How to dry a Shih Tzu after a bath

By Isabella Storyclaire

last updated September 16, 2024

Contributions sourced from

Bathing Your Shih Tzu: 8 Simple Tips To Make Bath Time Better

JANUARY 23, 2019 | WRITTEN BY MOLLY

Over the years I've learned a few tricks that have helped make my Shih Tzu dogs bath time a lot less stressful for both them and me.

By using these 8 simple tips for bathing your Shih Tzu, it can make the whole experience a lot less of a chore and more of a bonding moment for both of you!

Brush your dog's hair before his bath
Give your dog a grip in the tub or sink
Use a tub restraint for safety
Choose dog-friendly shampoo
Use dog-friendly water temperature
Start bathing your Shih Tzu at their feet
Use a towel to dry your dog
Reward your dog's time for the bath

1. Brushing your dog's hair before his bath

Okay seems pretty basic. Many of you probably already do this, but it is always a good first step before getting your dogs coat soaked.

Manydogs enjoy a good combing of their coats, it's very soothing and relaxing and when done before the bath it may leave them with the impression that a bath isn't all that bad.

Not only does brushing your dogscoat relax him, but when done before his bath it helps keep his hair from becoming a matted mess from any of those seen or unseen tangles and knots.

Believe me, its aheck a lot easier to brush the tangles and knots out on dry hair than it iswet.

But not only that, by working out tangles and knots first, it allows shampoo to get through the coat and to the skin more easily.

And brushing helps remove any dirt build-up which also makes it easier to wash your dog, allowing you spend less time hunched over the tub while washing him.

2. Get a Grip

A dog is out of their element when standing in a slick bathtub.

Generally dogs dont like to be unsteady on theirfeet, and slipping around in a bathtub will be very uncomfortable for them and they will do their best to get out of that slick environment to find steadier ground.

This is where a good tub grip will help.

Use a rubber or textured grip, (I use the Gorilla Grip Tub Mat ) to help your dog stand safe and secure while getting a bath.

Or you could even use a towel in the bottom of the tub if you do not have a rubber grip. A towel will do just fine if you are in a pinch!For small dogs and puppies, the bathtub may be too big and they have a tendency roam away from you while your washing them.

So you can opt to bathe them in a sink or even a portable tub instead.

Keep in mind that a sink is typically higher off the ground than a bathtub, and if your pup jumps out, he could be seriously injured.

To avoid this from happening, use a tub restraint.

3. Use a tub restraint for safety

If you have a Shih Tzu who is constantly trying to get out of the tub while you are bathing him (I'm talking about you Rufus!) you know how frustrating and dangerous it can be.

I've found using a restraint like the Pro Guard Dog Grooming Stay-N-Wash Tub Restraint, will help you safely keep your pup in the tub.

This way you can get him clean without worrying about chasing a wet dog down the hall or slipping in the bathroom.

4.Choose dog-friendly shampoo

This may come as a surprise to you, but dogs have sensitive skin.

I would have thought with them being related to wolves and the wilderness, they would have tough skin.

But, it turns out that human shampoo and soap can irritate a dogs skin and cause itchiness and dryness. Using dog-friendly shampoos, like Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Shampoo helps promote a healthy coat and restore your dogs naturally occurring oils.

Plus, these shampoos feel more gentle on your dogs eyes, though you should try to avoid getting it in their eyes in the first place.

5. Use dog-friendly water temperature

As mentioned in the section about dog-friendly shampoo, your dogs skin is sensitive.

Some of us like scalding hot showers, but this will not do for your dog.

It is safer to use lukewarm water with your dog. This is more comfortable than cold water but is not harmful either.If your dog has a skin condition, there may be an exception to this rule.

Talk to your dogs veterinarian for recommended a water temperature if your dog has irritated or hypersensitive skin.

6. Start bathing your dog at the feet

Starting your dogs bath by washing his head first can make for an unpleasant experience for him.

If soap gets in his eyes and you still have the rest of the body to go, then he suffers while you finish the bath.This results in your dog being afraid of getting bathed when the time next comes around.Also, your dogs body temperature will thank you if you start at the feet.

