Why Brushing Your Shih Poo’s Coat Regularly Is Essential
Have you ever wondered why your Shih Poo’s coat seems to be causing them discomfort, excessive shedding, or even skin problems? Brushing your furry friend’s coat is often overlooked or done infrequently by pet owners, but it is a crucial step for their overall health and well-being. In this article, we will delve into the importance of regularly brushing your Shih Poo’s coat and provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to do it effectively. By the end, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and tools to keep your pup’s coat healthy and looking its best all year round.
Why Brushing Your Shih Poo’s Coat Is Important
Are you always wondering why you need to brush your Shih Poo’s coat regularly? Well, there are a lot of reasons why it is essential to keep your furry friend’s coat tidy and healthy. Brushing your Shih Poo’s coat is not just about improving their appearance; it is also about maintaining their overall health and wellness. A clean and well-brushed coat will help prevent skin irritations, matting, and shedding. In this section, we will discuss in detail why brushing your Shih Poo’s coat is vital for their well-being. To learn about the different coat types of Shih Poo, check out our article on Shih Poo Coat Types.
For a Healthy Coat
Regular brushing is essential for maintaining a healthy coat for your Shih Poo. Proper grooming helps distribute the natural oils throughout your pet’s coat, keeping it healthy and shiny. When you brush your Shih Poo, you’re not only removing loose hair and dirt; you’re also giving your furry friend a massage, which improves circulation and stimulates the growth of new and healthy hair follicles.
Brushing your Shih Poo’s coat regularly provides an excellent opportunity to check for any underlying health problems, such as fleas, ticks, or skin irritations, which left untreated can develop into more severe issues.
A well-groomed Shih Poo is less likely to suffer from skin problems due to matting, tangles, or dirt buildup. Matts can pull on the skin, causing irritation, inflammation, and infection. Professionals recommend removing matted hair to prevent potential skin problems. Regular brushing can prevent painful matting from occurring.
To summarize, brushing your Shih Poo’s coat regularly promotes a healthy coat that is free from skin irritations and painful mats. It also enables you to detect any skin-related problems and nip them in the bud before they turn into something more serious.
To Reduce Shedding and Mats
Regular brushing of your Shih Poo’s coat is essential not only for maintaining a healthy and shiny coat but also for reducing shedding and mats. Frequent brushing also helps to prevent skin irritations that can be caused by trapped dirt and excess oil. Neglecting to brush your Shih Poo’s coat regularly can lead to mats, which are painful knots of tangled hair that can be difficult to remove without shaving. In severe cases, matting can even cause skin problems or infections.
Shedding: Shih Poos have a double coat consisting of a soft undercoat and a topcoat of long, silky hair. Double-coated dogs shed their undercoat twice a year, usually in the spring and fall. Brushing your Shih Poo’s coat frequently during the shedding seasons can help to remove loose fur and prevent it from accumulating on your furniture and clothing.
Mats: Mats can occur in any part of your Shih Poo’s coat, but they typically form behind the ears, under the legs, and in the belly area. Aside from being painful to your furry friend, mats can also trap moisture, dirt, and debris, leading to skin infections. Brushing your Shih Poo’s coat regularly and thoroughly can help to prevent mats from forming. Pay extra attention to areas that are prone to matting and consider using a dematting tool to gently remove any knots or tangles.
Benefits of Brushing Your Shih Poo’s Coat | How to Achieve Benefits |
---|---|
Reduce shedding | Frequent brushing during shedding seasons |
Prevent mats | Thorough and regular brushing, especially in areas prone to matting. Use of dematting tool for removing knots and tangles |
Prevent skin irritations | Regular brushing to remove dirt and excess oil from the coat |
Remember that regular grooming is a key part of keeping your Shih Poo’s coat healthy and shiny. If you have any concerns about common coat problems such as shedding or matting, there are many resources available online that can provide helpful tips and solutions. For more information about double coat grooming and tips for managing shedding and mats, you can visit this helpful guide. If you are dealing with more severe coat problems or skin irritations, consult with your veterinarian for professional advice. Additionally, in this article, you can find more information about common coat problems in Shih Poo dogs.
