Grooming Health & Nutrition for Shih Tzu

How to Groom Your Double Coated Shih Tzu

Matthew Farthing 27.04.2023 0

Introduction

Grooming your double coated Shih Tzu may seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right tools and techniques, you can keep your pup looking and feeling their best. However, before delving into the intricacies of grooming, it’s important to understand what a double coat is and why it’s crucial to keep it maintained. So, let’s explore the significance of double coats in Shih Tzu’s and how proper grooming can benefit your furry companion.

What is a Double Coat?

A double coat is a type of fur that is found on certain breeds of dogs, including the Shih Tzu. It consists of two layers of hair, with the outer layer being made up of longer, coarser guard hairs that protect the dog’s skin and the inner layer consisting of softer, finer hairs that provide insulation.

Having a double coat has several benefits for a Shih Tzu:

It helps regulate their body temperature, keeping them warm in cold weather and cool in hot weather.
It provides protection from the sun’s harmful rays, preventing sunburn and skin damage.
It helps repel water and dirt, keeping the dog’s skin and coat clean and healthy.

However, this type of fur also requires special attention and care when it comes to grooming. Without proper maintenance, a double coat can become tangled and matted, leading to discomfort and even skin irritation for the dog. Matted fur can create pockets of moisture which can increase the risk of infections.

Understanding the needs of a double coated Shih Tzu is essential to ensure the health and wellbeing of your furry friend. Proper grooming can help prevent matting and tangling, as well as keep your Shih Tzu cool in hot weather. In the next section, we will discuss the importance of grooming in more detail.

To learn more about grooming a Shih Tzu puppy, read our article on Shih Tzu Puppy Grooming Tips. If you’re looking for haircut ideas to keep your Shih Tzu cool in the summer, check out our article on Top 5 Shih Tzu Haircuts for Summer.

The Importance of Grooming a Double Coated Shih Tzu

Regular grooming of a double coated Shih Tzu is not only necessary for maintaining their appearance but also for their overall health and well-being. As a pet owner, it’s your responsibility to keep your furry friend as comfortable and happy as possible, and that includes paying attention to their grooming needs. Neglecting your Shih Tzu’s grooming needs can lead to various health issues such as matting, tangling, and skin irritation. By properly grooming your Shih Tzu, you can prevent such issues and keep them healthy and comfortable. In the following sections, we’ll take a closer look at the reasons why grooming is essential for double coated Shih Tzus and the tools you’ll need to do it.

Preventing Matting and Tangling

Preventing matting and tangling is crucial for double coated Shih Tzus. Mats and tangles can not only cause discomfort and skin irritation but can also be painful for your furry friend. Regular grooming helps prevent mats and tangles from forming in the first place.

Here are some tips to help prevent matting and tangling:

Use a slicker brush or a comb designed for double coated dogs to brush your Shih Tzu’s coat at least once or twice a week.
Make sure to brush in the direction of the hair growth and do not pull too hard or too fast.
Pay special attention to areas that are more prone to matting, such as behind the ears, armpits, and under the legs.
Trim the hair around these areas to prevent matting, but be careful not to cut too closely to the skin.
If your Shih Tzu already has mats, do not attempt to comb or brush through them. It will only cause pain and discomfort. Instead, use a pair of scissors to cut them out carefully.
Regularly check for knots and tangles in the fur, and take action immediately to prevent them from getting worse.
Consider using a detangler spray or a conditioning treatment to aid in brushing and prevent matting.

By following these preventive measures, you can help keep your Shih Tzu’s coat healthy, shiny, and mat-free. Remember that regular grooming is key to maintaining your dog’s coat and overall health.

If you’re interested in learning more about grooming your Shih Tzu, check out our article on DIY Shih Tzu Grooming Pros and Cons.

