Shih Tzu Bows:  How To Create a Lovely TopKnot

by Janice Jones     |Last Updated 06-08-2021

Once, Shih Tzu bows were only seen at dog shows, but that is not the case anymore.  Just like people enjoy purchasing little sweaters, shirts or dresses for their dogs, the completely coordinated Shih Tzu is likely to be adorned with a matching bow.

Beyond the cuteness factor, bows are very practical especially if your Shih Tzu has a long top knot or even if you are just beginning to grow out a top knot. 

Shih Tzu owners really only have two choices for the hair that grows on the dog’s head: 

• Grow it out and pull it together into a ponytail or top knot
• Keep it clipped short and away from the eyes.

If you love the thought of little Shih Tzu bows, but your Tzu  does not have enough hair on the top of the head to make a top knot, there is a third option.  Some people opt to draw up a small amount of hair on either side of the head and place a small bow.  This creates a very cute look

Short Shih Tzu haircuts are usually preferred by owners who don’t have the time, patience, or inclination to mess with top knots. 

They want to spend quality time with their Tzu in places other than the grooming table.  There is much to be said for this approach because all Shih Tzu owners know there is so much more to their dog than their hair.

If you like messing with hair and enjoy brushing and combing, keeping the hair long on the head is a great option, and it certainly makes the dog look eloquent.  If you are one of these peoples, a bow is a logical accessory for a top knot. The bow helps to hold the hair in place giving the top knot a little additional stability.

Shih Tzu Bows:  Practical and Beautiful

Bows and top knots are not just for looks.  All that hair that falls over the face can become a problem.  When dogs drink from water bowls or eat, food particles get into the hair, and the wetness from the water bowl can keep the hair damp for hours. 

This creates a fertile place for bacteria to grow and stains to form.  Not only face stains not attractive, but they can also harbor yeast infections.

Eyes are also one of the reasons many people pull the hair back on the Shih Tzu.  Loose hairs can irritate eyes causing infections and ulcers.

Types of   Shih Tzu Bows

Bows come in so many different styles, sizes, and colors that even the most discriminating buyer is likely to find a few they love. 

You can choose the most charming show bow to a casual one and everything in between. You’ll find bows made from a variety of materials, some handcrafted, and some mass produced. Bows can be single looped, double looped or tied.

Bows are made from satin ribbon, chiffon,

Some of the more eloquent bows also have glued on crystals, gemstones, roses, rhinestones and even diamonds.  More casual bows can have just about any tiny ornament or button you could dream up from patriotic stars to little flip flops for summer bows, to little dog bones or smiley faces. 

Yes, boys do wear Shih Tzu bows.  You will never see a male show dog without an elaborate do and crowned with a bow. 

While pink may not be the color of choice for your boy Shih Tzu, there are so many other colors that work well on the males including blues, greens, blacks, and reds.  You can even get a bow to match your favorite holiday or purchase an assortment to complement the season.

Sizes

If you want to purchase a show bow, you will need to find the correct size.  Most bows are sized by the width of the ribbon used to make them. Bows are usually sized by the width of the ribbon times the length of the bow.  The smaller sizes work well for puppies or very small Shih Tzu.  The medium size (5/8 inch) fit older puppies and small Shih Tzu and the largest (7/8 inch) will look best on full grown, standard size Shih Tzu.   Examples

3/8 x 1 inch

5/8 x 1 1/4 inch

7/8 x 1 1/2 to 2 inches.

The largest bows look best on standard size dogs that have a large top knot.

If you love the Pigtail look (two little topknots) then go for the 3/8 inch bow.

Where to Find Dog Bows

Sometimes groomers will provide a bow for you when you get your dog groomed.  Sometimes you can also find a small assortment of bows in large pet stores and small pet boutiques.  The majority of variety and choice will be found online. 

Depending on whether you are searching for a show or everyday bow will determine where you can find a few to start your collection.

Safety

If bows are not secured well in the hair, they can come loose, and some dogs will love to chew and tear them apart.  This applies especially to puppies before they have become accustomed to wearing one. 

One way to get around this is to choose the correct size --  small or tiny bows for pups, larger ones for dogs that have a decent length to their top knot and larger bows for those with very long hair.

Barrettes and clips are also used to keep hair away from the face and eyes, but while they may be easier to put on, they do not stay as well.  Loose barrettes and clips can become a major choking hazard for dogs, so they are not recommended.  If you do decide to go with barrettes, find ones that clip securely while still holding the hair.

Before you put your bow on, you will need to draw up all the hair into a ponytail and secure it with a latex band.  These too come in sizes.  A rattail comb will make your job easier.  You can purchase a stainless steel comb in the pet section of your favorite store, but the rattail is really the part of the comb you will use.  Save some money and go across the aisle to purchase a human comb with a stainless steel tail.  It works just as well at half the price.  Finally, don't forget the conditioning spray. 

Spray the hair first before you comb or brush.  That extra conditioning will protect the hair and make putting in the topknot and Shih Tzu Bow in much easier.

Chris Christensen Just Divine Brushing Spray,16 fl. oz. is my all time favorite and what I use on my own dogs.

About Janice

Janice is the voice behind Miracle Shih Tzu. Having lived with dogs and cats most of her life, she served as a veterinary technician for ten years in Maryland and twelve years as a Shih Tzu dog breeder in Ohio.

Her education includes undergraduate degrees in Psychology with a minor in biology, Early Childhood Education, and Nursing, and a master's in Mental Health Counseling.

She is a lifelong learner, a dog lover, and passionate about the welfare of animals. Her favorite breed for over 50 years has been the Shih Tzu.

When not writing, reading, or researching dog-related topics, she likes to spend time with her eight Shih Tzu dogs, her husband, and her family, as well as knitting and crocheting. She is also the voice behind Small Dog Place and smart knit crocheting.