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Care

Shih Tzu Care Tips

Shih Tzu Care Image, illustrated
Shih Tzu Care Image, illustrated

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This is the main care page. Keep reading for our 15 most important care tips for providing excellent care of your Shih Tzu.


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Overview

Caring for a Shih Tzu, a charming brachycephalic toy breed, requires specific attention. Whether you're a new or experienced Shih Tzu pet parent, these top 16 care tips will provide valuable guidance. Following these guidelines ensures your Shih Tzu's health, safety, comfort, and well-being. Regularly review this list to adapt care as your little guy or gal matures. 

Care Tip #1: Offer all-natural food. 

It’s not an overstatement to say that every morsel your Shih Tzu ingests will affect, for good or for bad, their short-term and long-term health. Sadly, there are lots of dog foods and snacks that are packed with ingredients that can be detrimental to a dog’s health. 


Steer clear of synthetic preservatives which have been linked to allergies and even cancer. Avoid food color dyes which are linked to behavior issues, allergies and asthma. Stay away from by-products, generic meats and oils, and fillers (like corn or high levels of wheat). 


Opt for foods that use vitamin blends and/or herbs to naturally preserve the food, with only wholesome ingredients and no additives. For store-bought food, one brand we recommend is Wellness Complete Health for Small Breeds (there are puppy, adult, and senior formulas) and they have a good line of both dry snacks for feeding in between meals and chewy training treats as well. 

Read more about Shih Tzu Feeding Guidelines or continue on for more care tips.

Care Tip #2: Offer spring or filtered water.

Giving your Shih Tzu a drink of water may seem like one of the easier care tasks; however, if you’re filling up their bowl with non-filtered tap water, you may want to reassess things. 


Though it would be really nice to expect safe water to come from kitchen taps, this is not the case for millions of people in the US (as well as other countries). Concerning levels of Chromium-6, a known carcinogen, is in the tap water of over 200 million people in the US (in every state). That is just one of many concerns; other contaminants include heavy metals including arsenic, traces of prescription drugs, and fluoride (which is toxic to dogs and linked to osteosarcoma which is the #1 cause of bone tumors in canines). 


One of the easiest methods to offer clean water is via bottled spring water. Aside from that, there are filtering options that range from portable pitchers to filters like the Pur Water Pitcher to full under-the-sink filtering systems.

Care Tip #3: Supplements, when needed.

Not all Shih Tzu dogs need to have dietary supplements. But in some cases, these can be very beneficial. Fish oil can help improve skin and coat issues and is often helpful if a Shih Tzu is suffering from allergies. Probiotics can be very helpful for those with digestive issues including sensitive tummies. There are calming supplements that can help if a Shih Tzu has chronic emotional stress

And one that applies to nearly every Shih Tzu is glucosamine and chondroitin (preferably one like Doggie Dailies Advanced Hip and Joint Supplement for Dogs that also has MSM and Coenzyme Q10) which helps delay osteoarthritis, a crippling and painful disease that affects the vast majority of senior dogs. In fact, 80% of canines age 8+ have some level of osteoarthritis and the time to start a Shih Tzu on this type of supplement is around the age of 6, before it develops. 

Read more about Shih Tzu Supplements or continue on for more care tips.

Care Tip #4: On-time grooming. 

Shih Tzu grooming requirements can be considered moderate. The coat can grow quickly and most owners prefer to have a groomer do trims or clips. Based on a 2019 AllShihTzu survey, most coats are kept short (50%), some are kept medium length (31%), a small number are kept long (4%), and for some it varies over time (15%). 


Depending on the length, the coat should be brushed 1 to 3 times per week (longer coats can quickly become tangled). Nails should be clipped approximately every 6 weeks. Baths should be given every 3 weeks, unless there is a need for the frequent application of specialty shampoos (for example, an anti-itch formula). 


The face should be wiped down every day, preferably after each meal. Spot-cleaning can be done with grooming wipes. Paws should be protected with paw wax. And owners should routinely check the nose for any issues with dryness. If a Shih Tzu is prone to ear infections, ear canals should be regularly cleaned. 

Read more about Shih Tzu Grooming or continue on for more care tips.

Care Tip #5: Use quality coat products. 

