| One of the things most admired about Shih Tzu is | | | | them out. There are detangling products available to |
| their beautiful coat. That long flowing human like hair! | | | | make this task easier. Another option is to mix a |
| But keeping their coats beautiful does require some | | | | small amount of conditioner with water in a spray |
| effort. That is why many owners choose to keep | | | | bottle and mist your pet as you brush. Use about 1 |
| the coat cut short. And unless you plan to show your | | | | 10 conditioner to 9/10 water mixture. |
| Shih Tzu a short cut is perfectly acceptable. | | | | Besides daily brushing proper grooming of your Shih |
| To minimize the risk of tangles and mats a Shih Tzu | | | | Tzu will include regular bathing. Depending on the age |
| should be brushed daily. Any pet shop will have a | | | | and size of your Shih Tzu, you may find that the use |
| great variety of dog brushes to choose from, | | | | of the kitchen sink works better than the bathtub. |
| including slicker brushes and soft dog brushes. A very | | | | Always use a shampoo and conditioner that is |
| young puppy should be handled daily by the breeder. | | | | specially formulated for dogs. Once again, a trip to |
| This includes massaging the feet and face, as well as | | | | your local pet shop will provide you with lots of |
| rubbing the belly. | | | | choices. |
| The permanent dog parents should brush their new | | | | When bathing your pet be sure to make the |
| puppy from day one, even if his coat does not really | | | | experience enjoyable for him. Talk soothingly and |
| need it at the time. This will help the puppy become | | | | massage his body as you wash. Use caution not to |
| accustomed to the brushing and he will in fact, come | | | | do too much rubbing or you may find that you |
| to enjoy this time. Other benefits of this daily routine | | | | actually cause tangling and matting. |
| include the fact that it is a great way to bond with | | | | You will need to either trim the hair around the eyes |
| your pet and at the same time you are doing | | | | or use small rubber bands (orthodontic type) to pull |
| something productive. It is also an ideal time to | | | | the hair up away from the eyes. Hair in the eyes not |
| inspect your pet for any parasites or signs of illness. | | | | only obstructs the vision of the Shih Tzu, but it can |
| If you find tangles or mats carefully spread them | | | | also result in an eye infection. |
| apart with your fingers before attempting to brush | | | | |