Try a Short Look: Why Shih Tzus Deserve a Summer Haircut
Shih Tzus are famous for their flowing, floor-length coats—but when summer rolls around, that long hair can become a bit too much. These little charmers are known for their affectionate personalities and royal appearance, but even royalty needs to cool off sometimes. A short haircut isn’t just stylish—it helps your Shih Tzu stay comfortable, clean, and happy when the temperatures rise. Whether you’re heading to the park or enjoying backyard playtime, trimming down that heavy coat can make a world of difference.
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Popular Short Haircuts for Shih Tzus
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to grooming your pup. Here are a few popular short styles for Shih Tzus that balance cuteness with practicality:
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Teddy Bear Cut A fluffy, rounded trim that gives your Shih Tzu an irresistibly cuddly look. The body hair is clipped short, while the face remains soft and full.
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Puppy Cut Simple and low-maintenance, this cut keeps the coat about 1–2 inches all over. It’s great for active Shih Tzus or first-time grooming.
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Summer Cut Ideal for warm weather, the coat is trimmed very close to the body to help your dog stay cool. Ears and tail are often left slightly longer for flair.
- Kennel Cut A uniform, ultra-low-maintenance trim all over the body and legs. It’s the go-to option for busy pet parents or pups prone to matting. Easy to brush, quick to dry, and super practical.
These cuts are not only easier to maintain but also reduce the chance of mats and skin irritation.
How to Groom a Shih Tzu’s Haircut at Home
Grooming your Shih Tzu at home not only helps them stay clean and cute between salon visits but also strengthens your bond. With the right routine and tools, it can be a rewarding experience.
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Brush First Before reaching for any scissors, start by brushing out the entire coat thoroughly. Shih Tzus have a dense double coat that mats easily, especially around the legs, behind the ears, and under the collar. Use a slicker brush or a double-sided comb to detangle gently. This step prevents uneven cuts and makes trimming much smoother.
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Trim Slowly Use professional grooming scissors or clippers with a guard comb to avoid accidental nicks. Begin trimming in sections—start with the legs, then move to the belly, and finally work your way up the back. Take your time and keep your dog calm with treats and breaks. Around the face and ears, always use blunt-tipped scissors and extra caution to avoid injury.
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Eye Area Attention Tear staining is common In Shih Tzus due to their eye shape. Wipe their face daily with a damp, soft cloth or pet-safe wipes to keep the area clean. Trim the fur around the eyes frequently to prevent irritation or vision obstruction. Be sure to keep tools sanitized and movements gentle to avoid stress or injury.
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Bath and Dry After trimming, give your pup a warm bath with a gentle, dog-specific shampoo. Rinse thoroughly to remove hair clippings that can cause itchiness. Use a towel followed by a blow dryer on a low, warm setting to dry the coat. Brush again while drying to help fluff the coat and spot any missed areas.
Even if you don’t aim for perfection, regular at-home grooming keeps your Shih Tzu more comfortable and your home a little less hairy. When in doubt, ask your groomer to walk you through the steps or recommend tools that work best for your pup’s coat.
How to Minimize Shih Tzu Shedding
Even with a short haircut, you might still notice fur around the house. While Shih Tzus are considered a low-shedding breed, they do shed some hair—especially when their coat isn’t properly maintained. Their fine hair can fall out and stick to furniture, clothing, or collect within the coat itself, leading to tangles and mats. Here’s how to manage it effectively:
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Regular Brushing Brushing is your first line of defense against excess shedding. Aim to brush your Shih Tzu at least 3–4 times a week, even with a shorter coat. Use a slicker brush or metal comb to gently remove loose hairs trapped in the coat before they tangle. Regular brushing also distributes natural skin oils, which help keep the coat shiny, soft, and less prone to dryness or breakage.
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Nutritious Diet A healthy coat starts from the inside out. Make sure your Shih Tzu is eating high-quality dog food formulated with skin and coat health in mind. Look for ingredients like fish oil, flaxseed, or salmon—these are rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which can reduce shedding and soothe dry, itchy skin. Fresh water and proper portion sizes are equally important to avoid skin issues tied to poor nutrition.
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Bathing Routine Regular baths help rinse out loose fur, dander, and allergens that could irritate your pup’s skin. Use a gentle, moisturizing dog shampoo every 3 to 4 weeks to keep the coat clean and hydrated. After bathing, be sure to dry your dog thoroughly, especially in cooler weather, and always brush afterward to catch any remaining dead hair.
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Clothing Protection While not a shedding solution by itself, lightweight dog clothes can help minimize the mess. A soft dog shirt or tee can act as a barrier, catching some of the loose hairs before they spread around your home. Clothes also shield the coat from dirt, pollen, and outdoor allergens that might otherwise lead to scratching or shedding flare-ups. Just make sure any clothing fits comfortably and doesn’t rub or irritate the skin.
By combining these simple habits, you’ll not only reduce shedding but also boost your Shih Tzu’s comfort, appearance, and overall health. Even with short hair, a well-maintained coat makes a big difference.
Short Hair, Happy Pup
Choosing a short haircut for your Shih Tzu doesn’t mean giving up their signature charm—it’s just a cooler, fresher version of their adorable self. With the right style, a bit of grooming, and regular TLC, your pup can strut through summer in comfort and style. So go ahead—book that grooming appointment or try a little DIY magic. Your Shih Tzu will thank you with tail wags and cuddles.