Keeping Your Shih Tzu Cool

Keeping your Shih Tzu cool is an important aspect of grooming. Shih Tzus can easily overheat due to their thick double coat, especially in warm weather or if they are playing and running around. Overheating can cause serious health problems for your furry friend. Here are some tips to keep your Shih Tzu cool:

Trim the hair around the face and paws: This may help air circulate around the face, and prevent dirt and debris from gathering around the paws. However, be careful when using scissors as you might accidentally cut your dog’s skin. A professional groomer can help if you are not confident in trimming your pet’s hair.
Keep your home cool: Make sure your Shih Tzu is in a cool environment with good ventilation, and avoid leaving them outside for extended periods of time.
Provide plenty of fresh water: Make sure your Shih Tzu has access to cool and fresh water all day long.
Take breaks during walks or play: If you notice your Shih Tzu is panting heavily or showing signs of distress, take a break in a shaded area or indoors.
Avoid excessive exercise: Shih Tzus are prone to heatstroke and can easily get exhausted, so try to limit their exercise during the hottest parts of the day.

By following these tips, you can help your Shih Tzu stay cool and comfortable, especially during warmer months. However, if you notice any signs of overheating or distress, seek veterinary assistance immediately. Additionally, regular grooming and cleaning, such as brushing and ear cleaning (as described here) can also help prevent overheating by allowing better air circulation and removing earwax and dirt that can cause discomfort.

Tools Needed for Grooming

When it comes to grooming your double coated Shih Tzu, having the right tools is crucial. Without the appropriate brushes, combs, shampoos, and conditioners, your furry friend’s coat can become matted, tangled, and uncomfortable. Proper grooming tools can also help promote a healthy coat and avoid any potential skin issues that may arise. So, let’s take a closer look at the essential grooming tools you’ll need to keep your Shih Tzu looking and feeling their best. And, for those who want to know more about cleaning your furry friend’s teeth, check out this article.

Brushes and Combs

When grooming a double coated Shih Tzu, it is important to have the right tools to make the process easier and more effective. Brushes and combs are a crucial part of any grooming toolkit for this breed. Here is a list of the types of brushes and combs that are recommended for a double coated Shih Tzu:

Slicker brush: This brush has fine, short wires close together and is great for removing tangles and mats. It is especially effective on the undercoat and can be used on the topcoat as well.
Bristle brush: This brush has soft, natural bristles and is perfect for removing dirt and loose fur. It is great for the topcoat and can be used as a finishing brush.
Pin brush: This brush has long, flexible pins and can help remove loose hair, dirt, and mats. It can be used on both the undercoat and topcoat, but may not be as effective on thick coats.
Undercoat rake: This comb has long, widely spaced teeth and is great for removing loose fur in the undercoat. It can be used before or after brushing to help prevent matting.
Mat comb: This comb has long, sharp teeth and can be used to gently cut out mats. It is important to be gentle and careful when using this comb to avoid hurting the dog.

By using a combination of these brushes and combs, you can effectively groom your double coated Shih Tzu and keep their coat healthy and shiny. Remember to choose the right tool depending on the type of coat your Shih Tzu has and to avoid over-brushing, which can damage the coat.

For best results, it is also important to use appropriate shampoos and conditioners while grooming. These products will keep your dog’s coat soft and shiny, and help control issues such as tear stains and dandruff. However, if a full bath is not possible, there are ways to clean your Shih Tzu without using shampoo as well. Additionally, remember to check and clean your Shih Tzu’s anal glands, as they can also impact the health and cleanliness of their coat.

Shampoos and Conditioners

When it comes to grooming a double coated Shih Tzu, choosing the right shampoos and conditioners is crucial to maintain the quality and health of his coat. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the right products for your furry friend.

Type of Coat: Shih Tzus have a delicate coat, and using harsh chemicals or shampoos can cause dryness and damage. It’s best to look for shampoos and conditioners specifically formulated for double coated dogs, such as those that contain oatmeal or aloe vera.
Season: Different seasons call for different types of grooming products. During the summer when your Shih Tzu’s coat is thinner, a gentle, moisturizing shampoo and conditioner is best. In the winter when your dog’s coat is thicker, a deeper conditioning treatment may be necessary to keep his coat healthy.
Special Needs: If your Shih Tzu has skin allergies or other special needs, there are a variety of specialized shampoos and conditioners available on the market. Consult with your veterinarian to determine which products would be best for your dog.

