The 6 Best Dog Shampoos for Shih Tzus

The 6 Best Dog Shampoos for Shih Tzus

Shih Tzus are known for their big round eyes, sweet personalities, and long, flowing coats that look more like human hair than typical dog fur. That glamorous hair needs regular care to stay clean, soft, and tangle free.

Below you will find the best Lillian Ruff shampoos for Shih Tzus, how to build a coat friendly bathing routine, and answers to common grooming questions for this high maintenance but lovable toy breed.

Breed focus: Shih Tzus · Lillian Ruff pet shampoos

On this page

Why Shih Tzus Need the Right Shampoo

Shih Tzus were bred as companion dogs, and their coats reflect that. They have a long, dense, double layered coat that can be kept in a full show coat or trimmed into a shorter puppy cut. Either way, the wrong shampoo can quickly lead to problems.

  • Long, tangle prone hair: Shih Tzu hair mats easily, especially behind the ears, under the collar, and on the legs and tail.
  • Sensitive skin: Many Shih Tzus have delicate or allergy prone skin that reacts to harsh ingredients.
  • Tear stains and face mess: Their large eyes and short muzzles often lead to tear staining and food debris around the face.
  • Frequent grooming: Shih Tzus usually visit the groomer regularly and need at home baths in between.

The best shampoos for Shih Tzus clean gently, support sensitive skin, help prevent tangles, and brighten the coat without weighing it down.

Quick pick list for busy Shih Tzu parents:

All of these are part of the Lillian Ruff Pet Shampoo collection.

How to Choose a Shampoo for Your Shih Tzu

Before you choose a shampoo, think about your Shih Tzu’s coat style and skin history. A dog in a full, floor length coat has slightly different needs than a Shih Tzu in a shorter puppy cut, but both need gentle, moisturizing care.

Key things to consider

  • Coat length and style: Full coats require more moisture and slip so the brush can glide through. Short puppy cuts still benefit from gentle, hydrating shampoos that protect the skin.
  • Skin sensitivity: If you see redness, flakes, or constant scratching, focus on hypoallergenic or oatmeal based formulas.
  • Face and eye area: Tear stains, eye discharge, and beard staining around the mouth are common. A tearless facial wash makes daily cleaning easier.
  • Color of the coat: White and cream coats show stains quickly and benefit from periodic brightening shampoos.
  • Bathing frequency: Shih Tzus often need baths every 2 to 4 weeks, so the shampoo should be gentle enough for regular use.

Ingredients to look for

  • Oatmeal and aloe to soothe dry or itchy skin
  • Coconut based cleansers instead of harsh detergents
  • Natural oils and vitamins to nourish hair and skin
  • pH balanced, tear free formulas made specifically for dogs
  • Dye free and paraben free options, especially for sensitive dogs

Tip: Avoid human shampoos or strong perfumes. Shih Tzus have thinner, more sensitive skin than humans and need dog specific products that respect their natural skin barrier.

Best Lillian Ruff Shampoos for Shih Tzus

Every Shih Tzu is unique, but the Lillian Ruff products below are especially well suited to long, silky coats, tear stain prone faces, and sensitive skin. You can combine them in a routine that works for your dog and your grooming schedule.

1. Oatmeal Shampoo for everyday moisture and itch relief

View Oatmeal Shampoo on Lillian Ruff

Lillian Ruff Oatmeal Shampoo is a gentle, moisturizing formula that works beautifully for most Shih Tzus. It is made for dry, itchy, or sensitive skin and doubles as an everyday shampoo for long coats.

  • Oatmeal, aloe, lavender, and coconut help soothe and re moisturize delicate skin.
  • Thoroughly cleans and deodorizes without stripping natural oils from the coat.
  • Helps keep the hair soft and manageable so brushing is easier and more comfortable.
  • pH balanced and gentle enough for puppies and adult Shih Tzus.

Best for: Most Shih Tzus as a main bath time shampoo, especially those with mild dryness or seasonal itch.

2. HypoCare+ Hypoallergenic Shampoo for ultra sensitive skin

View HypoCare+ Hypoallergenic Shampoo

If your Shih Tzu has frequent redness, hot spots, or diagnosed allergies, HypoCare+ is a smart choice. This clinically tested, hypoallergenic shampoo focuses on soothing and protecting sensitive skin.

  • Fragrance free and dye free for dogs that react to added scents or colors.
  • Uses gentle, hydrating botanicals to calm chronic dryness and itchiness.
  • Effectively removes dirt and allergens without harsh chemicals.
  • Safe for routine use on puppies, adult dogs, and cats in multi pet homes.

Best for: Allergy prone Shih Tzus, dogs under veterinary dermatology care, or any dog that needs a very gentle, low ingredient shampoo.

3. Berry Blue Brightening Face and Body Wash for tear stains and facial grooming

View Berry Blue Brightening Face and Body Wash

Shih Tzus often develop tear stains and discoloration around their eyes and mouth. Berry Blue Brightening Face and Body Wash is designed specifically to tackle staining and dingy fur while staying gentle near the eyes.

  • Blueberry infused formula helps lift stain causing particles from white and light fur.
  • Can be used as both a facial cleanser and a full body brightening shampoo.
  • Tearless and suitable for regular use around the eyes when used as directed.
  • Great for daily or weekly wipe downs of the face, beard, and mustache area.

