The Coat: Beautiful. Growing.
Never Finished.
Never Finished.
One of the most recognizable things about a Shih Tzu is the coat. Long. Flowing. Elegant.
But for an owner, that coat is not just beautiful. It is ongoing maintenance.
Unlike many breeds, a Shih Tzu's coat continues growing throughout its life.
What makes it different?
From the outside, the coat may still look soft and brushed. Underneath, small tangles
can already be forming around the legs, under the collar, and behind the ears.
And because the coat grows constantly, grooming is never really "finished."
The important thing to understand:
You are not simply maintaining a hairstyle.
You are maintaining comfort, cleanliness, and coat health every single day.
Important mistake to avoid:
Waiting until the coat becomes difficult to brush almost always leads to
matting and discomfort. This breed needs regular maintenance.
Not just grooming when the coat becomes difficult to manage.
But for an owner, that coat is not just beautiful. It is ongoing maintenance.
Unlike many breeds, a Shih Tzu's coat continues growing throughout its life.
What makes it different?
- Continuously growing hair
- Fine coat texture that tangles easily
- Long facial furnishings around the eyes and mouth
- Coat that requires regular trimming and maintenance
From the outside, the coat may still look soft and brushed. Underneath, small tangles
can already be forming around the legs, under the collar, and behind the ears.
And because the coat grows constantly, grooming is never really "finished."
The important thing to understand:
You are not simply maintaining a hairstyle.
You are maintaining comfort, cleanliness, and coat health every single day.
Important mistake to avoid:
Waiting until the coat becomes difficult to brush almost always leads to
matting and discomfort. This breed needs regular maintenance.
Not just grooming when the coat becomes difficult to manage.
Prices
Tidy-up (Face,Feet and Tail refreshment)
40 mins - Starting $70
Service aimed at refreshing your pet's appearance between Full Grooms.
Includes: Bath with specialty shampoo, blow-dry, brush-out, face trimming the eye corners/brow area, rounding of feet, and tail trim, nails grinding, pads and sanitation clean-up.
All-inclusive Full Groom
1h - $85+
This type of haircut is perfect for busy owners, requiring minimal maintenance between grooming visits. We clip the entire body and legs using a selected blade length (ranging from 1/4" to 1"), while maintaining a breed-profile haircut for the head and tail.
Includes: Bath with specialty shampoo, blow-dry, brush-out, full haircut, nail grinding, ear cleaning.
Full groom with scissors (long legs, long body, asian fusion, show-cut)
1h 30 mins - $115+
IMPORTANT! This haircut cannot be done on dogs that have never had this type of grooming before. The dog must be trained to stand still on the table for an extended period.
For this service, you can browse photos from our gallery or find reference images online, then discuss with the groomer whether your pet’s coat can achieve the desired result.
Pricing and grooming time vary for each pet and are determined individually.
40 mins - Starting $70
Service aimed at refreshing your pet's appearance between Full Grooms.
Includes: Bath with specialty shampoo, blow-dry, brush-out, face trimming the eye corners/brow area, rounding of feet, and tail trim, nails grinding, pads and sanitation clean-up.
All-inclusive Full Groom
1h - $85+
This type of haircut is perfect for busy owners, requiring minimal maintenance between grooming visits. We clip the entire body and legs using a selected blade length (ranging from 1/4" to 1"), while maintaining a breed-profile haircut for the head and tail.
Includes: Bath with specialty shampoo, blow-dry, brush-out, full haircut, nail grinding, ear cleaning.
Full groom with scissors (long legs, long body, asian fusion, show-cut)
1h 30 mins - $115+
IMPORTANT! This haircut cannot be done on dogs that have never had this type of grooming before. The dog must be trained to stand still on the table for an extended period.
For this service, you can browse photos from our gallery or find reference images online, then discuss with the groomer whether your pet’s coat can achieve the desired result.
Pricing and grooming time vary for each pet and are determined individually.
Tidy-up (Face,Feet and Tail refreshment)
50 mins - Starting $85
Service aimed at refreshing your pet's appearance between Full Grooms.
Includes: Bath with specialty shampoo, blow-dry, brush-out, face trimming the eye corners/brow area, rounding of feet, and tail trim, nails grinding, pads and sanitation clean-up.
All-inclusive Full Groom Trim
1h 30 mins - $100+
This type of haircut is perfect for busy owners, requiring minimal maintenance between grooming visits. We clip the entire body and legs using a selected blade length (ranging from 1/4" to 1"), while maintaining a breed-profile haircut for the head and tail.
