Rough Clip

A rough clip on the coat (pre-clip)

• Prior to bathing, a thorough brushing eradicates knots. Water matting occurs on hair that has not been thoroughly brushed prior to bathing. Both knots and matting can be extremely painful for the dog and result in hair needing to be clipped severely.

• Start with a slicker brush. This will remove any loose hair as well as push the dogs natural oils through the coat.

• The slicker brush will break up any knots.

• Do not over brush; this will cause pain to the dog. Brush-burn takes off a layer of skin and can cause hair loss.

• Be gentle around the face and bottom area.

• Try not to pull on knots, brace the hair to avoid hurting the dog.

• Use a steel comb to remove further knots and dead hair from the dog.

• Stubborn knots require a gentle approach.

• You may need to ‘split’ a knot. Do this by placing scissors away from the dog and through the knot.

• Re-slicker and comb this area until the area is knot-free.

• Problem spots such as behind the ears, groin and tail require time and patience.

• If a knot is too difficult to break you may need to blade it out with a #10 blade.

• Once the dog is thoroughly brushed it is now ready for the bath.

Clipping techniques may vary depending on which blade you are using. Always check your blade that it is not too hot.

If a blade is dragging on the coat, check your technique - it may be that you are skimming over the coat and not getting underneath the hair. Keep your blades clean and sharp with regular maintenance from a professional sharpener.