Do Shih Tzus Get Hot with Long Hair? 4 Ways To Keep Them Cool.

Ever looked at your furry little friend on a scorching summer day and thought, “Geez, that’s a lot of hair for such hot weather”? You’re not alone.

I’ve been a Shih Tzu owner for over 4 years, and I’ve asked myself that question more times than I can count.

Let me tell you, I’ve tried everything from full-on summer cuts to leaving my Shih Tzu’s coat long and flowing. Some methods worked great, others… not so much.

One summer, I even had my poor pup looking like a fluffy popsicle because I was so worried about her overheating!

But don’t worry, you won’t have to go through all that trial and error. In this post, I’m going to share everything I’ve learned about keeping Shih Tzus cool in the heat, whether they’re sporting a long luxurious coat or a shorter summer ‘do.

let’s get started!

Understanding Shih Tzu Coats: More Than Just Fluff

Before we jump into whether Shih Tzus get hot with long hair, let’s talk about what’s actually going on under all that fluff.

The Anatomy of a Shih Tzu’s Coat

Shih Tzus have what’s called a double coat. Here’s the breakdown:

Undercoat: This is the soft, fluffy layer close to the skin. It’s like your dog’s personal thermal underwear.
Topcoat: These are the longer, coarser hairs you see on the surface. They’re like your dog’s weather-resistant jacket.

This two-layer system isn’t just for show – it’s a clever bit of canine engineering.

How a Shih Tzu’s Coat Works

You might think all that fur would make your Shih Tzu a walking sauna, but it’s actually pretty smart:

In winter, the undercoat traps warm air close to the skin, keeping your pup toasty.
In summer, it acts like a thermos, helping to keep cool air near the skin.
The topcoat protects against sunburn and helps reflect some of the sun’s heat.

So, your Shih Tzu’s coat is already working hard to keep them comfortable. But does that mean they never get hot? Not quite.

Do Shih Tzus Actually Get Hot with Long Hair?

Okay, let’s address the elephant in the room – or should I say, the fluffy dog in the room. Do Shih Tzus get hot with long hair? The short answer is: yes, they can. But it’s not as simple as “long hair = hot dog.”

Factors That Affect How Hot Your Shih Tzu Gets

Temperature and Humidity: The hotter and more humid it is, the harder it is for your Shih Tzu to cool down.
Activity Level: A Shih Tzu zooming around the park will heat up faster than one lounging on the couch.
Age and Health: Older dogs or those with health issues might struggle more with heat.
Coat Condition: A matted or dirty coat doesn’t regulate temperature as well as a clean, well-groomed one.

The Long Hair Debate

Now, here’s where it gets interesting. Long hair doesn’t automatically mean your Shih Tzu will overheat. In fact, in some cases, it can help keep them cool. But there’s a catch:

Pro: Long hair can act as insulation against heat, much like how desert animals often have thick fur.
Con: If the coat gets matted or dirty, it can trap heat and make your dog uncomfortable.

The key? Proper grooming. A well-maintained long coat can be just as cool (if not cooler) than a short one.

Signs Your Shih Tzu Is Too Hot

Whether your Shih Tzu has long hair or short, it’s crucial to know when they’re getting too toasty. Here are some signs to watch out for:

Excessive Panting: All dogs pant, but if your Shih Tzu is panting heavily and can’t seem to stop, they might be overheating.
Drooling: More drool than usual can be a sign of heat stress.
Lethargy: If your usually peppy pup seems unusually tired or uninterested in activities, heat could be the culprit.
Red Gums: Take a peek in your dog’s mouth. If the gums are redder than usual, it’s time to cool down.
Stumbling or Disorientation: This is a serious sign of heat stroke and requires immediate veterinary attention.

Remember, prevention is always better than cure. If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to take action to cool your pup down.

Keeping Your Long-Haired Shih Tzu Cool: Practical Tips

Now that we know Shih Tzus can get hot with long hair (but don’t always), let’s talk about how to keep your fluffy friend comfortable when the mercury rises.

1. Grooming for Coolness

Regular Brushing: This removes loose undercoat and helps air circulate to the skin. Aim for daily brushing during hot months.
Keep It Clean: A clean coat insulates better than a dirty one. Bathe your Shih Tzu every 3-4 weeks, or more if they get dirty.
Trim, Don’t Shave: If you want to trim your dog’s coat for summer, that’s fine. But avoid shaving them completely – remember, that coat helps protect against sunburn and regulate temperature.

2. Environment Management

Indoor Comfort: Keep your home cool and well-ventilated. If you have AC, your Shih Tzu will appreciate it as much as you do.
Shady Spots: When outside, make sure your dog has access to shade at all times.
Cool Surfaces: Provide a cooling mat or a damp towel for your dog to lie on.

