Shih Tzu Shedding: Advice for Allergy-Prone Families

Do Shih Tzus Shed? Here’s What You Really Need to Know

Let’s clear up a big myth right away: yes, Shih Tzus do shed — but it’s not what you’d expect. Unlike many other breeds, Shih Tzus have hair, not fur. That means they lose hair gradually, more like humans do, rather than going through heavy seasonal shedding. Most of that loose hair gets caught in their thick coat, which is why many people assume they don’t shed at all.

I’ve had friends who were surprised by this after bringing home their first Shih Tzu. They thought they were getting a “shedding-free” dog, only to discover a grooming brush full of hair after a few days. So let’s talk about what this really means for you and your home.

What Makes a Shih Tzu’s Coat Unique?

Shih Tzus have a double coat — a soft undercoat and a longer outer coat. The combo makes their coat thick and fluffy, but also more prone to tangles and mats if not properly maintained.

Some owners opt to keep their Shih Tzu’s hair long and flowing, while others go for a shorter puppy cut. From experience, short hair is definitely easier to manage — especially if life gets busy and you miss a few grooming sessions. But if you enjoy brushing and the luxurious look of a long coat, that’s totally doable too — as long as you stay on top of it.

Shedding: What to Expect

• Low, consistent shedding: No big seasonal blowouts, but you’ll find hair in brushes and maybe on clothes.
• Puppy coat transition: Around 4–6 months old, Shih Tzus shed their soft puppy coat to make way for their adult hair. This is when you’ll notice the most shedding.
• Post-pregnancy shedding: Female Shih Tzus may shed more after giving birth due to hormonal changes.
• Appearance vs. reality: Clipping their coat short makes shedding more visible (because the hair isn’t getting trapped), but the amount they shed stays the same.

Grooming Tips That Really Help

Daily brushing isn’t just a good idea with a Shih Tzu — it’s essential. Mats can form fast, especially behind the ears, under the legs, and around the collar area. Matted hair can lead to skin issues and discomfort for your pup.

Here’s what’s worked best for me:

• Use a wire pin brush and a metal comb to gently work through the coat.
• Brush daily, even if it’s just for 5 minutes — it makes a huge difference.
• Bathe every 1–2 weeks, but always brush out any tangles before the bath. Water makes mats worse.
• If daily brushing isn’t realistic for you, consider keeping their coat clipped short. It’s easier on both of you.

Wait… Are Shih Tzus Hypoallergenic?

Short answer: not really. No breed is 100% hypoallergenic.

Shih Tzus are often called allergy-friendly because they shed less and have hair instead of fur, which can mean fewer allergens floating around. But if you're allergic to dander (dead skin cells) or saliva — and many people are — a Shih Tzu can still trigger your symptoms.

If you or someone in your home has allergies, spend time around a Shih Tzu before committing. Visit a breeder or rescue, and see how your body reacts.

Managing Allergies Around a Shih Tzu

Here are some practical steps that can reduce allergy triggers:

• Wash your hands after handling your dog
• Keep your Shih Tzu out of the bedroom
• Use washable throws on furniture if your pup loves the couch
• Vacuum regularly, especially if you have carpets
• Have a non-allergic family member handle daily brushing
• Feed a high-quality diet to support skin health and reduce dander

Shih Tzu Mixes: Do They Shed?

It depends on the other breed in the mix. Here’s a quick breakdown from what I’ve seen:

• Mal-Shi (Maltese mix): Low shed, friendly and chill
• Shi-Poo (Poodle mix): Low shed, sometimes stubborn
• Shichi (Chihuahua mix): Low shed, full of sass
• Shiranian (Pomeranian mix): Medium shed, very energetic

Their coat and shedding patterns can be unpredictable, so be prepared for a bit of a surprise if you go the mixed-breed route.

Common Questions from New Shih Tzu Owners

Why is my Shih Tzu shedding so much?
If your pup is under a year old, they’re probably going through the puppy coat transition. Stick with daily brushing — it gets easier once the adult coat comes in.

How often should I bathe my Shih Tzu?
Every 1–2 weeks is ideal. Regular baths reduce dander and help keep their coat in good shape, but don’t overdo it — too much bathing can dry out their skin.

Why is my Shih Tzu always hungry?
They tend to have big appetites! Make sure they’re getting a balanced, portion-controlled diet. If they’re gaining weight or acting unusually ravenous, talk to your vet just to be safe.

At the end of the day, Shih Tzus are affectionate, charming little companions. Their grooming needs might be a bit more than average, but with a good routine, you’ll have a happy, healthy pup — and a lot less hair on your clothes than you’d expect!