10 Shih Tzu Haircuts With Pictures: A Groomer's Guide to Every Style

Shih Tzu haircuts come in more styles than almost any other breed, and after years of clipping them here in Riverview, I've done just about all of them. Some pups leave the salon with a full show coat. Most leave with something a lot more practical.

Below are the 10 Shih Tzu haircut styles we do most often, with pictures of each one, the blade lengths we use, and honest notes on how much brushing it'll take to keep it looking good at home. If you've ever stood at the grooming counter and said "just make him cute," this guide will give you the actual words to ask for.

A quick note on why the cut matters so much for this breed: a Shih Tzu's double coat grows continuously and mats fast, especially behind the ears, under the legs, and on the belly. Tight mats pull the skin and hurt. The right haircut isn't just about looks — it's the difference between a dog who's comfortable between appointments and one who dreads the brush.

1. Shih Tzu Puppy Cut

This is the haircut most people picture when they think of a Shih Tzu, and it's the one we do more than any other. Despite the name, it has nothing to do with age. The puppy cut is one even length over the whole body, nose to tail, with the face tidied neat and the corners of the eyes cleared. In our salon we've also called it the "All Over Haircut," so if you hear either term, it's the same cut.

I recommend it to nearly every new Shih Tzu owner who's honest about their brushing time. It takes the bulk out of the mat-prone undercoat, keeps hair out of the eyes without needing a top knot, and still looks like a Shih Tzu instead of a shaved dog.

Why it's a hit with owners:

• One length everywhere: No transitions to blend, so brushing is quick and simple.

• Season-proof: Comfortable in Florida summers and cool enough for the few weeks we call winter.

• Flatters every dog: Works on any body type and any coat color.

Length: Usually ½ to 1 inch with a comb attachment. Go down to a # 7 blade (about ⅛ inch) if you want the shortest, easiest version, or up to 2 inches if you like more fluff and don't mind more brushing.

Home brushing: Two to three times a week with a slicker brush, followed by a metal comb behind the ears and under the legs.

Custom touches: Pair it with a short teddy bear face for a rounder look, or a closely trimmed head for a sleeker finish. That head choice is the only real difference between this cut and the next one on the list.

What to ask for: "A puppy cut, [length] all over, face short and eyes cleared." Naming the length matters, because puppy cut means something different at every salon.

2. Shih Tzu Teddy Bear Cut

If the puppy cut is our most common request, the teddy bear cut is the one that gets the most "awws" at pickup. It's the same manageable body as the puppy cut, but the head is hand-scissored into a full circle: rounded cheeks, a plush chin, and ears blended into the shape of the face. A Shih Tzu's broad, short muzzle takes a round face better than almost any breed, which is why this look practically belongs to them.

Just know what that face costs you. Fuller hair around the mouth catches food and water, and Shih Tzus are messy drinkers. The cheeks and the hair around the ears need combing every couple of days or the plush look turns clumpy fast.

Why it's a crowd pleaser:

• That stuffed-animal look: Rounded face and softer ears bring out the eyes and the smile.

• Same easy body: Everything that makes it a teddy bear happens above the neck.

• Customizable: Body length stays between 1 and 2 inches, so you can dial the fluff up or down.

Length: Body at 1 to 2 inches with a comb attachment. Face and ears left longer and scissored round. We can also take the body down to ½ inch and keep the teddy face if you want less brushing.

Home brushing: Three to four times a week on the body, plus a quick pass with a metal comb through the cheeks after meals. Thirty seconds does it.

Custom touches: Pair it with fuller lamb legs for a rounder silhouette, or shaved feet for a tidier, lower-maintenance finish.

What to ask for: "A teddy bear cut, [length] on the body, round face." If you love the look but not the upkeep, ask for "a puppy cut with slightly rounded cheeks." Most groomers are happy to meet you in the middle.

3. Shih Tzu Lamb Leg Cut

The lamb leg cut is for owners who want a little personality in the groom without signing up for a full coat. The body gets clipped short while the legs are left longer and fluffy, so your Shih Tzu ends up with those signature "lamb legs." The contrast between the sleek body and the full legs makes the coat look rich and dimensional, and it photographs beautifully.

It does take more care than the puppy cut. Those legs are still long hair, and long hair on a Shih Tzu mats. The friction spots are the armpits, the inside of the back legs, and where the leg coat meets the body. Comb to the skin there, not just over the top.

Why owners love it:

• Stands out: Instantly sets your pup apart at the dog park.

• Easy body, fun legs: The mat-prone torso stays short while the flair stays on the legs.

• Adjustable drama: Legs can be subtle or full, depending on how much brushing you're up for.

