How to Trim a Shih Tzu’s Face with Scissors

Understanding Your Shih Tzu’s Facial Hair

Long, Profuse Facial Hair

Shih Tzus are known for their distinctive facial features, including long, flowing hair that can cover their eyes and mouth if not properly trimmed. Regular grooming is essential to keep their facial hair clean, prevent matting, and ensure they can see clearly without irritation.

Tools You Will Need

Before you begin, gather the following grooming tools:

• Straight Scissors: These are essential for trimming the bulk of the facial hair.
• Thinning Scissors or Shears: Optional but useful for blending and creating a natural look.
• Fine-Toothed Comb: Helps in parting and detangling the hair.
• Round-Tipped Scissors or Safety Scissors: For trimming around sensitive areas like the eyes and nose.
• Grooming Clippers (optional): If your Shih Tzu’s facial hair is very thick or overgrown, clippers can be used to trim it down before using scissors.

Choosing the Right Environment

Find a quiet, well-lit area where your Shih Tzu feels comfortable and secure. A grooming table or a non-slip surface can help keep them steady during the trimming process. Make sure to have treats on hand to reward your Shih Tzu for good behavior and to keep them calm throughout the grooming session.

Step-by-Step Guide to Trimming a Shih Tzu’s Face

Step 1: Brush and Comb Out the Hair

Before trimming, thoroughly brush and comb your Shih Tzu’s facial hair to remove any tangles or mats. Use a fine-toothed comb to gently detangle the hair, starting from the roots and working your way to the tips. This step helps ensure a smooth and even trim.

Step 2: Trim the Top of the Head

• Part the Hair: Using your fingers or a comb, part the hair on the top of your Shih Tzu’s head. Create a parting that extends from between the eyes to the back of the skull.
• Trim Excess Length: Using straight scissors, carefully trim the excess hair above the parting. Start from the center and work towards the edges, maintaining a straight line across the top of the head. Leave enough length to tie into a top knot if desired.
• Blend the Edges: Use thinning scissors or shears to blend the trimmed area with the longer hair on the sides of the head. This creates a natural transition and prevents a blunt appearance.

Step 3: Trim Around the Eyes

• Comb and Part the Hair: Comb the hair around your Shih Tzu’s eyes downwards. Use a fine-toothed comb to create a parting that exposes the eyes and removes any hair that obstructs vision.
• Trim Carefully: Using round-tipped scissors or safety scissors, carefully trim the hair above and around the eyes. Trim conservatively to avoid cutting the eyelashes or irritating the eyes. Work slowly and in small sections, combing the hair downwards as you go to check for evenness.
• Create a Rounded Shape: To maintain a natural look, trim the hair into a rounded shape that follows the contour of your Shih Tzu’s eye sockets. Avoid cutting too close to the eyes to prevent injury.

Step 4: Trim the Cheeks and Muzzle

• Comb the Hair Downwards: Comb the hair on the cheeks and muzzle downwards to expose the natural contours of your Shih Tzu’s face.
• Trim Excess Length: Using straight scissors, trim the hair on the cheeks and muzzle to a desired length. Start from the top of the cheeks near the ears and work your way down towards the mouth. Maintain a smooth, even line along the jawline.
• Blend the Hair: Use thinning scissors or shears to blend the trimmed hair on the cheeks and muzzle with the longer hair on the sides of the face. This creates a seamless transition and prevents any harsh lines.

Step 5: Trim Around the Nose and Mouth

• Comb and Part the Hair: Use a fine-toothed comb to comb the hair around the nose and mouth downwards. Create a parting that exposes the nostrils and the mouth area.
• Trim Carefully: Using round-tipped scissors or safety scissors, trim the hair around the nose and mouth to a neat and tidy length. Trim conservatively to avoid cutting the whiskers or causing discomfort.
• Shape the Beard (optional): If desired, shape the hair under the chin into a rounded or squared shape to create a defined beard appearance. Use small, careful cuts to achieve the desired shape.

Step 6: Final Touches and Evaluation

• Inspect for Evenness: Once you have completed trimming, comb through your Shih Tzu’s facial hair to check for any uneven areas or stray hairs. Make any final adjustments as needed to achieve a balanced and natural look.
• Reward and Comfort: Reward your Shih Tzu with treats and praise for their patience during the grooming session. Ensure they are comfortable and relaxed before concluding the trimming process.

Step 7: Maintenance and Regular Grooming

• Regular Maintenance: To keep your Shih Tzu’s face looking neat and tidy, establish a regular grooming routine. Trim the facial hair every 2-4 weeks or as needed to prevent matting and ensure clear vision.
• Eye Care: Monitor your Shih Tzu’s eyes regularly for any signs of irritation or excessive tearing. Keep the area around the eyes clean and free from hair to prevent eye infections.
• Professional Grooming: Consider scheduling regular appointments with a professional groomer who has experience with Shih Tzus. They can provide expert trimming and grooming services to maintain your dog’s overall appearance and hygiene.

See also: How to Trim a Chihuahua’s Nails

Conclusion

Trimming your Shih Tzu’s face with scissors can be a rewarding experience when done correctly and patiently. By understanding your dog‘s unique facial hair characteristics, using the right tools, and following a step-by-step approach, you can ensure your Shih Tzu looks and feels their best. Remember to always prioritize your dog’s comfort and safety during grooming sessions, and consult with a professional groomer or veterinarian if you have any concerns or questions. With proper grooming and care, your Shih Tzu will continue to delight with their adorable and well-groomed appearance.