# Brushes, Baths & Baby Makes Three Shih Tzu: My Life Grooming the Most Adorable Fluffy Family

# Brushes, Baths & Baby Makes Three Shih Tzu: My Life Grooming the Most Adorable Fluffy Family

If you told me a few years ago that I'd spend my mornings or evenings grooming a complete Shih Tzu family, I might not have believed you. Yet here I am, armed with brushes and combs, tending to my adorable trio. Coco, our distinguished 7-year-old daddy dog sporting his perfectly maintained medium-length coat. His sweetheart Marshmallow, our 2-year-old mama, rocks a practical medium to shortcut that suits her active lifestyle. And then there's their princess Milky, whose flowing long locks steal the show wherever she goes.

Our morning grooming ritual has become my favorite part of the day. Picture this: Coco sits regally as I brush his medium-length coat, perfect for a father who needs to look dignified but stay playful. He throws occasional glances at his energetic daughter. Milky's long, luxurious coat requires extra attention, but she's bouncing around, waiting for her turn. Marshmallow, with her easier-to-maintain shorter cut, hovers nearby, ever the attentive mother.

Each brings their own grooming challenges and joys. Coco's medium coat needs regular maintenance to prevent tangles while keeping him comfortable. Marshmallow's practical shorter style means quicker grooming sessions, though she never misses watching over Milky's extensive beauty routine. And little Milky? Her long, flowing coat is our daily labor of love. It's fascinating how she ended up with such a luxurious length while her parents chose more modest styles.

I've learned different techniques for each of their unique coat lengths. For Coco's medium coat, a pin brush works wonders for daily maintenance. Marshmallow's shorter style needs just a quick once-over with a soft bristle brush. But Milky's long coat? That's where the real work begins – sectioning, careful detangling, and plenty of patience.

Bath time is an adventure in contrast. Coco's medium coat gets sudsy but dries relatively quickly. Marshmallow's shorter style makes her the first one done. Then there's Milky, whose long coat turns bath time into an extended spa session. She splashes around while I carefully work the shampoo through her abundant fur. These moments of organized chaos are when I see their personalities shine brightest.

For winter care, we maintain their signature looks. Coco's medium length provides natural warmth, Marshmallow stays cozy despite her shorter cut thanks to her winter sweaters, and Milky's long coat gets extra protection from the elements. During our family walks, they make quite the sight – three different styles, one adorable family.

Between our daily grooming sessions, we visit our favorite groomer every six weeks for Marshmallow's trim, every eight weeks for Coco's maintenance, and every ten weeks for Milky's long coat care. Each appointment is tailored to their unique needs and style preferences.

Watching this family grow together has taught me that there's no one-size-fits-all approach to Shih Tzu grooming. It's about finding what works best for each dog's personality and lifestyle. Coco's dignified medium cut, Marshmallow's practical shorter style, and Milky's show-stopping long coat – each tells its own story.

As I finish our brush out, I watch them settle into their favorite spots.

They're not just a well-groomed trio but a family bound by love, laughter, and three perfectly unique ways of rocking their Shih Tzu style.