If you have a Shih Tzu, you know that their fur can be, well, complicated to maintain. If you don’t stay on top of it, your little fluffy friend can get mats, tangles and collect lots of debris in their fur. Even though you likely get your guy or gal groomed and trimmed, you can still take care of their fur at home.
So, if you’re on the search for a perfect brush for your Shih Tzus hair—you’re in luck. We rounded up 10 of the best brushes on the market. Whether you want a daily brush or a brush that serves a particular purpose, we have quite the variety just for you. Let’s get into these reviews!
A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites (Updated in 2023)
| Image | Product | Details | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
Best Overall
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Babybliss Pro Pet Long Pin Slicker Pet Brush |
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Check Price |
Best Value
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JW Pet Gripsoft Slicker Brush |
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Check Price |
Premium Choice
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FURminator Long Hair Dog De-Shedding Tool |
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Check Price |
| Best for Puppies |
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Hertzko Self-Cleaning Dog Slicker Brush |
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Check Price |
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Frisco Cat & Dog Pin Bristle Brush |
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Check Price |
The 10 Best Brushes for Shih Tzus
1. Babybliss Pro Pet Long Pin Slicker Pet Brush – Best Overall
| Brand | Babybliss |
| Type | Slicker brush |
| Size | Small, medium, large |
| Best Features | Untangles, smooths fur |
We think Babybliss Pro Pet Long Hair Pin Slicker Pet Brush really takes the cake here—it’s our favorite brush for Shih Tzus overall. We love that it’s specifically designed to maintain the coat of long-haired dogs, which rises to the challenge that these types of coats can present.
This is a slicker-style brush, using long, tightly placed flexible pins to prevent tangles and collect shed. It comes in small, medium, and large sizes. While any would probably work, we recommend the small or medium for your Shih Tzu.
We loved everything about this from the overall construction to the terrific function. This tool should work smoothly on any Shih Tzu despite coat length. Plus, it has a super comfortable gel handle that’s easy on the hands.
We think a majority of Shih Tzu owners would benefit from this selection. However, if you are looking for a very specific brush, we have a few others to mention further down.
2. JW Pet Gripsoft Slicker Brush – Best Value
| Brand | JW Pet |
| Type | Slicker brush |
| Size | One size |
| Best Features | Affordability, reduces debris |
If you’re looking for a steal of a deal, we definitely recommend the JW Pet Gripsoft Slicker Brush. We loved the overall function, but it really helps that it’s the best brush for Shih Tzus for the money, in our opinion.
Even though it’s such a low-dollar deal, it isn’t cheaply made. If you have trouble holding onto a brush after a bath because of the wetness, it might help you tremendously. The handle features Gripsoft technology, which allows you to keep hold of it—no matter how slippery.
We found that the brush works very well for light mats or tangles. All teeth are pointed at a 90-degree angle, following parallel to the skin to prevent skin damage. So, if you have a furry buddy with sensitive skin, this is a golden ticket.
We want to note that the bristles are very firm. If you’re looking for a loose-flowing pin brush for everyday jobs, this is not the best option for you.
3. FURminator Long Hair Dog De-Shedding Tool – Premium Choice
| Brand | FURminator |
| Type | De-shedding tool |
| Size | Small, medium, large |
| Best Features | Removes dead hairs on the undercoat |
The FURminator Long Hair Dog De-shedding Tool is an ideal thing to have on hand for coats as stubborn as a Shih Tzu’s can be. This brush is a little more expensive than the average—but that’s because it has so much to offer. So, if you want top quality for long coats, you’re looking at it.
The FURminator has a highly innovative design with a functional grip and precise curves. It comes in three sizes: small, medium, and large—but we recommend the small size for this particular breed.
Even though Shih Tzus shed much less than a typical dog, they still have debris and dead follicles in their coats. This tool gets deep to remove particles and fur to keep their coat smelling fresh and looking shiny.