Length: Body as short as a # 7 blade (about ⅛ inch) for a sharp contrast, or up to ½ inch for a softer look. Legs anywhere from 1 inch to a full, dramatic length. The longer the legs and the shorter the body, the more striking the cut, and the more often those legs need brushing.

Home brushing: Three to four times a week, focused on the legs. Slicker brush first, then a metal comb all the way through to the skin.

Custom touches: Works great with a teddy bear face for a rounded, balanced look, or a tied-up top knot for extra flair.

What to ask for: "A lamb leg cut, [body length] on the body, legs left at [leg length]." Be specific about the legs, since "fluffy" means something different to everyone.

4. Shih Tzu Summer Cut

When the Florida heat sets in, the summer cut stops being a style choice and becomes a comfort choice. Shih Tzus are flat-faced and don't handle heat well to begin with, and that dense undercoat holds warmth and takes forever to dry after a bath or a swim. Taking the coat short fixes both, and it's the lowest-effort cut on this list that still looks like a Shih Tzu.

A quick brush after a romp outside is usually all it takes to get them looking sharp again, and bath time goes from a project to a few minutes.

Why it's a hit in warm climates:

• Keeps them cool: Less coat means less trapped heat and faster drying.

• Lowest brushing on the list: Short enough to stay ahead of the undercoat between grooms.

• Still looks styled: Neat and tidy rather than shaved.

Length: Anywhere from a # 7 blade (about ⅛ inch) for the shortest version, up through a # 5 (¼ inch), # 4 (⅜ inch), or # 3 (½ inch), depending on how short you'd like to go. For dogs who spend a lot of time outside, we suggest keeping at least ⅜ inch for a little sun protection.

Home brushing: Once or twice a week. This is the sweet spot for busy households.

Custom touches: Pairs well with a short teddy bear face, a tied-up top knot for flair, or short lamb legs around ½ inch for a bit of contrast.

What to ask for: "A summer cut, [blade or length] all over." And a reminder from someone who sees it every July: no haircut replaces shade and water for a flat-faced dog in Florida. The cut helps, but midday walks are still off the table.

5. Shih Tzu Tied-Up Top Knot

The tied-up top knot is where the classic Shih Tzu look meets a body you can actually maintain. The crown hair is grown long enough to gather and band up out of the eyes, while the body is trimmed short for easy upkeep. You get the iconic silhouette from the shoulders up and a wash-and-wear dog from the shoulders down. We've tied more of these than we can count, and it never fails to make a Shih Tzu's face light up.

On this breed the top knot is a health choice as much as a style. Those big, prominent eyes sit in shallow sockets, and stray hair poking at them causes real irritation. Keeping the crown banded keeps the hair off the eyes without shortening the face.

Why it's a favorite:

• Eye care: Keeps hair out of the eyes and cuts down on tearing and irritation.

• The traditional look: Elegant and instantly recognizable.

• Endless accessories: Plain elastics, colored ties, or a bow. Change it up daily.

Length: Body with a # 7 blade (about ⅛ inch) for the easiest version, or up to 2 inches for more fluff. Head hair left long on the crown and blended into the shorter coat around the neck.

Home brushing: This one is a daily commitment. The top knot needs to be combed out and re-tied every day or two with coated bands, and never tied too tight. A knot that's left in for a week becomes a mat at the base that pulls on the skin. Re-tying is also your chance to check for hidden tangles and debris.

Custom touches: Pairs with any body length, and looks especially sharp with a summer cut underneath during hot months.

What to ask for: "A [body length] all over with the crown left long for a top knot." If nobody at home will re-tie it daily, be honest with yourself and ask for a short round face instead. A neglected top knot is worse than no top knot.

6. Shih Tzu Lion Cut

The lion cut looks dramatic, but it's one of the easier styles on this list to live with. Most of the body gets shaved short, which means fewer tangles and less brushing, while a full mane is left around the head, neck, and chest with a tuft on the tail. It suits the breed historically too, since "Shih Tzu" translates roughly to "lion dog."

The body is easy. The mane is not. It's still long coat and it still mats, especially where the collar sits. If your pup wears this cut, a harness instead of a collar goes a long way toward protecting that neck hair.

Why it's more than just a look:

• Cool comfort: Shaved body makes it a great hot-weather option.

• Head-turning: Nobody forgets a Shih Tzu in a lion cut.

• Easy body care: The mat-prone torso, armpits, and back legs are all clipped short.

Length: Body shaved anywhere from a #10 blade (about 1/16 inch) for a very close cut to a #3 (about ½ inch) for a slightly longer finish. Mane and tail tuft left long. Some owners also like a little fur left on the paws for balance.

