Carol Koepping

I am often asked what tool is best to maintain a pets coat. Keep
in mind that any tool can and will remove, tear, stretch or
damage hair if used improperly because it is the nature of hair
to give way to force. Tangles and matting will not completely
undo without damage to the hair, but that damage can be
minimized. This information may help you decide which tools are
better suited for your dog.



These are two categories of tools I consider in coat care: Non-
invasive: These are least likely to cause hair damage. Used on
dogs growing a long or natural hair coat and many Show dogs.
Some examples are: Pin Brushes- steel pins set in a rubber
backing (without a ball tip is preferred). Bristle Brushes-
natural bristle preferred. Wide Tooth Steel Comb- coarse tooth,
also called a Poodle Comb. Rotating Tooth Comb- from fine to
coarse tooth. Wide Tooth Rake- for short thick shedding coats as
on Shepherds and Huskies. Hound Glove- for slick breeds like
beagles and Dobermans. Rubber Curry- for dogs like Pugs



Invasive: These are needed for removing mats and tangles on most
breeds that get haircuts. (These have a tendency to break hair).
Slicker Brushes- use the softest wire possible. Heavy thick
coats may require a hard slicker. Double Tooth Rake- for dogs
that shed heavily. (You can see tufts of hair coming out with
use). Mat Splitters- sharpened blades actually cut through the
mats. Thinning Rakes: Curved blades for removing undercoat but
will cut the topcoat Carding Combs: Also called stripping
knives. Plastic Flea Comb: A small very fine tooth for removing
fleas and tiny burrs.



As a Groomer I provide the following recommendations based on
the premise that your pets upkeep at home is done at least every
other day: Cocker Spaniel kept in a 1" puppy cut- A mat splitter
used as needed for hard knots, a medium Slicker Brush for the
initial comb-out, and a medium/ fine comb for the final
comb-out. Poodle in Continental style- A Pin Brush for coat
lengths longer than 2", a Poodle Comb for the final "fluff out".
Keep a soft Puppy Slicker on hand for mats (as a last resort).
Australian Shepherd with natural coat- A soft to medium Slicker
Brush for mats, a fine to coarse comb (depending on the hair
coat density). A wide tooth rake will be helpful for shedding
seasons. Miniature Schnauzer- A hound Glove for short cut backs
(important for keeping skin and hair stimulated). Soft Slicker
Brush for leg and skirt hair, a fine/medium comb for final
comb-out.



If you have questions on coat care for a specific breed not
covered here, please visit my home page,
http://www.carolsbows.com



About the author:


 Carol is a Nationally Certified Master Groomer,  certified by
the National Dog Groomers Association of America, Inc.  A pet
groomer since 1993, she attained National Certification in 2002.
 To visit her website, click http://www.carolsbows.com  Here you
will find her selection of dog bows, dog collar charms, links to
pet product suppliers and more articles on care for your pet.





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