You must be careful when you use this tool. If used incorrectly, it can cause scrapes or cuts to the skin. However, if you use it as directed, it works like a charm.
4. Hertzko Self-Cleaning Dog Slicker Brush – Best for Puppies
| Brand | Hertzko |
| Type | Slicker |
| Size | Small, regular |
| Best Features | Soft on the skin, small |
If you have a little beginner pup on your hands, we think that the Hertzko Self-Cleaning Dog Slicker Brush is a perfect fit. This brush is gentle enough to be kind to a squirming puppy—but it’s efficient enough to remove all that pesky shed in a swoop.
This slicker brush comes in two sizes. Unless you have a very small breed, we recommend getting the regular size so your pup can grow into it. Because this brush is durable, we think it will withstand the test of time with your growing guy or gal.
We love the quick-release button on this brush, too. You simply push to release all of the hair into a waste bin, so you don’t have to pick it out by hand. Once the bristles retract, you can wipe down the brush for a clean finish, and voila! You’re good to go for the next round tomorrow.
We will say, it’s partially made of plastic which could crack or break with chewing or long-term regular use. It’s pretty comfortable to handle with an anti-slip grip. We think it works ideally for removing tangles without pulling—which is also a perk when your long-haired pup needs a combing.
5. Frisco Cat & Dog Pin Bristle Brush
| Brand | Frisco |
| Type | Double-sided pin bristle brush |
| Size | One size |
| Best Features | Untangles, smooths fur |
The Frisco Cat & Dog Pin Bristle Brush is a terrific combo that detangles and creates a lovely shine. It’s quite affordable and practical, suiting the needs of most Shih Tzus owners—although we don’t recommend it for heavy grooming needs. This is an everyday deal.
This brush has two sides—one with steel pins and synthetic bristles. The steel side helps to remove tangles, smoothing out any knots that might happen. The synthetic bristles give your pup that shiny, soft-looking coat that appears well-groomed and tidy.
You really couldn’t ask for more with a daily use style brush. However, we do think it might be a little large for smaller Shih Tzus. If you have a puppy or young dog, we think it might be best to go with another option.
Otherwise, this really is a terrific brush that is easy to use.
6. Hartz Groomer’s Best Slicker Brush for Dogs
| Brand | Hartz |
| Type | Slicker |
| Size | One size |
| Best Features | Designed for full coverage |
The Hartz Groomer’s Best Slicker Brush is an excellent choice due to its unique shape. You can get to areas that might be a little complicated with other designs—like under the arms and hindquarters. So, we really think it’s a good option for Shih Tzus.
This brush has extra fine bristles that unravel tangles while picking up the loose undercoat. We love how gentle it is while still being able to rise to the challenge of Shih Tzu fur. Because of the design, it’s perfectly safe for everyday use without irritating the skin.
At just over 6 inches, it’s the perfect fit for most adult hands. This brush doesn’t have a quick-release button, so you manually have to remove the hair. So, if that is a feature you were looking for, you might try another slicker brush instead.
7. PetBrush by WetBrush Smooth & Shine Detangler Dog Brush
| Brand | WetBrush |
| Type | Detangling brush |
| Size | One size |
| Best Features | Reduces mats and tangles, gentle |
Leave it to WetBrush to produce a fantastic detangling brush—the PetBrush by Wetbrush Smooth & Shine Detangler Dog Brush. We love the way the brush glides so smoothly across the fur without yanking or pulling.
Made with natural boar bristles, it gently penetrates the fur to smooth out knots and leave the coat combed and tidy. We were really impressed with the gentleness and flow of the brush—and we got no fuss from our pups about it either.
If you have a Shih Tzu who mats easily, this is just as good of a solution as it is preventative. This product uses what it calls IntelliFlex bristles, working perfectly on your pup’s coat at any length.
