If you have a Shih Tzu, you know that their fur can be complicated to maintain. If you don’t stay on top of it, your little fluffy friend can get mats and tangles and collect lots of debris in their fur. Even though you likely get them groomed and trimmed, you can still take care of their fur at home.
So, if you’re searching 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 a variety. Let’s get into these reviews!
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A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites of 2025
| Rating | Image | Product | Details | |
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Best Overall
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Babybliss Pro Pet Long Pin Slicker Pet Brush |
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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 |
The Babybliss Pro Pet Long Hair Pin Slicker Pet Brush is our pick for the best overall brush for Shih Tzus. We love that it’s designed to maintain the coat of long-haired dogs. It is a slicker-style brush that uses long, tightly placed flexible pins to prevent tangles and collect loose hair. It comes in small, medium, and large sizes. While any would probably work, we recommend the small or medium for your Shih Tzu.
The Babybliss brush is excellent, from its overall construction to its terrific function. This tool should work smoothly on any Shih Tzu despite their coat length. Plus, it has a comfortable gel handle that’s easy on the hands.
We think most Shih Tzu owners will prefer using it over other brands.
- Ideal for daily brushing
- Works well with long hair
- Excellent construction
- None
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 recommend the JW Pet Gripsoft Slicker Brush, and we think it’s the best brush for Shih Tzus for the money.
Even though it’s affordable, 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. The teeth are pointed at a 90-degree angle, following parallel to the skin to prevent skin damage. So, if you have a Shih Tzu with sensitive skin, the JW Pet Gripsoft is ideal.
However, the bristles are very firm. If you’re looking for a loose-flowing pin brush for everyday jobs, this is not the best option.
- Design prevents skin injury
- Affordable
- Ideal for sensitive skin
- Very hard pins
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 tool 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 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 Shih Tzus. Even though Shih Tzus shed much less than a typical dog, they still have debris and dead follicles in their coats.
The FURminator 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.
- Removes dead undercoat efficiently
- Excellent quality
- Innovative and functional design
- Expensive
- Not for everyday use
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 puppy, we think that the Hertzko Self-Cleaning Dog Slicker Brush is the perfect tool. It is gentle enough for a squirming puppy, and it’s efficient enough to remove loose fur quickly. The Hertzko 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 dog.
We love the quick-release button on this brush, too. You simply push to release all 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.
Since it’s partially made of plastic, it can crack or break when chewed or used for a long time. However, 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 combing.
- Quick-release cleaning feature
- Perfect for pups
- Ideal bristle size
- Might break down quickly
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 affordable and practical, suiting the needs of most Shih Tzus owners. However, we don’t recommend it for heavy grooming tasks.
This brush has steel pins on one side and synthetic bristles on the other. The steel side helps remove tangles and smooths out any possible knots. 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 brush. However, we think it might be a little large for smaller Shih Tzus. If you have a puppy or young dog, it might be best to choose a smaller brush.
Otherwise, the Frisco model is a terrific brush that is easy to use.
- Awesome for daily use
- Dual-sided
- Improves coat appearance
- Too large for some
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 complicated with other designs—like under the arms and hindquarters. So, we think it’s a good option for Shih Tzus.
The Hartz 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 its 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. The brush doesn’t have a quick-release button, so you have to manually remove the hair. If that is a feature you were looking for, you might try another slicker brush instead.
- Perfect hand fit
- Reaches difficult areas
- Gentle extra-fine bristles
- Must manually remove fur
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 how the brush glides smoothly across the fur without yanking or pulling.
It’s made with natural boar bristles. It gently penetrates the fur to smooth out knots and leave the coat combed and tidy. If you have a Shih Tzu who mats easily, this is just as good a solution as it is preventative. It has IntelliFlex bristles, working perfectly on your pup’s coat at any length.
However, the brush is too large for some dogs.
- Intelliflex bristles detangle without pulling
- Bristles are made of boar hair
- Terrific for mats and stubborn knots
- A little large
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 and removes dander, debris, dead skin, and hair from the coat, the ConairPRO Dog Undercoat Rake might be ideal. 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 designed explicitly for pups with long or thick coats. It has short stainless-steel pins that penetrate the fur to remove loose hair and debris. The ConairPRO is especially good for deep cleaning, leaving the coat fresh and shed-free.
It works best for occasional use, and if you use it 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 brush to have on standby for burrs and other outdoor debris.
