Shichi Grooming

The Shichi, as a hybrid mix of a Shih Tzu and a Chihuahua, can have varying grooming needs. Depending on the coat type of their Chihuahua parents, these hybrids' coats can be fairly short to pretty long--but they're usually somewhere in between: medium to long and fluffy. The coats don't shed a lot, but will need a good bit of brushing.

Below you'll find details on maintaining the Shichi coat, including plenty of info about brushing and bathing.

In addition to its coat, your Shichi will need maintenance in other areas. Brush the dog's teeth 2-3 times per week; clean the ears monthly; and trim the dog's nails every 2-3 months.

Find answers to your questions about Shichi grooming below!

Grooming a Shichi is a moderately time-consuming thing--and a lot of the work will involve the maintenance of these hybrids' coats. While they don't shed too much, Shichis' coats--especially the longer ones--will need frequent brushing to avoid tangles and to keep them looking good.

Your Shichi will need to be brushed 3-4 times per week, if not daily. A pin brush is usually best for brushing these hybrids. First wet the coat with water mist from a spray bottle, then go through the coat section by section with the brush, moving in the direction of hair growth. Work out tangles with either your fingers or the end teeth of a greyhound comb (or both).

Shichi bathing will need to happen every 2-3 months--unless, of course, the dog gets especially dirty or stinky and an "emergency bath" is in order. When bathing a Shichi, be sure to use shampoo made for dogs, as the human kind has a different pH and can irritate the dog's skin.

And Shichi haircuts aren't required--though some owners do get the coats clipped short to make them lower-maintenance.

While owners can learn to perform all aspects of Shichi grooming themselves, it's good to take the dog to a professional groomer at least once. The groomer can give the dog a nice makeover, and provide tips on how to groom a Shichi at home.