Marley's Grooming

Grooming is an essential with many pets, especially Marley, my puppy. 

He doesn't shed his hair so has to be groomed on a daily basis, which he loves.  He didn't at first and grooming could be quite an ordeal for both of us as he wanted to play and chew his comb.  I had to persevere and gradually over the last few months he has become accustomed to his pamper sessions, the only problem now is he lays on his back with his legs in the air which can make things slightly difficult. I bath him once a week and he looks forward to being blown dry with the hairdryer. 
Click here to find more information about grooming and caring for your Shih Tzu.

This picture shows a Shih Tzu with the Long Hair style.  This involves a lot of grooming and if neglected can get matted and smelly.

This picture shows a Shih Tzu with the Short Hair style.  This is much easier to groom and care for and keeps the dog cooler in warmer weather.  This is the cut I prefer Marley to have.

Marley has to visit the the professional dog groomers approximately every 6 weeks.  He has a bath, his nails are cut, ears are cleaned and his hair is clipped short.  We found a lovely lady called Joan who has a shop in Runcorn Old Town called Best Friends Dog Grooming.  I was reluctant to leave him on his initial visit as it was the first time we had been seperated, Joan reassured me he would be fine so I left him in her very capable and caring hands.  Two hours later when I returned to pick him up I found him happy, relaxed and playing with Joan's Westie dogs which were in the shop with her.  I couldn't believe he was the same dog, we could see his eyes for the first time and his coat was shiny and short and he was so much happier not having to carry his thick winter coat around with him.  He is due to visit Joan on the 16th of March so I will take some before and after photos so you can see how much difference a visit to the groomers can make.