Proper use of shampoos and conditioners can also help reduce tear staining, which is a common issue with Shih Tzus. Learn more about how to remove tear stains here. It’s important to rinse your Shih Tzu thoroughly after washing to avoid any irritation or residue left on his coat. Always read and follow the instructions on the product label carefully, and never use human shampoo on your dog’s coat.

Investing in high-quality grooming products will not only help your Shih Tzu look and smell great, but it will also promote healthy skin and coat. Remember that grooming is an important part of your Shih Tzu’s overall wellbeing and should be done regularly.

Step-by-Step Guide to Grooming Your Double Coated Shih Tzu

Grooming a double coated Shih Tzu can seem like a daunting task, especially if you’re new to it. However, with the right tools and techniques, you can keep your furry friend looking and feeling great. In this section, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide to grooming your double coated Shih Tzu, including bathing, drying, brushing, cutting nails, and cleaning ears. Follow these simple steps to ensure your pet has a healthy, shiny coat and stays comfortable all year round.

Bathing

Bathing your double coated Shih Tzu is an essential part of their grooming routine. It helps keep your dog clean and fresh, which is especially important when they spend a lot of time outside. Though it may seem simple, there are several important steps to follow to ensure that you are properly bathing your furry friend.

Step 1: Gather all the necessary supplies before starting. You will need a tub or basin, a non-slip mat, mild dog shampoo, a cup or pitcher, and towels.

Step 2: Fill the tub or basin with enough warm water to cover your Shih Tzu’s paws.

Step 3: Wet your Shih Tzu’s coat thoroughly with warm water, being careful not to get water in their eyes or ears.

Step 4: Apply a small amount of mild dog shampoo to your Shih Tzu’s coat, starting at the neck and working your way down to the tail. Be sure to work the shampoo into all areas of the coat, including under their belly and legs.

Step 5: Rinse your Shih Tzu’s coat thoroughly with warm water, making sure you remove all the shampoo.

Step 6: Use a cup or pitcher to pour warm water over your Shih Tzu to remove any remaining shampoo from their coat.

Step 7: Gently wipe your Shih Tzu’s face with a damp cloth or sponge, being extra careful around their eyes and mouth.

Step 8: Drain the tub or basin and rinse it thoroughly before drying your Shih Tzu.

Step 9: Wrap your Shih Tzu in a towel and gently pat them dry, taking care not to rub their coat too vigorously.

Step 10: When your Shih Tzu is mostly dry, use a blow dryer on the cool setting to finish drying their coat. Be sure to keep the blow dryer at a safe distance from their skin to avoid burning them.

By following these simple steps, bathing your double coated Shih Tzu can be stress-free and enjoyable for both you and your furry friend. Remember, bathing too frequently or using harsh shampoos can strip their coat of essential oils, so it is best to only bathe them when necessary and use mild products.

Drying

Once you have finished bathing your double coated shih tzu, it’s important to dry their coat thoroughly. This step is crucial to prevent matting and tangling, which can lead to skin issues and discomfort for your furry friend. Here are the steps to properly dry your shih tzu’s coat:

Squeeze Out Excess Water: After the bath, use a towel to gently squeeze out as much excess water as possible. Make sure not to rub the towel harshly against your dog’s coat, as this can cause tangles.
Use a Blow Dryer: Using a blow dryer on a low heat setting can be effective in drying your shih tzu’s double coat. However, make sure to avoid high heat settings, as this can damage the coat or even burn your pet’s skin. Hold the blow dryer a comfortable distance away from your dog’s skin to avoid direct heat exposure.
Brush Out Coat While Drying: As you dry your shih tzu’s coat, use a slicker brush or comb to work out any tangles or mats. This will not only keep your dog’s coat looking neat but also prevent any discomfort caused by tangled hair.
Rotate Drying Areas: To ensure that your shih tzu’s coat is completely dry, rotate the drying areas. This means directing the blow dryer in different directions to ensure all areas of the coat are dry, including the undercoat.
Finish with a Hand Towel: After using the blow dryer, finish the drying process with a clean hand towel. Gently pat down your dog’s coat to remove any remaining moisture.

