Here are our top ten tips on how to get the best result from grooming your dog:
- Brush and comb your dog before bathing - Knots and tangles can become tighter when wet
- Spray on a coat conditioner, such as these from Essential Dog, before brushing to help loosen knots and tangles in long coats
- Start with a comb, then use a slicker brush for any tangles, and then finish with a brush all over
- Simply and carefully cut out any knots or matted hair that can't be brushed out
- Brush systematically. Begin with the dog's hindquarters and leave the head and ears for last. Why? If a dog can't see what's happening, they will be less likely to object
- Brush against the grain of the coat to pull out the undercoat, and with the grain to smooth out the overcoat
- Take your time. Brushing out a coat, especially on heavy-coated breeds such as the Cocker Spaniel, can be hard work and time-consuming.
- This is a good time to check your dog's paws for any mud, debris or parasites. If they are suffering from dry or cracked paws, use a balm such as Natural Dog Snout Soother
- Brush regularly - Regular brushing stimulates the skin and hair follicles, which increases the natural production of skin oils that make the coat shiny
- Praise and reward your dog. After all, this is a team effort!
