A Shih Tzu is either in clipped or full coat. If you wanted to keep your Shih Tzu's coat clipped short, it is still important that he should be accustomed to being groomed at an early age. Fifteen minutes of daily brushing is what a clipped Shih Tzu needs to get used to grooming. However, long or full coat Shih Tzus used in dog shows need to keep its coat at floor length thus daily grooming with a wire brushing is important.
Start brushing your Shih Tzu's hair from the head gently brushing the hair away from the eyes. It is important that the hair must be kept away from the eyes at all times to prevent irritation which may lead to infection or ulceration. If the hair is still falling into the eyes, trimming is recommended however, extra care should be taken when doing the process.
Not only should the hair around the eyes be trimmed but the mouth and the ears as well. Short hair around the area of the mouth prevents food from gathering and prevents ear infections in the ears. After working on the face, it is time to proceed to your dog's neck and then body.
Your dog's nails and hair between the pads should be kept short so give extra notice to those areas. Then lastly groom your dog's bottom area and tail. Short hair in the area of his behind makes it easy for him during potty time. Also check this area daily to ensure it is clean and free of excrement.
To prevent breakage, totally dry coats are not supposed to be brushed. Slightly dampen the coat and brush it in layers. To make the grooming session easy and prevent you from crouching, a grooming table with a firm non-slip surface is necessary. Don't forget to place a soft towel on the surface of the table.
Doing things together with your dog can be one of the most memorable moments of your life and maybe your dog's life too. Knowing some effective tips in grooming do not only make your dog clean and healthy but also can lead to lasting companionship you and your dog will cherish.
There are two types of dog shows licensed by the American Kennel Club. One is the all-breed show. The all-breed show includes classes for all the recognized breeds, and groups of breeds such as all terriers, all toys. The second dog show is the specialty show for one particular breed that also offers championship points.
A benched show is one where the dog show superintendent supplies benches (cages for toy dogs). Each bench is numbered and its corresponding number appears on your entry slip that is sent to you prior to the show. When you enter the show, take your Shih Tzu to the bench. Your Shih Tzu should remain on the bench until it is time to groom him before entering the ring to be judged. After judging, your Shih Tzu must return to the bench until the show is dismissed.
At an unbenched show the club makes no provision for your Shih Tzu other than an enormous tent if outdoors or an area in a show hall where all crates and grooming equipment must be kept if the show is inside.
When you enter the show grounds, whether it is a benched or unbenched show, you are expected to keep your Shih Tzu under complete control. You should use a short lead in crowded aisles or getting out of cars. At a bench show, a ?bench chain? is needed. A bench chain should allow your Shih Tzu to move around, but not off the bench.
There is always at least one professional photographer who will take your Shih Tzu's picture along with the judge and whatever is won, the ribbons, etc. These photos make excellent advertisements in the various dog magazines.
Some shows also offer Obedience Trials. Obedience Trials are always considered a separate event. There are three obedience titles. First, the Companion Dog or C.D. title; second, the Companion Dog Excellent or C.D.X.; and third, the Utility Dog or U.D. You can receive detailed information in a booklet entitled Official Obedience Regulations from the American Kennel Club.
Article Source :
About Author
Both Richard Cussons & Connie Limon are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Richard Cussons has sinced written about articles on various topics from Terrier Dogs, Boston Terrier Dogs and Terrier Dogs. Want to learn more about ? Check out Richard Cussons' site containing vital information about. Richard Cussons's top article generates over 450000 views. to your Favourites.
Connie Limon has sinced written about articles on various topics from Careers and Job Hunting, Dogs and Colon Cleanse. Connie Limon is a Shih Tzu breeder. She publishes a FREE weekly newsletter. A professional newsletter with a focus upon health and wellness for you and your pets. Discounts are offered to subscribers. Sign up at:. Connie Limon's top article generates over 135000 views. to your Favourites.