Shih Tzu Grooming Guide

Grooming Guide

Beautiful coat requires commitment. Daily brushing or a short trim every 4–6 weeks. Eye area needs regular cleaning. Ears are prone to infections.

Popular Shih Tzu Haircut Styles

Puppy Cut

Even length all over (usually ½–1 inch), clean face and feet. Simple, practical, and comfortable — ideal for active dogs or warm climates.

Maintenance: Low Add-on: +$0

Teddy Bear Cut

Uniform 1–2 inch length all over, rounded face — the most popular pet cut. Gives a cuddly, puppy-like appearance that's easy to maintain between grooms.

Maintenance: Medium Add-on: +$0–$10

Top Knot

Body trimmed short with longer hair on the head tied or bowed up. Keeps hair out of eyes while maintaining a cute look.

Maintenance: Medium Add-on: +$0–$5

Lion Cut

Full mane around head and chest, shaved body, pom-pom on tail tip. Dramatic and eye-catching — reduces matting on the body.

Maintenance: Low-Medium Add-on: +$5–$15

Practical Top Knot

Similar to a puppy cut but with enough length on top for a small bow or band. Keeps hair out of eyes without full commitment.

Maintenance: Low-Medium Add-on: +$0–$5

At-Home Care Tips

Brush daily or every other day to keep the coat healthy and distribute natural oils
Trim nails every 2-4 weeks or use a Dremel for smooth edges
Clean ears weekly — this breed is prone to ear infections
Regular bathing every 4-8 weeks helps keep the coat clean and healthy
NEVER shave a double-coated breed — the coat insulates against both heat and cold and may not regrow properly

See Detailed Grooming Costs View All Haircut Styles

Boarding & Daycare

Generally friendly and adaptable. Low exercise needs make them easy boarders. Keep face clean during stays.

Key Stats

Energy Level

Separation Anxiety

Trainability

What to Tell Your Boarding Facility

Energy level: Low energy — short walks and rest time

Social style: affectionate, playful — generally adapts well to boarding environments

Should be in small-dog play groups only

Grooming during boarding: Daily brushing recommended to prevent matting

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does Shih Tzu grooming cost?

Professional grooming for a Shih Tzu typically costs $45–$75 per session (typical national range). The exact price depends on your location, the dog's size within the breed range (9–16 lbs), coat condition, and the style you choose. Severely matted coats may incur additional dematting fees.

How often should a Shih Tzu be groomed?

Shih Tzus should be professionally groomed every 4–6 weeks. Between professional visits, regular at-home brushing is important — even though this breed is a low shedder.

Are Shih Tzus good for boarding?

Generally friendly and adaptable. Low exercise needs make them easy boarders. Keep face clean during stays.

What is the best haircut for a Shih Tzu?

The most popular Shih Tzu haircuts are Puppy Cut, Teddy Bear Cut, Top Knot. The best choice depends on your lifestyle, how much brushing you want to do at home, and your dog's comfort level with grooming.

Do Shih Tzus shed a lot?

Shih Tzus have a shedding level of 2 out of 5. They are light shedders with minimal hair around the house.

How much does a Shih Tzu weigh?

Shih Tzus typically weigh 9–16 lbs. They are classified as small dogs. Weight affects grooming prices — larger dogs within the breed range will generally cost more to groom.

🐶 Shih Tzu Grooming Guide