It’s important to pay attention to the ingredients of everything that comes into contact with a Shih Tzu’s skin or coat, including shampoo, wash-out conditioner, and leave-in spray. 


Avoid artificial fragrances or dyes, and soaping agents including sulfates all of which can be harsh on skin and/or cause allergies. Also steer clear of parabens and phthalates which are linked to hormonal disruptions and other health issues. Anything with a pH balance below 6.5 or over 7.5 should not be used. 


Opt for all-natural products that use plant-based cleansers (like coconut) such as Earthbath All-Natural Mediterranean Magic Shampoo which has the right pH balance for puppies and dogs (and this has such a lovely scent). And don't forget follow up with a wash-out conditioner. 

Read more about the Best Shampoo and Coat Products for Shih Tzu Dogs or continue on for more care tips.

Care Tip #6: Put Care into your Shih Tzu’s dental hygiene.

Dental care and cleaning are important care tasks for all dogs. This is especially true for the Shih Tzu since they fit in both categories that are most prone to dental issues: Toy breeds and brachycephalic breeds. 


Poor dental hygiene often leads to tooth decay, deterioration of the jawbone, infections, and tooth loss. You can help prevent these issues with daily at-home dental care and veterinary check-ups and cleanings as needed. 


The most effective method to keep a Shih Tzu’s teeth clean is to brush them. You can use a properly-sized canine toothbrush or a fingertip brush (it fits over your index finger) and a canine toothpaste (it will be non-foaming and fluoride-free). A kit like the Arm & Hammer for Pets Complete Care Dental Kit has what you need to get started (this is sized for small dogs & puppies (of larger breeds).


There are other, additional steps, including using water supplements or sprays, and offering daily dental chews.

Read more about Shih Tzu Dental Care by jumping down below to our list of Popular Care Articles, or continue on for more care tips. 

Care Tip #7: Use a harness, not a collar when on leash.

Collars, which cause pressure to be directed onto the windpipe, should be avoided. This is because the Shih Tzu is a toy breed (prone to collapsed trachea) and a brachycephalic breed (prone to breathing issues). 


An easy and comfortable alternative to a collar is a harness, which distributes pressure over the back, shoulders, and chest which are stronger, more muscled areas. There are all different types of harness, but one of the easiest to use is a step-in design like the Puppia Soft B Harness Vest, so that nothing has to be slipped over a Shih Tzu’s head. This particular one is made of air-mesh to keep a dog cool and has easy Velcro fasteners. 

Read more about Shih Tzu Harnesses or continue on for more care tips.

Care Tip #8: Aim to meet exercise requirements.

Exercise is the one care task that will have the biggest impact on your Shih Tzu’s health, both now and in the future. In fact, it will affect their overall life span


Daily moderate cardio exercise helps regulate metabolism, keeps the heart healthy, helps a dog maintain proper muscle mass, keeps bones strong, plays a role in reducing osteoarthritis, keeps the digestive system functioning normally, and allows a dog to release pent-up energy, among other things. Take your Shih Tzu for two brisk walks daily and engage them in activities like catch or hide and seek.

Read more about Shih Tzu Exercise Requirements, by jumping down below to our list of Popular Care Articles, or continue on for more care tips. 

Shih Tzu being walked
Shih Tzu being walked

Care Tip #9: Keep an eye on your Shih Tzu’s breathing.

The Shih Tzu is a brachycephalic breed, meaning that the skull, and all internal breathing passages, is compressed. Because of this, many Shih Tzu have some level of stenotic nares (pinched nostrils) which can affect their ability to breathe. And, many have some level of elongated palate (excess tissue near the back of the throat) which can also exacerbate breathing issues. In some cases, there are other issues such as tracheal collapse (as touched on previously in Care Tip #7: Use a harness, not a collar when on leash). 


Using a harness certainly plays a role in helping a Shih Tzu breathing more freely when exercising. It’s also important to take breaks every 20 minutes or so and to keep a Shih Tzu hydrated. If at any point you notice your Shih Tzu starting to pant very heavy, this is your signal to take a break. Special care should be taken during hot weather, and this is covered next. 

Read more about Shih Tzu Breathing Issues or continue on for more care tips.

Care Tip #10: Make adjustments to care during the summer. 

