Do Shih Tzus Shed?

So you've probably heard that Shih Tzus don't shed, or that they're, like, hypoallergenic, right? Well, that's not exactly the whole story... and if you're a new owner, you've maybe already noticed a bit of hair here and there and thought, "Hold up, what gives?"
Let's clear this up without a bunch of complicated science words, because honestly, who has time for that?

Hair vs. Fur: The Big Deal

The short answer to "do Shih Tzus shed?" is yes. But! And this is a big but, it's not the kind of shedding you're thinking of.
Unlike breeds with fur (like a Golden Retriever or a Husky), a Shih Tzu has hair, kinda like we do. Their hair has a really long growth cycle, which means it doesn't fall out constantly. Instead of finding little tumbleweeds of hair all over your house, you’ll mostly see it when you're brushing them or giving them a bath. All that loose hair gets trapped in their long coat instead of ending up on your furniture.
This is the big reason why they're considered a hypoallergenic breed. It’s not that they don't have allergens, it’s just that they don't leave them all over your house. So, that's a huge win, right?

When Your Shih Tzu Might Shed More (And It's Totally Normal)
If you notice more hair than usual, don't panic! There are a few totally normal reasons for a little extra Shih Tzu shedding.

• The Puppy Coat Transition: When your puppy is about 9 to12 months old, they go through a big change. They're losing their soft, fluffy puppy coat and growing in their adult coat. This can be a few weeks of heavy shedding, and it's a bit of a pain. But it's temporary!

• Seasonal Changes: Just like some other dogs, they might shed a bit more when the weather gets warmer. They're getting rid of that extra insulation to stay cool.

• Stress or Diet: Yep, just like us. If their food isn't giving them the right nutrients (especially those omega fatty acids!), or if they're stressed out by a big change in their life, you might see some extra hair come out.

How to Manage Shih Tzu Shedding
Okay, so they shed a little bit. What do you do about it? Luckily, it's pretty simple and it's all about routine.

1. Brush, Brush, Brush! This is your number one tool. Daily brushing is the best way to catch all that loose hair before it has a chance to turn into a mat. Plus, your little buddy probably loves it.

2. Regular Baths: Giving them a bath every few weeks helps to loosen and remove dead hair. Just remember to use a good dog shampoo, not your own, and brush them before and after the bath.

3. The 'Puppy Cut': This is a huge help for managing shedding. A professional groomer can give them a short, adorable cut that makes brushing easier and helps keep their coat healthy and tidy.

So, while Shih Tzu shedding is a real thing, it's not a big, hairy deal. A little routine and a lot of love, and you'll keep that amazing coat looking beautiful.
If you're still looking for your perfect little low shedding friend, don't forget to check out our available puppies!