To Check for Skin Problems
Regularly brushing your Shih Poo’s coat not only helps to maintain a healthy and shiny coat but also enables you to check for any skin problems. As a responsible pet owner, it is vital to check for early signs of any skin issues to avoid complications and treat them promptly. This step in brushing your Shih Poo is particularly relevant since they are prone to skin problems such as allergies, hot spots, and infections.
Here are some common skin problems to look out for while brushing your Shih Poo:
Skin Problem | What to Look Out For |
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Allergies | Excessive scratching, licking, and biting, skin irritation, dryness, and redness |
Hot spots | Red, moist, and itchy patches on the skin, hair loss, and inflammation |
Skin infections | Foul odor, excessive scratching, biting, and licking, scaly patches, and skin redness |
Flea infestation | Excessive scratching and biting, flea dirt or droppings on the skin |
If you notice any of the above symptoms, schedule an appointment with your vet for diagnosis and treatment. Early detection of skin problems can prevent them from becoming severe and help avoid complications.
Regular brushing of your Shih Poo’s coat also helps to spread natural oils evenly and keeps your dog’s skin moisturized, maintaining a healthy coat. Additionally, proper grooming can reduce shedding and mats, which we’ll discuss in the next section.
By regularly checking your Shih Poo’s skin for abnormalities while brushing, you’ll be promoting their overall wellbeing and health. For more tips on how to manage your Shih Poo’s shedding, check out our Shih Poo shedding tips article.
How Often Should You Brush Your Shih Poo?
As a Shih Poo owner, you may wonder how often you should brush your furry friend’s coat. Brushing is an essential part of caring for your dog’s coat, but the frequency will depend on various factors such as your Shih Poo’s coat length, coat type, and lifestyle. Regular brushing is crucial for maintaining a healthy coat and keeping your pup looking and feeling great. Let’s dive into the details and explore the best schedule for brushing your Shih Poo.
Frequency by Coat Type
As a pet owner, it’s important to recognize that different breeds of dogs have different coat types, and therefore, different needs when it comes to grooming. A Shih Poo’s coat is a combination of their Shih Tzu and Poodle parent breeds, which can range from wavy to curly and may be fine or thick. The frequency with which you should brush your Shih Poo’s coat will depend on their specific coat type.
For Fine, Wavy Coats:
Shih Poos with fine, wavy coats should be brushed at least three times a week to prevent matting and shedding. This helps to remove tangles and knots before they become too difficult to remove, and can also help to stimulate natural oils in the coat, promoting a healthy shine.
For Thick, Curly Coats:
If your Shih Poo has a thick, curly coat, they will need daily brushing to prevent matting and tangling. Regular brushing also helps to keep the coat clean and healthy.
Additionally, you may want to consider professional grooming every six to eight weeks to keep the coat trimmed and tidy.
For Coats in Between:
If your Shih Poo’s coat is somewhere in between fine and thick or wavy and curly, you can stick to a regular brushing schedule of two to three times a week. However, you should adjust the frequency if you notice matting, shedding, or any other concerns.
By understanding your Shih Poo’s specific coat type and how frequently they need to be brushed, you can help maintain their coat’s health and appearance. Regular brushing also helps to establish trust and bonding between you and your furry friend.
The Best Time to Brush Your Shih Poo
Brushing your Shih Poo’s coat regularly is important for maintaining their overall health and well-being. But when is the best time to brush your furry friend? It’s important to take into consideration their daily routine and to find a time when they are relaxed and comfortable. Here are some suggestions for the best time to brush your Shih Poo’s coat:
- In the morning: Some Shih Poos may be more active in the morning and may be more inclined to sit still for grooming. Plus, brushing their coat in the morning can help to remove any tangles or mats that may have formed overnight.
- After a walk: If your Shih Poo has just been on a walk or run, their coat may have become tangled or matted. Brushing their coat after exercise can also help to remove any debris or dirt that may be caught in their fur.
- Before bed: Brushing your Shih Poo’s coat before bed can help them to relax and wind down for the night. Plus, it can help to prevent any mats or tangles from forming while they sleep.
- During grooming sessions: If your Shih Poo is already used to being groomed, incorporating brushing into their regular grooming routine can be helpful. This way, they’ll come to expect and enjoy the attention, making it easier for you to maintain their coat in the long term.
