Grooming:
The first thing you learn is you need the right tools.
It can be a monumental task locating the best tools
for each job.
Most
of these supplies can be found on the web, and it pays
to check several sites for the items to get the best
price. It is not a cheap endeavor to properly care for
your Yorkshire Terrier.
Supplies
I use include:
Shampoo:
Duurstede shampoo-ef or a good shampoo specifically
for dogs.My favorite these days will make some cringe, but I use Pantene. They have a formula for straight hair and it works really well on my kids. I also love Vellus, the whole line!
Conditioner: Duurstede or a good product for
dogs with silky coats. Same here, I've been using Pantene that goes with the straight shampoo line.
Leave In conditioner
Oils: I use a homemade version, when I use it, but why when the Vellus Satin creme is perfect as it is.
Finishing Spray: For before ring time, or daily
brushings, again I love the Vellus and use their anti static also when needed..
Seriously,
the dogs products cost more than my own. However, to
properly maintain their appearance, it is a must. There
are many excellent shampoos and conditioners. You will
have to find the one that best suits your Yorkshire
Terrier's coat by trial and error.
Next
you have the brushes. You need a small boars bristle
brush. The size can make it easier to get their
tiny faces properly.
I
use a boar bristle Mason-Pearson pocket size for daily
brushings. I have one for when they are in oil and one
for when they are not.
You need a small slicker brush only for getting
out tiny knots you can't get with a small comb.
The small comb is one of my most used tools. I have
a larger comb, but haven't found it as handy.
I also found a tiny comb on a handle that was just right
for under the eyes.
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A
good pair of toenail scissors is a must. I find
getting the tips off every 10 days or
so keeps them a nice length. I haven't used any polish
yet, but might try it sometime. There is a new product out called Peticure that I like more than anything. Look it up and see if you might like it..
Then
you need a good pair of small blunt ended scissors
for trimming the hair around their feet. Some moms prefer
a larger pair, I like the safety of the small. I use the trimmer sometimes here.
Specific
scissors are made for taking out the rubberbands on
topknots. Get a good grade the first time and take
care of them. These tools will be with you for years to
come.
Of
course you will need hair bands, bows, leads,
and panties or bellybands.
If
you don't have beds, bedding, crates, playpen cages, the
proper food and those types of necessities yet, check
out the puppy list for help in planning. Links to lots
of suppliers are on links page.
Trimmers
by Wahl for men's moustache trimmers are excellent for
ears, feet pads and if you are careful the anus.
These
are just the basics. One of my dear friends and mentors,
Cookie Rogan has extensive instructions. She has a wealth
of information on her site and all of it can be trusted
and I haven't found anything but the absolute Yorkie
Gospel. A good rule of thumb is if Cookie doesn't
do it...you might want to reconsider.
Lots
of links to products I use on the llinks page.
After
a bath, always put ear drops in. The swimmer's ear kind
are fine, or a specific pet ear drop. This will dry the
canal to help prevent ear infection.
A
great example for topknots
was shared by Maria Lelinho starring Rocky.
She gave permission to share it with you. Thanks to both
Maria and Rocky!
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