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6 Must-Have Shih Tzu Grooming Supplies for a Fabulous Fall 2025

R

Rosie

Published: August 27, 2025

Fall is a great time to refresh your Shih Tzu's grooming routine because cooler weather and seasonal shedding mean more maintenance to keep their coat healthy and tangle-free. If you take care of grooming at home, you can save on groomer visits, reduce stress for your dog, and keep small problems—matted fur, long nails, ear infections—from turning into bigger ones.

In this guide you'll find a compact kit of reliable tools that cover trimming, clipping, brushing, nails, ears and teeth so you can keep your Shih Tzu comfortable and looking their best. Choose safe, easy-to-use items that fit your lifestyle and your Shih Tzu's needs, and grooming becomes a bonding moment rather than a chore.

Top Picks

How We Picked These Grooming Supplies

You want tools that are safe, gentle and effective for a Shih Tzu's long, silky coat and sensitive areas. We looked for items that offer user-friendly features (ergonomic grips, safety guards, rounded tips), low noise for anxious dogs, easy cleaning and maintenance, proven durability and strong reviewer feedback.

Price and value mattered too, because regular at-home grooming should be affordable. Finally, we prioritized tools that cover core needs: coat trimming and thinning, clipping, detangling brushing, nail trimming, ear cleaning and daily dental care so you have a complete fall-ready routine.

GLADOG 5-in-1 Scissors Set

GLADOG 5-in-1 Scissors Set

This little kit is exactly what you reach for when you want to tidy up your Shih Tzu between salon visits. You get three 6.5" scissors (straight, curved and thinning), a comb, a cleaning cloth and a slim leather case — all designed with rounded tips so you can trim around the face, paws and ears without holding your breath. The blades are stainless steel and feel sturdy for home use; some reviewers mention they’re sharper on arrival while a thinning shear may need a touch-up. For daily touch-ups, paw trims, or sprucing up before fall photos or a holiday gathering, this set covers most jobs and stores neatly in a drawer or grooming bag.

If you prefer a gentle, safe option for at-home maintenance and aren’t looking for high-end professional shears, this is a practical, user-friendly pick you can rely on.

What People Say

Users say the set is sharp, sturdy and great for home touch-ups — especially for small areas like toes and faces. A few mention the thinning shear is slightly less sharp but overall the kit makes routine grooming easier.

Overall Sentiment: Positive

Sentiment Analysis Chart

🗣️ MSW

Sharp and high quality; heavier feel and longer blades make trimming a terrier faster — design and shape made clipping easy and comfortable.

🗣️ HolisticBabe

Ball tips are great for sensitive areas; very sharp and durable. The small scissors are perfect for trimming between the toes and tight spots.

Health Benefits

Benefit

Description

Skin safety

Rounded tips reduce the chance of accidental pokes when trimming sensitive spots like around the eyes and nose.

Less mat-related irritation

Using the comb and thinning shears helps remove mats and excess undercoat that can pull and irritate your dog’s skin.

Reduced stress during grooming

Comfortable handles and quieter manual trimming (vs clippers) help keep an anxious Shih Tzu calmer during short sessions.

Ease of Use

Feature

Ease Level

Grip / Ergonomics

Easy

Tension adjustment

Moderate

Cleaning & maintenance

Easy

Beginner-friendliness

Easy

Versatility

Great for daily touch-ups, paw and face trims, thinning thick spots and quick styling before events.

Key Benefits

  • Rounded tips for safer trims around face and paws
  • Five-piece kit handles trimming, shaping and thinning
  • Stainless steel blades for cleaner cuts
  • Ergonomic handles with rubber bumpers to reduce fatigue
  • Compact leather case keeps tools organized

Rating: 4.5 (total: 15413+)

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oneisall Dog Shaver Clippers

oneisall Dog Shaver Clippers

If you want to groom your Shih Tzu at home without turning the whole house into a drama scene, these clippers are worth a look. They’re cordless and rechargeable, run quietly (below 50 dB), and feel light enough to maneuver around tiny faces, paws and ears. The set includes six guide combs, scissors, a brush and oil, and the cutter head pops off for a fast rinse — handy when you’re doing a quick tidy before a fall photoshoot or a full trim on a lazy weekend. Owners often mention it cuts smoothly through thick coat once you keep the blades clean and oiled, and the option to use while charging means you won’t be stuck mid-cut if the battery dips.