No matter when you choose to brush your Shih Poo’s coat, it’s important to approach the process with patience and care. By establishing a routine and creating a positive experience for your furry friend, you can make brushing their coat a stress-free and enjoyable activity for both of you.
The Tools You Need for Brushing Your Shih Poo’s Coat
So, you’ve learned why brushing your Shih Poo’s coat is important and how often you should do it. Now, let’s talk about the tools you’ll need to give your furry friend a healthy and shiny coat. These grooming tools are essential for maintaining your Shih Poo’s coat and preventing mats and tangles. But with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to know which ones to choose. Don’t fret! In this section, we’ll break down the top four must-have grooming tools for brushing your Shih Poo’s coat with ease.
Slicker Brush
When it comes to brushing your Shih Poo’s coat, one of the most important tools to have in your grooming kit is a slicker brush. This type of brush has fine, short wires close together that can effectively remove any loose or tangled hair from your dog’s coat, without damaging the skin. Here are the details you need to know about slicker brushes:
Type of Tool | Slicker Brush |
---|---|
Function | To remove loose fur and tangles from your Shih Poo’s coat |
Size | Comes in various sizes, but ideally should fit comfortably in your hand |
Materials | Wire bristles attached to a rubber or plastic handle |
Recommended Brands | FURminator, Hertzko, JW Pet Company |
When using a slicker brush, it’s important to start from the top of your dog’s back and work your way down, being gentle and taking care not to tug at any mats or tangles. It’s also a good idea to brush with the grain of your dog’s fur, as brushing against it can cause discomfort and irritation.
A slicker brush is a must-have tool for any owner of a Shih Poo. By regularly brushing your dog’s coat with a slicker brush, you can keep them looking and feeling healthy, happy, and free of tangles and mats.
Pin Brush
The pin brush is an essential tool for brushing a Shih Poo’s coat. This brush has long, flexible bristles with small, rounded tips that are gentle on your dog’s skin. The pins on the brush can vary in length and density, depending on the thickness of your Shih Poo’s coat. Here are some reasons why the pin brush is so important:
- Helps to Reach the Undercoat: The pin brush is ideal for reaching the undercoat of your Shih Poo’s fur. It can remove loose hair and dirt that often gets stuck in the undercoat. This prevents mats and tangles from forming, which can be painful for your dog.
- Allows You to Gently Brush Through Knots: Shih Poos have long, curly hair that can easily get tangled. The pin brush is gentle enough to work through the knots without hurting your dog. This is especially important if your Shih Poo is prone to mats, as it can prevent them from forming in the first place.
- Distributes Natural Oils: Brushing your Shih Poo’s coat with a pin brush helps to distribute natural oils evenly throughout their fur. This keeps their coat healthy, shiny, and clean. The oils also help to protect their skin from becoming dry and flaky.
- Prevents Tangles and Mats: Using a pin brush regularly can prevent tangles and mats from forming in your Shih Poo’s coat. This is important because mats can be painful for your dog and can even lead to skin infections. By brushing your Shih Poo’s coat with a pin brush, you can keep their fur smooth and tangle-free.
The pin brush is a versatile and important tool for anyone who wants to maintain their Shih Poo’s coat. It can help to reach the undercoat, gently brush through knots, distribute natural oils, and prevent tangles and mats. When used regularly, it can help keep your Shih Poo’s coat healthy, shiny, and clean.
Steel Comb
One tool that is essential for grooming a Shih Poo’s coat is a steel comb. This type of comb has long, thin teeth that are perfect for working through mats and tangles. The teeth are also spaced apart so that they can catch any loose hairs that the slicker and pin brushes may have missed. The steel comb is an important tool for keeping your dog’s coat healthy and free from matting.
The steel comb should be used after brushing with the slicker and pin brushes. This will help to catch any remaining tangles or mats that may have been missed. Using a steel comb will also help to ensure that the coat is evenly groomed and free from any knots or clumps of hair.
When using a steel comb, it’s important to start at the head and work your way down towards the tail. Use short, gentle strokes to work through any tangles or mats. Be sure to praise your Shih Poo and offer treats as you work through any tough spots. This will help to make the grooming process a positive experience for both you and your pup.
