Shih Tzu Grooming in Easy Steps
Are you wondering how to start grooming your new Shih Tzu? Perhaps you live with a Shih Tzu puppy and have to learn how to groom your new friend? Do not fear because we have all of the answers, read on for Shih Tzu grooming in easy steps right here.
Grooming a Shih Tzu is easy, you simply begin at the front of your dog and work your way to the back, grooming and checking as you go, take a look.
Shih Tzu Grooming – Bright Eyes
Start by looking directly into the eyes of your Shih Tzu. Are they clear and discharge free? Do they look healthy and not red or too dry? Shih Tzu eyes can develop problems quite easily because the head shape causes shallow eye sockets. This is exactly why Shih Tzu grooming should first of all, focus on the eyes.
Shih Tzu Grooming – Clean Ears
When all is well with the eyes the next thing to check is your dog’s ears. Life up the flap and check as far as the eye can see into your dog’s ears. Take a good sniff too because smell is normally the first alarm signal that something is wrong in the dog’s ears.
Any brown discharge or bad smell can mean that your Shih Tzu dog has the start of an infection, ear mites or those silky ears just need cleaning, which you can easily do by squirting in some veterinary approved cleanser. The fluid will work its way out of the ear and take the dirt with it.
Shih Tzu Grooming – A Bright Smile
Every grooming routine should involve cleansing of the dog’s teeth. A daily tooth brush with enzymatic toothpaste will prevent the build-up of tartar and the onset of periodontal disease which is a serious condition, particularly for small dogs who have teeth a little closer together.
The vet or pet store will be able to provide a toothbrush and enzymatic toothpaste to keep your Shih Tzu’s teeth clean.
Shih Tzu Grooming – Skin and Coat
Then begin to groom your Shih Tzu’s coat and check for healthy skin along the way. Start at your dog’s head and work through to his tail, detangling and gently brushing the hair in the direction of growth. Shih Tzu skin should be soft, clean and healthy looking. Any redness or swelling means that something is amiss. It’s important to check the skin in a few different places too, just to be certain that there are no irritated patches appearing.
Brushing your Shih Tzu stimulates oil release into his coat which will make him glossy and look beautiful. A natural bristle brush is an expensive treat but one that you will find perfect for Shih Tzu grooming because it will make the coat of your dog gleam.
Grooming a Shih Tzu is a wonderful way to build trust and the relationship between the two of you, to keep your dog healthy and to relax your own mind by taking a stress free few minutes to pamper your pooch.
