Shikoku Dog Grooming Instruction

Shikoku Dog Grooming Instruction

Grooming Shikoku Puppies and Dogs just needs time, care and patience. The level of grooming and time spent on grooming will depend on the breed and size of the dog. The following chart provides a brief overview of the grooming requirements of a Shikoku puppy or dog:

• Shikoku Length of Coat: The length of coat on a Shikoku is short and will therefore require regular, moderate grooming
• Type of Coat: The type of coat for this breed is generally described as thick, double coat
• Time: Grooming a Shikoku will require approximately 30 minutes
• Frequency of Grooming: Once per week, or daily during shedding periods

Shikoku Dog Grooming Instruction - Brushing Hair and Coat
Most dog's hair and coats need some attention. The Shikoku dog grooming instruction for caring for your dog's hair or coat is as follows:

• The Shikoku has a thick double coat that sheds once or twice per year. During normal times, your puppy or dog should be groomed weekly, however, during times of shedding, grooming should form part of the daily pet care routine to help reduce loose and dead hairs, and to care properly for the overall health of the puppy or dog's coat
• Use a grooming rake to reach the dog's under coat and gently rake through the coat
• Always begin at the head of the dog and always follow the natural direction of hair growth
• Brush back over the coat using a slicker brush as this will help to carefully remove loose or dead hairs from the dog's body

Shikoku Dog Grooming Instruction - Bathing your Dog
Bathing your dog is very important for its health and hygiene. During bathing check your dog for lumps, bumps, parasites, fleas and skin irritations or allergies. Shikoku Bathing instruction is as follows:

• Wash your dog or puppy when they are dirty or smell!
• Gather bathing equipment and place bathing tools and shampoo near to bathing area
• Place a mat and towel next to bath
• Check the water temperature of the bath - ensure that a minimal amount of water is used
• Gradually place the dog in the bath - be aware that this may frighten your pet
• Gently shampoo your pet - be careful of delicate areas such as eyes and ears
• Rinse shampoo and towel dry. Then brush the hair

Shikoku Dog Grooming Instruction - Trimming Nails
Some dogs do not need their nails trimmed as they are kept short by general activities. However, should your dog's nails become long then they should be trimmed. It is important to know exactly what you are doing, as cutting too deep into your Shikoku dog's nails can cause damage and pain. Written instruction is not enough as the risk of hurting your Shikoku is too high.

• Your vet can help initially by demonstrating how to trim your dog's nails and supervise your first attempt
• Spend some time touching your dog's paws and gently squeezing the area around the nails in order to familiarize them with this sensation
• Seek advice from your vet about the most appropriate nail clippers for your pet

Shikoku Dog Grooming Instruction