Our one bugaboo is that it only comes in one size, pretty large. Personally, we would have preferred a smaller handle. This brush tops out at just over 10 inches—which might be ideal for some. It’s definitely not a deal-breaker.
8. ConairPRO Dog Undercoat Rake
| Brand | ConairPRO |
| Type | Undercoat rake |
| Size | Short, medium |
| Best Features | Removes dead undercoat |
If you need a tool that gets down to the skin, removing all sorts of dander, debris, dead skin, and hair from the coat, the ConairPRO Dog Undercoat Rake might be the one you need. It is an excellent product for its intended purpose—but not every Shih Tzu owner will find it beneficial (as it’s not for everyday use).
This brush is specifically designed for pups with long or thick coats. It is comprised of short stainless-steel pins that penetrate the fur to remove loose hair and debris. This product is especially good for deep cleaning, leaving the coat fresh and shed-free.
This particular brush works best for occasional use. If you use this rake too often, it can cause irritation and damage to the skin. But if you have your Shih Tzu running around outside, it can be an excellent thing to have on standby for burrs and other outdoor debris.
9. Vetnique Labs Furbliss Pet Brush
| Brand | Vetnique |
| Type | Silicone grooming brush |
| Size | One size |
| Best Features | Grooming, massaging, bathing |
Introducing the innovative and unique Vetnique Labs Furbliss Pet Brush. It grooms, de-sheds, massages, and cleans. Plus, the brush itself is quite easy to clean, too. It might not be for every job, but it does what it’s supposed to do.
It’s made of 100% medical-grade silicone, naturally attracting loose fur and debris on the skin. The material is completely dishwasher safe and the company swears you can even toss it in the washing machine. How convenient!
This wet/dry brush can be a bathing favorite, as it can massage the skin to remove build-up and debris at bath time. It’s really a good deal if you would benefit from use. However, it isn’t a traditional brush, which might prove difficult for tough tangles or mats.
10. Safari Dog Mat Remover
| Brand | Safari |
| Type | Mat removing brush |
| Size | One size |
| Best Features |
Is your Shih Tzu notorious for getting mats you never saw coming? If your ruffian loves to romp and tangle, the Safari Dog Mat Remover might be a necessity in your household.
Not only does it eliminate mats, it also takes care of dander, loose fur, and knots—no matter the length of your Shih Tzus fur. The blades are rust-resistant stainless steel, and they’re pretty darn sharp! They cut through some angry tangles without issue.
While tools like this can be a little dangerous due to the potential for cutting, it is perfectly safe for even sensitive skin if you use it correctly. It has a comfort-grip rubberized handle so you can keep a firm grasp without slipping and accidentally snagging your pooch.
This tool is not meant for everyday use. But when your little Shih Tzu starts to develop those unsightly mats, it’s excellent to have on hand.
Buyer’s Guide – Choosing the Best Brus for your Shih Tzu
Looks might be deceiving. Even though Shih Tzus have notoriously long hair with incredible volume and curl, they don’t shed as much as other breeds.
Brushes for Long Fur
When it comes to buying the best brush option for Shi Tzus, you need to prepare for any grooming stage. Getting a brush that can take on long hair is really important for growing their coats. It might not seem important, but these brushes have longer bristles that penetrate the fur easier.
Brush Function
Bristle Material
Brush Handles
Conclusion
We hope you found something among our reviews that caught your attention. We personally think that the Babybliss Pro Pet Long Hair Pin Slicker Pet Brush is the best option. It works tremendously well on a Shih Tzu coat—both short and long. It’s an excellent tool for everyday brushing.
If you’re looking for a steal of a deal, JW Pet Gripsoft Slicker Brush might be what you need. It’s super inexpensive and efficient, making it perfect for your pockets and your pooch.
Whatever of these brushes you choose, we think you’ll be pleasantly pleased about how well it works with the coats on the Shih Tzu breed.
Featured Image Credit: Vershinin89, Shutterstock
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