In this post, you discover 9 stunning adult Shih Tzu haircuts that will make you dog look stunning. We’ll cover everything from low-maintenance styles to show-stopping looks, plus tips on how to keep your Shih Tzu’s coat healthy and gorgeous.
Top 9 adult Shih Tzu haircuts
The Teddy Bear Cut
Want your Shih Tzu to look like a living stuffed animal? The Teddy Bear Cut is for you! This style features:
- Rounded face with fluffy cheeks
- Body hair cut to about 2 inches long
- Legs left slightly longer for a plush look
- Requires regular brushing to maintain the fluffy appearance
Many Shih Tzu owners swear by this cut because it shows off their dog’s adorable facial features while still being relatively low-maintenance.
The Lion Cut
Feeling bold? The Lion Cut transforms your Shih Tzu into a miniature lion:
- Body hair is clipped very short
- Mane around the neck and head is left long
- Tail tip is left fluffy
- Legs may have “bracelets” of longer fur
This cut is dramatic and eye-catching, but be aware that it can take some time for the coat to grow back if you decide to change styles.
The Top Knot
The Top Knot isn’t a full haircut, but it’s a popular style element for Shih Tzus with longer coats:
- Hair on top of the head is gathered into a small ponytail
- Keeps hair out of your dog’s eyes
- Can be combined with various body cuts
- Requires daily maintenance to keep neat
Many Shih Tzu owners find that the Top Knot helps their dogs see better and reduces eye irritation.
The Practical Short Cut
For Shih Tzu parents who want a no-fuss option, the Practical Short Cut is ideal:
- Hair is clipped short all over (about 1/2 inch)
- Face, ears, and tail may be left slightly longer
- Minimal grooming required
- Perfect for active dogs or those in warm climates
This cut might not win any beauty contests, but it’s comfortable for your dog and easy for you to maintain.
The Show Cut
If you want your Shih Tzu to look like a champion (even if they’re just a champion couch potato), try the Show Cut:
- Long, flowing coat (often floor-length)
- Hair on top of head is tied up in a bow
- Requires daily brushing and regular professional grooming
- Best for dogs who don’t mind extensive grooming sessions
Be prepared for a lot of upkeep with this style, but the results are stunning!
The Summer Cut
When the temperature rises, keep your Shih Tzu cool with the Summer Cut:
- Body hair is clipped very short (1/4 to 1/2 inch)
- Face is trimmed but left slightly longer
- Ears and tail may be trimmed or left natural
- Helps prevent overheating and makes it easier to check for ticks
Remember to use doggy sunscreen on areas with very short hair to prevent sunburn!
The Westie Cut
Borrow a look from another breed with the Westie Cut:
- Body hair is cut to about 1 inch long
- Face is rounded and fluffy
- Legs and skirt are left slightly longer
- Ears are trimmed into a pointed shape
This cut gives your Shih Tzu a spunky, terrier-like appearance that’s sure to turn heads.
The Mohawk
For the punk rock Shih Tzu in your life, consider the Mohawk:
- Body is clipped short
- Strip of longer hair is left running from forehead to tail
- Can be styled with pet-safe hair gel for special occasions
- Great conversation starter at the dog park!
This fun cut lets your Shih Tzu’s personality shine through.
The Asian Fusion Cut
Combine traditional Asian grooming techniques with modern style in the Asian Fusion Cut:
- Body is cut moderately short
- Legs are left longer and shaped into round “boots”
- Face is sculpted into a round or heart shape
- Tail is often shaped like a palm tree or pom-pom
This artistic style requires skill to execute, so be sure to find a groomer experienced in Asian Fusion techniques.
How often should you groom your Shih Tzu?
Keeping your Shih Tzu’s coat healthy and tangle-free requires regular grooming. Here’s a general schedule to follow:
- Daily: Quick brush-through to remove tangles
- Weekly: Thorough brushing and combing, check for mats
- Every 4-6 weeks: Bath and full grooming session (at home or professional)
- Every 6-8 weeks: Haircut (if maintaining a shorter style)
Common Shih Tzu coat problems and solutions
Even with regular grooming, Shih Tzus can experience coat issues. Here are some common problems and how to address them:
- Matting:
- Prevention: Daily brushing, especially in problem areas like behind the ears and under the legs
- Solution: Gently work out mats with a comb or mat splitter; severe mats may require professional help
- Dry skin and dandruff:
- Prevention: Regular bathing with moisturizing shampoo, proper nutrition
- Solution: Try adding fish oil to your dog’s diet or using a leave-in conditioner
- Excessive shedding:
- Prevention: Regular brushing to remove loose hair
- Solution: Check for underlying health issues; consider a de-shedding treatment
- Eye stains:
- Prevention: Keep facial hair trimmed, clean around eyes daily
- Solution: Use a pet-safe eye stain remover; consult your vet if staining is severe
- Skin allergies:
- Prevention: Identify and avoid allergens, use hypoallergenic grooming products
- Solution: Consult your vet for allergy testing and treatment options
Persistent coat problems can be a sign of underlying health issues. Always consult your veterinarian if you’re concerned about your Shih Tzu’s coat health.
Seasonal considerations for Shih Tzu haircuts
Your Shih Tzu’s grooming needs may change with the seasons:
Summer:
- Opt for shorter cuts to prevent overheating
- Increase bathing frequency if your dog swims or plays in water often
- Use pet-safe sunscreen on areas with thin fur
Fall:
- Let the coat grow a bit longer in preparation for winter
- Check for burrs and seeds after walks in nature
- Consider a de-shedding treatment as the summer coat falls out
Winter:
- Keep the coat longer for warmth, especially if you live in a cold climate
- Use a coat or sweater for extra protection on very cold days
- Moisturize paw pads to prevent cracking from dry air and salt
Spring:
- Schedule a thorough grooming session to remove the winter undercoat
- Watch for seasonal allergies that may affect the skin and coat
- Start transitioning to a shorter summer cut as temperatures rise
By adjusting your grooming routine to the seasons, you’ll keep your Shih Tzu comfortable all year round.
FAQs about adult Shih Tzu haircuts
How short can I cut my Shih Tzu’s hair?
You can cut your Shih Tzu’s hair as short as 1/4 inch all over. However, very short cuts may expose the skin to sunburn and cold. Most owners prefer to keep the coat at least 1/2 to 1 inch long for protection.
Will my Shih Tzu’s hair grow back if I cut it too short?
Yes, Shih Tzu hair will grow back if cut short. It typically grows about 1/2 inch per month. If you’re unhappy with a very short cut, be patient – it will grow out in time.
How can I keep my Shih Tzu’s face clean between haircuts?
Use a damp washcloth or pet wipe to clean your Shih Tzu’s face daily. Pay special attention to the areas around the eyes and mouth. You can also use small scissors to trim any hair that’s getting in your dog’s eyes or mouth.
Is it okay to shave my Shih Tzu in the summer?
While a short cut can help keep your Shih Tzu cool, it’s generally not recommended to shave them completely. Their coat provides protection from the sun and insects.
A moderate trim (like the Summer Cut mentioned earlier) is usually sufficient for hot weather.
How do I choose the right Shih Tzu haircut?
Consider your lifestyle, the amount of time you can dedicate to grooming, and your dog’s personality. If you’re active outdoors, a shorter cut might be best. If you enjoy grooming sessions with your pup, a longer style could work.
Don’t be afraid to try different cuts to find what works best for you and your Shih Tzu.