Home brushing: Three to four times a week on the mane and chest, combed all the way to the skin. The body only needs a quick once-over.

Custom touches: A tied-up top knot keeps the mane out of the eyes, and a splash of color on the tail tuft is a fun finish.

What to ask for: "A lion cut, [blade] on the body, full mane and tail." Mention whether you want the legs clipped or left with a little fur, since that varies from dog to dog.

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7. Shih Tzu Square Head Cut

The square head cut is a true statement style. Instead of the soft, rounded teddy bear face, the head is scissored into a bold, boxy shape with clean, defined lines. It's modern, geometric, and instantly recognizable, and it frames those expressive eyes better than almost anything else we do.

This is a higher-maintenance look. Those crisp lines soften as the coat grows, so it needs touch-ups around the face more often than a round cut to stay sharp. Owners who choose it usually agree the compliments make it worth the extra visits.

Why it's a fab choice:

• Bold and modern: Sets your Shih Tzu apart from every round-faced pup in the neighborhood.

• Emphasizes the face: Straight lines draw the eye right to the eyes.

• Customizable: Can be sculpted dramatic or subtle, depending on your taste.

Length: Body usually kept short with a # 7 blade (about ⅛ inch), or left longer with a comb attachment up to 2 inches. Head left fuller and scissored square.

Home brushing: Three to four times a week on the body, plus daily combing of the face and beard to keep the shape. Plan on a face tidy-up every 3 to 4 weeks between full grooms to keep the lines clean.

Custom touches: Pairs beautifully with lamb legs for extra flair, or shaved feet for a polished finish.

What to ask for: "A square head, [body length] on the body." If you're not sure it'll suit your dog, ask us to show you a photo first. It works best on Shih Tzus with a wider skull and a fuller beard.

8. Shih Tzu Shaved Feet

Shaved feet aren't a full haircut so much as a finishing touch, but it's one of the smartest requests you can add to any style on this list. Clipping the hair short on the paws keeps mats from forming between the toes, cuts down on the dirt and debris your Shih Tzu tracks in, and makes nail trims faster and easier. The body and legs can stay as fluffy as you like; only the feet go short.

We recommend it for active Shih Tzus, dogs who spend time outside, and any family that wants less to deal with between visits.

Why owners love it:

• Hygiene: No more mats, grass, or gunk packed between the pads.

• Better grip: Short hair on the pads means less slipping on tile and hardwood.

• Polished finish: A clean contrast against fluffier leg hair that looks tidy and intentional.

Length: Feet clipped very close with a # 10 blade (about 1/16 inch), with the pads cleaned out completely.

Home brushing: Minimal. Follows whatever the base cut needs, minus the toe tangles you'd otherwise be fighting.

Custom touches: Pairs well with the teddy bear cut, lamb legs, square head, or summer cut. It's the one add-on that works with everything.

What to ask for: "Shaved feet with a [base cut]." Some salons call it "clean feet" or "poodle feet." Either term will get you the same thing.

9. Shih Tzu Mohawk Cut

The mohawk cut is for owners who like a little edge with their cuteness. The body gets clipped short, then a strip of longer hair is left running from the top of the head down the back. It's bold, playful, and guaranteed to get attention at the dog park. And because most of the coat is short, it's easier to live with than it looks.

This one suits dogs who already have a spunky streak. If your Shih Tzu struts, this is their cut.

Why owners love it:

• Personality on display: Perfect for pups with attitude.

• Adjustable: The strip can be a subtle tuft or a full rockstar ridge.

• Easy body care: With everything else short, the only real upkeep is the mohawk itself.

Length: Body clipped close with a # 7 blade (about ⅛ inch), or a # 5 or # 4 for a slightly longer finish. Mohawk strip left anywhere from 1 to 3 inches, depending on how bold you want it.

Home brushing: Two to three times a week, mostly on the strip. Comb it through to the skin so it doesn't mat along the spine, and a spritz of water or a little pet-safe styling gel during brushing helps it stand tall.

Custom touches: A splash of color on the strip takes this cut from fun to unforgettable. Shaved feet keep the rest of the look clean.

What to ask for: "A mohawk, [blade] on the body, strip left at [length]." Say how wide you want the strip too, since a narrow ridge and a broad one read very differently.

10. Shih Tzu Matted Shave Down

Nobody picks this one on purpose, and that's fine. The matted shave down is what we do when the coat has felted to the skin and there's no safe way to brush it out. I've seen Shih Tzus come in with mats so tight they pull with every step. In those cases a full shave down isn't a haircut, it's relief for the dog and a fresh start for the coat.