Includes: Bath with specialty shampoo, blow-dry, brush-out, full haircut, nail grinding, ear cleaning.
Full groom with scissors (long legs, long body, asian fusion, show-cut)
2h - $130+
IMPORTANT! This haircut cannot be done on dogs that have never had this type of grooming before. The dog must be trained to stand still on the table for an extended period.
For this service, you can browse photos from our gallery or find reference images online, then discuss with the groomer whether your pet’s coat can achieve the desired result.
Pricing and grooming time vary for each pet and are determined individually.
50 mins - Starting $85
Service aimed at refreshing your pet's appearance between Full Grooms.
Includes: Bath with specialty shampoo, blow-dry, brush-out, face trimming the eye corners/brow area, rounding of feet, and tail trim, nails grinding, pads and sanitation clean-up.
All-inclusive Full Groom Trim
1h 30 mins - $100+
This type of haircut is perfect for busy owners, requiring minimal maintenance between grooming visits. We clip the entire body and legs using a selected blade length (ranging from 1/4" to 1"), while maintaining a breed-profile haircut for the head and tail.
Includes: Bath with specialty shampoo, blow-dry, brush-out, full haircut, nail grinding, ear cleaning.
Full groom with scissors (long legs, long body, asian fusion, show-cut)
2h - $130+
IMPORTANT! This haircut cannot be done on dogs that have never had this type of grooming before. The dog must be trained to stand still on the table for an extended period.
For this service, you can browse photos from our gallery or find reference images online, then discuss with the groomer whether your pet’s coat can achieve the desired result.
Pricing and grooming time vary for each pet and are determined individually.
We offer same-day nail appointments, with pricing based solely on your dog's behavior—not their weight or breed.
Dogs tolerant to the grinder – $20
"Tasmanian Devils" requiring three people to manage – Up to $40
Dogs tolerant to the grinder – $20
"Tasmanian Devils" requiring three people to manage – Up to $40
Flea&Tick Treatment
20 mins - $20+
IMPORTANT! If you notice any signs of flea activity, please inform us in advance. We will immediately take your dog to the bathing area to prevent the spread of infestation. If fleas are discovered during grooming, a flea treatment will be automatically added to your service package.
Skin Issue Treatment
10 mins - $20+
CO2 hydrotherapy was developed for medical treatment for physical rehabilitation purposes, it's 100% natural and safe to use. CO2 hydrotherapy provides not only an ultra cleansing result, but to promote circulatory system and self-healing process.
Effective with: hotspots, bug bites, dandruff, flaky skin, hairloss, itchiness and enhance immune system.
Medicated shampoo
15 mins - $20+
Medicated shampoo is recommended for dogs with hot spots, itching, or skin irritation caused by bacteria or fungal infections.
We can perform a visual skin assessment and, in many cases, suggest a suitable shampoo based on whether the irritation appears allergy-related, bacterial, or fungal. However, we always recommend veterinary testing for an accurate diagnosis.
De-matting
15 mins are included in grooming service. Every following minute + $1,5
IMPORTANT! We won't turn you over because your dog is matted. Please tell us the real coat condition when you book an appointment. If we have a tight schedule and you won't tell us that we need to add additional time, we might reschedule your appointment for the later time or day - just because we can't squeeze so much time. We also can suggest you to step by with your dog and have a complimentary coat assessment - in this case you will receive all the necessary recommendation for making this process easier for both parties.
Anal Gland Expression
15 mins / $7
IMPORTANT! Anal gland expression is an external procedure performed by a groomer and may not be appropriate for every dog. If your dog has ongoing gland issues, swelling, discomfort, infection, or requires frequent gland expression, we strongly recommend consulting your veterinarian. Please let us know when booking if your dog has a history of gland problems so we can allocate enough time and determine whether this service is appropriate for your pet.
Teeth Brushing
20 mins / $10
IMPORTANT! Teeth brushing helps reduce plaque buildup and freshen breath, but it is not a substitute for professional veterinary dental cleaning. Results may vary depending on your pet's age, dental health, and comfort level with the process. If your pet has heavy tartar buildup, red or inflamed gums, loose teeth, or signs of dental disease, we recommend scheduling a dental evaluation with your veterinarian.
20 mins - $20+
IMPORTANT! If you notice any signs of flea activity, please inform us in advance. We will immediately take your dog to the bathing area to prevent the spread of infestation. If fleas are discovered during grooming, a flea treatment will be automatically added to your service package.
Skin Issue Treatment
10 mins - $20+
CO2 hydrotherapy was developed for medical treatment for physical rehabilitation purposes, it's 100% natural and safe to use. CO2 hydrotherapy provides not only an ultra cleansing result, but to promote circulatory system and self-healing process.