Remember, thorough drying is essential for your shih tzu’s overall health and comfort. Taking the time to properly dry your dog’s coat can prevent matting and tangling, which can lead to skin issues and discomfort.

Brushing

Brushing is a crucial part of grooming a double coated Shih Tzu, and it should be done daily to prevent matting and tangling. Proper brushing not only helps distribute natural oils to keep the coat healthy but increases blood circulation, giving your pet a healthy glow. Here are some tips for brushing your Shih Tzu:

Tools Needed	Description
Bristle Brush	A soft-bristled brush that is ideal for use on the top layer of fur.
Pin Brush	A brush with long, flexible pins that reach through the topcoat and help remove any loose undercoat fur.
Slicker Brush	A brush with fine, short wires close together. Perfect for removing mats and tangles from the fur.

Start by brushing your Shih Tzu’s coat with the bristle brush, working from the head towards the tail. Make sure to brush the fur in the direction of hair growth to avoid any discomfort or harm to the coat. Then, use a pin brush to remove any tangles, utilizing gentle and short strokes. For any mats or stubborn tangles, a slicker brush can be used.

While brushing, be sure to check thoroughly for any fleas or ticks, especially around the ears, underarms, and groin areas of your Shih Tzu. If you find any pests, remove them immediately and consider medication or insecticidal shampoo to prevent the infestation from spreading.

Remember to be gentle and take breaks as needed, as extended brushing sessions can be tiring for both you and your pet. In addition to daily brushing, it is essential to trim the fur around the eyes, ears, paws, and rear end every four to six weeks to prevent matting and tangling.

Brushing your Shih Tzu’s coat can be an enjoyable bonding experience between you and your furry friend. Don’t hesitate to ask your veterinarian or a professional groomer for advice on the best tools or techniques to groom your double coated Shih Tzu properly.

Cutting Nails

Ensuring your double coated Shih Tzu’s nails are trimmed is an essential part of grooming, as overgrown nails can cause discomfort and even affect their gait. To ensure you trim their nails properly, follow these steps:

Choose the Right Tool: Use nail clippers designed specifically for dogs. Scissors or human nail clippers can cause injury and discomfort.
Get Your Dog Comfortable: Before starting the nail trimming process, get your dog into a comfortable position. It could be either sitting or lying down, whichever they feel comfortable with. Talk to them in a reassuring tone and reward them with treats to reassure them.
Locate the Quick: The quick is the blood vessel that runs through the nail. If you accidentally cut this, it can cause bleeding and pain to your dog. Look for the pinkish area in the nail to identify the quick. If your dog has dark nails, try shining a flashlight and cut small amounts of nail at a time.
Start the Trimming: Hold your dog’s paw firmly but gently, and use the clippers to trim the tip of the nail. Don’t trim too close to the quick, but you should aim to trim at a 45-degree angle. Continue trimming small sections of the nail until you’re close to the quick.
File the Nails: After clipping, use a nail file to smooth out any rough or sharp edges of the nails.
Reward Your Dog: Once you have completed the process on all the paws, it’s always essential to reward your dog with a treat or playtime. This will help reinforce their positive behavior and make the next session easier.

Proper nail trimming is critical to the overall health, happiness, and hygiene of your dog. If you are unsure and worried about trimming your dog’s nails yourself or want to learn the exact process, seek help from a veterinarian or a professional groomer to learn the correct techniques.

Cleaning Ears

Cleaning your double coated Shih Tzu’s ears is an essential part of their grooming routine. Neglecting ear cleaning can lead to infections and discomfort for your furry friend. Here are the steps to properly clean their ears:

Step	Description
Step 1	Prepare the materials
Step 2	Check for debris and odor Before cleaning their ears, check for any debris or odor. If you notice an unpleasant smell or see any discharge or redness, it’s best to visit your vet to check for an infection.
Step 3	Apply ear cleaning solution Apply an ear cleaning solution to a cotton ball or pad. Be sure to use a product that’s safe for dogs and recommended by your vet. Avoid using Q-tips or cotton swabs as they can push debris further into the ear canal.
Step 4	Clean the ear flap Gently hold your Shih Tzu’s ear flap and wipe it with the soaked cotton ball or pad. Be sure to clean every fold and crevice around the ear flap.
Step 5	Clean the ear canal Gently insert the cotton ball or pad into the ear canal and clean the ear by wiping in a circular motion. Be careful not to push the cotton ball or pad too far into the ear canal as this can cause damage.
Step 6	Repeat the process if necessary If the cotton ball or pad becomes too dirty, use a new one and repeat the ear cleaning process. Continue cleaning until the cotton ball or pad comes out clean.

