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The Poodles Grooming Requirements
Grooming is the most expensive and challenging part of owning a poodle. Good grooming is important for all dogs, but it is absolutely essential for poodles. A well-groomed poodle will not only look her best, good grooming helps prevent skin, coat, dental and other health problems.
It is often said “Poodles are non-shedding and hypo-allergenic.” Well, poodles do shed, but the loose hair stays in the coat rather than falling out in the house. In order to keep your poodles coat from becoming a matted mess, you must brush and comb her several times a week.
As for being hypo-allergenic, many people with allergies have no problems living with a poodle because the poodle does not develop dander which is what actually causes the allergic reaction.
The hair of a poodle never stops growing, therefore a full clipping every six to eight weeks is required. You can have your poodle groomed by a professional or learn how to groom her yourself.
Home Grooming
Doing a complete grooming at home can be quite a task, but if you have a do-it-yourself nature, you might want to learn how. Not only is home grooming less expensive, people who enjoy grooming their poodles often build an even closer bond with them.
If you think you'd like to try grooming your own poodle, you will need to learn how to shave and scissor your poodle, and learn which blades to use. If you don't have any friends who groom poodles, try to find a professional groomer who is willing to teach you, enroll in an adult-education or correspondence course or buy a grooming video or book.
A lot of work goes into making a poodle look like a poodle. Grooming is time-consuming and requires patience, and your poodle may have some “bad hair days” as you learn and become more comfortable with the grooming techniques. Remember, no mistakes are permanent, poodle hair always grows back.
You will have to invest in good-quality scissors and electric clippers. A grooming table with a nonslip surface is helpful, or use a steady table with a nonslip bath mat. Poor equipment can cause injury to your poodle, so your grooming tools (clipper blades, brushes, combs, and nail clippers) should be in good condition and replaced when necessary.
Choosing A Professional Groomer
You want a gentle groomer who doesn't speak harshly, likes your dog and who seems to enjoy the animals he grooms. You also want a groomer who listens to what you have to say about your dogs haircut.
When it comes to selecting a groomer, word of mouth is important. Keep your eye out for well-groomed poodles, when you see one, ask the owner who their groomer is. Ask your friends, family, veterinarian and breeder.
Visit the groomers you are considering, assess the general enviroment, cleanliness and noise-level of the shop. Pay attention to how the groomer interacts with the dogs. If your poodle is very young or had a bad grooming experience, see if you can stay during the first few groomings.
When going to a groomers, it's natural for your poodle to be distressed about being left behind by you. But if your poodle refuses to even walk in the door, that might be a sign the shop is too stressful for her.
In Between Full Groomings
Even if you take your poodle to a professional grooming there are some things you will have take care of at home.
Brushing, Combing & Bathing | Ear, Eye & Tooth Care | Clipping Your Poodles Nails