- Excellent for removing debris
- Collects dead undercoat
- Great for deep grooming sessions
- Not for everyday use
- Could damage skin if used incorrectly
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 is 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 dishwasher safe, and the company swears you can even toss it in the washing machine. How convenient!
This wet/dry brush is a bathing favorite, as it massages the skin to remove build-up and debris at bath time. However, it isn’t a traditional brush, which might prove difficult for tough tangles or mats.
- Use wet or dry
- 100% medical grade silicone
- Easy to clean
- Not ideal for tough tangles
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 Shih Tzu plays outside often, the Safari Dog Mat Remover might be necessary in your household. It eliminates mats and takes care of dander, loose fur, and knots. The blades are rust-resistant stainless steel, and they’re pretty sharp!
They cut through some angry tangles without issue. While tools like this can be a little dangerous due to the potential for cutting, they are safe for sensitive skin if you use them correctly. They have a comfort-grip rubberized handle so you can keep a firm grasp without slipping and accidentally snagging your dog’s skin.
The Safair mat remover is not meant for everyday use, but it’s excellent to have on hand when your little Shih Tzu starts to develop unsightly mats.
- Rust-resistant stainless-steel blades
- Cuts through tough mats
- Comfortable handle
- Could cut your dog if used incorrectly
- Not for everyday use
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Best Brush for Your Shih Tzu
Even though Shih Tzus have notoriously long hair with incredible volume and curl, they don’t shed as much as other breeds. However, grooming them regularly is vital, and below, we included a few characteristics to keep in mind when shopping for the ideal brush.
Brushes for Long Fur
When it comes to buying the best brush for Shi Tzus, you need to prepare for every grooming stage. Getting a brush that can take on long hair is important for growing their coats. It might not seem important, but these brushes have longer bristles that penetrate the fur more easily.
Brush Function
- Slicker Brush: Slicker brushes have short, close pins that smoothly penetrate the fur to collect loose hair and debris. Many have quick-release buttons.
- Pin Brush: Pin brushes have a series of metal or plastic pins ideal for everyday brushing.
- De-shedding Tools: De-shedding tools are for occasional use. They penetrate the undercoat to collect dead hair and debris, keeping your little Shih Tzu tidy.
- Grooming Gloves: For those who aren’t so crazy about brushing, you can try grooming gloves instead. They gently remove tangles and dirt from the fur. Many products are also bath-time safe.
- Bristle Brush: Bristle brushes can be synthetic or animal hair. They’re often for coat shine and maintenance—not so much for harsh tangles.
Bristle Material
- Stainless Steel Pins: Stainless steel pins with guards might be one of the most popular choices on the market.
- Animal Hair: Boars’ hair is often used for brushes because it is coarse and firm.
Brush Handles
- Plastic: Plastic is most often used for brushes because it is cheap, plentiful, and long-lasting.
- Gel: Gel handles are more comfortable and ideal for those with arthritis or joint problems.
- Wood: Wood typically withstands the test of time, but it can be more expensive than other materials.
How We Determined This List of Best Brushes for Shih Tzus
All the best brushes reviewed in this article were chosen by our writers, editors, and team of experienced veterinary professionals to ensure that they are safe and meet the care needs of your pet. When choosing which best brushes to feature, we took into account brand reputation, personal and hands-on experience, reviews from other customers, and of course, feedback from our beloved pets, to make sure to bring you only the best of the best. We at PangoVet want to give you only the best products to choose from in our reviews, to ensure that they meet your pets’ needs for optimal health and well-being.
Why Trust PangoVet?
We are a team of experienced veterinarians, writers, and editors who are pet owners ourselves, so we understand how important your pets and the products they use and consume are to you. Whether you are caring for a furry, scaly, or feathered friend, we make sure that you have honest and unbiased reviews of the top brushes on the market, so you can make an informed decision.
Final Thoughts
We hope you found something among our reviews that caught your attention. We think that the Babybliss Pro Pet Long Hair Pin Slicker Pet Brush is the best option. It works tremendously well on a Shih Tzu’s coat. It’s an excellent tool for everyday brushing.
If you are looking for a lower-priced model, JW Pet Gripsoft Slicker Brush might be what you need since it’s inexpensive and efficient. Whichever brush you choose, you’ll be pleased about how well it works on your Shih Tzu’s coat.
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Featured Image Credit: Vershinin89, Shutterstock