Effective with: hotspots, bug bites, dandruff, flaky skin, hairloss, itchiness and enhance immune system.
Medicated shampoo
15 mins - $20+
Medicated shampoo is recommended for dogs with hot spots, itching, or skin irritation caused by bacteria or fungal infections.
We can perform a visual skin assessment and, in many cases, suggest a suitable shampoo based on whether the irritation appears allergy-related, bacterial, or fungal. However, we always recommend veterinary testing for an accurate diagnosis.
De-matting
15 mins are included in grooming service. Every following minute + $1,5
IMPORTANT! We won't turn you over because your dog is matted. Please tell us the real coat condition when you book an appointment. If we have a tight schedule and you won't tell us that we need to add additional time, we might reschedule your appointment for the later time or day - just because we can't squeeze so much time. We also can suggest you to step by with your dog and have a complimentary coat assessment - in this case you will receive all the necessary recommendation for making this process easier for both parties.
Anal Gland Expression
15 mins / $7
IMPORTANT! Anal gland expression is an external procedure performed by a groomer and may not be appropriate for every dog. If your dog has ongoing gland issues, swelling, discomfort, infection, or requires frequent gland expression, we strongly recommend consulting your veterinarian. Please let us know when booking if your dog has a history of gland problems so we can allocate enough time and determine whether this service is appropriate for your pet.
Teeth Brushing
20 mins / $10
IMPORTANT! Teeth brushing helps reduce plaque buildup and freshen breath, but it is not a substitute for professional veterinary dental cleaning. Results may vary depending on your pet's age, dental health, and comfort level with the process. If your pet has heavy tartar buildup, red or inflamed gums, loose teeth, or signs of dental disease, we recommend scheduling a dental evaluation with your veterinarian.
Grooming Needs:
A Routine. Not Just Haircuts
Shih Tzus require consistent coat care.
Not brushing only when tangles become obvious. A routine.
Their fine coat texture creates friction easily, especially around
the legs, ears, chest, and under the harness.
Weekly essentials:
What makes the breed challenging is that small tangles can tighten very quickly.
And because the coat keeps growing, those tangles rarely stay small for long.
Regular maintenance is often the difference between a comfortable coat and a complete shave-down.
Not brushing only when tangles become obvious. A routine.
Their fine coat texture creates friction easily, especially around
the legs, ears, chest, and under the harness.
Weekly essentials:
- Brush several times per week
- Keep the face clean and dry
- Check friction areas regularly
- Maintain a consistent grooming schedule
What makes the breed challenging is that small tangles can tighten very quickly.
And because the coat keeps growing, those tangles rarely stay small for long.
Regular maintenance is often the difference between a comfortable coat and a complete shave-down.
One Detail Many Owners Miss
For many Shih Tzus, facial care becomes just as important as coat care.
Hair around the eyes can trap moisture, tears, and debris throughout the day.
Without regular cleaning, this can contribute to staining, irritation, and discomfort.
The beard matters too.
Food, water, and saliva collect in facial hair surprisingly quickly.
Keeping those areas clean helps prevent odor, irritation, and tangles around the face.
Hair around the eyes can trap moisture, tears, and debris throughout the day.
Without regular cleaning, this can contribute to staining, irritation, and discomfort.
The beard matters too.
Food, water, and saliva collect in facial hair surprisingly quickly.
Keeping those areas clean helps prevent odor, irritation, and tangles around the face.
What our Client Say
Start Early
Shih Tzus will need grooming for their entire lives. That is why early exposure matters so much.
Puppies should learn early that brushing, face cleaning, baths, dryers, nail trims,
and handling are simply part of normal life.
Our recommendation:
From there, we decide together:
Waiting until your Shih Tzu is fearful of brushing or uncomfortable with face handling
often creates much harder appointments later.
A simple puppy bath introduction ($60–80) often prevents years of stressful grooming
experiences. With Shih Tzus, early routine makes an enormous difference.
Puppies should learn early that brushing, face cleaning, baths, dryers, nail trims,
and handling are simply part of normal life.
Our recommendation:
- Bring your puppy in around 4 months old, once vaccinations are complete.
- Not for a full haircut.
- Not for a makeover.
- Just for a calm introduction.
- Stay with your puppy.
- Bring treats.
From there, we decide together:
- If your puppy would benefit from short training-style grooming visits
- Or if they're relaxed enough to return later for routine maintenance.
Waiting until your Shih Tzu is fearful of brushing or uncomfortable with face handling
often creates much harder appointments later.
