Grooming Shih Tzus and Lhasa Apsos Jonesboro GA

The Shih Tzu is one of the breeds of dogs that have their hair parted in the middle.  This is called “parted-coat” breeds.  Another important distinguishing grooming pattern of the Shih Tzu is the topknot tied up with ribbons or bows. 

A pin brush is used on The Shih Tzu for regular grooming sessions.  For a Shih Tzu coat that has not been groomed regularly or neglected a soft wire slicker brush is used.

The feet on a Shih Tzu are trimmed round to give an even, level appearance.  Foot pads may be either scissored or clipped.  For a pet Shih Tzu the stomach area may be clipped, or shaven.  Only thinning shears are used on a Shih Tzu show dog and then very sparingly.

The Shih Tzu by standard has a luxurious long, dense coat.  The coat may be slightly wavy but not curly with a good wooly undercoat.

The Shih Tzu is very similar looking to the Lhasa Apso.  The coat of a Shih Tzu is usually a little softer than that of the Lhasa Apso.  The Shih Tzu’s traditional topknot also distinguishes him from the Lhasa Apso.  Both breeds have similar origins.  Traditionally the Lhasa Apso’s hair is parted down the middle on top the head.

The Shih Tzu reached its greatest development in China.  The Shih Tzu is very popular in the United States, usually in the top ten of the most popular breeds to own.

When the Shih Tzu has a thorough brushing and combing they should have a sleek look about them.  A Shih Tzu in full coat will have a beard that comes to a point and a long, luxuriant moustache flowing over the beard.  They are gorgeous in full coat.

The Shih Tzu is a member of the Toy group.  They have a lively and dignified carriage.  They have such a delightful personality they are joy to all around them.

Grooming tips:

• Use a knitting needle or the end tooth of a comb to make the part.  This is probably one of the most difficult parts of grooming the Shih Tzu.  Whatever you use to make the part, it should be pointed and narrow enough not to catch more than a few hairs at a time.  The Shih Tzu part starts at the nap of the neck down to the tail.
• Stand squarely behind the Shih Tzu so that you are standing over and behind him.  Lean over with your parting tool and start making the part, section by section. 
• Start at the very top of the back and work your way to the base of the tail.
• Try using a good coat dressing when grooming the Shih Tzu
• The coat of the Shih Tzu is brushed and combed in layers.

Topknot tips:

• Part the hair from the ear on both sides of the head.
• Gather up in one hand the hair in the middle.
• Slip on a latex band at the base of the gathered hair.
• Wrap the band twice to make it secure.  Be careful not to draw the hair up so tight to cause the Shih Tzu discomfort.
• Fasten a topknot bow, a ribbon or barrette to the latex band.