Dog and Puppy Trimming

You may need to trim a bit depending on the type of coat. There are dogs, which have hair growing over their eyes. You could tie the hair up in a topknot or trim it. Do not use a rubber band. Dogs that have a lot of hair around the muzzle may get matted with food. These breeds should have their muzzles combed daily.

Check the lip folds, small pockets of skin along the lip, for food debris. These folds can become infected if left with decaying food in them. Not all dogs have these lip folds; the spaniel is one breed that seems to have problems in this area. You must also check your dog’s feet. The hair between the toes and pads can become matted and collect all sorts of debris, for example, small stones, chewing gum and twigs. Obviously these must be removed, as your dog will be very uncomfortable and reluctant to go for daily walks.

A dog should be groomed before you bathe it. Grooming first removes any unwanted hair and matts which stop the shampoo from getting through the coat. Also if knotted hair gets wet, it can cause sores and be quite painful. Knotted hair twists and becomes more knotted, pinching the skin as it does so.