience. In this section, we will provide you with essential tips that will help you give your furry friend a stylish cut from the comfort of your home. From selecting the right tools to techniques for ensuring an even trim, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s get started!

1. Proper Tools and Equipment

When it comes to giving your Shih Poo a haircut at home, having the proper tools and equipment is essential. Without the right equipment, you risk injuring your pet or ending up with an uneven and unprofessional-looking cut.

Here is a table of the necessary tools and equipment for DIY Shih Poo haircuts:

Tool or Equipment	Purpose
Clippers	Used for trimming hair
Scissors	Used for detailed trimming and shaping
Comb	Used for detangling hair and separating sections for cutting
Brush	Used for removing loose hair and smoothing the coat
Clipper and scissor blades	Should be sharp and in good condition to make cutting easier and avoid pulling or snagging hair
Nail clippers	Used for trimming your pet’s nails
Treats	Used for rewarding good behavior and helping your pet associate haircuts with positive experiences

It’s important to invest in high-quality tools and equipment that will last you for multiple haircuts. Cheap, low-quality clippers and scissors can break or dull easily, making the haircutting process much more difficult and frustrating for both you and your pet.

By having the proper tools and equipment, you can ensure that your DIY Shih Poo haircut goes as smoothly as possible, resulting in a happy and healthy pet with a fresh new ‘do.

2. Practice on a Stuffed Animal

One important tip for DIY Shih Poo haircuts is to practice on a stuffed animal before trying it on your furry friend. While it may seem silly at first, practicing on a stuffed animal can help you get a better feel for the tools, techniques, and your own abilities before attempting to cut your Shih Poo’s hair. Here are some reasons why practicing on a stuffed animal is a good idea:

Reasons to Practice on a Stuffed Animal Before Cutting Your Shih Poo’s Hair
1. Helps you gain confidence
2. Gives you a feel for the clippers and scissors
3. Allows you to experiment with different techniques
4. Reduces the risk of injury to your pet
5. Helps you avoid mistakes that could ruin your dog’s haircut

It’s important to note that even though you’re practicing on a stuffed animal, you should still use proper grooming tools and techniques. This will help you get a more realistic feel for what it will be like to actually groom your Shih Poo. So, be sure to use clippers, scissors, and combs, and practice using the same techniques you plan to use on your pet.

Practicing on a stuffed animal is also a great opportunity to experiment with different styles and lengths. You can try out various clipper guards or scissor lengths to see what works best for your Shih Poo’s fur type and coat length. This will help you get a sense of what looks good on your dog and what doesn’t.

Remember, cutting your Shih Poo’s hair can be a fun and rewarding experience for both you and your furry friend, but it’s important to take it slow and be cautious. Practicing on a stuffed animal is just one way to ensure that you’re prepared to give your dog the best possible haircut.

3. Take Breaks

Grooming your Shih Poo can be a lengthy process, and it’s important to take breaks to avoid both physical and mental exhaustion. Overworking yourself or your pet can lead to mistakes and unwanted stress, which can ultimately affect the outcome of the haircut. Here are a few tips on how to take breaks during the grooming process:

Set a timer: Before starting the grooming session, set a timer for a specific amount of time. When the timer goes off, take a quick break and stretch your legs, get a drink of water, or relax for a few minutes.
Observe your pet: Your pet’s behavior can indicate when it’s time for a break. If they seem fidgety or agitated, it’s a good sign that they need a break. Additionally, if you notice any signs of pain or discomfort, stop immediately and take a break to assess the situation.
Don’t force it: Sometimes you or your pet just need a longer break. If you find yourself struggling to focus, or your pet is uncooperative or anxious, don’t push through it. Take a longer break to recharge and come back when you’re both ready.

Remember, grooming should be a positive experience for both you and your pet. By taking breaks, you can ensure a smoother, more successful grooming session for both of you.

4. Use Treats to Reward Good Behavior

As you’re giving your Shih Poo a haircut, it’s important to make sure they’re happy and cooperative. One way to do this is by using treats to reward good behavior. This positive reinforcement can help your pet associate the process with pleasant experiences and will make them more likely to behave in the future. Here are some tips for using treats effectively during a DIY Shih Poo haircut.

