How Often Should You Groom a Shih Tzu?

By Homestead Acres team · October 9, 2026

A Shih Tzu's flowing coat is one of the breed's best features, and it needs regular attention. The routine is simple once you know it. Here is how often to do each task.

Brush every day

Daily brushing is the most important grooming habit you can build. A Shih Tzu's hair is long and fine and tangles easily, especially behind the ears, under the legs and on the chest. Use a pin brush and a metal comb, work in small sections and brush down to the skin rather than just skimming the top.

A light mist of conditioning spray helps prevent breakage. Five to ten minutes a day is far easier than an hour on a matted coat.

Bathe every three to four weeks

Most Shih Tzus do well with a bath about every three to four weeks, using a gentle dog shampoo and conditioner. Always brush out tangles before the bath, because water tightens mats. Rinse thoroughly, towel dry and finish with a blow dryer on a low setting while brushing, so the coat dries straight and fluffy.

Haircuts every four to eight weeks

If you keep a shorter "puppy cut," plan to visit a groomer every four to eight weeks, depending on how quickly the coat grows. A longer coat needs trimming around the face, feet and hygiene areas, and a show-style coat takes much more maintenance. Be honest about how much time you can give, then choose the length that fits.

Face, eyes and tear stains

Shih Tzus' prominent eyes collect tears and debris. Wipe under the eyes gently each day with a damp cloth and keep the hair around them short or tied up in a soft topknot. If you notice heavy staining, redness or squinting, talk to your vet, since this can signal an irritation or infection.

Ears and teeth

Check ears weekly and wipe the outer ear with a vet-approved cleaner. Ask your groomer or vet whether to remove hair from the ear canal. Brush teeth daily if you can, since small breeds are prone to dental disease. A dog-safe toothpaste and soft brush make it easy.

Nails and paws

Trim nails about every two to four weeks, depending on how fast they grow. Clip only the tip, and avoid the pink quick. Trim the hair between the paw pads so your dog doesn't slip on hard floors, and check between the toes for debris after walks.

Start early and make it positive

Handle your puppy's paws, ears, mouth and face every day from the first week. Pair each step with treats and keep early sessions short. A puppy that learns to love grooming grows into an adult who stands calmly for it.

Tools you'll need

A pin brush, a stainless steel comb, a slicker brush for small tangles, blunt-tipped scissors, nail trimmers or a grinder, dog shampoo and conditioner, a conditioning spray and a hair dryer made for pets or one with a cool setting. Quality tools make the job much easier.

When to ask for help

If your dog has a serious mat, don't try to cut it close to the skin. The skin is thin and easy to nick. A professional groomer can handle it safely. And if you see redness, sores, a strong odor or constant scratching, call your vet.

A weekly grooming routine

Daily: brush and comb through the coat, wipe the eyes and check for tangles. Weekly: check and wipe the ears and inspect the skin, paws and teeth. Every two to four weeks: trim nails and clean the area around the face and hygiene areas. Every three to four weeks: bath and blow-dry. Every four to eight weeks: trim or full groom. Put the schedule on your calendar and the habit will be easy to keep.

Common grooming mistakes

Skipping brushing for a week and then trying to fix it all at once. Bathing before removing tangles. Using human shampoo, which can irritate a dog's skin. Cutting a mat out with scissors close to the skin. Letting the coat get damp and staying that way. A little attention every day is much easier than a big repair job every few weeks.

Choosing a cut that suits your life

The best grooming plan is the one you'll actually keep up. A short puppy cut of one to two inches is easy to brush and keeps your dog cool. A medium cut keeps some of the flowing look with less work. A full-length coat is beautiful but demands daily brushing and frequent baths. Talk with your groomer about your lifestyle and your dog's coat, and don't be afraid to change styles as your life changes.

Seasonal changes matter too. A shorter cut can be helpful in summer, and a bit more length offers warmth in winter, though a Shih Tzu still needs a coat when it's cold outside.

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