My Point of Groom

Dog and Cat Nail Care: Nail Clippers, Dremels, Long Quicks and Bleeding Explained

Sun, 26 Jul 2026 21:39:21 GMT

Dog and Cat Nail Care: What Pet Owners Actually Need to Know

Nail trimming is probably one of the least popular parts of pet care. Dogs don't often like it. Owners are nervous about doing it. Cats frequently have their own opinions about the entire situation too. And those opinions can be... persuasive, often involving teeth from both canines and felines. Unfortunately, nails don't care.

They keep growing whether anyone wants to deal with them or not, and nail care is about much more than keeping your floors or arms from getting scratched or stopping your dog from clicking through the house like they're wearing tap shoes.

Keeping nails at a healthy length is an important part of maintaining healthy feet, bones and joints and comfortable movement and normal weight distribution. When nails are allowed to become severely overgrown, they can eventually create problems that go far beyond the nail itself.

There can be an enormous amount of unnecessary fear and drama surrounding nail trimming. Some caution is good. There is a blood vessel and nerve inside the nail called the quick, and yes, we want to avoid cutting it.

But nail trimming doesn't need to become a terrifying medical procedure either.

Understanding what you're looking at, knowing where you're trying to cut and knowing what to do if something goes wrong makes the whole thing considerably less intimidating. You also are less likely to mistakenly think your groomer has traumatized your pup or done something wrong by accidentally catching a quick or two in the event a quick has occurred if you understand a little more about the process.

Why Long Nails Are More Than a Cosmetic Problem

A dog's nails aren't supposed to continually grow until they resemble little hooks.

When nails become too long, they can interfere with how the foot naturally contacts the ground. Instead of the paw sitting normally, long nails can push the toes backward or change how the dog distributes weight through the foot.

That change doesn't necessarily stop at the toes.

Feet affect legs. Legs affect joints. Joints affect movement. Back pain and damage can ensue.

A dog compensating for uncomfortable feet can change the way they stand and walk, which can place unnecessary stress on the toes, feet, wrists, elbows, knees, hips and other parts of the musculoskeletal system.

This becomes especially important with senior dogs and dogs that already have orthopedic problems. If getting up and moving around is difficult enough already, excessively long nails certainly aren't helping.

And then there are the REALLY long nails. Occasionally nails will grow into the paw pad or surrounding skin. This can happen more often and quickly with some dogs than others due to the natural shape of the feet and paw pads and the nails growing at a closer curve.

At that point, we're no longer talking about needing a manicure. We have an injury.

Dewclaws are particularly easy to miss because they don't normally contact the ground. There is nothing naturally wearing them down as the dog walks. They can continue growing into a circle until they eventually grow directly into the skin or pad.

This is one reason every nail needs to be checked, including those little dewclaws hiding farther up the leg.

Cats can have the same problem.

Older cats in particular may not shed the outer layers of their claws as efficiently, and claws can become thick and overgrown. A severely overgrown claw can curl around and grow directly into the paw pad.

If you have a senior cat, checking those feet regularly is important even if your cat has scratching posts available.

So Where Exactly Are You Supposed to Cut a Dog's Nail?

Here's the simple answer I give people:

At the curve. At an angle.

Did you notice how ‘to the quick’ is not a part of that answer? I’ve never taken a test with a question about clipping nails where ‘to the quick’ was the answer. The quick is actually a variable in every nail trim but not actually the deciding factor or always the same length within nails. Look at a normal dog nail from the side. The nail comes out from the toe and then begins curving downward.

That curve gives you a practical visual landmark.

You are generally removing the excess nail extending beyond that natural curve, not attempting to chop the nail all the way back toward the toe.

This is especially helpful for owners who have absolutely no idea what they're looking at and are terrified they're going to amputate something.

You're trimming a nail. We're not performing surgery.

With clear or light-colored nails, you have an advantage because you can usually see the pink quick inside the nail. Stay safely in front of it.

Black nails can require a little more attention because you can't see through them from the outside. You CAN clip back at smaller amounts IF the pet is tolerable of nail trims and will stand or sit that long. If that very first nail at the curve unexpectedly has you reaching for the Quick Stop, take the hint. Your pup probably has longer quicks than average. Go further forward just a little on the remaining nails instead of repeating the same surprise.

If your pup is tolerating multiple short clips you can watch the center from the underside as it begins changing as you get closer to the quick inside the nail. When you're approaching the quick, stop.

It’s also important to note that quicks occur because they aren’t sitting still or liking this part of the process and moving around a lot while the nails are being trimmed. It happens. Often. Which is why we will also go over some ways to help desensitize pups to nail trims and feet handling at home in this article.

So What Is the Quick?

The quick is the living tissue inside the nail containing blood vessels and nerves.

That's why cutting into it stings for a second and it bleeds.

It's also why we try not to cut it.

But I want to clear up something that has become ridiculously dramatized over the years.

Quicking a dog is not equivalent to cutting off their toe.

Does it hurt a bit?

Yes. And every pup reacts differently. Some scream just cause their foot is being held or BECAUSE their nails are being trimmed before we even do anything without being quicked and many don’t even react in the slightest when they ARE accidentally quicked.

There's a sharp sting, and it can certainly be unpleasant but dogs react briefly if at all and recover just fine before you’ve even made it to the next nail if things are occurring in a more relaxed manner (it’s not the quick they remember and anticipate in most cases, it’s the other things occurring during a nail trim that scares them, i.e. being forced).