For everyday touch-ups, vet-prep trims or sprucing your pup for holiday pics, this is a practical, beginner-friendly pick you can rely on.

What People Say

You’ll hear a lot of owners say the clippers are quiet, lightweight and cut smoothly — great for at-home trims. A few note blade wear over time and recommend regular oiling and keeping a spare head handy for long jobs.

Overall Sentiment: Positive

Sentiment Analysis Chart

🗣️ Michelle Richardson

Quiet enough not to scare my dogs, long-lasting battery and very gentle while still doing a great job. Extras like the scissors and comb are good quality — I liked it so much I bought another when the first wore out.

🗣️ Steve T. Young, Sr

Surprisingly effective on thick hair and the cordless design makes maneuvering easy. The reviewer warns to keep the blades oiled and cleaned during use and recommends a spare cutting head for long sessions; when maintained properly the cutters "cut like butter."

Health Benefits

Benefit

Description

Reduced grooming stress

The quiet motor helps keep noise-sensitive Shih Tzus calmer, lowering the chance of panic or sudden movements that could cause nicks.

Less mat-related skin irritation

Regular trimming with a sharp blade and guide combs prevents mats that pull on the skin and can lead to redness or sores.

Safer trims around sensitive areas

Rounded guide combs and the clippers' three-layer protection design help reduce the risk of accidental cuts near eyes, ears and paws.

Ease of Use

Feature

Ease Level

Grip / Weight

Easy

Noise level

Easy

Cleaning & maintenance

Moderate

Battery management

Moderate

Beginner-friendliness

Easy

Versatility

Good for regular body trims, quick touch-ups around the face and paws, and prepping for vet visits or seasonal photos; suitable for most dogs and cats with thick coats but not intended for specialty fur like angora rabbits.

Key Benefits

  • Low-noise motor keeps anxious Shih Tzus calm
  • Cordless rechargeable design — can use while charging
  • Sharp stainless steel blade with safety-focused design
  • Removable cutter head for easy cleaning
  • Comes with multiple guide combs and grooming accessories
  • Lifetime warranty and responsive support

Rating: 4.4 (total: 84907+)

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gonicc Dog & Cat Nail Clippers

gonicc Dog & Cat Nail Clippers

If you're trimming your Shih Tzu at home, these gonicc clippers are the kind of tool that makes the whole job feel manageable. The stainless steel blades are sharp enough for a clean cut, the safety stop helps prevent you from clipping too low, and the ergonomic non-slip handles give you a steady grip when your pup wiggles. There's a hidden nail file tucked into the handle so you can smooth rough edges after a quick session. They're great for regular maintenance—think biweekly touch-ups, quick paw tidy-ups before a vet visit, or getting your dog camera-ready for fall photos.

They come in sizes for small and larger pets, so pick the one that matches your Shih Tzu. If you want something dependable and straightforward rather than fussy, these are a solid, practical choice you can rely on.

What People Say

You’ll see a lot of owners praise the safety guard and sharp blades for fast, confident trims. Many note the comfortable grip and easy maintenance. A few mention the larger size feels bulky for very small cats or tiny breeds, so pick the size that matches your pet.

Overall Sentiment: Positive

Sentiment Analysis Chart

🗣️ Evo

They fit perfectly in my hand, making the grooming process easy and comfortable. The functionality is where these clippers really shine… user-friendly and perform exceptionally well. Easy to maintain and still look as good as new after several uses.

