• Separate grooming time and area from play time and area. Put him up on a table, bar, washer, whatever is up off the floor.  If he protests at first, just be a little firm with him, and always reward good behavior.
• Start bushing from the bottom, and work your way up, detangling as you go. Comb thoroughly after brushing to detect any matting or tangles you may have missed with your brush.
• Remember that you are brushing the coat and not the skin, although you want to get down TO the skin. Too much pressure on a brush, or brushing repeatedly in one area, can cause skin irritations, commonly called 'brush burn'.
• If your dog is badly matted, don't bathe him before brushing out the matts. The matting acts like a sponge to soak up water, soap and debris and prolonged dampness can irritate the skin. Not only can a matted coat not be thoroughly cleaned, it can take a very long time to dry completely. So, always be sure your pet is dematted and tangle free before the bath.

Regular, effective brushing and bathing will be rewarded with a clean, happy, well maintained dog, and lower grooming prices !!

• Always bathe in lukewarm to cool water. Using hot or very warm water can serve to open up oil glands in the dogs skin, producing an oilier coat, which in turn collects dirt and dust faster.
• Bathing in cool water is sometimes best for dogs with skin irritations or allergies.
• If you are using a specialty, prescription or medicated shampoo, please follow the manufacturers directions. These shampoos MUST be left on the dog 5-15 minutes, to be effective.
• Use a specially designed facial scrub for his face and head. That way, if any gets in his eyes, it won't be as irritating as regular shampoo, plus many of them small really good. While you have him sudsed up, take the opportunity to give him a little massage. Not only is this relaxing for a dog, but it can help you detect any lumps or bumps that may need your vets attention. Be sure and clean his feet, pads and nails too.
• RINSE!! RINSE!! RINSE!! Many times, dry, itchy skin is the result of not thoroughly rinsing after the bath.  Rinsing thoroughly in the coolest water possible is beneficial.