If this happens to your pup, it doesn't mean you're a bad owner. Shih Tzu coats are built to mat, and life gets in the way of brushing. Clipping under the mats takes minutes. Dematting a felted double coat takes hours and hurts. We'll always choose the humane option, and we'll leave more length anywhere the coat allows it.

Why it's sometimes the only choice:

• Comfort first: Removes the pulling and lets the skin breathe again.

• Fresh beginning: Healthy, soft hair grows back in, and it does grow back.

• Grooming reset: A chance to start a brushing routine that actually fits your schedule.

Length: Depends entirely on how tight the mats are. A # 10 blade (about 1/16 inch) for severe felting, up to a # 4 (about ¾ inch) if the coat allows. The blade has to fit under the mat, so the mats decide, not us.

Home brushing: Almost none for the first few weeks. Once the coat reaches about ½ inch, start a light routine two to three times a week so you never end up here again.

Custom touches: Not many at this length, but the face and tail can usually be scissored to a neat, natural minimum so your pup still looks like themselves.

What to ask for: You usually won't have to. If we find mats that can't be brushed out, we'll call you before we clip and explain what we're seeing. The coat regrows fully in two to three months, and every other style on this list is back on the table.

Bonus: A Splash of Color

Once the cut is done, a little color is the easiest way to make it one of a kind. We dye the ears or the tail tip most often, since those spots show up well and pair with almost any style on this list, from a simple puppy cut to a full mohawk. Pastel or bright, subtle or bold, it's all about your pup's personality.

Why owners love it:

• Unique expression: No two dogs leave looking the same.

• Works with any cut: Ears, tail, a mohawk strip, or a lion mane.

• Safe and fun: We only use dyes made specifically for dogs, so it's all style and no risk.

Groomer's tip: Color shows up most vividly on lighter coats. Keeping the dyed areas brushed and clean helps it stay bright longer, and it fades gently over a few weeks rather than growing out in a line.

What to ask for: "A splash of color on the [ears / tail / strip] in [color]." If you're not sure, ask us what will show up best on your dog's coat.

Understanding the Shih Tzu Coat

One of the first things we explain to new Shih Tzu owners is how different this coat really is. Shih Tzus were bred to carry a floor-length coat, and it never got the memo that most of them are pets now. Unlike short-haired breeds that shed, a Shih Tzu's hair keeps growing until it's trimmed. That's what makes them so beautiful, and it's also why every cut on this list exists.

It's a true double coat. The outer layer is silky and smooth, and the undercoat beneath it is soft and dense. Together they give Shih Tzus their trademark fluff, but they also create the perfect conditions for mats. Mats form from the skin outward, not from the surface, which is why a dog can look brushed and still be tangled underneath. Left alone, they pull on the skin and cause irritation or sores.

Add a flat face with big, prominent eyes that hair loves to poke, and the haircut you choose is as much a health decision as a style one.

What that means for you:

• The coat grows continuously, so a Shih Tzu always needs a groom every 4 to 6 weeks, whatever the style.

• Mats start at the friction spots: behind the ears, in the armpits, under the collar, inside the back legs, and around the belly.

• Brushing has to reach the skin. Sweeping over the top of the coat hides forming mats instead of preventing them.

• The eyes always need managing, either with a short face or a top knot. Half-grown hair in between is the worst of both.

• A shorter cut buys you margin, not immunity. A ½ inch coat brushed twice a week stays comfortable. The same coat never brushed will still mat in about six weeks.

As groomers, we see the difference right away when a coat is managed well. A Shih Tzu with a clean, even cut is more comfortable, easier to brush at home, and simply happier overall.

What Shih Tzu Owners Actually Pick

We've been asking readers one question since this post first went up: which cut are you considering for your Shih Tzu's next groom? More than 700 owners have answered, and the results line up almost exactly with what we see on the table every day.

The everyday cut wins by a mile. The All Over Haircut and the Puppy Cut, which as you now know are the same cut under two names, together took 54% of the vote. The Teddy Bear Cut came in a strong second at 29%, which tracks with how often we hear "make him look like a stuffed animal" at drop-off. Lamb legs picked up 10%, and the statement styles like the Summer Cut, Top Knot, and Lion Cut each landed in the low single digits.

The takeaway: most Shih Tzu owners want something simple, cute, and easy to keep up with, and a smaller group wants a little flair. That's exactly how this guide is ordered. If you're still deciding, cast your vote above and see where you land.

