Learning how to shave a dog

A beautiful coat is one of the reason why dogs are admired however, some dog owners would opt to shave the pet. The heat of the summer months would take a toll on the dog thus long haired breeds are commonly shaved. A pet owner would decide to shave the dog because of the following concerns: fungal infections that results to hot spots, excessive shedding and fur that is prone to form tangles. A pet owner will opt to shave the dog to do away with the need to groom especially if the pet is old and cannot tolerate being constantly brushed.

Dog owners have varied reasons for shaving the dog. Professional groomers charge from $40 to $80 to shave a dog. Shaving the dog yourself though would be fun.

Before starting the shaving session it would be best if the dog is bathed and the fur thoroughly brushed to prevent the clipper from overheating. Bathe the dog to remove dried up feces and other dirt clinging on the coat. After the dog is bathed and dried, the hair must be brushed thoroughly to remove the tangles. The shaving task would be easier and of course kinder on your back if the dog is positioned on a table but ensure that the head of the pet is loosely fastened to an overhead support to prevent the dog from jumping while being shaved. A dog that is being shaved for the first time have to be acclimatized to the sound and the vibration of the clipper otherwise the pet will vault and resist being shaved.

Use a #10 blade to shave the area between the eyes of the dog. Be careful not to prod the eyes with the blade of the clipper. From the eyes, run the clipper carefully down to the face. For long eared breeds, lift the ear to shave the hair on the inner ear.

Move on to the armpit area. To shave the hair under the dog’s armpit you have to raise the leg but be sure that the position is not making the pet uncomfortable. Move down to the anal area. Removing the hair around the anus is especially necessary for long haired breeds to prevent feces from sticking into the hair. Change the blade and work on the rest of the body. In long slow strokes, run the clipper starting from the head down to the neck and to the sides of the body . Pull the loose skin of the belly to make shaving easier. Shave the legs and feet. All done – give the dog a good hug for being a good sport.