What's the best way to groom a terrier?
What's the best way to groom a terrier?
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There are many terrier breeds, ranging from the fluffy, soft-coated wheaten terriers to the sleek, short-haired Bostons. The type of coat your dog has will largely determine her grooming needs. Most experts agree long-haired dogs should be brushed daily, while short-haired breeds will do fine with weekly brushings. Brushing (with appropriately sized tools, of course!) is important not only to remove knots, mats and debris from your pup's coat, but also to check for parasites, skin irritations, lumps and sore spots that might need attention -- or a trip to the vet.
There's still disagreement among the pros on how frequently you should bathe your terrier, so ask your vet what he or she recommends. But in general, a bath at least every other month is a good idea for any dog, says Alexandra Mason, head certified groomer with Dogtopia, a national chain of dog day cares, spas, boutiques and boarding facilities. If nothing else, it familiarizes your pooch with the experience, so that a bath doesn't become something unexpected and stressful. And brush your dog before your bathe her so knots don't become wet and set. Afterward, clip her nails while they're soft and pliable from the water.
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