Shih Tzus are a popular breed of dog known for their long, flowing hair. While some people prefer to take their Shih Tzu to a professional groomer for haircuts, others choose to do it themselves. If you are considering cutting your Shih Tzu’s hair at home, there are a few things you need to know.
1. Gather your supplies.
Before you start cutting your Shih Tzu’s hair, you will need to gather the following supplies:
A good quality set of dog clippers
A variety of combs and brushes
A pair of sharp scissors
A styptic pencil (in case you accidentally cut your dog)
A towel
A comfortable place to work
2. Prepare your dog.
Before you start cutting, you will need to prepare your dog. First, brush out their hair thoroughly to remove any mats or tangles. Then, bathe your dog with a mild shampoo and conditioner. Once your dog is dry, you can start cutting.
3. Choose a style.
There are many different styles you can choose from when cutting your Shih Tzu’s hair. Some popular styles include:
The teddy bear cut: This is a popular style that gives your dog a soft, round appearance.
The puppy cut: This is a short, easy-to-care-for style that is perfect for active dogs.
The lion cut: This style gives your dog a long, flowing mane and tail.
The show cut: This is a more elaborate style that is typically only worn by show dogs.
4. Start cutting.
Once you have chosen a style, you can start cutting. Be sure to start with the clippers and work your way up to the scissors. Use the clippers to cut the hair on your dog’s body to the desired length. Then, use the scissors to trim the hair around their face, ears, feet, and tail.
5. Finish up.
Once you are finished cutting, be sure to brush your dog’s hair again to remove any stray hairs. You may also want to apply a leave-in conditioner to help keep their hair soft and manageable.
6. Reward your dog.
Once you are finished, be sure to reward your dog for being a good patient. Give them a treat and some praise.
With a little practice, you can easily learn how to cut your Shih Tzu’s hair at home. By following these simple steps, you can give your dog a stylish new look that they will love.
Troubleshooting
Here are a few tips for troubleshooting common problems when cutting a Shih Tzu’s hair:
If your dog is squirmy: Try to keep them calm by talking to them in a soothing voice and giving them treats. You may also want to have someone help you hold your dog still.
If you accidentally cut your dog: Don’t panic! Apply a styptic pencil to the cut to stop the bleeding. Then, apply a bandage to the wound.
If your dog’s hair is matted: Don’t try to cut through the mats with clippers. This could cause pain and injury to your dog. Instead, use a comb to carefully work the mats out.
With a little patience and practice, you will be able to cut your Shih Tzu’s hair like a pro!