🗣️ ML

I've always been afraid to use clippers because of cutting the quick… NOT WITH THESE. They give you confidence that it will always be a safe cut because of the guard. No more grinder — takes 2 minutes to do all of his toes.

Health Benefits

Benefit

Description

Lower risk of accidental cuts

The safety stop helps prevent you from trimming too far into the quick, reducing bleeding and stress for your Shih Tzu.

Better paw comfort and posture

Regular trims keep nails from touching the ground, which helps avoid altered gait, soreness and long-term joint stress.

Fewer mat- and dirt-related skin issues

Keeping nails tidy makes grooming sessions quicker and reduces the chance of mats pulling at the skin near paw pads and toes.

Ease of Use

Feature

Ease Level

Grip / Weight

Easy

Safety guard operation

Easy

Cleaning & maintenance

Moderate

Size suitability for tiny pets

Moderate

Beginner-friendliness

Easy

Versatility

Good for routine trims, quick touch-ups before vet visits or photos, and regular at-home maintenance; best suited for medium to large nails, with separate small-size variants available for tiny pets.

Key Benefits

  • Safety stop reduces the risk of cutting the quick
  • Sharp stainless steel blades give clean, single cuts
  • Ergonomic non-slip handles for better control
  • Hidden nail file in handle for quick smoothing
  • Durable build — many owners report long-lasting use
  • Available sizes for small and larger pets

Rating: 4.5 (total: 83,212+)

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HICC PET Teeth Cleaning Wipes

HICC PET Teeth Cleaning Wipes

If you want an easy way to keep your Shih Tzu’s mouth feeling fresher between brushings, these finger wipes are the kind of thing you’ll reach for. They slip over your finger so you can wipe away plaque and tartar buildup without wrestling with a toothbrush, which makes them perfect for quick nightly touch-ups, post-treat cleanups, or travel days when a full routine isn’t possible.

The formula is alcohol- and fragrance-free and is made to be gentle on gums, so it’s a smart option if your pup is sensitive. I’d use them as part of a regular routine rather than a replacement for professional cleanings, but for convenience and calmer teeth-cleaning sessions, you’ll probably find these one of the simpler, more practical choices.

What People Say

Read reviews and you’ll notice owners love how calmly their pets tolerate wipes versus a toothbrush, and many report visibly fresher breath and easier at-home maintenance. A few pet parents point out the wipes can be bulky for very small cats, so consider size and frequency for best results.

Overall Sentiment: Positive

Sentiment Analysis Chart

🗣️ Amazon Customer

Super convenient when you don’t have the energy for a full brush. I can do it quickly from bed, the dogs are less stressed with a finger wipe than a brush, and it even helped me notice a loose tooth so I could get veterinary care early. Not perfect for every nook and cranny, but the method you'll actually use.

🗣️ Edward J. Good

Game changer for tiny dogs that hate brushes. My vet was impressed at a checkup — teeth looked much better after regular use. They must taste okay because my picky Yorkies let me clean their teeth nightly now.

Health Benefits

Benefit

Description

Fresher Breath

Wiping away food and bacteria helps reduce the odor-causing buildup that leads to bad breath.

Reduced Tartar and Plaque

Regular wiping can help remove surface plaque before it hardens into tartar, supporting overall oral health.

Gentler on Sensitive Gums

Alcohol- and fragrance-free formulation is less likely to irritate sensitive mouths, making cleaning more tolerable.

Early Problem Detection

Using finger wipes lets you feel for loose teeth or swollen areas, which can prompt earlier vet visits when needed.

Ease Of Use

Feature

Ease Level

Slip-on Finger Fit

Easy

Wiping Action / Coverage

Moderate

Single-Use Disposal

Easy

Suitability for Very Small Pets

Moderate

Tolerability for Anxious Pets

Easy

Versatility

Good for everyday freshening, quick post-snack cleanups, travel, and calmer at-home dental care sessions; works best for small to medium dogs and some cats, but very small teeth may waste some product.

