Why Is My Shih Tzu’s Hair Not Growing? [Explained For Beginners]

Is It Important For Your Beloved Shih Tzu To Have Long Flowing Hair Like A Show Dog? Are You Worried Or Disappointed With Your Dog’s Hair Care? 

Why Is My Shih Tzu’s Hair Not Growing?

The climate where you live, the grooming routines you establish, and the overall health of your pup will play an important role in the quality of your Shih Tzu’s coat. Along with diet and nutrition, you must also ensure that your pup is free from infection and illness which can hinder hair growth. 

Many Shih Tzu owners and breeders go to great lengths to perfect and enhance the condition of their pups’ hair. You can do several things to encourage the growth and health of your Shih Tzu’s beautiful locks. 

The climate where you live, the grooming routines you establish, and the overall health of your pup will play an important role in the quality of your Shih Tzu’s coat. 

Why Doesn’t My (1, 2, 3, …6) Month Old Shih Tzu Puppy’s Hair Grow On Its Face Like Other Puppies? 

If your Shih Tzu puppy is not growing facial hair, it could be experiencing a hormone deficiency or loss. If your dog suffers from a genetic condition or auto-immune disease, there may not be a clear answer as to why he or she is suffering from minimal hair growth. 

How Long It Takes For A Shih Tzu Puppy’s Fur To Grow?

It may seem like your puppy’s fur is not growing, but remember that Shih Tzu puppies are born with only their soft undercoat of hair. Their thicker adult hair will begin to grow once they mature, around 4 months of age.

It is also important to realize that your pup is predisposed to the genetic traits passed down from its mother and father. The quality and type of hair largely depend upon inherited characteristics. 

Keep in mind if your dog is a cross-breed, its hair may not grow as long as that of a purebred Shih Tzu.

How Quickly Should An Adult Shih Tzu’s Hair Grow?

An adult Shih Tzu’s fur typically grows about a half-inch every month. Caring for your dog’s hair will help it to encourage continued growth and keep it healthy and strong. 

Hair Not Growing In Old Shih Tzu?

Many factors can influence or hinder the growth and quality of your pet’s fur. Your mature pup may lose fur due to health problems or poor nutrition. Health conditions including skin allergies or parasites, such as fleas, could cause your dog to scratch and irritate his or her skin. 

Irritation from environmental factors, such as chemicals or detergents can also cause the hair to shed and become damaged. 

Does Shih Tzu Hair Stop Grow?

Shih Tzus belong to a breed of dogs that are known for their continually growing hair, unlike other canines whose fur never grows beyond a shorter length. 

Aside from natural shedding or a medical condition, you can expect your Shih Tzu’s hair to continually grow. 

What Are The Shih Tzu Hair Growth Stages?

Most dog breeds experience phases when it comes to the growth and texture of their fur. Shih Tzu puppies tend to grow their adult coat around ten to twelve weeks of age. 

The process of shedding and regrowing their adult coat takes around three weeks. Be patient while your Shih Tzu is experiencing this phase. 

In some pups, the growth period can last between one month to one year. 

Do All Shih Tzus Have Long Hair? 

One of the most attractive qualities of the Shih Tzu is their long, silky mane. However, for some owners, it is easier to have their dog’s hair cut regularly. This is a low-maintenance option for busy pet owners who do not have time for their pup’s ongoing hair care routine. 

Compared To Other Dog Breeds, Is Hair Growth More Difficult Among Shih Tzus?

Shih Tzus have hair instead of fur like other dog breeds. When properly cared for, their hair can grow continually to the floor. Because Shih Tzus have two layers of hair, oftentimes their shed hair will remain embedded in the rest of their hair and must be removed through brushing. 

Shih Tzu’s require more maintenance than shorter-haired canines, however, their owners may not mind the extra work because they typically experience less noticeable shedding. 

#Grow

How Do I Get My Shih Tzu’s Hair To Grow Long, Like A Show Dog?

You can do many things to help promote a healthy coat of fur for your canine companion.

In addition to maintaining a nutritious diet, there are natural supplements that can support the growth of your pup’s hair. These supplements are high in omega-3 fatty acids and work to improve the quality of your dog’s skin and fur.

What Is The Quickest Way To Grow Long Hair On A Shih Tzu?

• Use a wide-toothed comb to detangle matted hair.
• Brush your dog’s hair at least 2-3 times a week, if not daily.
• Use a puppy-safe shampoo when bathing. 
• Bathing more than once or twice a month can deprive the hair of natural oils needed to grow. 
• Treat your Shih Tzu regularly for parasites, allergies, or skin infections such as mange.  

Will The Fur On My Shih Tzu’s Neck Grow Back? 

