Learn how to Groom Your Shih Tzu at Home in India in 2025 — from brushing to clipping. Keep your furry baby clean, cozy, and cute. Shih Tzus’ cute faces and silky double coats make them one of India’s favorite toy dog breeds. But keeping them cute isn’t that easy.
Their long, beautiful fur needs regular grooming — particularly in India’s hot, dusty, or tropical climate. Good grooming does not just make your Shih Tzu appear more adorable but also wards off skin problems, tangling, and infection. Regular maintenance keeps them calm and allows them to enjoy their long lifespan of 10–15 years.
How Often Should a Shih Tzu Be Groomed?
Due to their thick double-coated coat, Shih Tzus need to be groomed regularly to feel comfortable and clean. How often you should go depends on the thickness of your dog’s coat, the climate in your area, and the activity level of your dog.
How Often Should You Take a Shih Tzu to the Groomer?
In India, your Shih Tzu needs to be groomed by a professional groomer every 4–8 weeks. Long-haired (such as show-style grooming) dogs require coming in every 4–6 weeks, and shorter cuts, such as the puppy cut, can be done every 8 weeks.
Professional grooming in India typically runs from ₹1,500–₹3,500 per visit, depending on where you live and treatment (Delhi and Mumbai are more expensive). If you reside in dry or hot climates such as Chennai or Mumbai, you might need to go a bit more often.
How Often Do Shih Tzus Need to Be Bathed?
Bathe the Shih Tzu every 3–4 weeks to maintain the coat and skin in good condition. In hot and humid weather of India, bathe them every 2–3 weeks during summer if they are exercised daily.
A mild sulfate-free shampoo such as Captain Zack Oatmeal & Coconut Shampoo (₹450–₹650) can be used. Over-bathing will dry the skin but not bathing enough will give bad odor or lead to matting.
How Often Do Shih Tzus Need to Be Cut?
Clip every 4–8 weeks, based on your choice of hairstyle. The puppy cut, being shorter, will be perfect for India’s weather, cutting down heat and grooming time. Clip hair around eyes, ears, and paws from time to time to avoid infection, especially during monsoons.
What Is the Best Haircut for a Shih Tzu?
Puppy cut continues to be the most convenient and suitable Shih Tzu haircut in India. It is a short (1–2 inches) cut, hence being ideal for warm weather and low maintenance.
Some of the other popular choices are:
- Teddy Bear Cut – gives a rounded face with extended body coat.
- Lion Cut – gives a mane-like face with trim body hair, giving a majestic appearance.
These trims strike a balance between comfort, cleanliness, and style for Indian weather conditions.
What Does It Cost to Groom a Shih Tzu?
An entire grooming session — bath, trim, nail clipping, and ear cleaning — will cost between ₹1,500–₹3,500 in India. Grooming parlors of cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, or Bangalore can be costlier (₹2,000–₹4,000). As for routine self-grooming at home, spending money on products such as a Wahl Pet Clipper Kit (₹3,000–₹4,500) and Hertzko Slicker Brush (₹900–₹1,200) can pay off in the long run.
Should I Shave My Shih Tzu in the Summer?
No — shaving your Shih Tzu is not recommended, not even on a blistering hot Indian summer. Their double coat protects them from heat and sunburn. Rather, keep a 1–2 inch puppy cut to allow for airflow. Shaving can damage hair growth and cause skin irritation. Always consult your veterinarian or groomer before trying shaving.
What Is the Best Cut for a Shih Tzu?
Your perfect haircut varies with your local climate and pet life.
What Length Should I Cut My Shih Tzu Hair?
For Indian weather, 1–2 inches (puppy cut) is ideal — brief enough for ease but lengthy enough for skin protection. In winter areas like Shimla or Manali, you may employ the teddy bear cut (2–3 inches) for added warmth. They employ a #10 blade or scissors for detailing the area around the eyes and paws.
What Is the Best Meat for a Shih Tzu?
Your dog’s coat is directly linked to health, depending on diet. Indian Shih Tzus require a diet full of chicken, boiled eggs, and fish (rohu or salmon) in order to give them shiny fur and healthy skin. Select food that contains natural omega-3 & 6 fatty acids, such as Drools Focus Adult, Pedigree PRO, or Farmina N&D Fish & Orange Formula. Steer away from cheap foods containing corn and soy fillers.
Which Type of Shih Tzu Is Best?
All Shih Tzus need the same grooming. But healthy standard Shih Tzus (4–7 kg) with good blood acclimate easily to the Indian climate. “Imperial” or “Teacup” strains are weak and disease-susceptible, and hence more unruly. Always pick up or buy from good breeders or rescues.
How Often Should You Cut a Shih Tzu’s Hair?
Clip every 4–8 weeks. Long coats must be clipped every 4–6 weeks, and puppy cuts every 8 weeks at maximum. Between clipping sessions, clip the eyes and paws with rounded-tip scissors (₹700–₹1,000).
What Is a Low-Maintenance Cut for a Shih Tzu?
The puppy cut is the ideal low-maintenance trim for Indian pet parents. It reduces grooming time to a mere 3–4 brushings a week and reduces matting. If you can manage less, the kennel cut (ultra-low coat) can be selected.