Since your dog is not submerged but is standing in the water, he will feel better if he is not standing while dripping and getting cold.After you lather up his body from the feet up, you rinse in the opposite direction: from head to feet.

This helps close the process quickly and minimizes the time that shampoo is near your dogs eyes.

7. Dry your dog with a towel

Drying your dog with a towel is not the simplest task, and you may get a little wet in the process, but this is the most effective method.

Dont give into the temptation to let your dog outside to air dry.Dogs are not familiar with a clean shampoo scent, so if you let a freshly bathed and wet dog outside to air dry, hes going to roll in mud and dirt to absorb new smells.

And ruin all your hard work.Some sources recommend using a hair dryer to dry your dog. This may be okay butconsider your dogs personality before doing this. Some dogs are afraid of loud noises or may think the hair dryer is a threat in some wayand try to fight it.

This may be adorable at first, but you'll soon find that it makes it difficult to dry them and frustration will undoubtedly set in.

However, if you are successful in getting your Shih Tzu to trust the hair dryer, be sure to use a cooler setting and move it around frequently so there will be less chance of burning them.

8. Reward your dog's time for the bath

I know, you may be thinking that youre the one who needs a reward after bathing your dog.

Butyour dog will cooperate with the process better if it is a rewarding experience. Just like brushing him before will be a pre-bath reward, a good treat after the bath will work wonders.Rewarding a dog for certain tasks reinforces good behavior.

If you want your Shih Tzu to cooperate better with bath time, then try using special treats you only give him before or after the bath.

You can also reward this time with a special toy or bone, or a simple verbal reward and ear rub (this is my Rufus' preferred method of reward, while Max would rather have the treat)Keep this reward specific to bath time and do not use it in other situations.

This helps ensure your dog will associate the treat or toy with only the bath, which helps them get in the tub without fighting you about it.

Bathing a Shih Tzu

Also, if your dog runs when you start the water or say bath then do not chase him.

Chasing him encourages him to run more.

It may start to become a game to him, which rewards the negative behavior of running instead of encouraging the good behavior of getting in the tub!

How Often Should You Bathe a Shih Tzu

People have conflicting opinions on the how often you should bathe your Shih Tzu.

Some say bathing too often inhibits the production of your dogs natural oils and recommend every 3 weeks. Others say a weekly bath is fine.

If you are unsure about how often to bathe your dog, a quick chat with your dogs veterinarian may help.

Long haired "show dogs" like the Shih Tzu are typically bathed daily.

But if you are not concerned with having your dog win first prize sitting around the house, you don't have to bathe him as often.

However, a daily brushing to remove dirt and keep his hair from matting would be beneficial to your Shih Tzu.

You can better make an informed decision about how often to bathe your dog by considering the length of the coat, and the frequency of time he spends time outside.

A short-haired, indoor dog may not need as frequent baths as a long-haired, outdoor dog!

But, in any case, dont hesitate if your dog smells funny or got himself into a mess. When this happens, giving your dog a bath can help him feel better.

And your nose will appreciate a clean pup too!

How do you dry a Shih Tzu after a bath?

Bathing a Shih Tzu can be a rewarding experience, but it can also be a messy one. After youve thoroughly washed, conditioned, and rinsed your pup, the next step is to dry them off. The type of drying method you use will depend on the length and type of fur your Shih Tzu has. However, all methods will involve using a towel, a hairdryer, and possibly some other grooming tools. Properly drying your pup is essential to keep them healthy and to avoid skin irritation. With the right technique, you can dry your Shih Tzu quickly and effectively.

What to Prepare Before You Start

Bathing your Shih Tzu is an important part of their grooming routine. But it is not enough to just give them a bath. You also need to know how to properly dry them off afterwards. Here are some tips on how to dry a Shih Tzu after a bath.

Before you start, make sure you have the necessary supplies. You will need a large, absorbent towel, a blow dryer, and a brush. You will also need some shampoo and conditioner that are specifically formulated for dogs.

