How to Bathe a Shih Tzu

Bathing a Shih Tzu is an important part of their grooming routine to keep their coat clean and healthy. Here are the steps you can follow to bathe your Shih Tzu:

1. Gather your supplies: You will need dog shampoo, a towel, a non-slip mat, a brush, and a cup or handheld showerhead.

2. Brush your Shih Tzu: Before bathing, brush your Shih Tzu to remove any tangles and mats from their coat. This will also help to loosen any dirt and debris that may be stuck in their fur.

3. Prepare the bathing area: Place your Shih Tzu on a non-slip surface, such as a rubber mat, in a bathtub or sink. Fill the tub or sink with lukewarm water, up to their belly.

4. Wet your Shih Tzu: Use a cup or handheld showerhead to wet your Shih Tzu's coat thoroughly. Be careful not to get water in their ears, eyes, or nose.

5. Apply shampoo: Apply a small amount of dog shampoo to your Shih Tzu's coat and massage it in gently. Be sure to cover all areas, including their legs, belly, and tail. Avoid getting shampoo in their eyes and ears.

6. Rinse thoroughly: Rinse your Shih Tzu's coat thoroughly with lukewarm water until all the shampoo is washed away.

7. Dry your Shih Tzu: Use a towel to gently dry your Shih Tzu's coat. You can also use a blow dryer on a low heat setting, but be careful not to get too close to their skin, as it can burn them.

8. Brush your Shih Tzu again: Once your Shih Tzu's coat is dry, brush their fur again to remove any tangles and mats that may have formed during the bathing process.

Remember to bathe your Shih Tzu regularly, but not too often, as over-bathing can strip their coat of its natural oils and cause skin irritation. Aim to bathe your Shih Tzu once every 4-6 weeks, or as needed if they get particularly dirty or smelly.