Care
A Shih Tzu puppyThe Shih Tzu can require more care than some other breeds if the hair is kept at show length; they will need daily brushing to avoid tangles. A short haircut, also known as a pet trim or puppy cut, can make this a task taking place every month or so as needed instead of daily. They will also need regular haircuts. The upside is that they will generally shed very little. Since the breed is obviously adapted to a cool climate, letting the coat grow out somewhat for the colder seasons is appropriate, but there is still a substantial difference from a floor-length show coat and a warmer winter coat.
Because Shih Tzu noses are small and flat, eating contributes to an unclean face. Once finished eating, wiping their face with a damp paper towel cleans them right up. This is another area where the haircut matters: a proper show cut will get more messy (often even requiring the hair to be rubber-banded together for eating efficiently) than other ways of cutting the facial hair.
When they are drinking, it is sometimes necessary to keep on eye on them, for water can enter their face-level noses more easily and inhibit breathing. This is why many shih tzu are trained to drink from a licker like a hamster or gerbil. The area around the eyes should be checked each day for mucus buildup and cleaned when needed. Providing the Shih Tzu with bottled water (or water that does not contain chlorine) helps to keep eye mucus to a minimum. Additionally, their claws will need to be clipped every month or so.