What Is the Average Cost to Groom a Shih Tzu?
| Service | Frequency | Average Cost (₹) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bathing & Drying | 3–4 weeks | ₹600–₹1,000 | Use mild dog shampoo |
| Full Grooming | 4–8 weeks | ₹1,500–₹3,500 | Includes trim, nails, ears |
| Nail Clipping | 4–6 weeks | ₹300–₹500 | Avoid over-trimming |
| Ear Cleaning | Weekly | ₹250–₹400 | Prevent infections |
| Home Grooming Kit | One-time | ₹4,000–₹6,000 | Long-term cost-saving |
How Often Should Shih Tzus Be Bathed?
Every 3–4 weeks is ideal. In summer, especially in warm and dusty locations such as Delhi or Ahmedabad, bathing every 2 weeks prevents itching and odor. Bathe always with lukewarm water and dog shampoo.
Is It Okay to Bathe a Shih Tzu Once a Week?
Only if your Shih Tzu is extremely hyperactive or dirty. Weekly bath should be followed by moisturizing conditioners such as Wiggles Oatmeal Conditioner (₹450) to keep dryness at bay.
How Do You Dry a Shih Tzu After a Bath?
- Pat dry with a microfiber towel (₹300–₹500).
- Dry using a low-heat pet dryer such as Andis Pet Dryer (₹2,500–₹3,000).
- Brush the coat gently while drying to prevent tangling.
- Make sure the coat is dry to avoid skin infection, particularly during humid monsoons.
Why Does My Shih Tzu Smell Even After a Bath?
- Soap residue – Clean thoroughly.
- Ear infections – Trixie Ear Cleaner (₹350) once a week.
- Anal glands – Have them checked by a vet (₹500–₹800).
- Skin issues – Have antifungal treatment from a vet if necessary.
Top 10 Shih Tzu Grooming Products in 2025
| Product | Price (₹) | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Wahl Pet Clipper Kit | 3,500–4,500 | Professional-grade clipping |
| Captain Zack Oatmeal Shampoo | 450–650 | Soothes sensitive skin |
| Trixie Ear Cleaner | 350–400 | Prevents ear infections |
| Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush | 900–1,200 | Removes tangles easily |
| Wiggles Conditioner | 450–500 | Adds shine & moisture |
| Andis Pet Dryer | 2,500–3,000 | Quick & safe drying |
| Pedigree PRO Dog Food | 1,000–2,000 | Balanced nutrition |
| Gimars Rounded Scissors | 700–1,000 | Safe trimming |
| Wahl Nail Clipper | 500–800 | Durable & easy to use |
| Dogsee Chew Treats | 250–400 | Great for reward-based grooming |
Shih Tzu Grooming Schedule
| Task | Frequency | Tools | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brushing | Daily/3–4x week | Hertzko Slicker Brush | Prevents matting |
| Bathing | 3–4 weeks | Captain Zack Shampoo | Avoid overbathing |
| Nail Clipping | 4–6 weeks | Wahl Clipper | Trim carefully |
| Ear Cleaning | Weekly | Trixie Ear Cleaner | Check for redness |
| Eye Cleaning | Daily | Pet-safe wipes | Prevent tear stains |
| Trimming | 4–8 weeks | Wahl Clippers | Prefer puppy cut |
| Teeth Brushing | Weekly | Dog Toothpaste | Use soft brush |
Key Benefits of Grooming a Shih Tzu
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Skin Health: Brushing boosts circulation and reduces infections.
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Temperature Control: Shorter cuts keep them cool in India’s hot weather.
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Parasite Prevention: Regular checks remove fleas and ticks.
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Hygiene & Comfort: Clean paws and trimmed eyes prevent irritation.
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Bonding Time: Grooming strengthens emotional connection.
Shih Tzu Grooming Tips for India
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Use a cooling mat (₹700–₹1,000) in summer.
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Always use filtered or lukewarm water for bathing.
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Clean grooming tools after every session.
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Give Dogsee treats to make grooming enjoyable.
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Visit professional groomers for complex trims or mats.
FAQ
How often should a Shih Tzu be groomed?
Every 4–8 weeks professionally, and brushed 3–4 times weekly.
What is the best haircut for a Shih Tzu?
The puppy cut is best for Indian weather — simple, stylish, and easy to maintain.
How much does it cost to groom a Shih Tzu?
Between ₹1,500–₹3,500 per session; at-home grooming is cheaper long-term.
How often should Shih Tzus be bathed?
Every 3–4 weeks, or every 2 weeks during hot summers.
Should I shave my Shih Tzu in the summer?
No, just go for a short puppy cut to keep your pet cool and comfortable.
Author
Navdeep Kr. is a passionate dog lover and proud pet parent who has learned everything about dogs through real-life experience — from messy first baths to adorable grooming blunders.
I’m not a professional groomer, just someone who believes every dog deserves love, care, and patience. Through my blogs, I share what worked for me, what didn’t, and how to make pet parenting simpler in Indian homes.
When I’m not writing or working, you’ll find me walking my dog in the park, discovering pet-friendly cafés, or simply relaxing with my furry buddy. My mission is simple — to help every Indian pet parent feel confident, informed, and more connected with their pets every single day.