Key Benefits

  • Convenient finger-fit wipes for quick cleanups
  • Helps reduce plaque and tartar buildup with regular use
  • Alcohol- and fragrance-free formula good for sensitive pets
  • No-rinse, disposable design makes cleanup easy
  • Flexible for travel, nightly touch-ups, or before photos

Rating: 4.3 (total: 4,824+)

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MEDUWEDU Ear Cleaner Finger Wipes (Coconut)

MEDUWEDU Ear Cleaner Finger Wipes (Coconut)

If you want a low-fuss way to keep your Shih Tzu’s ears clean, these finger wipes are a really practical choice. You slide a wipe onto your finger, reach into the ear gently and wipe away wax, dirt and buildup without the mess of liquid cleaners — which makes them great for quick weekly maintenance, after walks or swimming sessions, and right before grooming or photo days when you want your pup to look and smell fresh.

The coconut-scented formula is plant-based and alcohol-free, so it’s kinder to sensitive skin; just be mindful of finger size vs ear size for the best fit. I’d treat these as a convenient at-home routine item that helps prevent odors and uncomfortable buildup, while still turning to your vet for persistent problems.

What People Say

Owners highlight how the finger-fit design makes cleaning easier and less stressful for pets, and repeatedly note the wipes remove wax and deodorize effectively. A few reviewers mention fit can be snug for larger fingers, so consider hand size when choosing.

Overall Sentiment: Positive

Sentiment Analysis Chart

🗣️ Christopher Lopez

Works well as an in‑between for liquid washes. Fit depends on your finger vs your dog’s ear size; when it fits it cleans thoroughly and the scent is pleasant. Good soak and easy to use.

🗣️ Christina Ethridge

Perfect for a dog that swims a lot — ears stayed much cleaner and the design keeps your fingers clean while reaching into the ear canal. Vet was impressed and asked for some for the practice.

Health Benefits

Benefit

Description

Reduces Odor

Gentle cleansing removes buildup that causes bad smells, leaving ears smelling fresher after use.

Removes Wax and Debris

The textured non‑woven fabric helps lift wax and dirt from the ear canal without pushing it deeper.

Soothes Irritation

Alcohol-free, plant-based ingredients are less likely to sting or inflame sensitive skin in the ear area.

Supports Prevention

Regular, careful cleaning can reduce the risk of infections caused by excessive buildup and moisture.

Ease Of Use

Feature

Ease Level

Slip-on Finger Fit

Easy

Cleaning Reach / Coverage

Moderate

Single-Use Disposal

Easy

Scent and Residue

Easy

Suitability for Large Fingers

Moderate

Versatility

Good for everyday maintenance, post-swim or muddy-walk cleanup, and before grooming or photos. Comes in different sizes and scents so you can pick what fits your pet and your preferences; best as a routine supplement rather than a replacement for vet-level cleaning.

Key Benefits

  • Slip-on finger design for targeted, controlled cleaning
  • Plant-based, alcohol-free formula that’s gentle on ears
  • Removes wax, dirt and reduces unpleasant odors
  • Convenient single-use wipes — less mess than liquids
  • Available in multiple sizes and scents to suit different pets

Rating: 4.6 (total: 2,177+)

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Hartz Groomer's Best Combo Brush

Hartz Groomer's Best Combo Brush

If you want a simple, no-fuss brush for your Shih Tzu, this two-sided Hartz combo is a really practical pick. You get a plastic-tipped stainless side that tackles small tangles and loose hair, plus a dense nylon side that helps redistribute natural oils for a shinier coat. It’s small and lightweight, so it’s easy to use around the face, ears and tail — which makes it great for quick daily touch-ups, post-walk cleanups, and getting your pup photo-ready for special occasions. The grip is comfortable, and most owners say it’s gentle enough for sensitive skin.

I’d call it a handy everyday tool for keeping mats and fuzz under control, while still turning to heavier-duty tools when your Shih Tzu needs a deeper de-shedding session.

