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Grooming is an important responsibility of all dog owners.
Implement a grooming routine that includes cleaning, clipping,
trimming and brushing while your pooch is still a pup.
Step 1. Find an area to groom.
Decide if you'll want to
groom your dog on a table or on the floor. For most, grooming your
dog on a table will be the easiest on your back. Some large-breed
dogs will quickly outgrow a table, however, so you may want to
initialize grooming routines on the floor. Never groom a dog on
your lap, even as a puppy.
When choosing a table, make sure it's sturdy and not slick. Put the
table in an area with few distractions, and your puppy will be more
compliant.
Step 2. Prepare your pooch.
Place your puppy on the
table, and keep a firm grip on her. Puppies are curious and will
naturally wander over to the edge -- a problem since they lack a
sense of depth perception and may accidentally walk off the
table.
Talk to your puppy the whole time she's on the table, but never
yell or discipline at this time. Pet her and conduct a general
inspection, taking a peek in her mouth and ears. Pick up your
puppy's paws and gently touch the toenails -- this prepares her for
having her nails cut. If your puppy becomes skittish or rebels, try
again later.
Step 3. Get started slowly.
Have the brush on the table
before you put your puppy on it. Let her sniff
and investigate the brush so she realizes it's nothing
threatening.
Gently brush your puppy and get her used to the feel of the tool.
Don't be concerned with styling, just simple brushing. You may find
your dog likes her stomach brushed, and when she's put on the
table, she'll flop over on her back. You can prevent this by
placing one hand under your pup's chest to hold her up.
Step 4. Advance only when your dog is ready.
After
brushing is comfortable and familiar, extend the session with nail
trimming, ear cleaning and bathing. Proceed slowly with each new
grooming activity.
Before trimming nails, ask your vet for a demonstration. Nail
trimming, if done properly, is a quick and painless task. However,
you risk hurting your dog if the procedure is done
improperly.
Finally, don't hesitate to ask a groomer or other dog owners for
advice and tips.
Do you have any problems with your pet? Then why not send your problem to DAVID THE DOGMAN. David is a Canine Behaviorist who works and lives in Marbella, Spain. Tel/Fax (00345) 2883388. His web site is located at: http://www.thedogman.net. David has his own radio and TV shows, and writes for many newspapers and magazines. David has been working with dogs for many years and started his career in Israel, working on the Border Police. He has been involved in all forms of training, including air sea rescue, air scent work, and has trained dogs for finding drugs. David has devoted the past 10 years to studying behavior and the very passive approach. He does not use choke chains, check chains, or any form of aggression.
David The Dogman is available for private consultations in your home, for further details telephone; Tel; (95) 2883388