Your Shih Tzu
When it comes to grooming, Shih Tzus are a high-maintenance breed. The long, beautiful, flowing coat that you see on Shih Tzus in the show ring requires daily care. The coat is oiled and wrapped in paper for the dog's show career, except when it is in the ring.

For most of us, this is unrealistic. In reality, almost all Shih Tzus are clipped short when their show career is done. The average amount spent annually to keep your Shih Tzu looking and smelling great is $500.00-700.00. Keeping your Shih Tzu in a long flowing coat is possible, but requires daily combing, and professional grooming every 2 weeks, which can be cost prohibitive.

As a professional groomer, I want to show you some nice styles and tips to keep your Shih Tzu looking great. Some of the dogs shown here are mine, and some are customer's dogs. One of the things I truly enjoy about these little dogs is the number of clips and styles that can change the "look' of your furbaby.

You will need to find a groomer for your Shih Tzu. Even if you want to do your own grooming, your new baby is going to need professional services AT LEAST 4 TIMES A YEAR. Ear cleaning, eye area, nails, footpads, and sanitary areas must be kept tidy, and these areas are best left to the professionals. You can cut these areas very easily if you are not sure of what you are doing!

Make sure your groomer is kind and gentle. Take your pup for grooming as soon as he/she has had his second set of vaccinations. You should be able to stay and observe if you ask when you make your appointment. I would not take my own dog to a groomer who would not let me watch if I asked ahead of time, and the groomer's schedule allowed it.