Therefore a Shih Tzu with a long coat requires daily brushing to stay on top of tangles before they form knots or mats. Moreover, regular brushing is important for all lengths of Shih Tzu coats. To keep your Shih Tzu's luxurious coat looking its best, you need to brush it frequently, using a good-quality long pin slicker brush and a metal comb. But with so many options for dog brushes on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your Shih Tzu. Fear not. The following brushes are recommended by professional groomers and Shih Tzu owners like you.
1. The Show Tech Tuffer Than Tangles Slicker Brush
This slicker brush features long, soft pins to gently remove tangles and mats from your beloved Shih Tzu's fur. It has a long comfortable handle with a contoured grip that allows you to comfortably groom your little dog without straining your wrist or arm. The Tuffer Than Tangles Slicker Brush makes quick work of de-matting and brushing out thick, long coats. The brush is extremely lightweight and ergonomic to reduce stress and fatigue in the hand and wrist. Many Shih Tzus owners say this slicker brush offers good results for the price. Some owners appreciate the bristles' length and softness.
2. The Flying Pawfect Curved Slicker Brush
Used by professional groomers, this slicker brush features soft stainless-steel pins that gently brush away loose hair, undercoat, mats, and tangles. For a better grip and more control over your brushing, the brush boasts a long, ergonomic, slip-resistant handle. Its pins are 50% longer and softer than a standard slicker brush. It's designed to glide through thick, long coats without tugging or pulling hair, or scratching the skin. The Flying Pawfect Curved Slicker Brush is a must-have grooming tool for long and/or double-coated breeds including the Shih Tzu.
3. The Pupwell Slicker Brush
This high-quality slicker brush is expertly designed with dense, extra-long stainless steel pins for dogs with long coats. It effectively brushes through knots and tangles, preventing matting and keeping your Shih Tzu's coat smooth. The brush features a sturdy wood handle coated in a signature velvety finish that is comfortable to hold. In addition to being aesthetically pleasing, this brush is durable. Brushing your Shih Tzu regularly with the Pupwell Slicker Brush will help remove dead, unshed hair, dirt and debris, and distribute natural oils throughout the coat, ensuring a clean, healthy, and shiny coat. However, this brush is more expensive than the two brushes recommended above.
4. A Metal Comb
A metal dog comb is a valuable grooming tool for detangling and removing mats from your Shih Tzu's fur. Its closely spaced teeth effectively and safely work through knots, ensuring a neat appearance. Slicker brushes are great for removing loose fur and reducing shedding. A comb, however, can take this process to the next level. A comb reaches deeper into your dog's coat, helping to remove loose hair, dirt, and debris that may be trapped near the skin. Regular combing also helps prevent mats from forming, ensuring your Shih Tzu's coat stays smooth and healthy. Moreover, the Shih Tzu's mustache and topknot require daily combing. This Metal Everyday Dog Comb by Pupwell is designed to glide gently through your Shih Tzu's coat, preventing snags and breakage. It is recommended for use following your thorough brushing with the slicker brush.
How Often Should You Brush Your Shih Tzu?
Although Shih Tzus are considered a low-shedding breed, their luxurious coat is prone to knotting and matting if you don't brush it often. If you keep your Shih Tzu coat long, you'll need to brush it every day. Every two days is a good frequency if the dog's coat is kept short. However, most Shih Tzu owners on Reddit say they brush their dogs every day.
