Shih Tzu hair

Question
QUESTION: My 11 MO Shih Tzu is dropping his puppy hair but the topknot is not growing in. It is thin and uneven. Do u know of a solution to make it thick? Any advice is grateful. Thank you

ANSWER: It takes time for hair to grow to a good length. Have you been putting his topknot up so tight so that the hair is breaking off? Be sure you are using bands for dog hair and not regular rubber bands, and don't leave them in for too long a stretch. You might try alternating bows/bands with barretts in order to rest the hair. http://www.puppybows.com/dogbows78.htm

Also use a good conditioner throughout his coat on a regular basis. One of my favorites is #1 All Systems Botanical Conditioner.

http://www.shihtzu.org/articles/article_list.asp?menu=Articles&ART_TYPE=Grooming

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QUESTION: Thank you. Other than cond., what brushes/combs would be most beneficial to this problem? Maybe hair is not wet enough before brushing? Putting hair up in paper wraps and letting in all day. Too much time? Using people bands. Took ur advice and ordered dog bands.

Answer
A pin brush and a good wide-tooth comb are the best for this type of coat. You might try putting a small amount of conditioner or cream rinse in the water you use to spray on the coat before brushing.

Also, if you get any mats during this coat-blowing time, the best thing is Cowboy Magic Detangler to help work the mats out. This is a horse product, and it can be found at Fleet Farm type businesses and online. A little of it goes a long way.