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Summer Grooming Guide
Expert Guide
Summer Grooming Guide
for Shih Tzus
Protecting Your Shih Tzu This Summer
Summer brings unique challenges for a Shih Tzu's long, dense, soft double coat. Despite what it looks like, the double coat actually provides insulation against heat as well as cold — it traps a layer of cooler air close to the skin when properly maintained and thinned of dead undercoat. It's crucial to adapt their grooming routine to prevent overheating while protecting their skin from the sun. Schedule outdoor exercise for early morning or evening when pavement temperatures are lower, and always provide shade and fresh water.
To Shave or Not to Shave?
Never shave a Shih Tzu's double coat — this is one of the most common and damaging mistakes owners make in summer. The double coat works as a two-way temperature regulator: the undercoat insulates against both cold and heat, while the outer guard hairs deflect UV radiation and provide a physical barrier against insect bites. Shaving destroys this system and can trigger a condition called Alopecia X, where the coat never grows back correctly. Instead, focus on thorough de-shedding to remove the dense dead undercoat so air can circulate freely through the remaining coat.
Gear for Shih Tzu summer grooming guide
Coat-matched picks — buy once, use every groom.
Brush
Chris Christensen Big G Slicker Brush
The gold standard for poodles and doodles. Features long pins that penetrate deep into dense coats to remove tangles and fluff the hair.
Nail Care
Miller's Forge Quality Nail Clipper
Used by professional groomers worldwide. Made of high-quality Italian stainless steel with a heavy-duty spring for clean, sharp cuts.
Summer Bathing Frequency
During summer, bathing your Shih Tzu more frequently — every 4–6 weeks rather than 6–8 — serves double duty: it removes dead undercoat more effectively than brushing alone, and a thorough blow-dry afterward fluffs the coat so air can reach the skin. Always use a conditioner to prevent static and brittle guard hairs after the extra sun exposure. A high-velocity dryer is especially valuable in summer because it separates the coat, removes loose undercoat, and speeds drying time so the dog isn't sitting in a damp coat in the heat.
Paw and Skin Protection
Asphalt and concrete can reach 140°F (60°C) on a hot summer day — hot enough to cause serious paw pad burns within 60 seconds. Before any walk, press the back of your hand to the pavement for 7 seconds; if it's uncomfortable for you, it's unsafe for your Shih Tzu. Check paw pads after every outing for redness, cracking, or blistering. While Shih Tzus are better protected by their coat, the belly, groin, and ear tips can still burn — use pet-safe sunscreen on any sparsely-coated areas. Paw balm applied before walks creates a barrier against hot surfaces and prevents moisture loss from the pads.
Signs of Heat Stress to Watch For
Heat stress in dogs escalates quickly from discomfort to a life-threatening emergency. Early signs include excessive panting with a wide, flat tongue, thick ropey drooling, and restlessness. If your Shih Tzu becomes lethargic, vomits, or their gums turn pale or brick red, treat it as an emergency and get to a vet immediately. Breeds with dense or complex coats like the Shih Tzu can be particularly difficult to assess for overheating because the coat masks the skin — make a habit of parting the coat to check for hot, red skin under the fur after exercise. Immediate cooling steps include moving to shade, applying cool (not ice cold) water to the paws, groin, and neck, and offering small sips of water — never force water on a heat-stressed dog.
Pro Tip from Groomas
Brush a Shih Tzu daily — the dense double coat mats in the armpits, behind the ears, and around the collar zone almost immediately, and even a puppy-cut Shih Tzu needs brushing several times per week.
Related Glossary Terms
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Sarah Jordan
Verified ExpertCertified Master Groomer
With over 15 years of competitive grooming experience, Sarah ensures every guide on Groomas meets the highest professional standards.
Certified Master Groomer (CMG)AKC Safety Certified
Recommended Gear for Shih Tzus
Brush
Chris Christensen Big G Slicker Brush
The gold standard for poodles and doodles. Features long pins that penetrate deep into dense coats to remove tangles and fluff the hair.
Nail Care
Miller's Forge Quality Nail Clipper
Used by professional groomers worldwide. Made of high-quality Italian stainless steel with a heavy-duty spring for clean, sharp cuts.
Brush
Mars Coat King Undercoat Rake
The ultimate tool for double-coated breeds. Strips dead undercoat without damaging the guard hairs.