1. Choose High-Value Treats: Make sure to use treats that your Shih Poo finds particularly delicious. Small pieces of cooked chicken or cheese might work well, or you could try using store-bought dog treats.

2. Reward Good Behavior Immediately: As soon as your Shih Poo does something you want them to do, such as staying still while you’re trimming their back legs, give them a treat right away. This will reinforce the behavior and help your dog stay focused.

3. Use Treats Sparingly: While it’s important to reward good behavior, you don’t want to spoil your dog’s appetite or give them too many treats. Use them sparingly and only offer treats when your Shih Poo does something that truly deserves a reward.

4. Keep Your Treats Nearby: Make sure to have your treats close at hand while you’re giving your Shih Poo a haircut. This will make it easy for you to give them a treat when they do something right, rather than having to stop what you’re doing and hunt for the treats.

5. Don’t Force Your Dog: If your Shih Poo seems afraid or uncomfortable, don’t try to force them to accept a treat. Instead, try to make the experience as positive as possible by offering gentle encouragement and praise, and taking things slowly. Remember, every dog is different, and your Shih Poo might need more time and patience than others.

Using treats to reward good behavior can be a powerful tool when giving your Shih Poo a haircut. With some practice and patience, you’ll be able to make the process a pleasant and enjoyable experience for both you and your pet.

When to Go to a Professional

As much as DIY Shih Poo haircuts can be a great bonding experience and an opportunity to save money, there are instances when it’s best to seek professional help. Knowing when to go to a certified groomer can prevent potential problems that may arise from attempting to cut your pup’s hair at home. Let’s take a closer look at some of these instances.

1. Matted Fur

When it comes to Shih Poo haircuts, one of the top reasons pet owners prefer to go to professional groomers is to deal with matted fur. Mats are clumps of tangled hair that can be painful and uncomfortable for your dog. DIY haircuts may not be the solution for this problem.

Here are some reasons why:

Mats require specialized tools: Grooming tools like clippers, scissors, and combs are essential for trimming mats. But, not all mats can be cut out using the same tools. Some may require sharper professional-grade tools, which may not be in your grooming kit.
Mats are close to the skin: Cutting too close to the skin or leaving some parts of the mat behind can cause injury or irritate your dog’s skin. A professional groomer has the experience to identify which areas need extra attention and how to remove mats safely.
Mats can lead to more problems: If not properly treated, mats can dig into your dog’s skin and promote the growth of bacteria or parasites that cause infections. Hiring a professional groomer can help avoid such problems.

However, if you don’t have the time to go to the groomer, here are some tips for dealing with matted fur:

Identify the type of mat: Not all mats are the same. Some are minor tangles that can be untangled with a comb or a slicker brush. However, others may be more persistent and will need the right tools. Thus, it’s important to know which type of mats you’re dealing with.
Untangle gently: Rather than pulling out the mat aggressively, try untangling it first. Use your fingers or a metal comb to loosen the tangles gradually.
Use detangler spray: Applying a detangling spray can help make the mats easier to deal with. Spray the solution on the matted area and let it sit for a few minutes to soften the hair.
Don’t force it: If you’re finding it hard to remove a mat or if it’s causing your dog pain, it’s best to stop and go to a professional groomer instead. Ignoring mats can result in more problems, so it’s always a good idea to get them removed as soon as possible.

Dealing with matted fur can be a challenging task for pet owners. If you don’t have the experience or the specialized tools to deal with mats effectively, it’s best to leave it to the professionals. However, if it cannot be avoided, make sure that you are gentle and cautious when removing mats and always prioritize your dog’s safety and wellbeing.

2. Skin Conditions

One of the reasons why it might be best to take your Shih Poo to a professional groomer is if they have any skin conditions that need special attention during grooming. These conditions can be tricky to manage, and may require a groomer with specialized training and equipment to properly care for your furry companion.

Some common skin conditions in Shih Poos include:

Condition	Symptoms	Treatment
Hot spots	Red, moist, and itchy skin lesions	Shaving affected area, cleaning with antiseptic, antibiotics
Seborrhea	Excessive scaling, greasy or flaky skin, odor	Medicated shampoo, topical ointments, essential fatty acid supplements
Yeast infections	Oily or greasy skin, itching, redness, odor	Medicated shampoo, topical or oral antifungal medication

If your Shih Poo is dealing with any of these conditions, it is important to seek the advice of a qualified groomer or veterinarian. They can recommend a treatment plan and provide guidance on how to properly groom your pet without causing any further irritation or discomfort. In some cases, they may even recommend specialized grooming techniques or products to help manage the condition. Remember that keeping your Shih Poo’s skin healthy and comfortable is an important part of their overall wellness, and seeking professional help when needed is always the best course of action.

