Shih Tzu Shedding Hair: A Guide to Managing and Minimizing Loose Fur
It’s natural for all dogs to shed their hair to some extent, but excessive shedding can cause concern. Are you one of those blessed people with a beautiful Shih Tzu dog? If you answer yes, you’re probably combating the never-ending battle against your Shih Tzu shedding hair.
While many people choose Shih Tzus because of their plush and full coats, inevitably, some (or maybe even a lot!) of that fur is destined to wind up on your furniture and clothing. But don’t worry – we’re here to help!
In this blog post, we’ll explore why Shih Tzu dogs are prone to excessive shedding and give tips on controlling it so you can keep your beloved pup looking beautiful while still enjoying life with minimal cleaning. Let’s get started!
Understanding the Shedding Habits of Shih Tzus
When choosing a new pet, there are many factors to consider. One of the most critical considerations is shedding. Does Shih Tzu shed hair? And if so, how much? These questions can be challenging to answer as dogs have unique coats and shedding habits. Consider what you need to know about Shih Tzus’s shedding habits.
Types of Fur Coat of a Shih Tzu
Most people recognize a Shih Tzu by its signature long fur coat. But did you know that there are three different types of fur coats for this breed? They are classified as longhaired, wirehaired, and silky-coated. Each type has its own unique set of characteristics regarding shedding habits.
- Longhaired: The variety is characterized by soft, long fur hanging around the dog’s face and body. This coat type requires more grooming than other varieties because it mats easily. However, these dogs typically don’t shed much because their coat is thick and dense. As such, they may require regular brushing and trimming to keep their coats healthy and looking great!
- Wirehaired: The variety is characterized by thicker fur with less length than the longhaired version. This coat does not require as much grooming or brushing as the longhaired variety but still sheds moderately—especially during seasonal changes like spring or fall when they tend to shed more than usual due to changing temperatures outside.
- Silky-Coated: The silky-coated variety is characterized by shorter fur than the longhaired and wire-haired varieties but with greater volume overall due to its smooth texture. This coat type requires less maintenance or grooming than the longhaired or wire-haired varieties. However, it can still shed moderately throughout the year, depending on environmental changes like humidity levels or temperature shifts outside.
Related: Shih Tzu Coat Care: How To Make It Shiny And Healthy?
No matter which type of Shih Tzu you choose for your pet, you should expect some level of shedding from your pup throughout the year—especially during seasonal changes in weather patterns. Regular grooming will help keep your pup’s coat healthy and beautiful while also helping limit the amount they shed each day. With proper care and maintenance, you can enjoy all your pup has to offer without worrying too much about any potential messes associated with excessive shedding!
Causes of Shih Tzu Shedding Hair
Every dog breed, including Shih Tzus, sheds to varying degrees. While it’s true that the amount of fur a Shih Tzu sheds is relatively low compared to other breeds, knowing the causes of shedding can help you take steps to manage it better. Let’s look at some common reasons why your Shih Tzu is shedding hair and how you can mitigate its effects.
1. Genetics
Some Shih Tzus are prone to shedding more than others due to their genetics. If your Shih Tzus have a double coat, they may shed more heavily during the warm months when shedding their winter coat. On the other hand, if your Shih Tzu has a single coat, it may shed more consistently throughout the year.
2. Diet
If your Shih Tzu needs to get the right balance of nutrients in their diet, this can lead to dry, itchy skin and increased shedding. Make sure your Shih Tzu is receiving high-quality food that is appropriate for its age and size.
3. Age
As dogs age, they may experience hormonal changes that can increase shedding. If your Shih Tzu is over seven and you’re noticing more shedding than usual, it could be due to these changes.
4. Health conditions
Allergies, infections, or hormonal imbalances can also cause increased shedding. If you’ve ruled out the other factors and your Shih Tzu is still shedding excessively, it’s essential to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any underlying health issues.
5. Stress or anxiety
If your Shih Tzu is experiencing stress or anxiety, this can also lead to increased shedding. Identifying and addressing the source of your Shih Tzu’s stress is vital to help minimize shedding.
How to Manage Your Shih Tzu’s Shedding
While all dogs shed, the amount of fur a Shih Tzu can lose is often surprising to owners new to this breed. Fortunately, there are some easy ways to manage your pup’s shedding and keep your home looking and feeling fur-free. Let’s look at some tips for managing your Shih Tzu’s shedding.
