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Grooming


Your Swedish Vallhund with its weather resistant coat is not difficult to keep clean. However getting your puppy into a regular grooming routine is important.

The equipment you will need is:
a) Bristle Brush b) Slicker Brush
c) Wide toothed metal comb d) Nail Clippers
e) Mild Shampoo (only use medicated shampoo on Vet's advice), some shampoos such as tea tree oil based shampoos maybe toxic to your dog.

Using the bristle brush and your hand, brush the coat in the opposite way to the direction of the lay. This will expose the base of the hair. Check for any parasites, flaky skin or grass seeds etc. Smooth the coat down again and remove any loose hair with the metal comb and or a slicker brush. Fluff out the 'trousers', the bushy furnishings on the hindquarters.

The adult dog loses its coat at least once a year, generally at a change of seasons such as spring and autumn. It is at these times when grooming is of the most importance, they will lose a lot of hair, so regular daily grooming is recommended to remove the dead hair. Grooming your dog should be at least a weekly activity as it assists in maintaining coat and skin care; and provides you with the opportunity to check your dog for any lumps, skin problems and general health changes.

When bathing your dog it is a good idea to place an old towel or a non slip mat in the bottom of the bath to prevent the dog from slipping. Shampoos remove a dogs natural coat oils and some of its waterproof qualities. Ensure that you rinse the coat thoroughly to remove all traces of shampoo, towel or blow-dry thoroughly. Do not use household soap on your dog as this will dull the coat and may cause skin problems.

Grooming is not just a question of brushing your dogs coat out; it is a means of checking their general condition and getting them used to being handled right from the start. Pay particular attention to the eyes, ears, teeth and nails. Look for any abnormal discharge from the eyes, grass seeds in between toes or in ears. Teeth should be free from tartar and the breath should be fresh.

Nails should be clipped when necessary. This should be done with a great deal of care to avoid cutting the quick. If the very tip is removed regularly you will avoid long nails and the dog will be more comfortable. Regularly nail clipping keeps the dog's feet in good order and helps to maintain their tightness. Long nails contribute to splaying and flattening of the feet. Exercising on a hard surface such as concrete may reduce the necessity for regular clipping.

If, during grooming you come across anything you are unhappy with then please do not hesitate to consult your vet.

 
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