ADVANCED GROOMING TUTORIALS
Shih Tzu
Nicky and the magnificent Sandy take us through the grooming process for this long coated, well maintained little specimen.
Part 1 Here we demonstrate two methods of removing bands from the long Shih Tzu coat. This minimizes damage to the coat.
Part 2 Using a Hydrobath on a long drop coated breed enhances your ability to get the coat clean. Learn how to clean thoroughly without scrubbing to avoid breaking and tangling the coat. Understand why we shampoo twice and condition once!
Part 3 High velocity drying techniques on a long drop coat. Avoid tangling and putting ‘whip knots’ into the coat.
Part 4 This video demonstrates brushing techniques to straighten and stretch the hair. Brush choice along with conditioning sprays and how often this technique should be applied to the show coat.
Part 5 Brushing and combing techniques are crucial to enhancing silkiness and flow to the drop coat. Line brushing techniques, along with the perfect part down the back, will give you a beautiful flow.
Part 6 Scissoring techniques to create a round, natural foot. Techniques to get the best look and flow from the leg to the foot and body, all while keeping the natural look of the Shih Tzu.
Part 7 Banding the top knot and why we do it.
Breed Standard at Dogs Australia
Study Notes | Key Concepts
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Use small scissors to cut hair bands safely, avoiding tugging and hair breakage.
Alternatives include using a comb to gently separate bands from the hair without pulling.
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Use a hydrobath with adjustable pressure to clean the coat thoroughly without scrubbing, which can cause knots.
Start with an all-purpose shampoo, followed by a whitening or silk conditioner for shine and softness.
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Use a chamois to remove excess water, gently squeezing rather than rubbing to prevent tangling.
Start with a speed dryer for the feet, then switch to a slow dryer for the coat to achieve a straight finish.
Brush with a pin brush or slicker while drying, making sure to pull through to the end of each hair strand.
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Part the coat in sections and brush each layer from root to tip, ensuring thorough grooming down to the skin.
Keep the coat straight by misting with a grooming spray, such as Plush Puppy’s OMG, to avoid static and maintain elasticity.
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Trim around the pads with a #30 blade, using straight scissors to create a rounded, natural-looking foot.
Shape the underline gently, blending with thinning scissors to keep it looking soft and natural.
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Part the hair cleanly and secure in two small ponytails, then join these into a central top knot for a tidy look.
Use a lightweight grooming spray to keep the top knot secure without making it too stiff or oily.

