How to Groom a Giant Dog

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How to Groom a Giant Dog

Medium

25 - 60 Minutes

1 Week

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Introduction

Do feel challenged by the thought of grooming your giant dog? Whether you have a tiny terrier or St. Bernard named Boozer, they all need to be groomed on a regular basis in order to keep their skin and coat healthy. When most professional groomers tell you that they don’t work with dogs the size of Boozer or have ridiculous rates, learning to do it yourself will save you money and help you bond with your pooch. Just remember to keep sessions short and make them fun for everyone.

Dog's Perspective

Your big fella probably thinks he does a pretty good job of keeping himself well-groomed simply by using his tongue. But, in reality, this is really not good enough. It is not so much that most dogs like him mind being groomed, for many it is the sight and sound of the tools you use to groom him that cause the problem. This can often be the result of a previous poor grooming experience.

The Warm Bath, If You Please Method

Effective

0 Votes

Slicker Brush

Shampoo

Scissors

Pin Brush

Deshedder

Dematter

Clipper

Towel

Step

Time to hit the tub

The only place you are likely to be able to bathe your giant dog is either in the tub or outside. While outside might be easier and leave less mess to clean up, a tub allows you to use warm water and keep things in a controlled environment.

Step

Scrub a dub

Give your dog a nice bath using a vet-approved shampoo and conditioner. This will remove dust, dirt, bugs, and parasites from his coat. It can also remove tangles and some mats. Once he is done, brush out his coat with your fingers and let it air dry.

Step

Setting it all up

Before you bring your freshly washed pal into the room where you plan to groom him, prepare your grooming area. Lay out the tools you plan to use, including brushes, rakes, combs, clippers, shears, and anything else you think you might need.

Step

Bring in the client

Once your pooch is dry, bring him in and give him plenty of time to sniff at the tools and get used to their presence. Then, using the appropriate brush, pin for long coats, slicker for short hair, brush his head, face, and muzzle. Slowly work your way down his neck and chest. Remember, just because he is a bit on the big side, there is no reason to be afraid, just take your time.

Step

And the rest

Working your way in the direction the hair grows, work along his spine and down his sides to his belly. Brush his rump and tail, then the outside of his legs. Finish up by having him lie on his back so you can brush out his belly and the inside of his legs.

Step

If he needs a trim

If his hair is a little long, use either clippers or shears and follow the same pattern to trim his coat to the required length. A final brushing, praise, and of course a treat or two and your big lug is ready to party.

The Dry Method

Effective

0 Votes

Slicker Brush

Scissors

Pin Brush

Deshedder

Dematter

Comb

Clipper

Step

The brush job

Using the right brush or comb for your dog's hair type, brush though his coat very thoroughly, taking your time. This idea is to remove any dirt, debris, parasites, tangles and possible mats. It is also the perfect time to use shears to trim his beard.

Step

A head start

When you look at the way his hair grows, you will see that much of it tends to grow in one direction. This is the direction in which you should trim, starting with his head and face. Make sure to get around his ears and under his chin, down his neck and chest. Until you have mastered the fine art of cutting his hair, cut it longer than you want it to be. This gives you room to make errors as you learn.

Step

Across the back

Using your choice of shears or clippers, trim from the center of the back down his sides, until you reach the middle of his belly. Save his genital area for later.

Step

At the other end

Gently trim the hair on the rump, his tail, and the outsides of his legs. Roll him over and trim his underbelly paying very close attention to his genitals as the skin here is very thin and sensitive.

Step

Make a big guy beautiful

Finish up by going over your pup one more time with a comb or brush to make him look his very best, shower him with praise, and of course, be sure you give him a treat or two.

Caution & Considerations

A good walk will help your gentle giant calm down and be more relaxed so that you can groom him more easily.
Be sure the shears and clippers you plan to use are nice and sharp, otherwise, they might pull more hair out than they cut. This will hurt your poor pooch and may make him harder to groom.
Oil the clippers regularly to keep them from getting hot and burning the skin.
Give your dog plenty of time to become accustomed to the tools of the trade.
Try running the clippers first so he gets used to the sounds.
Cutting his hair in the direction it grows will result in a smoother finished cut.
Be sure to use treats to let your bud know he is doing a good job.
Take your time, remain calm, and make it fun for both of you.

Conclusion

Trying to groom a giant dog can be very challenging, especially if you have never done so before. The big thing to remember is that no matter the size of the dog, the grooming process is the same. Take your time, make it fun, and let your big buddy get used to the whole thing. This is a great time for both of you to bond and enjoy each other's company.

How to Groom a Giant Dog

Introduction

Dog's Perspective

The Warm Bath, If You Please Method

The Dry Method

Caution & Considerations

Conclusion

Success Stories and Grooming Questions

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