How to Groom a Dog's Beard

Lots of dogs have beards, that is, long hair under their mouth and chin. It looks cute, right? Unless it is tangled or soiled, then not so cute! 

Beards are especially common on wavy haired, hypoallergenic dogs, who are often clipped with their beards left long because it looks nice. However, your dog is not aware that he looks dapper with his beard all clean and fluffed up. Your dog is quite likely to bury his face in a hole he just dug, drool on his beard while eating or chewing a bone, or to drag it through whatever disgusting thing he is investigating under that bush on your walk. It does not take long for beards to become soiled with debris, saliva and food particles. No one wants a slobbery dog kiss from their dog with chunks of dirt or food hanging from the hair under his mouth. You will need to clean, brush, and sometimes trim your dog's beard to keep it looking spick and span and your bearded buddy looking handsome.  

Having his beard groomed may not be high on your dog’s list of fun things to do today. Beards become tangled and dirty, especially on wavy haired, low shedding dogs, where they are common. Pulling on a matted, knotted, dirty, beard to comb it out and clean it is uncomfortable for your dog. His chin and lips are a sensitive area, and he may be resistant. Working gently and using the appropriate tools to work out tangles and remove debris in this area will make it easier for your dog to tolerate growing his beard.

• Always use cutting tools with sharp blades as they are less likely to pull and cause discomfort. Make sure scissors are held parallel to your dog with sharp tips pointed away.
  
• Change blades on mat splitters; they should glide easily thru mats to be effective.
  
• Because you are working around your dog’s mouth, be sure to brush or rinse off cleaning agents so your dog does not ingest them. Use non-toxic substances.
  
• Be gentle, do not pull on your dog's beard as it can be painful.