A simple puppy bath introduction ($60–80) often prevents years of stressful grooming
experiences. With Shih Tzus, early routine makes an enormous difference.
Common Owner Mistakes
Even loving Shih Tzu owners sometimes underestimate coat maintenance.
"The coat is soft, so it should be easy to brush."
In reality, fine coats often tangle faster than thicker ones.
Brushing only the surface
The coat may look neat while small tangles underneath continue
tightening closer to the skin.
Ignoring facial care
Hair around the eyes and mouth requires regular attention to stay clean and comfortable.
Waiting too long between grooming appointments
Because the coat grows continuously, small problems often become large
problems surprisingly quickly.
Keeping a very long coat without daily maintenance
Long coats can be beautiful.
But they require significant brushing and upkeep between appointments.
Prevention is always easier than correction.
"The coat is soft, so it should be easy to brush."
In reality, fine coats often tangle faster than thicker ones.
Brushing only the surface
The coat may look neat while small tangles underneath continue
tightening closer to the skin.
Ignoring facial care
Hair around the eyes and mouth requires regular attention to stay clean and comfortable.
Waiting too long between grooming appointments
Because the coat grows continuously, small problems often become large
problems surprisingly quickly.
Keeping a very long coat without daily maintenance
Long coats can be beautiful.
But they require significant brushing and upkeep between appointments.
Prevention is always easier than correction.
Why Professional Grooming Matters
for Shih Tzu
Working with a Shih Tzu coat requires more than a quick bath and haircut.
In a professional grooming environment, we can:
Regular grooming also helps keep the eyes, beard, and feet,
and sanitary areas clean and manageable.
Service time may vary depending on:
Two Shih Tzus may require very different appointment times depending on how
the coat is maintained between visits. That is completely normal.
Professional grooming is not just about appearance.
After a proper grooming session, the coat feels lighter, cleaner, easier to manage,
and significantly more comfortable for everyday life.
In a professional grooming environment, we can:
- maintain coat length and comfort
- manage tangles before they become severe matting
- safely trim around sensitive facial areas
- monitor skin and coat condition
Regular grooming also helps keep the eyes, beard, and feet,
and sanitary areas clean and manageable.
Service time may vary depending on:
- coat length
- coat condition
- maintenance history
- matting
- grooming tolerance
Two Shih Tzus may require very different appointment times depending on how
the coat is maintained between visits. That is completely normal.
Professional grooming is not just about appearance.
After a proper grooming session, the coat feels lighter, cleaner, easier to manage,
and significantly more comfortable for everyday life.
Breed Related FAQs
The base grooming time depends on your dog’s size and is listed in our pricing section.
For most dogs, the process takes between 1.5 to 3 hours. Larger breeds or heavy coats may take longer.
If the coat is in poor condition or the dog is not cooperative, the process may take longer. In such cases, additional time is charged at $1 per minute.
We also never rush critical parts of the service. Proper drying is essential - we cannot send a dog home with a damp coat, as this can lead to skin issues.
Because of this, the total appointment time may vary.
For most dogs, the process takes between 1.5 to 3 hours. Larger breeds or heavy coats may take longer.
If the coat is in poor condition or the dog is not cooperative, the process may take longer. In such cases, additional time is charged at $1 per minute.
We also never rush critical parts of the service. Proper drying is essential - we cannot send a dog home with a damp coat, as this can lead to skin issues.
Because of this, the total appointment time may vary.
That depends on how severe the matting is and on the type of coat.
If the mat can be safely separated from the skin, we will gently brush it out using professional tools and detangling products.
However, when mats are tight to the skin, brushing can be painful and may damage the skin. In those cases, shaving is the safest and most humane option.
Severe matting is not just cosmetic. It can trap moisture, restrict movement, and lead to irritation or even circulation issues.
For double-coated breeds, we take a different approach.
We do not shave double-coated dogs for aesthetic reasons, as shaving
can damage coat structure and affect natural thermoregulation.
Whenever possible, we focus on deshedding and preserving the coat.
However, if the coat is severely impacted, matted close to the skin, or already damaged by previous shaving, we assess the situation individually
and choose the safest option for the dog.
For poodles, doodles, and similar coat types, timing is critical. During coat transition, matting can form very close to the skin, and in these cases shaving is often
the safest way to reset the coat and start proper maintenance.
We always evaluate the coat at check-in and explain the situation
to the owner so expectations are clear before we begin.
If the mat can be safely separated from the skin, we will gently brush it out using professional tools and detangling products.