What People Say

You’ll notice owners like the combo action — the coated wire side gets through small mats and loose hair while the nylon side smooths and adds shine. Many point out it’s gentle enough for faces and small, sensitive dogs and that the size makes it easy to use around tricky spots.

Overall Sentiment: Positive

Sentiment Analysis Chart

🗣️ Ariadne Floresca

We use this on our Morkie every day — perfect size for her, great detangling on arms and tail, shape works well around eyes and face, the condensed side catches hair and makes the coat shiny. Easy to clean and doesn’t hurt her when brushing; it’s relaxing for her too.

🗣️ LD

No sharp edges to hurt the cat: one side has coated stainless tips for deeper brushing without scraping, the other side is soft bristles for delicate face areas. The plastic‑tipped side is easy to clean and gives a deeper brush while staying gentle.

Health Benefits

Benefit

Description

Reduces Mats and Tangles

The coated stainless side helps break up small mats and loose hair before they tighten into painful tangles.

Improves Coat Shine

Dense nylon bristles help redistribute natural oils, which can make your Shih Tzu’s coat look healthier and glossier.

Gentle on Skin

Plastic-tipped bristles lower the risk of scraping or irritating delicate skin around the face and ears.

Helps Spot Issues Early

Regular brushing reveals lumps, bumps or skin changes sooner so you can check with your vet if something looks off.

Ease Of Use

Feature

Ease Level

Two-Sided Function

Easy

Handle Comfort

Easy

Cleaning the Bristles

Moderate

Size for Small Breeds

Easy

Use Around Face and Eyes

Easy

Versatility

Great for daily maintenance, quick detangling after play or walks, and touch-ups before grooming or photos. Works well on Shih Tzus and other small breeds and cats, though you may need a specialized de-shedding tool for very heavy undercoats.

Key Benefits

  • Two-sided design: detangler and soft bristle in one
  • Plastic-tipped stainless side reaches tangles without scratching
  • Dense nylon side redistributes oils for a healthy shine
  • Compact, ergonomic handle fits small breeds and face areas
  • Lightweight and easy for everyday brushing sessions

Rating: 4.5 (total: 9,706+)

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FAQ

How Do I Choose The Right Clippers And Scissors For My Shih Tzu?

You want tools that match a Shih Tzu’s dense, long coat and that keep grooming calm and safe. Look for low-noise, cordless clippers so your dog stays relaxed and make sure the clippers have detachable blades or guide combs so you can control length and reach tricky areas.

A model like the oneisall cordless clipper is a good example because it’s quiet, rechargeable, and easy to maneuver. For handwork, a versatile scissor set such as the GLADOG 5-in-1 gives you straight, curved and thinning shears for body shaping and face detailing; remember that a slight gap in some scissors is normal to reduce friction and you can adjust the tension screw if the gap feels too large.

Always choose right-hand or left-hand orientation to match your dominant hand, check that finger holes feel comfortable (GLADOG notes a max finger width fit), and prefer stainless steel blades for durability. Finally, prioritize ergonomics and blade maintenance: keep blades sharp, disinfect scissors after use, and oil clipper blades regularly for smooth cuts.

How Do I Prevent And Safely Remove Mats In A Shih Tzu'S Coat?

Prevention is easier than removal, so brush your Shih Tzu regularly through fall when shedding patterns change and outdoor debris increases; a dual-sided detangling brush like the Hartz Groomer's Best combo makes daily touch-ups gentler. If you find mats, try to gently loosen them with a detangler or conditioner and work from the ends toward the skin with a slicker or comb rather than yanking.

For severe mats you should detangle first and then trim; use thinning shears to blend and remove bulk and consider shaving a heavily matted patch with clippers rather than pulling it out—this is where a quiet rechargeable clipper can save stress. Remember that cutting too close to the skin risks nicks, so keep your dog steady, use curved scissors for facial contours, and if you’re unsure, stop and get professional help.

Above all, detangle before cutting to protect your dog’s skin and your tools.

