While burs and ticks are the bane of the country dog overbathing, coat dryness and neglect of a pet's coat befall the city pet. But, good news! Both can benefit from a regime of brushing and combing.
While that cute little puppy arrived at your home you probably went to your local pet store and purchased a new dish, bed, collar, and possibly a brush and comb. Although the bed, dish, and collar are still in use, the comb and brush are probably gathering dust in some closet.
It may not be your fault that your first attempts at combing or brushing were unsuccessful. It could be that you didn't know the fine points of handling your pet during brushing. Or more likely, you purchased inappropriate equipment, making your efforts unfruitful and tiresome.
Good Equipment is the Key
Poor equipment is often the reason pet owners fail to give their pets once, or twice-weekly brushings. For success in coat maintenance, throw out your worn brush with bent or missing needles.
A slicker brush is needed for basic grooming. These brushes contain hundreds of short bent wires mounted in a firm rubber backing. A good quality brush won't hurt your pet.
Another essential piece of equipment is the comb. A solid metal comb with combination coarse and medium teeth will do nicely. Buy your equipment from a petcare professional. You aren't likely to find the right kind of equipment in your local supermarket.
Brushing for Pet's Health
Brushing is essential to a healthy, glowing coat. It eliminates mats and tangles, removes dead hair, dirt and burs and distributes the natural oils, producing a healthy skin tone.
The Right Work Surface
Where should you work on your pet? The floor is your pet's playground and should be used as a last resort. An old table or the top of your washer or dryer will offer a solid surface and a comfortable working height for you. An old rubber bath mat provides a non-slip surface for your pet.
Working on a surface like this teaches your pet that you are serious about its care. Plus, it resembles the conditions that your pet encounters at the grooming shop.
Controlling your Pet
You must have a serious attitude while working on your pet. A firm "NO" should suffice when your pet bites at the brush or comb, or tries to charm you with playful antics.
Begin by working in one area. Don't allow your pet to twist or turn as you "hit or miss" in your brushing attempts. Your pet will definitely win at that game. And you'll exhaust yourself while vowing to never "brush" again. Firmness counts.
Mats, Tangles, and Burrs
Mats, tangles and burs should be worked in small sections, and separated with your fingers, if necessary. Begin with a mat splitter, or the coarse teeth of the comb. After the coarse teeth slide through an area of fur, then use the medium teeth to finish.
The Brushing Begins
Take your pet's head in your hand and begin by gently, but thoroughly, combing the whiskers, ears, and head. Look you pet in the eye and say a firm "NO" if it begins to misbehave. Through this exchange, you can gain rapport with your pet that will last through the brushing session.
Now, move to the legs. The legs are probably the most neglected part of the home grooming process. Alternate the comb and brush operation so you can locate little snarls that quickly turn into big ones.
Brush up or down, but work in small sections and work down to the skin. A serious fault of pet owner grooming is overworking the top coat and neglecting the hair nearest to the skin. Lift the leg towards you and get at the inner leg. Proceed to the tail and back.
What's the Alternative?
Poor coat condition usually resorts in a shorter clip on your pet and a larger grooming bill. If you find that you just don't have the time or desire to brush your pet, more frequent professional grooming is recommended to prevent matting and tangling.
A shorter, more manageable clip on your pet may be another alternative. Your professional groomer will be able to assist you in making the best decision for you and your pet. (See chart at end)
How Often should my Pet be Groomed?
The duration of time between professional groomings can vary greatly between dogs of the same breed, or even same litter. Coat condition, hair type, density, and climate are just some of the variables. The biggest factor is how much home grooming you are willing to offer your pet.
Here are some guidelines suggested by grooming authorities. Your professional groomer can be more specific about your pet. If you don't brush and comb regularly, choose the earlier time frame.
| Breed | Frequency |
| Afghan | 4 - 8 weeks |
| Bearded Collie | 4 - 6 weeks |
| Airedale | 6 weeks |
| Bichon Frise | 4 weeks |
| Bouvier | 8 - 10 weeks |
| Cocker Spaniel | 4 - 8 weeks |
| Collie | 6 weeks |
| Golden Retriever | 8 - 12 weeks |
| Irish Setter | 8 - 10 weeks |
| Kerry Blue Terrier | 4 - 8 weeks |
| Lhasa Apso | 3 - 4 weeks |
| Maltese | 4 - 6 weeks |
| Old English Sheepdog | 4 - 6 weeks |
| Poodle | 4 - 6 weeks |
| Schnauzers | 6 - 8 weeks |
| Shih Tzu | 4 weeks |
| Silky Terrier | 6 - 8 weeks |
| Wheaton Terrier | 4 - 6 weeks |
Happy Tails Dog Spa & Daycare would be happy to consult with you on your dog's coat maintenance. We can develop a program that combines full grooming sessions with brush out and bathing sessions that will meet your budget and dog's coat requirements. For an appointment please e-mail or call us at 416.485.0513
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