Apollo

 ALICIA’S TIPS IN A NUTSHELL:

Preparation and Washing:

Use only shampoo for a scissoring finish; avoid conditioner to maintain coat volume.

Wash the dog thoroughly, especially on the day of a competition, to ensure a smooth coat without curls.

Use tools like a Kong brush to scrub deep if nails are short.

Drying Techniques:

Begin with high-velocity drying, followed by brush drying with hot air to create volume.

Brush each section thoroughly to prevent brush burn and ensure the coat is smooth down to the skin.

Aim for a fluff-dried, straight coat for the best scissor finish.

Combing and Detangling:

Start with a wide-tooth comb, then switch to a fine-tooth comb to catch any hidden knots.

Pay attention to areas where tangles are likely to hide, like behind the ears, under armpits, and between toes.

Nails and Pad Care:

Trim and dremel nails short for a clean, safe finish.

Use a short blade (30 or 40) for precise pad trimming, creating a neat and competition-ready look.

Silhouette and Structural Enhancement:

Work on the dog’s top line by trimming the back and setting the tail at a higher point for a balanced silhouette.

Scoop out the rear and create a defined knee and turn of stifle to accentuate the dog’s angles.

Shaping the Front and Chest:

Trim under the neck and around the chest to give the appearance of a fore chest.

Use precise, angled cuts to create a balanced look between the chest and legs.

Head and Face Grooming:

Create a round head shape by treating the ears as part of the head while trimming.

Clear hair around the mouth and eyes to prevent tangling and enhance hygiene.

Final Groom Check:

Ensure balance across the body with attention to proportion, checking that front and rear legs match the body’s flow.

Adjust the front legs to ensure they are visually aligned with the shoulder, creating a “box” look.