Shih Tzu grooming in Lowell, MA
With a Shih Tzu, the face is the whole job
Body length is a preference. The face is not. Hair grows into a Shih Tzu's eyes continuously, and once it starts rubbing the surface of the eye it causes tearing, staining and, if it is left long enough, real damage. The face trim is the part of this appointment that is about health rather than looks.
The four areas that need attention
Eyes and muzzle
Hair trimmed clear of the eyes, the corners cleaned, and tear staining worked on. This is the single most important part of a Shih Tzu groom.
Ears
Heavy, drop ears with hair growing inside them. They trap moisture, which is why Shih Tzus get ear problems more than most breeds. Cleaned and checked every visit.
Sanitary and belly
Long coat plus a low body means this area needs regular trimming, otherwise it becomes a hygiene problem quickly.
Feet and pads
Hair between the pads makes a small dog slip on hard floors. Trimmed flush every appointment.
Puppy cut or full coat?
A full length Shih Tzu coat is beautiful and it is a serious daily commitment: combing to the skin every day, plus a topknot to keep the hair off the face. Most owners in Greater Lowell choose a puppy cut, which keeps the body at an even short length and needs a fraction of the maintenance. Neither choice is wrong. What causes problems is choosing the long coat and brushing it twice a week.
- Bath with a coat appropriate shampoo, and a full blow-dry
- Face trimmed clear of the eyes, corners cleaned
- Ears cleaned, checked and hair removed if needed
- Puppy cut or the length you ask for
- Sanitary and belly trim
- Feet and pads trimmed flush
- Nails, with dremel finishing on request
- Topknot tied if you keep the coat long
Flat faces need a slower appointment
Shih Tzus are brachycephalic, which means a shortened airway. They overheat faster and they find high pressure drying stressful. We use lower heat, give them breaks and take longer over the appointment. If your dog snores, snorts or tires easily on walks, tell us when you book so we plan for it.
What clients say
I took my dog here to be groomed for the first time and he loved it! They took their time and made him so comfortable. He went in wagging his tail and smiling and did the same when I picked him up. We can't wait to be back for christmas pictures!
Taiza is the best! Always so careful with my dog and my kitten, they come home smelling and looking wonderful. She has a monthly package that saves us so much money, so my dog has never had such well taken care of fur! The crazy ear itching stopped too and he's just a happier dog all around who loves to see Taiza.
How to book
- Message (978) 364-1330 on WhatsApp with a recent photo of your Shih Tzu.
- Tell us the last groom date and the length you want to keep.
- We confirm the service, the price and a time.
- Or call (978) 323-9561, or use the booking form.
Keep reading
Frequently asked questions
How often does a Shih Tzu need grooming?
Every four to six weeks for a full groom in a puppy cut. A Shih Tzu kept in full coat needs a groom every four weeks plus daily combing to the skin at home. The face and eye area often needs a quick trim in between, and we are happy to do that.
What is a puppy cut?
The body taken to an even short length all over, with the face rounded and trimmed clear of the eyes. It is the most practical Shih Tzu style and by far the most requested here.
Can you help with tear stains?
We clean the area, trim the hair that is channelling tears onto the face, and keep the corners clear. That reduces the staining and stops it getting worse. Persistent staining with no improvement is worth a vet visit, because it can point to a blocked tear duct or an eyelid issue.
Is drying safe for a flat faced dog?
It is when it is done at lower heat and lower pressure, with breaks. Brachycephalic dogs overheat faster and stress more easily, so we build extra time into the appointment rather than rushing it.
Book with CatDog Grooming Salon
Rated 5.0 on Google. Call (978) 323-9561, message (978) 364-1330 on WhatsApp, or use the booking form. We serve you in English and Portuguese.
Book an appointmentFind us
684 Lakeview Ave, Lowell, MA 01850. Monday to Saturday, by appointment. Free parking at the door.