Shih Tzu Grooming: Coat Care, Face Trims and Common Problems

Shih Tzus were bred as companion lapdogs with a long, flowing double coat — and while that coat is stunning, it is also high-maintenance. Whether you keep your Shih Tzu in a long show-style coat or a shorter, practical trim, regular grooming is essential to keep them comfortable and healthy.

This guide covers Shih Tzu coat care, the most popular styling options, the eye and ear issues specific to the breed, and how to keep matting under control.

Understanding the Shih Tzu coat

Shih Tzus have a long, dense double coat that grows continuously and, like curly-coated breeds, does not shed much — so loose hair stays in the coat and tangles easily. Left unmanaged, that long coat mats readily, particularly around the legs, belly, ears, and the face. This is why most pet Shih Tzus are kept in a shorter trim rather than a full-length coat: it is simply more practical and comfortable for everyday life.

How often should a Shih Tzu be groomed?

A full professional groom every four to six weeks is ideal for most Shih Tzus. Those kept in longer coats may need appointments closer to every four weeks, plus daily brushing at home. A regular Full Groom keeps the coat healthy and prevents the matting that leads to uncomfortable clip-downs. See our guide on grooming frequency by coat type for how this compares to other breeds, or our Shih Tzu grooming guide for prices and times.

The Shih Tzu face: trims and eye care

The face is where Shih Tzu grooming gets specific. Hair grows long over their eyes and around the muzzle, and it needs regular tidying — both so they can see and to keep the area clean. Many owners choose a rounded "face trim" that keeps the hair short and neat around the eyes. Shih Tzus are also prone to tear staining, where the area under the eyes darkens; a gentle face and eye-area tidy helps keep the face clean and bright. Some owners opt for a top-knot on longer coats to keep hair out of the eyes.

Popular Shih Tzu styles

• The teddy/puppy trim — a short, even, rounded cut all over; by far the most popular pet style. See our teddy bear trim guide.
• The practical short trim — even shorter for very low maintenance, ideal for active or outdoorsy dogs.
• The long coat — beautiful but demanding, requiring daily brushing and frequent grooming.

Ears, and other things to watch

Like other floppy-eared breeds, Shih Tzus are prone to ear issues, so regular ear cleaning matters. Their short muzzle also means the folds around the face need keeping clean and dry. And because matting is such a risk, staying on top of home brushing between grooms is essential — our guide on the health risks of matted fur explains why.

Shih Tzu grooming checklist

• ✓ Full professional groom every four to six weeks.
• ✓ Brush regularly — daily if keeping a long coat.
• ✓ Keep hair around the eyes trimmed so they can see clearly.
• ✓ Watch for tear staining — daily face wiping helps.
• ✓ Clean ears and facial folds regularly.

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