In most cases, there is a need for some adjustments regarding certain care tasks during hot weather. Most notably, steps should be taken to avoid overheating since the Shih Tzu, being a brachycephalic breed, is prone to this. 


You can help keep a Shih Tzu cool by taking walks in the morning and evening to avoid the hottest parts of the day and providing lots of water and even water-rich snacks like frozen berries. Another helpful tip is to have a Shih Tzu use a cooling mat like the TheGreenPetShop's Dog Cooling Mat which can help them feel comfortable on the hottest of days and can be used both indoors and out. 

Read more about Shih Tzu Summer Care, by jumping down below to our list of Popular Care Articles, or continue on for more care tips.

Care Tip #11: Make adjustments to care during the winter. 

One of the biggest hurdles in the winter is keeping a Shih Tzu active enough when there is inclement weather. On cold and/or snowy days, a Shih Tzu may appreciate having a warm sweater or vest like the Kuoser Cozy Waterproof Windproof British Style Winter Coat. When you get back inside, towel dry your little guy or gal to prevent the coat from remaining damp. 


If you live in an area where blizzard are a possibility, have a backup plan for potty needs, which may involve having pee pads set up in an attached garage or another area of the house.

Another common issue in the winter is dry skin which can affect the paws, the nose, or be a full-body problem. Paws can be protected with a paw wax like Musher's Secret Pet Paw Protection Wax which not only helps keep them properly moisturize, but also gives a dog much better traction in the winter.

If there is a full-body issue with dry skin which often goes hand-in-hand with itchiness, there are a number of things you can do to help stop itching with a Shih Tzu, including using moisturizing shampoos, creams or butters, and/or topical medicated or non-medicated anti-itch sprays. 

Read more about Shih Tzu Winter Care, by jumping down below to our list of Popular Care Articles, or continue on for more care tips.

Care Tip #12: Use flea, tick, and heartworm prevention, while avoiding as many chemicals as possible. 

This is one of the trickiest care elements to navigate. Fleas, ticks, heartworms, and other parasitic worms can cause lots of health issues; but, at the same time, traditional prevention methods involve lots of strong pesticides that can cause sometimes serious adverse reactions. 


The way in which you can protect your Shih Tzu depends on the season (winter vs summer) and the risk level of these pests in your particular area. There are instances when all-natural products can be used. And, with the Shih Tzu being a toy breed, heartworm meds can sometimes be halved, depending on the product. 

Read more about Flea, Tick, and Heartworm Prevention or continue on for more care tips.

Care Tip #13: Proof the house, no matter your Shih Tzu’s age.

Typically referred to as ‘puppy proofing’, it’s recommended to do this task no matter your Shih Tzu's age. The goal is to remove all reachable choking hazards, electrical dangers, poisonous substances, and other dangers in the house or yard. 


Some tips to help proof the house indoors includes routinely picking up small objects from the floor and making sure bags (purses, gym bags, etc.), houseplants, and shade and curtain strings are out of reach. Electrical and cable cords should be safely tucked away or a protector like the Small Pet Select Heavy Duty Cord Cover should be used; it doesn’t take lots of chewing for a dog to get electrocuted and suffer severe mouth burns (or worse). Keep trash cans securely closed. 


Outside, supervise your Shih Tzu at all times. Help prevent wildlife from entering the yard by removing birdbaths and keeping trash cans securely covered. Fill in divots in the grass and keep lawn care products out of reach.

Care Tip #14: Bring your Shih Tzu to veterinary wellness checks.

Once a puppy has had their complete rounds of puppy vaccinations, this does not mean that you’re done with the vet unless illness strikes. Adult Shih Tzu should be seen once per year and seniors (age 8 and up) twice per year. These types of ‘wellness checks’ are vital for helping a dog maintain good health and to catch any potential issues early for the best possible prognosis. 


The vet will check your Shh Tzu for issues that are common to this breed. And screenings will include a CBC (complete blood count), urinalysis, and stool sample, which test for a wide range of common canine ailments that affect dogs of all ages. 


Breathing, heart rate, ears, eyes, mouth, hips, and more will be assessed. The vet will speak to you about your Shih Tzu’s diet, exercise, and general well-being. All of these aspects come together to help a Shih Tzu live a long life.

