Shiranian Grooming

Shiranians, as Shih Tzu-Pomeranian crosses, have long, fluffy coats that require frequent care. See below for info on maintaining this breed's coat, and for descriptions of several Shiranian hairstyles.

For a Shih Tzu-Pomeranian mix, grooming will be a frequent task. These dogs' long-haired, fluffy coats mat or tangle fairly easily, so they will need daily brushing; they'll only need baths, though, every 2-3 months. And depending on your preferred hairstyle, a Shiranian will need clipping/scissoring about every three months.

Brush your Shiranian every day, if possible, to minimize tangles and mats. A pin brush is best for this breed, and a medium-toothed comb to work through mats is great to have handy as well. To brush a Shiranian: first wet the coat with mist from a spray bottle, then use a line brushing technique to work through the entire coat; use the comb to work through any stubborn mats, if needed. If you're also bathing the dog, first brush thoroughly, then use canine shampoo and conditioner (both available at pet stores), and clean the coat starting at the topline and working downward. (Due to their small size, Shiranians can easily be bathed in the kitchen or bathroom sink.) Rinse well, then towel-dry. (Because Shiranians' skin is very sensitive, a blow-dryer--even on its lowest setting--can burn them.) Finish with another quick brush-through to make the coat look healthy and smooth.

Most Shiranians, regardless of their hairstyle, will need a cut about four times per year. A lot of cuts/styles can be done at home, but it's recommended that owners visit a professional groomer at least once; the groomer will likely provide tips on how to best cut your Shiranian's hair yourself, along with advice on grooming your dog in general.

Because of the breed's status as a designer companion dog, numerous Shiranian haircuts exist--and they all look fabulous on these little dogs. Below are descriptions of the most popular Shiranian styles:

• Teddy Bear cut: This style gives a Shiranian the look of a plush toy. The hair over the entire body (including the face) is cut to 2-3 inches, then carefully rounded and sculpted to make the dog resemble a little teddy bear. Can be done at home, with initial instruction from a groomer.
• Lion Cut: Makes a Shiranian resemble a tiny lion. The face, neck ruff, and front half of the body are left at full length; the rear half of the body, the legs, and the tail (except for the tip, which is left long) are shaved close. Best done by a groomer.
• Puppy Cut: Very low-maintenance; often given to dogs in hot climates. The entire coat is cut short, to 1-2 inches; some people choose to leave the head/facial hair a bit longer. Can be easily done at home.
• Top Knot: This is an addition to any hairstyle: the hair on top of the dog's head is left as long as possible, and secured at its base by a ribbon, hair tie, or rubber band. (Obviously, no grooming is needed.)