Shih Tzu Haircut Styles

Which Style Is Right for Your Shih Tzu?

Your Shih Tzu has a long flowing double coat coat that requires significant maintenance. Choosing the right style can make a huge difference in your daily grooming routine.

Our recommendation: Puppy Cut — easy to maintain, comfortable, and practical for most owners.

All Shih Tzu 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 Cost: +$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 Cost: +$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 Cost: +$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 Cost: +$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 Cost: +$0–$5

Choosing Based on Your Lifestyle

If you...	Best style	Why
Want minimum brushing	Puppy Cut	Short, even length is easiest to maintain
Want the cutest look	Teddy Bear Cut	Rounded, fluffy appearance that everyone loves
Have an active dog	Puppy Cut	Practical and comfortable for adventurous pets
Want the breed-standard look	Puppy Cut	Classic look that showcases breed characteristics

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best haircut for a Shih Tzu?

The most popular Shih Tzu haircut is the Puppy Cut — easy to maintain, comfortable, and practical for most owners. However, the best style depends on your lifestyle and how much time you can dedicate to at-home grooming.

Can I get my Shih Tzu a Teddy Bear Cut?

Yes! The Teddy Bear Cut is one of the most popular styles for Shih Tzus. It gives a soft, puppy-like appearance with uniform length all over.

How do I maintain my Shih Tzu's haircut between grooms?

Between professional grooming sessions (every 4–6 weeks), brush your Shih Tzu daily or every other day. Focus on areas prone to matting like behind the ears, armpits, and belly. A slicker brush and metal comb are essential tools.

Should I shave my Shih Tzu in summer?

No — never shave a double-coated Shih Tzu. Their double coat insulates against both heat and cold. Shaving can permanently damage the coat and actually make them hotter. Instead, opt for professional deshedding treatments.