How to Groom a Large Dog's Head

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How to Groom a Large Dog's Head

Easy

10 - 15 Minutes

1 Month

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Introduction

It might seem strange, but while many dog owners have no problem grooming their pup's body, when it comes to grooming their head and face, they balk. Many are afraid of injuring their pup, others simply feel as though they don’t have the necessary skills. But taking your big dog to the groomer every month can be pretty expensive. On the other hand, if you could learn to do the job yourself, not only can you save money, but you get to spend a little bonding time together.

Dog's Perspective

In reality, the average dog couldn't care less whether or not you take the time to groom his head. He is quite happy using his paws and wiping his face on the carpet and furniture. However, if you want your pup to remain happy and healthy, it's time for you to learn how to groom his head and face. Once you get the basics down, it should only take you a few minutes every couple of weeks or so as needed.

The Slow Down Method

Effective

0 Votes

Slicker Brush

Scissors

Comb

Clipper

Step

The last thing you need

The last thing you need is a big dog who is wound up and swinging his head around when you are trying to groom it. Take your dog out for a nice long, tiring walk. The longer you can keep him out, the more tired and calmer he will be for you.

Step

The grooming spot

Find a good spot in your house, one that you will always use for grooming. By using the same spot, your dog will come to know what to expect.

Step

Slick him down

Grab a slicker brush and go over the hair on your dog's head, starting at the top and working your way around his neck, the under the chin, and finally across the top of his muzzle. Use a comb to straighten out the hair around his eyes.

Step

Trim time

Using shears or clippers, trim his hair to the desired length. If he is not used to clippers, give him a minute to get used to the noise before trying to do any trimming. Start from the top and work your way down just like you did when brushing him.

Step

The little things

Use a comb to pull the hair out of his eyes and then use shears to trim the hair back. Finish up by giving his entire head a good going over with a slicker brush and you now have one very handsome young pup.

The Nice and Easy Method

Effective

0 Votes

Slicker Brush

Shampoo

Scissors

Comb

Clipper

Towel

Step

A good washing

Using a warm soapy washcloth, give your pup's face a thorough wash, rinse it off and use a towel to dry it.

Step

Slick it down

Use a slicker brush to remove any tangles, mats, and debris left over after washing his face.

Step

Let's get to the bottom of this

Start under his chin by trimming his beard with a pair of straight shears. Take extra care here as the skin is sensitive. Also, be on the lookout for hanging skin and jowls depending on the breed of your dog.

Step

On top of it all

With a pair of thinning shears, trim the hair around his nose, across the top of his muzzle and around his eyes. Use your finger as a guide while cutting the hair above his eyes.

Step

Now hear this

If your dog has long ear hair, trimming it can be a bit tricky, just take your time and be very gentle. Hold his ears carefully to avoid nicking the skin. Make sure you get the hair inside his ears too.

Step

Make him shine

The final step is to go over your pup's head with a slicker brush to ensure that his hair is all going the same way and to help spread his natural oils and give his head a radiant shine.

Caution & Considerations

Give your dog plenty of time to get used your grooming tools before using them. This will make it easier for both of you.
Be sure to use the same place in your home for all grooming, this will help keep him calm.
Use sharp shears and clippers; dull ones can pull and rip the hair out of your dog's skin.
Never try to use clippers on wet hair as this will cause them to jam.
If you can't get your dog to stand still, grab a helper, it will make things go much easier.

Conclusion

It really isn't that hard to keep your dog's head groomed along with the rest of his body. The big thing is to remain nice and calm. Your attitude and demeanor will rub off on him and help him to remain calm. In time, you can treat this as a bonding moment between the two of you. Be sure you give him lots of treats to let him know he's a good boy.

How to Groom a Large Dog's Head

Introduction

Dog's Perspective

The Slow Down Method

The Nice and Easy Method

Caution & Considerations

Conclusion

Success Stories and Grooming Questions

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