A Place for Pets & Animal Lovers
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.
Copyright © 1997 by David Klein. Do you have any problems with
your pet? Then why not send your problem to DAVID THE DOGMAN.
David is a Canine Behaviourist 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 behaviour 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
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