1. Brush Your Pup Regularly
One of the most effective ways to reduce your pup’s shedding is by brushing them regularly. It will help remove any excess fur and stop it from getting everywhere in your house. Depending on the length of their coat, you may need to brush them daily or only once every few days. If you have a long-haired Shih Tzu, you should invest in a slicker brush, which works best on longer coats. Opt for a bristle brush or pin brush for short-haired pups, as these will be gentler on their shorter fur.
2. Feed a healthy diet
Feeding your Shih Tzu a well-balanced diet can help promote healthy skin and a shiny coat, reducing shedding. Proper nutrition can help moisturize your Shih Tzu and prevent dry, flaky skin, leading to increased shedding. It can also help to strengthen the hair shaft, making it less prone to breakage and shedding.
3. Provide plenty of hydration
Proper hydration is essential for the overall health and well-being of your Shih Tzu. When your Shih Tzu is appropriately hydrated, its body can function at its best, including maintaining healthy skin and a shiny coat. Dehydration can lead to various health issues, including dry, flaky skin, which can contribute to shedding.
4. Reduce Stress Levels
Stress can cause our furry friends to shed more than usual, affecting their overall health and well-being. To reduce their stress levels, ensure they exercise daily and spend quality time with them regularly so they feel loved and secure in their environment. Additionally, if there are other animals in the house, try to provide separate areas for each one so they know they have their own safe space where they won’t be disturbed or bothered by other animals in the home.
5. Regular Bath Time
Regular baths are essential when managing your pup’s shedding because it helps loosen any dead hair stuck in their coat, which would otherwise end up all over your furniture or clothing items.
Make sure you use an appropriate shampoo, such as one specifically designed for dogs with sensitive skin, as this will help keep their fur clean while still being gentle enough not to irritate them while bathing. Be sure not to bathe them too frequently, as this could lead to dry skin, which could cause scratching and even more shedding.
6. Use a shedding blade
A shedding blade is a specialized tool that can help to remove loose fur from your Shih Tzu coat. Be gentle when using a shedding blade, and follow the instructions provided to avoid causing any discomfort or irritation to your Shih Tzu.
7. Visit Professional Groomer
Remember that if things get out of hand, professional grooming is always available, which can give your pup an extra deep clean if needed! With these tips in mind, keeping on top of your pup’s shedding should be easy peasy!
8. Consult with a veterinarian
If you’ve tried the above steps and your Shih Tzu is still shedding excessively, it’s essential to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any underlying health issues. They can help to determine the cause of the shedding and provide treatment recommendations.
Conclusion
As a Shih Tzu owner, you are not alone in your battle against hair shedding. Many owners struggle to find the root of their dog’s shedding issue and how to control it. With this article, you can better understand the causes of shedding in Shih Tzus and learn management tips to help reduce the hair your dog sheds. We hope that by sharing what we have learned, other Shih Tzu owners can also benefit from reducing their dog’s shedding.
FAQ’s
Why Does My Shih Tzu Shed So Much?
Like we lose hair daily, your Shih Tzu sheds to renew their fur. Think of your Shih Tzu getting a new outfit for the season. However, if you think “too much” is happening, it might be due to their diet, stress, or insufficient grooming. It’s like solving a mystery to discover why, but you can help reduce it once you know.
Can I Stop My Shih Tzu From Shedding?
Imagine trying to stop the rain; it’s pretty impossible, right? The same goes for completely stopping your Shih Tzu from shedding. However, with regular grooming, a healthy diet, and lots of love, you can reduce the amount of fur they shed. It’s about making small changes for a big difference.
What Are the Best Tools for Managing Shih Tzu Shedding?
Using a slicker brush or a bristle brush can work wonders. Think of these tools as your Shih Tzu’s personal hairstylists. They help remove loose fur and keep your Shih Tzu’s coat looking shiny and healthy. It’s like having a magic wand to make shedding less hassle.
How Often Should I Groom My Shih Tzu to Reduce Shedding?
Grooming your Shih Tzu is like brushing your teeth; doing it regularly keeps problems away. For most Shih Tzus, brushing a few times a week and bathing once a month is a good start. It helps keep their fur in check and reduces the amount of hair flying around your home.