Here is a table outlining the features and benefits of a steel comb:
Features | Benefits |
---|---|
Long, thin teeth | Perfect for working through mats and tangles |
Spaced teeth | Catches any loose hairs that other brushes may have missed |
Gentle strokes | Prevents discomfort and injury to your Shih Poo |
Praise and treats | Makes grooming a positive experience for both you and your pup |
Using a steel comb in your grooming routine is crucial for maintaining a healthy and well-groomed coat on your Shih Poo. Be sure to use it after brushing with the slicker and pin brushes and work gently through any tangles or mats. Always reward your dog for their patience and cooperation during the grooming process.
Dematting Tool
A dematting tool is an essential tool for pet owners who want to keep their Shih Poo’s coat in top condition. This tool is specifically designed to help remove mats and tangles from your pet’s hair, making it easier to brush and maintain.
A dematting tool typically has a row of sharp teeth that can cut through stubborn mats without injuring your pet’s skin. The tool is also designed to be gentle and effective, so it’s a great option for anyone who wants to keep their Shih Poo looking their best.
Using a dematting tool requires a bit of practice and patience, but it can be very effective in removing mats and tangles from your pet’s coat. To use the tool, start by gently separating the mat using your fingers, then carefully use the dematting tool to cut through the tangle. It’s important to be gentle and work slowly to avoid pulling your pet’s hair or causing them stress.
Here is a table outlining some of the benefits and drawbacks of using a dematting tool:
Benefits | Drawbacks |
---|---|
Effective at removing mats and tangles | Requires practice to use correctly |
Gentle on your pet’s skin | Can be time-consuming to use |
Helps maintain your pet’s coat | May not be suitable for all coat types |
A dematting tool can be a valuable addition to your pet grooming routine. Just be sure to use it correctly and be gentle with your pet to avoid any discomfort or injury. With a bit of practice, you’ll be able to keep your Shih Poo’s coat in great condition and looking their best.
How to Brush Your Shih Poo’s Coat in Six Simple Steps
Brushing your Shih Poo’s coat can be an enjoyable bonding experience between you and your furry friend, as long as you know what you’re doing. If you’re new to grooming your Shih Poo or just need a refresher, fear not! In the following six steps, we’ll guide you through the process of brushing your Shih Poo’s coat with ease and effectiveness. By following these simple steps, not only will your pup look fantastic, but they will also reap the benefits of a healthy and happy coat. So, let’s get started!
Step One: Detangle the Coat
Before you begin brushing your Shih Poo’s coat, it’s important to make sure that it’s free of tangles and mats. Otherwise, you’ll just end up causing your dog pain and discomfort, which can make them resist the brushing process.
Step One: Detangle the Coat
To detangle your Shih Poo’s coat, you’ll need a few tools at your disposal, including a slicker brush, a pin brush, and a dematting tool. Here’s how to get started:
Tools Needed: | Slicker brush, pin brush, dematting tool |
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What to do: |
|
By taking the time to carefully detangle your Shih Poo’s coat before you begin brushing, you’ll make the entire process much easier and more comfortable for your furry friend. Plus, it will help to ensure that their coat stays soft, healthy, and free of mats and tangles over time.
Step Two: Brush with a Slicker Brush
Once you have detangled your Shih Poo’s coat with a comb, it’s time to move onto the slicker brush. A slicker brush is an essential tool for brushing your dog’s coat, as it’s designed to remove loose fur and gently detangle the hair. The slicker brush has fine, short wires close together, which makes it effective at removing any loose hair, dirt, and debris that may be trapped in your Shih Poo’s coat.
To use the slicker brush, start at the back of your dog’s neck and work your way down their body, using gentle strokes. Be sure to brush in the direction of the hair growth to avoid any discomfort for your dog. You can use one hand to hold the hair in place while you use the slicker brush with the other hand.
Pro tip: If your Shih Poo has a lot of loose hair, try using the slicker brush in a circular motion to help remove as much loose hair as possible.
As you brush with the slicker brush, be sure to pay extra attention to areas that are more prone to matting, such as behind the ears, under the belly, and on the legs. Brushing these areas regularly will help prevent mats from forming and keep your Shih Poo’s coat healthy.
Do not: Brush too hard or too fast as this can cause discomfort and potentially harm your dog’s skin. Remember to take your time and be gentle.
Once you’ve finished brushing with the slicker brush, take a break and give your Shih Poo plenty of praise and affection. Brushing can be stressful for some dogs, so taking a break can help keep the experience positive.