Hair loss on the neck is fairly common. If your dog has developed a form of alopecia, a variety of hair loss conditions, regrowth of hair will depend on the underlying cause and treatment. 

Your veterinarian can prescribe medications and other remedies to help your pet’s hair loss. 

Regularly brushing and combing your Shih Tzu’s hair can promote hair growth. 

Detangling your dog’s hair, especially on its legs and neck, will help to prevent matting and damaged hair. Routine brushing should occur at least several times per week. 

I Shaved My Shih Tzu, Will The Hair Grow Back?

After being shaved, Shih Tzu’s hair will grow back, but it is likely the coat will not be the same as it was before. 

Shih Tzu’s hair type is unlike that of humans. They have a soft undercoat of hair, which is a short layer of hair that grows underneath their fur. 

If you shaved your Shih Tzu’s hair, your pup’s new hair may grow differently than before. It can be patchy and the texture may change.

How Long Does It Take For A Shih Tzu’s Hair To Grow After (Shaving, Bad Hair Cut)?

After shaving your Shih Tzu, expect regrowth to take at least 3 months, but possibly more. A bad haircut does not necessarily mean the fur will not grow back completely. Shaving, especially the underlayer of hair, is usually the cause of poor regrowth when it comes to bad haircuts. 

Is My Shih Tzu Shedding Or Experiencing Hair Loss?

Shedding is a natural part of the hair growth cycle, however, if you notice your dog has been losing more hair than usual, or sections of hair seem to be thinning or falling out in chunks, your dog could be experiencing a medical problem or nutritional deficiency.

My Shih Tzu Shed A Lot Of Hair Will It Grow Back?

Hair loss is often reversible. If no underlying health conditions are present, your Shih Tzu’s hair should continue to grow after proper treatment by a veterinarian. 

My Shih Tzu Is Experiencing (Hair Thinning, Missing A Patch, Balding, Alopecia) Will Its Hair Ever Grow Back?

Similar to human hair growth, Shih Tzu’s fur will shed naturally and regrow over time in a repetitive cycle. If your dog seems to be losing excessive amounts of fur, your veterinarian may need to take a closer look. 

Overbathing, using harsh soaps, and minimal or improper brushing can cause your Shih Tzu’s skin and coat to become dry. 

Medical conditions including digestive disorders, fungal and bacterial infections, or hormonal disorders could be the culprit. 

Your Shih Tzu’s hair can grow back once the problem has been eliminated. 

What Helps A Shih Tzu’s Coat Grow?

Ordinary dog food brands may be lacking in essential fatty acids that help to promote healthy hair. You can ask your veterinarian about incorporating fish or other supplements, such as flaxseed into your Shih Tzu’s diet. 

What Kind Of Oil Is Good For A Shih Tzu’s Hair?

Coconut oil can be used on Shih Tzus to safely add luster and shine to their hair. 

Will Home Remedies Make My Dog’s Hair Grow Back?

There are several ways to care for your Shih Tzu coat. Brushing and detangling the fur regularly, at least a few times a week, will help to keep your dog’s hair healthy.  Using an oatmeal bath is another home remedy that is gentle and soothing to your dog’s skin. 

Why My Shih Tzu Hair Is Not Fluffy?

If you are not pleased with the quality of your Shih Tzu’s hair, try the following tips:

1. Make sure your pup is treated for parasites. 
2. Consider the condition of your tap water.
3. Incorporate beneficial supplements into your dog’s diet. 
4. Try to use a detangling or wire brush when grooming.
5. Use a blow-dryer instead of a towel for drying the hair.  

How To Make My Shih Tzu’s Hair Fluffy?

If your Shih Tzu is lacking soft, fluffy locks you can try to blow dry your dog’s hair after bathing. Be sure to bathe regularly with a mild puppy-friendly shampoo, but do not bathe more than every few weeks. 

Some pet owners recommend using oatmeal-based shampoo to encourage healthy Shih Tzu hair.

Why Is My Shih Tzu’s Hair Not Growing – Summary 

Shih Tzu’s are known for their long flowing hair, but maintaining beautiful locks come at a price. It takes consistent brushing and detangling to promote healthy hair growth. Along with diet and nutrition, you must also ensure that your pup is free from infection and illness which can hinder hair growth. Your Shih Tzu will look like a show dog in no time by following these recommendations. 

References

Moore, A. (2020). The Complete Happy Shih Tzu Guide: The A-Z Shih Tzu Manual for New and Experienced Owners. Worldwide Information Publishing.

Warren, F. (2011). Shih Tzu Puppy Training: The Ultimate Guide on Shih Tzu Puppies, What to Do When You Bring Home Your New Shih Tzu Puppy, Shih Tzu Potty Training, How to Meet Exercise Needs, and More.