Remember: It’s important not to over-clean your Shih Tzu’s ears. Cleaning them too often can strip the ears of their natural oils and cause dryness and irritation. A weekly cleaning is usually sufficient, but always consult with your vet on the best ear cleaning routine for your furry friend. If you notice any changes in behavior, discharge, or odor, contact your vet immediately.

Tips and Tricks for Grooming Your Double Coated Shih Tzu

Grooming a double coated Shih Tzu can be quite challenging, especially if you’re a first-time owner. However, with the right tools and techniques, you can keep your furry friend’s coat shiny, healthy, and tangle-free. In this section, we’ll share some expert tips and tricks that will make grooming your Shih Tzu more manageable and enjoyable. From how often to groom your pup to dealing with stubborn matting, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in!

Frequency of Grooming

Regular grooming is essential to maintain the health and well-being of your double coated Shih Tzu. The frequency of grooming depends on various factors such as the age, lifestyle, and coat condition of your furry friend. In general, it is recommended to groom a double coated Shih Tzu at least once a week to keep their fur in good condition. However, if your dog spends a lot of time outdoors or is particularly active, you may need to groom them more often.

Depending on the time of year, the frequency of grooming may also need to be adjusted. During the shedding season, which typically occurs twice a year- in the spring and fall, your Shih Tzu’s double coat will shed heavily. At this time, it is important to groom them more frequently to keep their coat from matting and tangling. You may need to groom your dog every other day during these times to avoid excessive shedding.

On the other hand, during the winter months, your dog’s coat will likely be thicker and more insulating, so grooming can be reduced to once every two weeks. However, be sure to still regularly check for any mats or tangles.

The type of activities your dog participates in can also impact the frequency of grooming. If your dog is very active or enjoys rolling around in the dirt, they may require more frequent grooming to keep their coat clean and tangle-free. Conversely, if your dog is more sedentary, they may require less frequent grooming.

Ultimately, the key is to establish a regular grooming routine for your double coated Shih Tzu. This will help prevent matting, tangles, and other coat-related issues. Regular grooming can also be an opportunity for bonding with your furry friend, so make sure to make it a positive experience for them. By keeping to a consistent grooming schedule, you can keep your Shih Tzu’s double coat healthy, shiny, and beautiful all year round.

Dealing with Matting

Matting is a common problem in double coated Shih Tzus that can cause discomfort for your furry friend. It occurs when loose hair gets trapped and knotted in the coat, forming clumps that can pull on the skin and cause pain. Thus, dealing with matting is an essential part of grooming your double coated Shih Tzu.

Symptoms of Matting

It is important to pay attention to the signs that your Shih Tzu is experiencing matting. Some common symptoms include:

Signs of Matting	Description
Bumps or Lumps	These can form when matted hair pulls on the skin
Discomfort or Pain	Your dog may resist grooming or flinch when touched
Unpleasant Odor	Matting can trap dirt and bacteria, causing a foul smell

Preventing Matting

The best way to deal with matting is to prevent it from occurring in the first place. Regular grooming sessions can help keep the coat healthy and mat-free. Brushing your Shih Tzu’s coat daily with a slicker brush or comb can help remove loose hair and prevent tangles.