Groomer's Insights for Shih Tzu Care

Shih Tzus have coats that require consistent attention. Over the years, I’ve noticed that small habits at home make the biggest difference in keeping them comfortable and healthy.

• Brushing Routine: Shih Tzus should be brushed at least three to four times a week. Daily brushing is best if the coat is kept longer than two inches. Focus on the ears, legs, belly, and tail — these are mat-prone areas. Use a slicker brush first, then follow with a metal comb.

• Bathing Schedule: A bath every three to four weeks keeps the coat clean and manageable. Always dry thoroughly with a pet dryer to prevent moisture from causing skin issues.

• Eye Care: Shih Tzus are prone to tear staining and irritation. Wipe around the eyes daily with a damp cloth or pet-safe wipe to keep the area clean.

• Ear Care: Their floppy ears can trap moisture and debris. Clean them weekly with a vet-approved solution to help prevent infections.

• Nail Trimming: Nails should be clipped or ground down every three to four weeks. Long nails affect posture and can lead to joint problems.

• Diet & Coat Health: A diet rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids promotes a shiny coat and healthy skin. Dry, brittle fur often points to dietary gaps.

• Start Early: Puppies should be introduced to grooming by 10–12 weeks. Early handling makes lifelong care much easier.

• Professional Grooming: Most Shih Tzus benefit from a full grooming session every six to eight weeks to keep the coat at a manageable length and maintain hygiene.

These routines go beyond appearance! They prevent mats, reduce skin issues, and keep your Shih Tzu healthier overall.

Embracing Your Shih Tzu's Style and Personality

For those curious about what else your Shih Tzu's appearance can reveal, check out our insightful blog post on the secret language of Shih Tzu colors at Riverview Grooming's Blog. It's a fascinating read that dives into what your dog's coat color says about them.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Shih Tzu puppy cut?

A puppy cut is one even length over the whole body, usually ½ to 1 inch, with the face trimmed neat and the corners of the eyes cleared. It has nothing to do with age. It's the most requested Shih Tzu haircut because it keeps the coat manageable while still looking like a Shih Tzu. Always name the length when you book, because "puppy cut" means something different at every salon.

What is the most popular Shih Tzu haircut?

The puppy cut, by a wide margin. In our reader poll it took over half the vote, and it's the cut we do most often at Riverview Grooming. The teddy bear cut is a close second.

What's the difference between a puppy cut and a teddy bear cut?

On a Shih Tzu, the body length is usually the same. The difference is the head. A puppy cut has a short, practical face. A teddy bear cut has the face hand-scissored into a full circle with rounded cheeks and a plush chin. The teddy bear costs a little more scissor time at the salon and a little more combing at home.

When can a Shih Tzu puppy get its first haircut?

Most groomers will do a full haircut around 12 to 16 weeks, once the puppy's vaccinations are complete. Before that, we recommend a short introduction visit: a bath, a blow dry, nails, and a light face tidy with no full clip. The goal of that first visit isn't the haircut. It's teaching your puppy that the table, the dryer, and the clippers are nothing to worry about.

How often does a Shih Tzu need a haircut?

Every 4 to 6 weeks for any clipped style. Stretching past six weeks is the most common way owners end up with a forced shave down. Dogs in a full coat can go longer between cuts but need daily brushing and a bath every one to two weeks at home.

What is the lowest maintenance Shih Tzu haircut?

The summer cut, at ⅛ to ½ inch all over, is the easiest style that still looks like a Shih Tzu. It needs brushing only once or twice a week. A short puppy cut is a close second. The absolute lowest is a full shave down, but you lose the breed's look for a couple of months.

Does cutting a Shih Tzu's coat short ruin it?

No. Unlike shedding breeds like Huskies, a Shih Tzu's coat grows continuously and comes back fully after clipping. The texture can return slightly softer, which only matters for show dogs. For a pet, a short cut is often the kindest choice because it prevents painful matting close to the skin.

How do I keep hair out of my Shih Tzu's eyes?

Either keep the face in a short round trim with the inner eye corners cleared, or grow the crown hair long enough to tie into a top knot that you re-do daily. Never leave the in-between stage unmanaged. Half-grown hair on this face shape points straight at the eyes. A daily wipe at the eye corners also prevents staining.

What should I say at the salon to get the cut I want?

Name the style, then the length, then the face. For example: "a puppy cut, ½ inch all over, face short and eyes cleared." Bring a photo if you have one. The single biggest cause of pickup disappointment is a style name with no length attached.

How much does a Shih Tzu haircut cost?

Prices vary by salon and by coat condition. Matted coats take longer and cost more, which is one more reason to stay on a regular schedule. You can see our current pricing on our Prices page.