However, when mats are tight to the skin, brushing can be painful and may damage the skin. In those cases, shaving is the safest and most humane option.
Severe matting is not just cosmetic. It can trap moisture, restrict movement, and lead to irritation or even circulation issues.
For double-coated breeds, we take a different approach.
We do not shave double-coated dogs for aesthetic reasons, as shaving
can damage coat structure and affect natural thermoregulation.
Whenever possible, we focus on deshedding and preserving the coat.
However, if the coat is severely impacted, matted close to the skin, or already damaged by previous shaving, we assess the situation individually
and choose the safest option for the dog.
For poodles, doodles, and similar coat types, timing is critical. During coat transition, matting can form very close to the skin, and in these cases shaving is often
the safest way to reset the coat and start proper maintenance.
We always evaluate the coat at check-in and explain the situation
to the owner so expectations are clear before we begin.
Grooming Shouldn't Make Your Dog Stressed
Most grooming salons hide what happens behind closed doors. We built ours with glass walls because we have nothing to hide — ever. Watch every moment. See your dog relaxed. Leave knowing they were treated with love
- TRANSPARENCYSee Everything. Trust Everything.
- Glass walls
- Watch anytime
- Live updates
- ACCEPTANCEEvery Dog Welcome. No Exceptions.
- Up to 235 lbs
- Seniors 13+
- Anxious dogs OK
- COMFORT FIRSTWe Measure Success by Tail Wags, Not Speed.
- Cage-free
- Fear-free
- Never rushed
Shih Tzu Grooming at Rebel Tails
Shih Tzus look like little lions, but their gorgeous double coat and sensitive skin need more than a basic bath. At Rebel Tails, your dog is cared for by an experienced shih tzu groomer who understands this breed’s flat face, big eyes, and that famous flowing tail.
Whether you’re searching online for “shih tzu dog groomers near me” or simply want a trustworthy salon for regular maintenance, we focus on gentle handling, safety, and a style that fits your dog and your lifestyle.
Why Specialized Shih Tzu Grooming Matters
Shih Tzus have dense, continuously growing hair that mats easily around the face, tail, armpits, and paws. Without regular grooming, they can quickly develop tangles, skin irritation, and discomfort.
A professional shih tzu groomer knows how to:
- Protect the eyes while trimming the face and bangs
- Work through tangles without hurting their sensitive skin
- Shape the coat so your dog stays cute and comfortable
- Help reduce shedding and doggy odor
Our goal is not just a pretty picture – it’s a healthy, happy companion who feels good in their own coat.
What’s Included in Our Shih Tzu Grooming Service
Every visit is tailored to your dog’s coat, age, and temperament. A typical Rebel Tails Shih Tzu grooming appointment may include:
- Warm bath with skin-friendly shampoo and conditioner
- Blow-dry and full brush-out to remove loose hair and knots
- Face, eye area, and muzzle trim for better vision and hygiene
- Paw, sanitary, and belly trimming for everyday comfort
- Nail trim and paw pad care
- Ear cleaning and, if needed, light ear hair plucking
Prefer a specific style, like a puppy cut or teddy bear look? Your shih tzu groomer will discuss length, head and ear shape, and how much at-home maintenance you want before picking up the clippers.
Gentle Shih Tzu Tail Grooming & Hygiene
That plume of a tail is one of the cutest features of the breed – and one of the easiest places for mats and trapped dirt. Our shih tzu tail grooming focuses on:
- Carefully combing through the tail to remove tangles
- Trimming just enough to keep the tail full but manageable
- Cleaning and neatening the area under the tail for better hygiene
Thoughtful shih tzu tail grooming helps prevent skin issues, bad odor, and discomfort when your dog sits or wags.
How Often Should a Shih Tzu Be Groomed?
Most Shih Tzus do best with a full grooming appointment every 4–8 weeks, depending on coat length and lifestyle, plus regular brushing at home. If you like a shorter, low-maintenance style, your dog may need slightly less frequent visits. Longer, flowing coats require more frequent brushing and more regular trips to the salon.
If you’ve been browsing for “shih tzu groomers near me” or wondering how to find the best “shih tzu groomer near me,” consistency is key. Regular professional grooming keeps your dog comfortable year-round and makes each visit less stressful.
Book Your Shih Tzu Groomer Appointment
Your Shih Tzu deserves a grooming experience that’s calm, kind, and breed-smart. At Rebel Tails, we treat every dog like our own and take the time to make sure they look and feel their best.
Schedule an appointment with our dedicated shih tzu groomer today – and see why so many pet parents searching for “shih tzu dog groomers near me” choose Rebel Tails for their beloved companions.