What Are The Best Practices For Nail, Ear, And Dental Care At Home?

You can do safe, effective maintenance at home with the right routine and the right tools. For nails, use a trimmer with a safety guard like the gonicc clippers so you avoid cutting the quick, trim small amounts at a time, and file the edges smooth after clipping; keep styptic powder handy in case of accidental bleeding.

For ears, use finger wipes such as MEDUWEDU ear wipes to gently remove wax and debris without probing deep into the canal and clean ears only as often as needed or when you see odor, redness, or discharge. For teeth, disposable wipes like HICC PET dental wipes are a great daily or every-other-day option if your dog resists brushing; they help reduce plaque and freshen breath and are safe for dogs over eight weeks.

Always reward your dog after care, check for signs of infection (swelling, foul smell, persistent redness), and keep grooming tools cleaned and disinfected between uses to prevent irritation or cross-contamination. If you ever see persistent problems, contact your vet.

What Owners Prefer

When choosing between the GLADOG 5-in-1 Scissors Set, oneisall Dog Shaver Clippers, and gonicc Nail Clippers, you typically weigh whether you need a versatile toolset for precise styling, a quiet powerful shaver for body coats, or a safe, accurate clipper for nails. You and other owners prioritize ease of use and ergonomics, blade sharpness and low-noise operation to keep your Shih Tzu calm, plus safety features and durability so grooming is quick and stress-free.

What Owners Prefer Chart

Wrapping Up

By adding these six tools to your grooming kit you cover the essentials your Shih Tzu needs this fall: quiet, cordless clippers for trims; safe detail scissors for faces and paws; a reliable nail trimmer with a safety guard; gentle ear wipes; convenient dental wipes; and a daily brush for detangling. Use them consistently and you’ll reduce matting, prevent nail overgrowth and keep ears and teeth healthier—saving you time, vet visits and stress for your dog.

Product Image Rating Material Unique Highlights Dimensions & Weight
Gladog Professional 5 in 1 Dog Grooming Scissors Set
Product Image
4.5/5 (15,413 reviews) Rubber, Stainless Steel
  • 5 types of scissors in one set
  • Safety round tips for safety
  • Designed for both dogs and cats
  • Easy to use with proper handling
6.5"L x 1"W; 10.8 ounces
Oneisall Dog Shaver Clippers
Product Image
4.4/5 (84,907 reviews) Plastic
  • Quiet operation for stress-free grooming
  • Rechargeable and cordless design
  • Includes a set of grooming accessories
  • Lifetime warranty
3.94 x 3.15 x 0.79 inches; 7.1 ounces
Gonicc Dog & Cat Pets Nail Clippers
Product Image
4.5/5 (83,212 reviews) Stainless Steel
  • Built-in safety guard to prevent overcutting
  • Includes a free nail file
  • Ergonomic design for comfortable grip
  • Suitable for large and medium dogs
8.1 x 3.4 x 1 inches; 0.01 ounces
Hicc Pet Teeth Cleaning Wipes
Product Image
4.3/5 (4,824 reviews) Unscented wipes
  • No-rinse teeth cleaning solution
  • Removes plaque and freshens breath
  • Gentle on gums and teeth
  • Convenient finger application
3.03 x 2.76 x 2.68 inches; 5 ounces
Ear Cleaner Finger Wipes
Product Image
4.6/5 (2,177 reviews) Cotton wipes with coconut scent
  • Soft, non-irritating pads for ear cleaning
  • Effective at removing wax and dirt
  • Pleasant coconut scent
  • 60 counts per package
2.68 x 2.6 x 3.62 inches; 15.5 ounces
Hartz Groomer's Best Small Combo Brush
Product Image
4.5/5 (N/A reviews) Nylon bristles, Metal handle
  • Two brush types for versatile grooming
  • Soft bristles for sensitive skin
  • Effective for detangling
  • Compact size perfect for small pets
2.38 x 3.25 x 10.5 inches; 3.53 ounces
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