Below is a table that summarizes the key points when using a slicker brush:
Do | Don’t |
---|---|
Start at the back of the neck and work down the body | Brush too hard or fast |
Brush in the direction of hair growth | Ignore areas prone to matting |
Use gentle strokes | |
Use in circular motion if there is a lot of loose hair |
Step Three: Brush with a Pin Brush
Now that you have detangled any knots and removed loose fur with a slicker brush, it’s time to move on to the pin brush. This type of brush has longer bristles and is designed to smooth out the coat and remove any remaining tangles. Pin brushes are particularly useful for the topcoat and longer hair of your Shih Poo’s coat.
Step Three: Brush with a Pin Brush
Begin by running the pin brush through your Shih Poo’s coat, starting at the head and moving towards the tail. Use gentle pressure to avoid irritating their skin. Focus on one section of the coat at a time, working in the direction of the hair growth. Use a pin brush to remove any remaining tangles and mats that may be present in the coat.
To ensure that you’re not causing any discomfort to your Shih Poo, pay close attention to their body language. If they seem uncomfortable or start to squirm or whine, take a break and try again later. Brushing your Shih Poo should not be a stressful experience for either of you.
Now, let’s take a look at the tools you’ll need to properly brush your Shih Poo’s coat.
Tool | Description |
---|---|
Slicker Brush | A brush with fine, short wires that effectively removes loose hair and tangles from the coat. |
Pin Brush | A brush with longer bristles that removes remaining tangles and smooths out the coat. |
Steel Comb | A fine-toothed comb that can be used to remove mats and tangles from your Shih Poo’s coat. |
Dematting Tool | A tool with sharp, serrated blades that can help remove stubborn mats and tangles from your Shih Poo’s coat. |
Step Four: Comb the Coat
Once you have finished brushing your Shih Poo’s coat with a pin brush, it’s time to move on to combing the coat to ensure all tangles and mats are removed. This step is crucial, as it will leave your furry friend’s coat smooth and silky to the touch. To successfully comb your Shih Poo’s coat, follow these simple steps:
Step: | Instructions: |
1 | Use a steel comb to comb through your Shih Poo’s coat. |
2 | Start at the root of the hair and work your way to the tip. |
3 | Pay special attention to areas where mats and tangles are common, such as behind the ears and under the legs. |
4 | If you come across a mat or tangle, use a dematting tool to gently remove it. |
5 | Continue combing until your Shih Poo’s coat is completely tangle-free. |
By taking the time to properly comb your Shih Poo’s coat, you’ll be able to maintain its health and appearance while also reducing the chance of matting and shedding. Remember to be gentle and patient throughout the combing process, as tugging or pulling can cause discomfort for your furry friend. Once you’ve finished combing, move on to the final step of trimming around the eyes, ears, and paw pads.
Step Five: Trim Around the Eyes, Ears, and Paw Pads
As important as it is to brush your Shih Poo’s coat regularly, it’s also crucial to trim sensitive areas such as the eyes, ears, and paw pads. Here are some steps to follow:
- Gather the Necessary Tools:
To trim around sensitive areas, you will need a pair of small, sharp scissors, and a pair of round-tipped scissors to avoid poking or injuring your Shih Poo. Additionally, make sure to have some styptic powder ready in case you accidentally cut the quick, which can result in bleeding. - Start with the Eyes:
Your Shih Poo’s long hair can cover their eyes, leading to irritation or even infection. To prevent this, use your round-tipped scissors to carefully trim around their eyes. Be sure to leave enough hair to protect their eyes, and hold the scissors at a vertical angle to avoid cutting too much hair. - Move to the Ears:
Your Shih Poo’s ears should also be trimmed to prevent matting and reduced airflow, which can cause ear infections. Use the small, sharp scissors to trim the hair around their ear canal, making sure to take off only a small amount of hair at a time. - Don’t Forget the Paw Pads:
The hair around their paw pads can get matted, leading to discomfort and even pain. To avoid this, use your small, sharp scissors to trim excess hair around the paw pads, being careful not to cut the paw pad itself. - Check Your Work:
Once you finish trimming around the sensitive areas, make sure to check for any leftover tangles, fleas, ticks, or other irritants. This will help keep your Shih Poo comfortable and healthy.
