The Pros and Cons of Grooming Your Own Shih Tzu at Home

The Pros and Cons of Grooming Your Own Shih Tzu at Home
Grooming is an essential part of caring for a Shih Tzu. Their luxurious, flowing coats require regular maintenance to keep them looking their best and staying free of painful mats. If you own a Shih Tzu, you may be wondering whether to take your pup to a professional groomer or try handling grooming at home. There are benefits and drawbacks to both approaches, and in this post, we’ll explore the pros and cons of grooming your Shih Tzu yourself.

Cost Savings: The Long-Term Benefit of DIY Grooming
One of the biggest advantages of grooming your Shih Tzu at home is the cost savings. A simple professional groom typically costs between $85-$100 per session. Given that most Shih Tzu require grooming every 4-6 weeks, the cost can add up quickly. Over the course of a year, that’s anywhere from $740 to over $1,300 spent on grooming services alone.
On the other hand, investing in a good set of grooming tools is a one-time expense. A high-quality clipper, shears, brushes, combs, and a grooming table can range between $150-$300. This means that after just two or three grooming sessions, your tools will have already paid for themselves. You can find some of my favorite grooming tools on the Products We Love page on my website.

The Learning Curve: Patience Required
While the cost savings are undeniable, grooming your Shih Tzu at home does come with a learning curve. Grooming a Shih Tzu is not as simple as trimming a short-haired breed. Their fine, dense coat is prone to tangles and mats, and proper technique is essential to keep them comfortable and looking good.
Learning how to groom properly takes time and patience. You’ll need to familiarize yourself with:

• Brushing techniques to prevent mats and tangles
• Bathing and drying without causing frizz or irritation
• Clipping and scissoring to achieve a balanced and even cut
• Cleaning ears, trimming nails, and maintaining hygiene

Where to Learn Grooming Techniques
Fortunately, there are many resources available for learning how to groom your Shih Tzu at home.

• YouTube tutorials – Many professional groomers share their tips and techniques online.
• Online grooming courses – Websites such as Udemy, Skillshare, and even breed-specific grooming courses can help.
• Local grooming workshops – Some pet stores and grooming salons offer hands-on training.
• My website – I provide expert information on Shih Tzu grooming and care at shurbeezshihtzu.com.

The Challenges of Grooming at Home
While home grooming is rewarding, it does come with a few potential drawbacks:

• Time-consuming – A full groom can take 2-3 hours when learning, though experience will shorten the process.
• Initial mistakes – Everyone makes mistakes when learning, so be prepared for a few uneven haircuts.
• Your dog’s temperament – Some Shih Tzu are wiggly or anxious during grooming, requiring extra patience and training.
• Equipment maintenance – Clippers need regular cleaning and blade sharpening to perform well.

Should You Groom at Home?
The decision to groom your Shih Tzu at home depends on your lifestyle and commitment. If you enjoy hands-on care and want to save money, home grooming is a fantastic skill to develop. However, if you struggle with patience or don’t have the time to invest, a professional groomer might be the better choice.
Many Shih Tzu owners find a balance by bathing and brushing their dogs at home while visiting a professional groomer every few months for a full trim. This hybrid approach can help save money while keeping your pup’s coat in excellent condition. **Just remember, the more you brush and bathe your own dog at home, the less your groomer will charge you. Sometimes you can expect the cost of a professional grooming to double if your dog arrives with mats in their hair.

​Explore More Shih Tzu Grooming & Care Tips
If you’re interested in learning more about Shih Tzu grooming, training, and overall care, be sure to check out my previous blog posts and explore all the expert resources on my website, shurbeezshihtzu.com.

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