Brushing, Brushing and more brushing!

Most of the longer haired breeds in the working group develop a heavy undercoat, meaning they shed a lot and constantly regrow hair. To keep this under control try a variety of tools including an undercoat rake, or a zoom groom or furminator for short haired dogs. For basic tools you will need a slicker brush, a demater and a comb. These three will work for controling the undercoat. Always layer brush, holding up all the hair and lightly brushing in layers downward with the growth of the hair. This will ease out knots without pulling or snagging the dog which can result in a quick nip or cry from your friend! You must know your dog's brush tolerance level as some dogs can simply be babies and cry because they know you will stop! Shave the pads with a #10 blade as well as the sanitary and inner thighs if desired. Back brush on top the feet and scissor unwanted toe hair sticking out. These dogs if shaved will not always grow back the same resulting in uneven coat or no coat growing back at all. Trim to neaten with scissors if desired.