3. Difficult Temperament

Taking on a DIY Shih Poo haircut can be a rewarding experience for both you and your furry friend. However, not all Shih Poos have the same temperament, and some can make the process difficult and even dangerous for both parties involved.

Difficult temperament is an important consideration when deciding whether to attempt a DIY haircut or not. Shih Poos that are easily frightened or nervous can become aggressive when put under stress or pressure. This can make it difficult to control them during the grooming process, which can cause injuries to both the pet and the owner.

To help illustrate this point, here is a table highlighting some common traits of Shih Poos with difficult temperaments:

Behavior	Description
Aggression	May growl or snap when handled in a way they don’t like, especially regarding their ears, feet, or face.
Anxiety	May tremble or whine when they are scared or stressed, even if nothing is happening, making it difficult to calm them down.
Hyperactivity	May be restless, constantly moving or fidgeting, and not stay still for long periods of time, making it difficult to trim their fur with precision.
Stress	May pant excessively or salivate when put under pressure or feeling uncomfortable in their surroundings, which can further exacerbate their anxiety and hyperactivity.

If your Shih Poo exhibits any of these behaviors, it may be best to seek the help of a professional groomer who has experience handling difficult dogs. They can safely and efficiently groom your dog in a way that minimizes discomfort and stress. Remember, a DIY haircut is not worth risking harm to your pet or yourself.

Conclusion: Weighing the Pros and Cons

After considering the benefits and risks of DIY Shih Poo haircuts, it’s clear that this decision should not be taken lightly. While there are advantages to cutting your dog’s hair yourself, such as saving money, creating a bonding experience, and having control over the cut, there are also potential dangers involved.

One of the main risks is that the cut may be uneven, causing discomfort or even injury to your pet. Attempting to cut your Shih Poo’s hair without the proper expertise or tools can lead to further problems that may require the attention of a professional groomer.

However, if you do decide to go ahead with a DIY haircut, there are steps you can take to minimize the risks. Invest in the correct tools and equipment, practice on a stuffed animal beforehand, take breaks to keep your pet calm and comfortable, and use treats to reward good behavior.

There are also certain situations in which it’s best to leave the haircutting to the professionals. If your dog has matted fur, skin conditions, or a difficult temperament, it’s probably safer to let a groomer handle the job.

Ultimately, the decision to cut your Shih Poo’s hair at home or visit a professional groomer should be based on your own personal experience, skill level, and comfort level. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons carefully and take any necessary precautions to ensure the safety and comfort of your beloved pet.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Shih Poo?

A Shih Poo is a mixed breed dog that is a cross between a purebred Shih Tzu and a purebred Poodle.

How often should I give my Shih Poo a haircut?

It depends on the length of your Shih Poo’s hair and how quickly it grows. Generally, a Shih Poo should be groomed every 4-6 weeks.

What grooming supplies do I need?

You will need a set of dog clippers, scissors, thinning shears, a slicker brush, a comb, nail clippers, and styptic powder in case you accidentally nick your dog’s skin.

Can I use human clippers on my Shih Poo?

No, human clippers are not designed for use on dogs and could harm your pet.

Do I need to bathe my Shih Poo before giving them a haircut?

It’s recommended to bathe your Shih Poo before a haircut to remove any dirt or debris that may be trapped in their coat. Make sure to thoroughly dry their fur before starting the haircut.

What if I accidentally cut my dog’s skin?

Stop immediately and apply styptic powder to the cut to stop the bleeding. If the wound is more severe, seek veterinary care.

Can I give my Shih Poo a professional-looking haircut at home?

With practice and patience, it is possible to achieve a professional-looking haircut at home. However, it may take several attempts to get the desired result.

How do I prevent my Shih Poo from getting matted fur?

Regular brushing and grooming can help prevent matting in your Shih Poo’s fur. It’s also important to keep their coat clean and dry, as moisture can cause matting.