Shih Tzu Shedding/ Shih Tzu Hypoallergenic, Explained

Shih Tzu Hypoallergenic

Are Shih Tzu Hypoallergenic?. Contrary to popular belief Shih Tzus are not hypoallergenic. This breed of dog has long hair.

The covering on the Shih Tzu is referred to as hair as it long as opposed to short fur. Even dogs classified as a hypoallergenic shed.

The Shih Tzu does shed occasionally. They are considered to be double-coated. The topcoat is long and fine and the one underneath is short.

The hair on top will either get caught on their body or fall to the floor where it is so fine that it is hard to see.

Shih Tzu Shedding - Spring

Shih Tzus grow thicker warmer fur in the colder weather. Of course, this will probably occur if you live in a colder climate. When the weather gets cooler, your Shih Tzu will shed some of his/her hair as thicker hair grows in place.

In the spring the weather is warmer and your dog will shed his/her warmer hair for a short period of time. This process also can be affected by the length of time that your dog spends outside.

Shedding Due to Pregnancy

After a Shih Tzu gives birth, she will shed quite a bit. She will do this because of lack of calcium and minerals due to the pregnancy and nursing her puppies. It is sometimes called “blowing her coat.” After she has finished nursing her hair will grow back.

Puppies

Puppies have a very different coat than adult dogs. A puppy’s hair is soft and much lighter. When a puppy gets to be around 3 months it may start to shed its puppy hair and replace it with adult hair.

This may not occur until the puppy is 9 months, don’t worry this is normal. When your Shih Tzu puppy does start to shed it can be quite substantial and last anywhere from 30 - 90 days.

Excessive Shedding

If your Shih Tzu shedding is excessively it could be due to a dry coat. There are two things that may cause your dog to shed more than usual. One is an allergy or Allergic Dermatitis and the other is dry skin due to winter.

Allergic Dermatitis can occur due to an allergy from food. If your dog has an allergy his/her skin will be irritated and the strength of his/her hair follicles will be affected causing them to be dry and brittle.

In winter your Shih Tzus’ hair can shed due to the dryness in the air. A humidifier in the house can help this situation

If there are other symptoms besides shedding as in a strong odour, dandruff or an oily coat might be time to take your dog to a veterinarian. These symptoms might indicate that your dog could be sick.

Keeping Your Shih Tzu’s Hair Healthy

A Shih Tzu’s hair should be soft and shiny with no unpleasant smell. To accomplish this brushing your dog is important. You can do this yourself or find a groomer or veterinarian to brush your dog.

A Shih Tzu needs to be brushed two times a week due to their long hair. If you choose to brush your dog’s hair not only are you grooming your dog, but you are also bonding with your dog.