Sometimes, pet owners ask us for recommendations on what tools they should use to maintain their pet's coat between grooms. This is a happy thing because it means the pet may return to future appointments in better shape.
Of course, some of what you recommend will depend on the breed and dog's coat. And it goes without saying that the tools will be completely different if it is a show dog. However, for most pet dogs that require grooming, the following tools are inexpensive, readily available, and easy to use. Here is the list I give my customers:
- For smooth-coated breeds such as Pugs, smooth Dachshunds, Beagles, and such, I recommend they buy a rubber curry comb such as the Zoom Groom. I suggest they use it when they bathe the dog at home and also for more regular use on a dry coat. This tool is terrific at removing those short, shedding hairs, will not damage the coat as sharp shedding blades do, and is gentle on the skin.
- I recommend an ordinary slicker brush for everything from pet terriers to poodles and lots of dogs in between. I guide people towards brushes with medium-length teeth unless it is a dog with a thick double coat, such as Australian Shepherd's or Samoyed's; then I suggest a brush with longer teeth. I have found that pet owners perceive slicker brushes with firm teeth, which is what most groomers use, as "painful" and won't use them. So, I show them how to use the brush and have them try it on their hand or palm. Most seem to realize that if the brush does not hurt their bare human skin, it most likely won't hurt their fluffy dog, either. It's a good teachable moment.
- A good brushing spray. I have several favorites, and you probably do, too. Two that I often recommend to customers are Stazko Spray, or Artero Matt-x.
- A sturdy comb. I'm kind of a tool junkie and am picky about my combs, but I find most pet owners are comfortable with a basic Greyhound style comb like this Andis model. There are lots to choose from, and if you are dealing with a dog with a long, thick coat, you might choose one with longer teeth.
These are tools you can easily keep on hand for sale to your customers or have ordering information handy on a piece of paper that you can hand to them. Take time to give them a short demonstration on a real dog. I tell them, "It's simple steps. Spray, slicker, then comb. The comb will show you spots that need more attention with the brush." I show them how to brush from the skin out and remind them that the legs and belly need work, too, not just the easy spots on the back.
I always feel celebratory when a customer wants to be part of team "coat care," I like to help them find the right tools to succeed.
