If you own a Shih Tzu, chances are you need the right Shih Tzu grooming products. This breed of dog is popular due to its long, flowy coat that requires more than the usual amount of maintenance.
But, deciding to groom your pet is not only a practical decision money-wise; it can also help you and your dog bond more.
Mostly, Shih Tzu grooming begins with regular brushing. Therefore, you need to have the desire to brush your Shih Tzu daily. If you have no problem with this, then this dog is the perfect canine companion for you. Failing to brush your dog’s coat regularly will result in mats and skin issues.
Unless you plan on entering your Shih Tzu in dog shows, you do not need to spend a lot of money on grooming via expensive dog groomer visits. Instead, you can invest in Shih Tzu grooming products and do it on your own.
The best way to keep your Shih Tzu’s coat manageable and well-groomed is to keep the hair short. With your dog’s hair short, you won’t have to deal with the continuous brushing and upkeep of the breed’s luxurious hair. However, keep in mind that your Shih Tzu will not look like the breed standard you see on television and magazines, but does that matter?
Although proper care of your Shih Tzu’s coat is essential to their health, so is giving them regular baths, cutting their nails, etc. If this is still too troublesome, then this is not the dog for you. You also have the expensive option of taking your dog to the groomers at least three times a month.
Here are a few Shih Tzu Grooming Products To Get You Started:
Pin Brushes and Combs
Pin brushes have metal bristles and rounded tips to protect the skin during brushing. The metal bristles are flexible and suitable for untangling matted coats.
You will also need a metal comb with wide teeth on one side and narrow teeth on the other. This comb you can use to check hair mats after brushing and for making top knots.
Basic Shih Tzu Grooming Supplies: Doggie Nail Clippers
Doggie nail clippers can cut nails straight across without injuring your Shih Tzu. Dog grooming enthusiasts recommend a weekly cutting to keep them short. Long nails prevent the pads from absorbing the pressure when your dog is walking. And this will cause discomfort.
Shampoos and Conditioners
There are many types of shampoos and conditioners for dogs on the market. For Shih Tzus, choose a shampoo that removes dirt and oils without making the skin dry.
You can opt for organic shampoos if regular dog shampoos irritate the skin, which happens when the skin under the coat turns red, and your dog develops a scratching habit around those areas. Opt for the excellent quality conditioner to keep your dog’s coat shiny, glossy, and moisturized.
Dental Products
Never use human toothpaste when cleaning your dog’s teeth and gums. Human toothpaste contains an ingredient that is harmful to dogs. Canine toothpaste is the only option and your dog will love it since it comes in various flavors like chicken or beef.
You can use canine toothbrushes. Or dip a piece of soft cloth in the toothpaste and rub over your dog’s teeth and mouth to remove food bits and freshen his breath.
If you want something more natural, you can create a baking soda and water paste and use this instead of toothpaste.
Grooming your beloved pooch becomes so much easier and enjoyable when you have handy Shih Tzu grooming supplies on hand.
You can always expand your Shih Tzu grooming products when you feel the need. But my personal Shih Tzu grooming supplies recommendations mentioned above can help you get started on some basic grooming that will not only keep your pup clean and fresh. But will bring the two of you closer as well.
