Shih Tzu
Alfie here. My coat is hair, like yours, but better. It grows continuously, it photographs beautifully, and it will absolutely mat behind my ears the moment you get complacent. Here is what living with me actually takes.
- Comb daily, 5 minutes, to the skin. Behind the ears, the armpits, under where the harness sits. I will act like this is a spa. Play along.
- Face admin: wipe under the eyes daily with a damp cloth so tear stains never settle in. Topknot or trim so I can see the biscuits coming. Persistent brown staining is a vet chat, not a whitening-product chat.
- Bath every 2 to 3 weeks. Yes, more often than the big dogs. Glamour has a schedule.
- The puppy cut is not defeat. Short, combed and comfortable beats long and matted. I have done both. I looked great both times.
Coat care: Shih Tzu
Continuously growing hair. Daily attention, small doses.
Daily: comb to the skin, 5 min. Wipe under the eyes.
Weekly: check ears, trim or tie the face hair.
Bath: every 2 to 3 weeks. Detangle first, always.
Fine: a puppy cut. Comfort wins.
Skip: brushing only the top layer. The comb must pass to the skin.
Red skin under a mat: groomer or vet, do not pull it.
- Alfie (the handsome one)
The full routine lives in the long & silky guide.
Also on this shelf: Cocker Spaniel
What we use at home
floof it Gentle Cleanser. Salon grade, made for us by our manufacturing partner, used on both of us every second Saturday. Two pumps for Alfie. Four for Tara.
Short smooth coat? You need less of everything on this page. Including this bottle. Half doses go a long way.
Honest answer: if your dog has fleas today, you need a vet, not a shampoo. Ours included. Go. Come back after.
This is grooming guidance from people who live with dogs, not veterinary advice. Itching that keeps returning, flakes, bald patches, redness, or a smell that comes back within days is a vet conversation, not a bath. Your vet and groomer outrank this page.
