The hair around Shih Tzu’s eyes is important, and many people wonder if it should be trimmed because they worry it might hurt the dog’s eyes.
When Shih Tzu puppies are growing, their whiskers can sometimes appear uncomfortable as they might protrude into their eyes. However, these whiskers actually serve to protect their eyes.
If these hairs are there, it’s for a reason. Shih Tzus are naturally furry dogs, and their fur serves various functions across their bodies, protecting them in different ways, particularly due to their sensitive and delicate skin.
Many owners choose to trim these hairs because they find it a lot of work to maintain a Shih Tzu’s long fur or because of concerns about heat. While it is a lot of effort to care for their long coats, cutting these facial hairs can negatively affect your dog’s eye health.
When you trim these hairs, they can start to thicken and sometimes become pointed towards the Shih Tzu’s eyes. This can potentially lead to eye injuries and various problems in that area, such as corneal ruptures or ulcers.
Naturally, as these hairs grow, they take on a shape, gain weight, and eventually fall away on their own. Trimming your Shih Tzu’s fur might be done for various reasons, but it’s recommended to avoid cutting the facial hair around the eyes to prevent potential issues later on.
Here are some tips to help manage your Shih Tzu’s fur and keep it away from their eyes without cutting it:
- Use a small elastic band to gently hold the hair that’s in the pup’s line of vision, helping it grow in the right direction. Be careful not to make it too tight, as it could cause discomfort.
- Brush your Shih Tzu’s fur daily to encourage it to grow in the proper direction. Over time, as the hair gains volume and weight, it will naturally fall away to form the characteristic Shih Tzu whiskers.
From my experience and observations, I’ve noticed that young Shih Tzus whose owners trim the hair around their eyes, often starting when they are puppies, may experience issues with their eyes.
In the end, whether or not to trim your Shih Tzu facial hair is a personal decision, but it’s essential to consider the potential consequences and take measures to protect your eye health.