The Hair of the Dog no.2

Grooming is such a pleasant activity to do with, and for, your dog. It helps keep the dog clean and removes all sorts of debris and dirt, which will quickly find its way onto your furniture and clothing. It can also help you spot small injuries or other issues that could damage your dog, if left unnoticed. The hair of your dog may make this more or less difficult – as there is such a range of different coat types. Perhaps one of the hardest to deal with yourself is the tight, curly coat of water dogs such as the Poodle, Curly-coated Retriever, Irish Water Spaniel, Portugese Water Dog and Lagoto Romano. To these must now be added Cockapoos, Cavapoos, Labradoodles and other popular crosses, some of which have even more dense coats to comb through.

 

One of the biggest advantages of all these breeds is that they are said not to moult hair, which means they are more acceptable to the many ‘allergic’ dog owners in the community. However, this is not wholly true, as they do moult, but their curly coat prevents the dead hair from being shed. Instead, it remains tangled within the growth of new curls. This is far from easy to get through with the average comb, and the usual solution is to have the dog clipped by a professional dog groomer. Clipping is usually done every 6-8 weeks, which can be a long time if your dog is harbouring fleas or other parasites. Whilst the freshly clipped dog can be readily brushed or combed, it becomes less easy as the weeks pass by – and your dog’s coat slowly grows thicker and smellier.

 

Therefore, bathing your dog every week is recommended, using a detergent-free shampoo. Its coat will be easier to comb through, and you will find it easier to spot any issues while the coat is wet. Your pet will certainly smell fresher for the attention too. It is a Conscious Way to keep your dog healthy, happy and less smelly to live with.

 

Steve Wright

Falconer & Dog trainer and breeder