Steps for Drying a Shih Tzu After a Bath

Once you have all the necessary supplies, you can begin drying your Shih Tzu. Here are the steps you should follow:

Step 1: Towel Dry

The first step is to towel dry your Shih Tzu. Start by wrapping your Shih Tzu in the large, absorbent towel and gently pat them dry. Make sure to get all the excess water off their fur. You can also use a dryer sheet to help absorb the moisture.

Step 2: Blow Dry

Once your Shih Tzu is mostly dry, you can use a blow dryer to finish the job. Make sure to set the dryer on low and avoid holding it too close to your pet. You should also take regular breaks to make sure the dryer is not getting too hot.

Step 3: Brush and Comb

Once your Shih Tzu is completely dry, it is time to brush and comb their fur. Use a brush that is specifically designed for dogs and start at the bottom and work your way up. Make sure to be gentle and to avoid pulling on their fur. Once you are done, use a comb to make sure there are no tangles or knots.

Step 4: Trim the Fur

Once the fur is brushed and combed, it is time to trim the fur around their eyes and ears. Use a pair of scissors that are specifically designed for dog grooming and be sure to be gentle. Trim away any fur that is too long or that is covering their eyes or ears.

Tips for Drying a Shih Tzu After a Bath

Here are some tips to keep in mind when drying your Shih Tzu after a bath:

Be Gentle

It is important to be gentle when drying your Shih Tzu. Dogs have delicate skin and can be easily injured if you are too rough. Make sure to be gentle when using the blow dryer and when brushing and combing their fur.

Use the Right Products

Make sure to use the right products when drying your Shih Tzu. Use a shampoo and conditioner that is specifically designed for dogs and make sure to use a brush and comb that is designed for their fur type.

Stay Patient

Finally, stay patient. It can take some time to properly dry your Shih Tzu after a bath. Dont rush and take your time to make sure they are completely dry.

**Common Myths About Drying a Shih Tzu After a Bath**

1. Myth: You Should Use a Hair Dryer on the Dog It is not recommended to use a hair dryer on a Shih Tzu after a bath as it can be dangerous. The heat from a hair dryer can be too intense for a dog and can cause skin irritation or burns. Additionally, the air flow can make the dog overly anxious.

2. Myth: Rubbing the Dog Down with a Towel is Enough While it is important to dry the dog with a towel, it is not enough. Towels can only absorb a limited amount of moisture, and the dog may still be damp when you are done.

3. Myth: Letting the Dog Air Dry is the Best Option While letting the dog air dry is one option, it can be time consuming and the dog may still be damp when you are done. Additionally, the dog may become chilled from the cold air, so it is important to make sure the dog is completely dry before letting them go outside.

4. Myth: You Dont Need to Dry the Dogs Ears It is important to make sure the dogs ears are completely dry after a bath, as moisture can cause ear infections. Make sure to use a towel or cotton ball to gently pat the ears dry, taking care not to insert anything into the ear canal.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you dry a Shih Tzu after a bath?

Answer: After bathing your Shih Tzu, wrap them in a large towel and gently pat them dry. Blot their fur to remove any excess water. You can also use a blow dryer set on the low, cool setting to help dry their fur. Be sure to keep the blow dryer moving around so you dont overheat their skin.

How often should a Shih Tzu be bathed?

Answer: Its recommended to bathe a Shih Tzu every 6-8 weeks. However, this can vary depending on the individual dogs lifestyle and coat type. If your Shih Tzu tends to get dirty quickly, you may need to bathe them more often. If your Shih Tzu has a dry coat, you may be able to extend the time between baths.

Conclusion

Bathing your Shih Tzu is an important part of their grooming routine. Before you start, make sure to have the necessary supplies a large, absorbent towel, a blow dryer, brush, shampoo and conditioner. To dry your Shih Tzu, first towel dry them, then use a blow dryer, followed by brushing and combing the fur and finally trimming around the eyes and ears. When drying your Shih Tzu, it is important to be gentle, use the right products and stay patient.