30/03/2020
Thought I would share the below diagram as it might help all my clients with brushing your dogs especially those of you with poodle type hair or thick coated dogs.
Useful Tools = Metal comb and slicker brush
If your dog struggles with brushing try putting a collar and lead on them and have some really tasty treats to give them throughout grooming. Maybe short spells of brushing every day may be easier for your dog to tolerate than long lengths of time.
Do brush and then follow with a comb on about an inch of hair at a time, starting at the bottom of the leg, the foot and work up the leg. Do make sure that you brush all the way down to the skin and not just the top of the coat. If the comb doesn't go through the hair and there is a knot which is too tight to brush away then cut the knot out.
Only Use Scissors If You Feel Confident. Please remember that your dog could move or wriggle at any time so if you have someone to help you would be a good idea to keep the dog calm. A good tip is to put your comb between the skin and the knot and then carefully cut out the knot above the comb. Brush the area carefully again afterwards to make sure it is clear.
Don't worry about how your dog looks. The hair regrows it is more important at this time to try and keep your dog as comfortable as possible rather than what they look like. Matts and knots can cause pain and discomfort so brushing is so important.
Don't forget to brush and comb through all of your dogs coat paying particular attention to collar and harness areas e.g. neck, chest, belly and armpits. Please bear in mind that the armpits and hygiene areas are quite sensitive areas so brushing should be gentler but still needs to be done.
When brushing ears don't forget to brush right down to the ends as these can knot really easily and if left can cause blood flow problems to the ear tips which is really painful. Brush and comb through thoroughly on the outside of the ear and then carefully on the inside being careful not to make the skin sore as the skin inside the ear is tender. Always take care when brushing ears as there are folds and flaps on the ears that can be difficult to see so groom carefully.
Tails should be brushed through thoroughly to remove any debris caught in it and remove any knots.
Lots of praise and treats to make the brushing not so boring for your dog is important.
Please don't hesitate to call me or even facetime me if I can be of any help to give advise to you, or even if you just want to say hello and keep in touch. I will post any other tips I think would be useful.
Hope you are all keeping safe.
Love Anne x
