Best Shampoo for Shih Tzus: How to Choose One

What a Shih Tzu coat needs

The AKC describes the Shih Tzu coat as a double coat, with a long, silky topcoat over a softer undercoat, and notes that many Shih Tzus change coat texture around 10 to 12 months of age, when matting can suddenly increase. Long coats tangle easily, and a harsh shampoo strips oils and leaves hair dry, brittle and quicker to mat.

So the job of a Shih Tzu shampoo is to clean gently and leave the coat smooth enough to comb. The AKC advises using a dog-specific shampoo, because human shampoos are formulated for a different skin pH, and its grooming experts suggest following with a conditioner to put moisture back into the coat. Browse our dog shampoos to compare gentle formulas.

Shampoo types compared

Gentle, tearless dog shampoos are the everyday choice: mild cleansers that will not sting if a little reaches the eyes, which matters on a breed with prominent eyes and hair around the face. Moisturizing shampoos with conditioners or oils suit dry, coarse coats. Two-in-one shampoo and conditioners save time but usually condition less than a separate rinse.

Whitening or brightening shampoos are used on white and light coats, but can be drying; use them occasionally. Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free shampoos suit Shih Tzus with sensitive skin. Medicated shampoos are for specific skin problems and should follow a vet's advice.

Matching shampoo to your Shih Tzu

For a Shih Tzu kept in a long coat, a gentle shampoo plus a separate conditioner or detangling spray is the best combination. For a dog kept in a short puppy clip, a mild shampoo alone is often enough. For a dog with itchy, flaky or red skin, choose fragrance-free and ask your vet, because Shih Tzus can be prone to skin allergies.

For tear-stained faces, clean the area gently with a damp cloth between baths rather than relying on harsh face shampoos. Persistent staining, discharge or red eyes deserve a vet check.

How to bathe a Shih Tzu

Brush and comb out the whole coat before the bath, working out any tangles. The AKC notes daily brushing helps prevent mats in this breed. Use lukewarm water, wet the coat to the skin, shampoo gently in the direction of hair growth, and rinse thoroughly; leftover product dulls the coat and irritates skin. Apply conditioner and rinse again.

Protect the eyes and ears, blot dry with a towel rather than rubbing, and blow-dry on a cool or low setting while brushing, so the coat dries straight. AKC sources suggest a bath every two to four weeks for most Shih Tzus, adjusted to the coat and skin.

What to avoid, and when to see a vet

Avoid human shampoo, heavily perfumed products, and bathing over mats, which water tightens into felt. Avoid bathing so often the skin dries out. Do not cut out large mats with scissors near the skin; ask a groomer to clip them. Our guides to the best shampoo for Yorkies and poodles cover other long-coated breeds, and you can browse dog shampoos and dog brushes any time.

See your vet if your Shih Tzu scratches a lot, has a strong smell, red or greasy skin, hair loss or ear problems, because these point to skin conditions a shampoo alone will not solve.

This page is general information, not veterinary advice, and it cannot replace an examination by the vet who knows your pet.