Remember, it’s crucial to approach trimming with caution and patience to ensure that you don’t accidentally hurt your furry friend. If you’re unsure or uncomfortable trimming your Shih Poo’s hair, consider taking them to a professional groomer who can do it safely and efficiently.
Step Six: Reward Your Shih Poo
After your Shih Poo has been brushed, it’s essential to show them some love and appreciation for all their cooperation during the grooming process. Here are some ways to reward your pup:
- Treats: One of the best ways to show your furry friend some love is to give them a treat. You can give them a small piece of their favorite snack, or try out some new treats to see what they enjoy. Just be careful not to overdo it, as too many treats can lead to health problems like obesity.
- Praise: Shih Poos are loyal companions, and they love nothing more than to be praised and petted. Take a few minutes to cuddle with your pup and tell them how good they were during the grooming process.
- Playtime: You can also reward your Shih Poo by giving them some playtime once you’re done brushing their coat. Play their favorite game with them or fetch a ball to keep them happy and active.
- New Toy: Dogs love toys, and a new toy can be a great reward for them. Try buying them a new squeaky toy or something they can chew on to help keep their teeth clean.
Remember, the key to keeping your Shih Poo happy and healthy is to show them love and appreciation. By following these steps and rewarding them after grooming, you’ll be able to maintain a great relationship with your furry friend.
Conclusion
In conclusion, regular brushing is essential to maintaining a healthy and shiny coat for your beloved Shih Poo. Not only does it keep shedding and mats under control, but it also allows you to catch any potential skin issues before they become more severe.
By following the frequency guidelines and selecting the appropriate tools, you can make brushing your Shih Poo’s coat an enjoyable bonding experience for both you and your furry companion. Remember to take your time and be gentle, as your Shih Poo’s coat can be delicate and sensitive.
Additionally, don’t forget to schedule regular visits with a professional groomer to keep your Shih Poo looking and feeling their best. A regular grooming routine, including brushing, bathing, and trimming, will help maintain your Shih Poo’s overall health and wellness.
Finally, always remember to reward your Shih Poo for their patience and cooperation during the brushing process. Treats, praise, and cuddles can go a long way in strengthening your bond with your furry companion and making the grooming experience a positive one. With a little patience and dedication, you and your Shih Poo can enjoy a happy, healthy life together.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the benefit of brushing my Shih Poo’s coat?
Brushing your Shih Poo’s coat regularly promotes a healthy coat, prevents mats and tangles, and helps keep its skin free from irritation or infection.
How often should I brush my Shih Poo’s coat?
How often you should brush your Shih Poo’s coat depends on its coat type. Long-haired Shih Poos may require daily brushing, while short-haired ones may only need a weekly brushing session.
What happens if I don’t brush my Shih Poo’s coat?
If you don’t brush your Shih Poo’s coat, it will develop mats, tangles, and shed excessively. Mats can cause skin irritation and infection, and shedding can cause allergies or asthma.
Should I brush my Shih Poo’s coat when it’s dry or wet?
You should always brush your Shih Poo’s coat when it’s dry to avoid breakage and discomfort.
What kind of brush should I use for my Shih Poo’s coat?
You should use a slicker brush, pin brush, combs, and dematting tools to brush your Shih Poo’s coat.
How do I know if my Shih Poo’s coat is matted?
You’ll know if your Shih Poo’s coat is matted if you see tangled knots that are difficult to comb or brush through.
Is it necessary to trim my Shih Poo’s hair?
It’s important to trim hair around the eyes, ears, and paw pads to prevent irritation or infection.
How do I reward my Shih Poo after brushing its coat?
You can reward your Shih Poo after brushing its coat by giving it a treat, a hug, or playing its favorite game.
What should I do if I find skin problems on my Shih Poo while brushing?
If you find skin problems while brushing, take your Shih Poo to a veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment.
Can I use human brushes on my Shih Poo’s coat?
No, it’s not recommended to use human brushes on a Shih Poo’s coat because they are not designed for pet grooming, and they can damage your pet’s coat.
References
- Shih Poo Grooming: DIY Grooming Tips & The Best …
- How To Groom A Shih Poo [Step By Step Guide]
- How to Groom a Shih-Poo – Cuteness