Grooming Your Poodle

Poodles are cute, playful and loveable dogs. For this reason, they’re a popular breed choice among dog owners. However, Poodles have special needs. While they’re thought to be low maintenance dogs, they’re actually the opposite. Let’s go into grooming your Poodle.

Poodle’s Fur

Whether you have a small toy Poodle or a large standard Poodle, they all have the same kind of fur: very, very, curly. The fur never sheds nor stops growing. They need regular grooming, and to keep them looking their regal best you may want to consider using a professional dog groomer. During the summer and winter months, they need bathing and frequent brushing and clipping. The most popular styles are the traditional Poodle cut and summer cut.

Types of Poodle Grooming

Summer Cut

Many people think it’s best to give their Poodle a summer cut during summertime. That means clipping the fur so they’re rid of curls, which in turn, helps keep the dog cooler. If you choose this style, you need to make sure not to cut the fur so short the Poodle gets sunburned. Yes, that is possible.

Longer Coat Style

If you choose a longer coat style for the summer, there are some steps you should take to maintain the fur and help your dog’s comfort and health. First, and most importantly, brush your Poodle daily. Frequent brushing helps get rid of matted and tangled fur. If your Poodle likes to swim, make sure you brush any mats out before he jumps in the water. Otherwise, the mats and tangles will get much tighter. This could cause discomfort to your dog.

RELATED: Dog Brushing Basics

It is best to get your Poodle used to being groomed when he’s a puppy. Schedule consistent visits to the grooming salon so your puppy gets used to the process. Over time, grooming can become a great bonding time for you and your dog.

Do a Search When Grooming

While you’re grooming your Poodle, always search your dog for any prickly things or bumps under his fur. You may find foxtails, debris or ticks. If your Poodle starts aggressively scratching or licking one area, especially after a romp outdoors, this could be a sign of ticks. Remember, just because your dog went swimming, doesn’t mean the problems hidden under the fur were washed away. Actively hunt for these signs.

How to Groom a Poodle

Bathe your Poodle occasionally with a quality dog shampoo. Clean the ears often. Some people use trusted commercial ear cleaning solution for dogs. A professional groomer will remove hair from inside the ear canal, which can help avoid ear infections. In addition, she will shave the fur on the toes of your pet. Lastly, inspect the dog’s feet. This should be short enough for you to see between each toe. Take advantage of this to make sure there are no foxtails or ticks there either.

Poodles are regarded as one of the most intelligent of all dogs. They love prancing around, especially when they feel and look their best. Take good care of your Poodle and enjoy his company.

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