Removing Mats

If your Shih Tzu is already experiencing matting, it is important to remove the mats carefully to avoid causing discomfort or even pain. Follow these steps to safely remove mats:

1. Identify the mats: Gently part the coat to identify where the mats are located.

2. Use a detangling spray: A detangling spray can help to loosen the mat and make it easier to remove.

3. Use a mat splitter or mat rake: These tools can help work through the mat without causing discomfort.

4. Work slowly: Do not try to remove the entire mat at once. Work a small section at a time to avoid pulling the skin.

5. Reward your Shih Tzu: Give your dog a treat or praise to reassure them and make the experience positive.

Conclusion

Matting can cause discomfort for your Shih Tzu and can make grooming more challenging. The best way to deal with matting is to prevent it from occurring in the first place through regular grooming sessions. If matting does occur, it is important to remove the mats carefully and without causing discomfort to your furry friend. With patience and care, you can make grooming a positive experience for your double coated Shih Tzu.

Trimming Hair Around Paws and Ears

Keeping your Shih Tzu’s hair trimmed around their paws and ears is an important aspect of grooming that often goes overlooked. This can lead to discomfort for the dog as well as an increased risk of infections. Here are some tips for trimming hair around your Shih Tzu’s paws and ears:

Use the right tools: You’ll need a pair of scissors specifically designed for dog grooming. Small, curved scissors work best for trimming hair around sensitive areas like the paws and ears.
Start slowly: If your Shih Tzu is not used to having their hair trimmed, start slowly with short sessions. Use treats or positive reinforcement to help make the experience less stressful for them.
Be gentle: When trimming the hair around their paws, be extra careful not to cut their skin. Use small snips rather than long cuts to prevent accidents.
Watch for signs of discomfort: If your Shih Tzu starts to squirm or pull away, take a break and come back to the grooming session later. You don’t want to cause them any pain or distress.
Trim carefully around the ears: When trimming the hair around your Shih Tzu’s ears, be extra careful not to accidentally cut their earflap. Keep the scissors perpendicular to the ear and trim only small amounts at a time.
Consider professional grooming: If you’re not comfortable trimming your dog’s hair around these sensitive areas, consider taking them to a professional groomer for regular trims.

By following these tips, you can keep your Shih Tzu looking and feeling their best while also avoiding any potential health problems caused by overgrown hair around their paws and ears. Remember to be patient and gentle during the grooming process and always prioritize your dog’s comfort and well-being.

Conclusion

After reading this article, you should now have a better understanding of the grooming needs of your double coated Shih Tzu. It’s important to remember that regular grooming is crucial in keeping your furry friend healthy and happy.

By properly grooming your Shih Tzu, not only will their coat look beautiful and shiny, but you will also be preventing any potential health problems such as matting, tangling, and overheating. Remember to use the right tools, such as brushes and combs, to make the grooming process easier and more effective.

Additionally, bathing, drying, brushing, cutting nails, and cleaning ears are all important steps to keep your Shih Tzu healthy and happy. Proper frequency of grooming is also important in keeping your Shih Tzu looking and feeling their best.

In case of any matting, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance or take extra steps to de-tangle the hair yourself. Trimming the hair around their paws and ears is also important in preventing any potential bacterial or fungal infections.

By following these tips and tricks, you can ensure that your double coated Shih Tzu is well taken care of and that their coat stays beautiful and healthy for years to come. So, start grooming your furry friend today and enjoy the benefits of a healthy and happy Shih Tzu.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How often should I groom my double coated Shih Tzu?

It is recommended to groom your double coated Shih Tzu at least once a week to keep their coat healthy and prevent matting.

2. Do double coated Shih Tzus shed a lot?

Yes, double coated Shih Tzus shed a moderate amount throughout the year and heavily during shedding seasons.

3. Can I use human shampoo on my double coated Shih Tzu?

No, it is not recommended to use human shampoo on your double coated Shih Tzu. Use a dog-specific shampoo and conditioner to avoid skin irritation.

4. Can matting cause health problems for my double coated Shih Tzu?

Yes, matting can trap dirt, bacteria and moisture close to your dog’s skin, leading to skin infections and other health problems.

5. How do I prevent ear infections in my double coated Shih Tzu?

Regular ear cleaning and keeping the ears dry can help prevent ear infections in your double coated Shih Tzu.

6. How do I know if my double coated Shih Tzu has fleas?

You may notice excessive scratching and biting, small black specks (flea dirt) in their fur or on their skin, or even see the fleas themselves on your dog.