Care Tip #15: Address separation anxiety issues.

If you have to leave your Shih Tzu home alone and they have a hard time coping with the isolation, you are not alone. This is referred to as separation anxiety, and it’s a very common issue seen with dogs, including the Shih Tzu breed. 


Signs include anxious behaviors such as whining or pacing (in anticipation or while alone), housebreaking accidents, excessive barking, excessive drooling, depressed behavior, and/or destructive chewing. There are things you can do to help, including setting up a ‘den-like’ area, offering toys that can keep a dog occupied, playing calming music, and using behavioral companion toys.

Read more about Shih Tzu Separation Anxiety or continue on for more care tips.

Popular Care Articles:

A Shih Tzu with canine toothbrush

Shih Tzu Dental Care - Your guide to keeping your Shih Tzu's teeth clean and healthy. An added bonus is nice, fresh breath.


Shih Tzu at signs in road.

Shih Tzu Dos and Don'ts - A great summary of the 3 most important dos and the 3 most vital don'ts for optimal health, safety and happiness.


Close up of Shih Tzu's eyes, illustrated

Shih Tzu Eye Care - Taking care of a Shih Tzu's eyes is an important care task, deserving of its own article. Keeping the eye area clean is vital to help prevent irritation and infection.


Shih Tzu Exercise, illustrated

Shih Tzu Exercise Requirements- Taking care of a Shih Tzu's eyes is an important care task, deserving of its own article. Keeping the eye area clean is vital to help prevent irritation and infection.


Shih Tzu Summer, illustrated

Shih Tzu Summer Care- The long dog days of summer come with some challenges for a Shih Tzu, being brachycephalic breed. See our top tips to keep summer comfortable and fun.


Shih Tzu Winter, illustrated

Shih Tzu Winter Care- The short, cold days of snowy winters presents its own unique care challenges with a Shih Tzu. See our best tips for winterizing your Shih Tzu for a warm, comfortable and happy winter season.


More Articles:

Shih Tzu Physical Comfort: Addressing 5 Concerns - How to address sensitive skin, tummy troubles, cold intolerance, breathing discomfort, and mobility issues in Shih Tzu dogs. Help your Shih Tzu start feeling better today. 

Lovely Fragrances for a Shih Tzu - In certain top-quality coat sprays, you'll find surprisingly pleasant scents that not only protect a Shih Tzu's skin and coat from irritants, allergens, UV rays, and more, but also help them smell delightful. 

Help a Shih Tzu Live a Long Life - Steps you can start implementing today that will directly affect your sweet Shih Tzu's life span. Most are very easy to work into a pup or dog's typical care routine.

Shih Tzu Flea Issues - No one wants to deal with fleas, but it's an important topic to know about. This is a helpful guide to both prevent fleas and deal with a current infestation, with a focus on using non-chemical, all-natural products. 

Shih Tzu Heat Cycle - This article covers what a heat cycle is, signs and symptoms, age of onset and cessation, duration and frequency, red flag signs during the heat cycle, tips for taking care of your little gal during heat and FAQ.

Shih Tzu Odors - A detailed guided for the reasons a Shih Tzu can get stinky and exact steps to help diagnose and remedy the problem. Before you know it, your little guy or gal will be smelling great.

Shih Tzu Poisoning Information - Learn about common toxins, signs and symptoms, emergency treatment, and prevention tips to safeguard your puppy or adult dog's health.

Skin Problems - The various skin issues that can be seen such as itching, rashes and more. Read tips for prevention, and advice for treatment. 

Sleep Patterns and Issues - A great guide for how much sleep is normal based on age, tips for better sleep and red flags of sleep problems.

Shih Tzu Tails - A complete guide to tail care including tail set, show vs pet tail appearance, FAQ, tail body language, tail injury and more.

Vaccination Schedule for Shih Tzu - Everything you need to know about vaccines for puppies and older dogs, including core vs non-core, possible side effects that can occur, facts about booster shots, and reader Q&A. 

Shih Tzu care book
The Most Comprehensive Shih Tzu Care Book That Exists

Paperback (8.5x11", 360 pg) or ebook

Whether you have a new puppy or an adult, let’s get started on a wonderful, fulfilling, fun, and healthy road for your Shih Tzu!

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