Golden Paws Pet Grooming in Lexington, MA specializes in professional Shih Tzu grooming for pet owners across the greater Boston area. Shih Tzus have a demanding double coat — a soft, dense undercoat beneath a flowing, continuously growing topcoat — that requires skilled, patient handling and consistent grooming to stay healthy and comfortable. Our groomers understand Shih Tzu coat structure, take care around the face and eyes, and deliver precise, clean results whether the owner prefers a short puppy cut or a longer styled look. Call 781-274-9144 to book your Shih Tzu's appointment.
The Shih Tzu's double coat is beautiful when maintained and problematic when neglected. The dense undercoat creates warmth and volume; the flowing topcoat grows continuously and picks up debris, moisture, and tangles from daily activity. Unlike shedding breeds, loose coat stays trapped in the topcoat rather than falling away naturally — which means regular brushing and professional grooming are not optional. Without consistent maintenance, the Shih Tzu's coat mats quickly, particularly around the face, ears, armpits, and under the collar. Mats in a Shih Tzu's face can pull the skin near the eyes and cause significant discomfort. Regular grooming every 4 to 6 weeks is the correct standard of care for this breed.
A full Shih Tzu groom at Golden Paws includes a pre-bath brush-out to clear tangles before bathing, a bath with shampoo and conditioner selected for the Shih Tzu's double coat, a blow-dry and finish brush to fully straighten and smooth the coat, a breed-appropriate haircut to the agreed style and length, careful facial trim around the eyes and muzzle, ear cleaning, nail trim, anal gland expression, and cologne or bandana. We take particular care with the face — the Shih Tzu's pushed-in muzzle and prominent eyes require a groomer who is precise and patient when working around the facial area.
The puppy cut is the most practical and popular choice for pet Shih Tzus — the coat is trimmed to a uniform short length all over, including the face, which keeps the dog clean, cool, and easy to maintain at home. The teddy bear cut adds a slightly fuller, rounded face for a softer expression with a medium body length. Longer styled cuts with a top knot — where the head coat is gathered and tied above the eyes — are available for owners who prefer the traditional Shih Tzu look and are committed to daily brushing. We also work to custom specifications based on previous groomer photos or owner preferences.
Every 4 to 6 weeks. Shih Tzus kept in a short puppy cut can sometimes stretch to 6 weeks if brushed consistently at home. Dogs in longer styles need professional grooming every 4 weeks to prevent matting. The facial hair — which grows quickly and continuously — needs attention at every appointment regardless of body coat length, as hair falling into the eyes causes irritation and can affect vision if left too long.
Golden Paws Pet Grooming is at 395 Lowell St, Lexington, MA. We serve Shih Tzu owners from Lexington, Arlington, Bedford, Belmont, Burlington, Winchester, Waltham, Newton, Woburn, Medford, and all surrounding communities within approximately 25 minutes. Call 781-274-9144 to schedule.
Shih Tzus need professional grooming every 4 to 6 weeks regardless of coat length. Their double coat grows continuously and mats easily if not kept clean, conditioned, and regularly brushed. Shih Tzus kept in a puppy cut or short trim still need consistent professional maintenance — the coat continues growing and the skin and facial hair require regular attention.
We offer the puppy cut (short all over), the teddy bear cut (rounded face, medium body length), the practical top knot style for longer coats, and custom lengths. The puppy cut is the most practical choice for most pet owners as it requires less home maintenance and stays cleaner. Longer show-style coats require significant daily brushing and are best suited for owners committed to daily coat care.
Shih Tzu facial hair grows quickly and can fall into the eyes, causing irritation. We trim the facial hair carefully around the eyes, clean the eye area, and shape the face to the chosen style. For dogs with tear staining — common in Shih Tzus — we clean the area gently and discuss maintenance options with the owner.
Yes. Shih Tzus can be sensitive about their face, feet, and ears. Our groomers are patient and experienced with small breeds who resist grooming. We go at the dog's pace, take breaks when needed, and never force a dog through a step that causes significant distress. Consistent regular grooming is the most effective long-term approach for nervous dogs.
A full Shih Tzu groom includes a pre-bath brush-out, bath with coat-appropriate shampoo and conditioner, high-velocity and hand-dry finish, breed-appropriate haircut, facial trim, ear cleaning, nail trim, anal gland expression, and cologne or bandana.
Ready to book your Shih Tzu's grooming appointment? Call Golden Paws Pet Grooming at 781-274-9144. We're at 395 Lowell St, Lexington, MA — expert Shih Tzu grooming for clients from Lexington and the surrounding communities.
Last updated: May 2026