BRUSHING YOUR DOG
All dogs require regular brushing and combing in order to keep their coats healthy and untangled. Tangled coats do not allow the skin to breath, this can lead to skin conditions and infections. For some breeds, daily brushing is recommended. Long-haired breeds and double coated breeds obviously tangle and mat more then a short coated dog, their coats are more difficult to maintain and require more brushing and combing.
Recommended brushing time is different for every breed however this is a general guide you should brush and comb your coated dog for 10 minutes per day or 2 sessions of 2-40 minutes per week. Any less than this and you should consider having your dog professionally groomed more regularly. Quite often when time is a factor in today’s busy life styles this is the easier option for most people. On this regime should you notice a lot of tangling then you should increase the frequency of grooming sessions until you see the coat remain in good order between brushing.
WHEN TO START
We recommend brushing your puppy from 8 weeks old. At this age puppies will accept brushing as part of every day life making the road ahead pleasant for both the owner and the groomer. Begin by using a soft brush and reward your puppy either with praise or small treats. It is important not to allow the puppy to bite or snap at the brush, but to see the brush as non-threatening. Use this time to get your puppy used to handling his ears, eyes and feet.
WHAT TO DO
Brush and then comb the entire coat in layers from the skin out. You need a metal comb, not plastic. It is important to get right to the roots. It is wise to comb out the dog to make sure there are not mats after brushing.
This is usually easiest if the dog is lying on your lap, on its back and side. With one hand, the hair is parted to the skin and held down while the other hand gently combs through the hair below the parting. Once this section is smooth and tangle free, another section of hair is pulled down along the parting and groomed in the same way.
Once the dog is used to grooming you can progress to using a small table or bench. Grooming your dog while watching TV can be very relaxing for both owner and dog, select some of your favourite programmes each week and groom at the same time, so this becomes a habit and the job is done in no time. Comb out the face, corner of the eyes and beard, using the teeth on the fine end of the comb or use an extra-fine facial or flea comb. This comb is also good for removing debris from the eyes.
Consider having your dog professionally groomed on a more regular basis if you are unable to keep the coat in good condition. Regardless of breed, each dog is an individual and the frequency of professional grooming will depend on age, health or if they have been neutered.
We can groom to breed standard or in a modified trim to suit both your dog and your life style. We can discuss your grooming requirements with you at any time.
BATHING YOUR DOG
Dogs should be fully brushed and combed out before bathing; this prevents hair that is caught in the coat from matting. Before bathing have your shampoo, conditioner and towels ready, a plastic jug us useful if you don’t have a shower attachment.
Begin by wetting the dog thoroughly, leaving the head until last (this prevents shaking), apply the shampoo (diluted with warm water) all over, work well into the coat avoiding the eyes ad inside the ears. Rinse the shampoo off well, if necessary repeat the shampooing. Rinsing is very important, if shampoo is left on the skin it can cause irritation and itching. Dry your dog as much as possible in the bath. Shaking is great for removing water, though not so good for your walls. Long coated dogs can be dried with a hairdryer and slicker brush.
