Are Shih Tzu hypoallergenic? (do Shih Tzu shed?)

It is misleading to claim that any dog is hypoallergenic, because all animals have dander. This refers to their dead skin, much like humans have. Dander is what actually causes allergies, not a pet’s fur. However, Shih Tzus are among the breeds that trigger the least amount of allergies. That is why whenever you ask “Are Shih Tzu hypoallergenic?” You get a NO as an answer! Because Shih Tzus have hair instead of fur, they are less apt to shed. They are also much smaller than other breeds, making the amount of dander present less. There are several ways to live comfortably with a Shih Tzu as an allergic person.

If you end up deciding to purchase a Shi Tzu, wash him regularly to decrease the amount of dander on his skin and hair. Use a product that is soothing and moisturizing, with very little fragrance. The perfumes added to certain shampoos will irritate your dog’s skin, only making the dander worse. As far as grooming is concerned, Shih Tzus will shed far less if their hair is kept long and brushed out often. They have an under and an over coat, so keeping hair long causes undercoat shedding to remain in the hair. Brushing causes any loose hairs in the overcoat to come out.

Grooming should be done outdoors to keep shedding outside of the home. The only issue with keeping your Shih Tzu’s hair long is that it requires much more maintenance and grooming. In addition to good bathing and grooming, vacuum carpets often to rid them of any dander and hair. Purchase a mat or bed that can be easily washed, and do so frequently. Finally, keep your pet out of your bedroom to avoid dander where you sleep.

Shih Tzus are a good breed to adopt when there is an allergic person in the family. Grooming and shed control are essential for keeping allergies at bay, but they are well worth the time in order to have the dog you have always wanted.

Do Shih Tzu shed?

The majority of Shih Tzu owners report minimal to no shedding from their pet. The most beautiful part of Shih Tzu, their hair, helps them shed less than other breeds. Like humans, this hair is finer than fur and will grow continuously if taken care of.

Unlike other breeds, Shih Tzu do not have the typical shed of summer time when their winter coat falls out. Instead, they enter into more prolonged shedding cycles in the spring and fall.

In any case, Shih Tzu should be bathed and groomed very well. This will keep their hair growing well and shedding less often. At the very least, you will have more control over when and where the majority of hair will fall out.

While Shih Tzu shed very little, it is imperative to keep them in great condition. It may be tempting to leave good grooming by the wayside because this breed is so convenient, but regular bathing, brushing, and trimming keeps Shih Tzu in good health.