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A silver-haired woman in a cardigan lathers a gold and white Shih Tzu standing in a soapy galvanized tub outdoors. 3 / 38

Grandma Filled the Old Tub With Bubbles. Teddy's Expression Was Priceless.

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The old galvanized tub has been dragged into the backyard and filled with bubbly water, and Teddy is standing right in the middle of it, soaked to the skin. His gold and white fur is slicked down and dotted with suds, his long ears hang heavy and wet, and he gazes off to the side with the patient look of a dog who has done this before. Dottie leans in with her cardigan sleeves pushed up, gently massaging shampoo into his back with a sweet, focused smile. Potted plants, a weathered fence, and leaf-dusted grass surround them in the soft evening light.

Shih Tzus have a long, double coat that does not shed much but tangles easily, so bath time takes a little planning. Brushing out tangles before getting the coat wet helps, because water can tighten mats. A gentle dog shampoo, lukewarm water, and a thorough rinse are key, since leftover soap can irritate the skin. Their prominent eyes need protecting from shampoo, so many owners use a damp washcloth on the face instead. After bathing, a towel and a careful blow-dry on a low, cool setting while brushing helps prevent new knots. Their ears can trap moisture too, so drying them well is a good habit. Many Shih Tzu owners bathe every few weeks, and a groomer can help with trims.

Teddy may be pretending to be unimpressed, but soon he will be fluffy, clean, and smelling sweet. Dottie's gentle hands make bath day about as nice as it can be.

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