Ever run your fingers through your furry friend’s coat and wonder, “What’s really going on under all this fluff?” Well, you’re not alone.
As a Shih Tzu owner for over a decade, I’ve spent countless hours brushing, combing, and yes, sometimes even puzzling over my pup’s magnificent mane.
I’ll never forget the first time I took my Shih Tzu, Max, to a professional groomer. I thought I had his coat care all figured out. Boy, was I wrong! The groomer started talking about undercoats and topcoats, and I felt like I was back in school, learning a whole new language.
But don’t worry, you won’t have to go through that confusion. In this post, we’re going to dig deep into the world of Shih Tzu coats.
We’ll uncover exactly how many layers of fur these adorable furballs are sporting, what each layer does, and how you can keep your Shih Tzu’s coat looking fabulous. So grab a cup of coffee (and maybe a brush), and let’s dive in!
- The Big Reveal: How Many Coats Does a Shih Tzu Have?
- Why Two Coats? The Genius of Shih Tzu Fur
- The Changing Seasons: How Shih Tzu Coats Adapt
- The Grooming Game: Caring for Your Shih Tzu's Double Coat
- The Great Debate: To Clip or Not to Clip?
- Common Coat Conundrums: Troubleshooting Shih Tzu Fur Issues
- Beyond the Fluff: How Coat Care Affects Your Shih Tzu's Health
- The Shih Tzu Coat Through the Ages: From Puppy Fluff to Senior Softness
- Wrapping Up: Embracing Your Shih Tzu's Double Coat
The Big Reveal: How Many Coats Does a Shih Tzu Have?
Alright, drumroll please… A Shih Tzu has not one, but two coats of hair! That’s right, these little dogs are rocking a double coat. But what does that really mean? Let’s break it down.
The Two-Layer Cake of Shih Tzu Fur
- The Undercoat: This is the soft, fluffy layer closest to your Shih Tzu’s skin. It’s like your dog’s personal thermal underwear.
- The Topcoat: This is the longer, coarser outer layer that you see and pet. Think of it as your Shih Tzu’s stylish overcoat.
Now, you might be thinking, “Wait a minute, I thought all dogs had two coats!” Well, not quite. Some breeds, like Poodles, only have a single coat. But Shih Tzus? They’re part of the double-coat club.

Why Two Coats? The Genius of Shih Tzu Fur
You might be wondering why Shih Tzus need two coats. Is it just to make grooming more challenging for us humans? (Sometimes it feels that way, doesn’t it?) But there’s actually a good reason for this double-layer system.
The Undercoat: Your Shih Tzu’s Climate Control
The undercoat is all about temperature regulation. Here’s how it works:
- In cold weather, it traps warm air close to the skin, keeping your Shih Tzu toasty.
- In warm weather, it helps insulate against heat, kind of like how a thermos keeps hot things hot and cold things cold.
The Topcoat: Protection and Style
The topcoat is your Shih Tzu’s first line of defense against the world. It:
- Repels water
- Protects against sun damage
- Keeps dirt and debris from reaching the skin
Plus, let’s face it, it’s what gives Shih Tzus their signature fabulous look!

The Changing Seasons: How Shih Tzu Coats Adapt
Now, here’s something cool about double coats – they change with the seasons. Yep, your Shih Tzu’s coat is smarter than some of our high-tech clothes!
Spring: The Great Shed
When spring rolls around, you might notice your Shih Tzu shedding more than usual. Don’t panic! This is just your pup getting rid of that thick winter undercoat.
Summer: Lightening Up
During the warmer months, your Shih Tzu’s undercoat will be at its thinnest. This helps keep them cool when the temperature rises.
Fall: Preparing for Winter
As the days get shorter, you might notice your Shih Tzu’s undercoat starting to thicken up again. They’re just getting ready for the cold weather ahead.
Winter: Full Fluff Mode
In winter, your Shih Tzu’s undercoat will be at its thickest, providing maximum warmth.
The Grooming Game: Caring for Your Shih Tzu’s Double Coat
Alright, now that we know what we’re dealing with, let’s talk about how to keep that double coat looking its best.
Daily Brushing: Your New Best Friend
With a double coat, daily brushing isn’t just nice – it’s necessary. Here’s why:
- It removes loose fur from the undercoat before it can mat
- It distributes natural oils throughout the coat, keeping it healthy and shiny
- It gives you a chance to check for any skin issues
The Right Tools for the Job
Not all brushes are created equal when it comes to double coats. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Slicker Brush: Great for removing loose undercoat
- Metal Comb: Perfect for catching any tangles the slicker brush missed
- Pin Brush: Use this for a final smooth-out
Bathing Basics: Less is More
You might think that with all that fur, Shih Tzus need frequent baths. But too much bathing can actually strip the coat of its natural oils. Aim for a bath every 3-4 weeks, unless your pup gets into something messy.