3. Hydration is Key

Fresh Water: Always have clean, cool water available. Change it frequently on hot days.
Frozen Treats: Ice cubes or frozen dog-safe fruits can be a fun way to keep your pup hydrated.
Wet Food: Adding some wet food to your dog’s diet can increase their water intake.

4. Timing is Everything

Early Morning or Late Evening Walks: Avoid the hottest parts of the day for outdoor activities.
Limit Sun Exposure: Long-haired or not, too much direct sunlight isn’t good for your Shih Tzu.

Remember, every dog is different. What works for one Shih Tzu might not work for another. Pay attention to your dog’s behavior and adjust your cooling strategies accordingly.

The Great Haircut Debate: To Cut or Not to Cut?

Ah, the million-dollar question: should you give your Shih Tzu a haircut for summer? Let’s break it down.

Pros of a Summer Cut

Less Matting: Shorter hair is easier to maintain and less likely to mat.
Easier to Clean: Less fur means quicker baths and less time drying.
Visibility: It’s easier to spot skin issues or parasites with shorter fur.

Cons of a Summer Cut

Less Natural Insulation: Remember, that coat helps regulate temperature.
Sun Exposure: Less fur means less protection from the sun.
Potential for Uneven Growth: Sometimes, the coat doesn’t grow back evenly after a dramatic cut.

Finding the Middle Ground

If you’re on the fence, consider a moderate trim instead of a full shave:

Puppy Cut: This leaves about an inch of fur all over the body. It’s easier to maintain than a full coat but still provides some protection.
Belly Trim: Keeping the belly and underarms closely trimmed can help your dog cool off when lying on cool surfaces.
Face and Paw Trim: Keeping these areas short can help your dog feel cooler without dramatically changing their overall look.

Whatever you decide, make sure you’re using proper grooming techniques or visit a professional groomer.

Beyond the Coat: Other Ways to Keep Your Shih Tzu Cool

While managing your Shih Tzu’s coat is important, it’s not the only way to keep them cool. Here are some other strategies to try:

Cool Accessories

Cooling Vests: These nifty gadgets use evaporation to keep your dog cool. Just soak in water, wring out, and put on your pup.
Bandanas: A wet bandana around the neck can help cool your dog down.
Booties: Hot pavement can burn your dog’s paws. Protective booties can help on scorching days.

Water Fun

Paddling Pool: Many Shih Tzus enjoy splashing in a shallow pool on hot days.
Sprinkler Play: Running through a sprinkler can be a fun way for your dog to cool off.
Damp Towel: Laying a damp towel on the floor or over your dog can provide quick relief.

Indoor Activities

On days when it’s too hot to be outside, try these indoor games:

Hide and Seek: Hide treats or toys around the house for your dog to find.
Puzzle Toys: Mental stimulation can tire your dog out without physical exertion.
Indoor Obstacle Course: Set up a fun course using household items.

Remember, the goal is to keep your Shih Tzu comfortable and safe, regardless of their coat length.

When to Worry: Heat Stroke in Shih Tzus

While we’ve focused a lot on prevention, it’s crucial to know what to do if your Shih Tzu does overheat. Heat stroke is a serious condition that can be life-threatening.

Symptoms of Heat Stroke

Excessive panting or difficulty breathing
Disorientation or stumbling
Collapse or loss of consciousness
Seizures
Vomiting or diarrhea
Gums that are very red or bluish

What to Do

If you suspect your Shih Tzu is suffering from heat stroke:

Move them to a cool area immediately.
Apply cool (not cold) water to their body, especially the belly and paws.
Offer small amounts of water to drink.
Contact your vet right away – even if your dog seems to be improving, they need to be checked out.

Prevention is always better than cure. By keeping a close eye on your Shih Tzu and taking steps to keep them cool, you can avoid these scary situations.

Wrapping Up: Your Shih Tzu, Their Coat, and You

So, do Shih Tzus get hot with long hair? They can, but with the right care, they can be just as comfortable as short-haired dogs. Here’s what to remember:

A well-maintained coat (long or short) helps regulate your dog’s temperature.
Regular grooming is key to keeping your Shih Tzu comfortable.
Pay attention to your dog’s behavior – they’ll let you know if they’re too hot.
There are many ways to keep your Shih Tzu cool beyond just their haircut.

At the end of the day, you know your Shih Tzu best. Whether you decide to keep their coat long and luxurious or opt for a shorter summer style, the most important thing is to keep a close eye on your furry friend and make sure they’re comfortable.

So, what’s your experience been like? Have you found the perfect summer style for your Shih Tzu? Share your thoughts and tips in the comments below – I’d love to hear from you!

Stay cool, and give your Shih Tzu an extra pat from me!