Best for: Shih Tzus with noticeable tear stains, beard staining, or white faces that lose their brightness between grooms.

4. Brightening and Whitening Shampoo for show worthy shine

View Brightening and Whitening Shampoo

Many Shih Tzus have white or cream coats that can look dull over time. Lillian Ruff Brightening and Whitening Shampoo is crafted to enhance light coats and restore a clean, luminous look without harsh bleaching agents.

  • Helps remove yellowing and stains from white, cream, and light colored hair.
  • Aloe and coconut infused formula brightens while still being gentle on the skin.
  • Can be used as a full body shampoo or targeted brightener on problem areas.
  • Safe for use on all coat colors when used as directed.

Best for: White or light colored Shih Tzus, show coats, photo days, and dogs whose coats look dull or stained.

5. Waterless Shampoo Lavender Coconut for in between bath touch ups

View Waterless Shampoo Lavender Coconut

Because Shih Tzus need frequent grooming, it helps to have an easy way to freshen the coat between full baths. This waterless spray shampoo is perfect for quick cleanups when you do not want to do an entire bath.

  • No rinse formula that you spray on, massage into the coat, then allow to dry before brushing.
  • Helps remove surface dirt and odor without drying out skin and hair.
  • Gentle enough for sensitive skin and safe for puppies when used as directed.
  • Ideal for cleaning faces, paws, and sanitary areas between grooming appointments.

Best for: Apartment living, travel, cold weather, senior dogs, or anytime you want a quick refresh without a full bath.

Bonus: Oatmeal Shampoo and Conditioner Set for extra moisture and detangling

If your Shih Tzu is in a long coat or mats easily, consider using the Oatmeal Shampoo and Conditioner Set to add extra slip and hydration after shampooing. Conditioner helps the brush glide through the coat and can reduce breakage and matting when combined with regular brushing.

Bathing Schedule and Grooming Routine for Shih Tzus

Shih Tzus usually need baths more often than many other breeds. A common schedule is a full bath every 2 to 4 weeks, depending on coat length, lifestyle, and skin sensitivity, plus daily or near daily brushing.

Suggested shampoo rotation

Step by step Shih Tzu bath

  1. Brush thoroughly before the bath. Use a slicker brush and comb to remove tangles. Never wet heavy mats, as water will tighten them.
  2. Protect the ears. Place cotton loosely in the ear openings if your vet approves, and avoid letting water run directly into the ears.
  3. Wet the coat completely. Use lukewarm water and work it through the coat from neck to tail and down each leg until the hair is soaked all the way to the skin.
  4. Apply your chosen shampoo. Massage Oatmeal Shampoo or HypoCare+ gently into the coat, working in sections. For the face, use a small amount of Berry Blue Brightening Face and Body Wash and avoid direct contact with the eyes.
  5. Rinse very well. Rinse until the water runs clear and you no longer feel any slippery shampoo in the coat. Proper rinsing is essential for long hair and sensitive skin.
  6. Condition if needed. Apply a light conditioner or use the Oatmeal Shampoo and Conditioner Set, concentrating on the ends of the hair. Rinse thoroughly.
  7. Dry carefully. Towel blot the coat, then use a dryer on a low or cool setting while brushing to prevent tangles. Make sure your Shih Tzu is completely dry to avoid mildew smells and matting.
  8. Brush again. Once dry, brush and comb through the coat to keep it smooth and knot free.

Shih Tzu Shampoo FAQ

How often should I bathe my Shih Tzu?

Many Shih Tzus do well with a full bath every 2 to 4 weeks, depending on coat length and how quickly they get dirty. Dogs in full coat or those with skin issues may need a slightly different schedule based on your groomer’s and veterinarian’s advice. Use gentle, dog specific shampoos so you do not dry out the skin.

Which Lillian Ruff shampoo is best for Shih Tzu puppies?

For most Shih Tzu puppies, Oatmeal Shampoo is an excellent starting point because it is gentle, tear free, and moisturizing. If your puppy already has known skin sensitivities, ask your veterinarian whether HypoCare+ Hypoallergenic Shampoo is a better fit.

What is the best Lillian Ruff product for Shih Tzu tear stains?

Berry Blue Brightening Face and Body Wash is specifically designed to help lift tear stains and brighten the fur around the eyes and muzzle. Use it regularly as a gentle facial cleanser and always rinse and dry carefully.

Do Shih Tzus need conditioner as well as shampoo?

Conditioner is very helpful for Shih Tzus, especially those in longer coats or dogs that mat easily. After shampooing, you can use a conditioner such as the Oatmeal Shampoo and Conditioner Set to add slip and moisture, which makes brushing easier and reduces breakage.

Can I use human shampoo on my Shih Tzu?

No. Human shampoos are formulated for human skin and are not pH balanced for dogs. They can strip natural oils and lead to dryness, itching, and irritation. It is best to use dog specific, pH balanced shampoos like the Lillian Ruff options listed above.

How can I keep my Shih Tzu smelling fresh between baths?

Daily or frequent brushing, wiping the face after meals, and cleaning around the eyes all help. For an extra boost, use Waterless Shampoo Lavender Coconut on the coat and Berry Blue Brightening Face and Body Wash on the face as needed between full baths.

← Publicación más antigua Publicación más reciente →