Related Post: Top 25 Shih Tzu Grooming Styles to Try This Year
The Great Debate: To Clip or Not to Clip?
One of the biggest questions Shih Tzu owners face is whether to keep their pup’s coat long or opt for a shorter clip. There’s no right or wrong answer, but here are some things to consider:
Pros of Keeping It Long
- Preserves the natural insulating properties of the double coat
- Protects against sunburn and minor scratches
- Gives you that classic Shih Tzu look
Cons of Keeping It Long
- Requires more frequent grooming
- Can be hot in very warm climates
- More prone to matting
Pros of Clipping Short
- Easier to maintain
- Can be more comfortable in hot weather
- Less likely to pick up debris on walks
Cons of Clipping Short
- Loses some of the natural insulating properties
- May need sweaters in cold weather
- Changes the classic Shih Tzu appearance
Remember, whatever you choose, it’s all about what works best for you and your furry friend.

Common Coat Conundrums: Troubleshooting Shih Tzu Fur Issues
Even with the best care, Shih Tzu coats can sometimes cause problems. Let’s look at some common issues and how to handle them.
Matting Mayhem
Mats are the bane of many Shih Tzu owners’ existence. They form when loose undercoat gets tangled with the topcoat. To prevent mats:
- Brush daily, especially in areas prone to matting like behind the ears and under the legs
- Use a detangling spray before brushing
- If you find a mat, don’t pull – gently work it out with your fingers or a dematting tool
Shedding Surprises
While Shih Tzus aren’t known for heavy shedding, they do lose hair. If you’re noticing more shedding than usual, it could be due to:
- Seasonal changes
- Stress
- Diet issues
- Health problems
If excessive shedding persists, it’s best to check with your vet.

Color Changes
Don’t be surprised if your Shih Tzu’s coat color changes over time. This is normal! Shih Tzus can change color as they age, especially in the first couple of years of life.
Related Post: How To Groom a Shih Tzu? The Secret to a Stunning Shih Tzu
Beyond the Fluff: How Coat Care Affects Your Shih Tzu’s Health
Taking care of your Shih Tzu’s double coat isn’t just about looks – it’s a key part of their overall health.
Skin Deep: The Connection Between Coat and Skin Health
A well-maintained coat helps keep your Shih Tzu’s skin healthy by:
- Preventing irritation from mats and tangles
- Distributing natural oils that keep skin moisturized
- Allowing you to spot any skin issues early
Temperature Control: Keeping Comfy All Year Round
Remember how we talked about the insulating properties of the double coat? Proper coat care helps your Shih Tzu:
- Stay warm in winter without overheating
- Keep cool in summer without getting too chilly
The Mental Health Connection
Believe it or not, coat care can affect your Shih Tzu’s mental health too. Regular grooming:
- Provides bonding time between you and your pup
- Can be relaxing for your dog (if introduced positively)
- Helps your Shih Tzu feel clean and comfortable

The Shih Tzu Coat Through the Ages: From Puppy Fluff to Senior Softness
Your Shih Tzu’s coat will change throughout their life. Let’s take a journey through the stages:
Puppy Coat: Soft and Fluffy
Shih Tzu puppies are born with a single, soft coat. Around 9-12 months, they’ll start to develop their adult double coat.
Adult Coat: Full and Fabulous
By about 2 years old, your Shih Tzu will have their full adult coat. This is when you’ll see the distinct difference between the soft undercoat and the longer topcoat.
Senior Coat: Changes Ahead
As your Shih Tzu enters their golden years, you might notice some changes in their coat:
- It may become thinner
- The texture might change, often becoming softer
- You might see more gray hairs (just like us humans!)

Wrapping Up: Embracing Your Shih Tzu’s Double Coat
So there you have it – the full scoop on Shih Tzu coats. Let’s recap what we’ve learned:
- Shih Tzus have a double coat – a soft undercoat and a longer topcoat.
- This double-coat system helps regulate their temperature and protect them from the elements.
- Regular grooming is key to keeping that double coat healthy and tangle-free.
- Whether you keep your Shih Tzu’s coat long or short, understanding its structure helps you care for it better.
- A well-maintained coat is crucial for your Shih Tzu’s overall health and comfort.
What works for one might not work for another. The most important thing is to pay attention to your furry friend and find a grooming routine that works for both of you.
So, how about you? Has this deep dive into Shih Tzu coats given you any new insights? Maybe you’ve got some coat care tips of your own to share? Drop a comment below – I’d love to hear from you!
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I think I hear my own Shih Tzu reminding me it’s brushing time. Happy grooming, everyone!