Maintenance topknots keep the full coated Shih Tzu topknot and facial hair in careful array by banding the hair into comfortable "ponies". The purpose of all this banding is to keep the hair out of the eyes, mouth, and food. Because this is a functional topknot, it is not usually adorned with dog bows. There are many variations of the banded maintenance topknot. The particular maintenance topknot illustrated is a double topknot composed of two sections on each side of the head. The topknots are banded several times to control the length, or they can even be braided if preferred.  The important thing to remember in your technique is not to make the topknots too tight, and to make them comfortable for the dog to wear. The facial furnishings are also banded to encourage growth and to protect the hair.

Start by combing the topknot hair on top of the head straight back as shown.
 

With a pintail comb, part the hair down the center from nose to the little  bump on the back of head.

Divide the hair for the front section from the corner of the eye and  about 1 inch wide. Place your first band.
 

Repeat on the other side, and place your second band.

Gently pull each topknot back slightly to smooth the hair on top.
 

Section off the back section approximately 1 to 1.5 inch square.

Showing part of back section prior to banding.

Section off the other back section approximately 1 to 1.5 inch square.

Showing second back section prior to banding.

Second back section is now banded, making a total of 4 banded sections.
 

Gently pull each back section downwards as shown to smooth out the top of the head and "relax" the way the topknot falls.

Gather both sections on one side into a single section side by side.
 

Band the two sections together as shown with a third band. (yellow is shown)

Repeat on the other side banding the two sections together.

If the topknot hair is long enough, add another band 1 inch below the yellow one.

Starting at the corner of the eye, make an angled part following the tear line. Band this section.

Part the moustache on the other side of the face in the same manner. Pull both banded sections toward the face to smooth.

If the moustache is long enough, add additional bands about 1 inch apart.