Every groomer or bather who has trimmed thousands upon thousands of nails has quicked nails. Veterinarians quick nails. Veterinary technicians quick nails. Owners quick nails. The only way to not ever quick a nail is not ever trim them. But that would be far more painful to our beloved companions if we all just stopped trimming nails.

Dogs move. Nails can be difficult to read. Black nails don't come with little signs inside saying STOP HERE. Dogs aren't exactly known for patiently standing there while we spend fifteen minutes analyzing one black nail much less each one.

Nobody should intentionally quick a nail, but accidentally nicking one is not automatically some catastrophic event that will emotionally scar a dog for the remainder of its natural life.

What causes many serious nail-trimming problems is everything surrounding the experience.

Blood Does Not Always Mean the Groomer Just Quicked the Nail

Here's another nail-trimming misconception worth clearing up.

You see blood, therefore somebody must have cut deeply into the quick.

Not necessarily.

Sometimes a nail can be trimmed extremely close to the quick without actually cutting into it. There may be only a paper-thin layer of nail left covering the end of that living tissue.

The dog gets off the grooming table. Nothing is bleeding.

The dog walks around the salon. Still nothing.

Then they scratch at something, put pressure on that nail, drag it across the floor or launch themselves out the door at approximately 700 miles per hour because MOM IS HERE.

Suddenly there's blood.

That doesn't necessarily mean the nail was actively quicked during the nail trim.

That tiny remaining layer of nail can wear or scrape away afterward and expose the very end of the quick. Feet also take a fair amount of abuse simply because dogs walk on them. Pressure and activity can cause a minor nail injury to begin bleeding again after it initially appeared perfectly fine.

This is also why you can sometimes pick up a perfectly non-bleeding dog from the groomer and discover a little blood later.

Nobody necessarily committed a toenail massacre while you weren't looking.

Why Can Such a Tiny Nail Injury Look Like So Much Blood?

Nails have a blood supply.

That means even a very small injury to the quick can produce an impressive-looking amount of blood, especially once a dog starts walking around and distributing it everywhere.

One drop becomes a paw print.

That paw print becomes six paw prints.

Then the dog steps on your leg, walks across the floor and shakes a foot.

Congratulations. Your house now looks like somebody needs to call CSI, and we're talking about an injury that may amount to a tiny scrape at the end of one toenail.

There are also reasons one dog may bleed more readily than another.

Stress and excitement can temporarily raise a dog's blood pressure. And what might possibly be exciting or stressful to a dog about having someone mess with their feet?

Exactly.

Some dogs also have underlying medical conditions associated with high blood pressure, while other medical problems can interfere with normal clotting and make bleeding from even a relatively minor injury harder to stop.

This doesn't mean excessive or persistent bleeding should simply be dismissed as "just a nail." If a tiny nail injury is bleeding unusually heavily, repeatedly starts bleeding again or won't stop with appropriate styptic powder and sustained pressure, that deserves attention. Unexplained excessive bleeding can sometimes be an indication that something else is going on medically.

But the amount of blood you SEE is not necessarily a reliable measurement of how severe the original nail injury was. Nails can bleed a lot. Much like very minor scrapes on ears and those ‘the dog licked the scissors’ moments where a papercut somehow looks like a body part is missing.

A tiny nick to the very end of the quick generally produces a quick sting at the moment it happens. That's it. The dog isn't continuing to experience the level of agony you might imagine from looking at blood tracked halfway across the kitchen.

Blood is dramatic.

Dogs running around on bleeding feet make it considerably more dramatic.

And toenails are remarkably good at turning a very small incident into what appears to be a major crime scene.

Being Quicked and Being Terrified of Nail Trims Are Not the Same Thing

Many of us have worked with plenty of dogs that were absolutely convinced nail trimming meant certain death. Some had probably been quicked before. So have thousands of dogs that stand or sit perfectly fine for nail trims.

The bigger issue and trauma is often what happens when the dog becomes frightened or uncomfortable and people decide the solution is to overpower them and force the procedure anyway.

Imagine being afraid of something, trying desperately to get away from it and then having several people grab you, pin you down and continue doing the thing you're terrified of while you struggle.

THAT is an excellent way to teach an animal that nail trimming is horrifying.

Once a dog learns that touching their feet means they're about to lose control of their body and be forced through something frightening, you've created a much larger problem than one accidentally quicked nail.

There are obviously situations where a dog's nails desperately need attention and handling them isn't optional. But routinely wrestling a frightened puppy through nail trims is not how I would teach that puppy to tolerate nail care for the next 10 or 15 years.

One thing I do suggest for pups who NEED those nail trims but we’re working on making it a more positive experience? Do those at your vet. Have them be the bad guy and let the groomer clip or dremel a nail or two during each groom or whatever they are tolerating so they don’t associate that forced unpleasantness with the groomers and the grooming establishment. Don’t do a forced nail trim at the vet and a grooming on the same day. This often gives us the BEST shot of eventually working your pup around to cooperating and trusting us for nail trims without the forcing the issue that is ACTUALLY what creates the fear. Not being quicked.

If you're starting with a puppy, you have a huge advantage though these next sections are recommended for ALL dogs who don’t love their feet touched.

Use it please.

Start Playing With Your Dogs Feet

One of the easiest things you can do at home is simply teach your puppy that having their feet handled isn't a big deal. Touch the paws. Hold one for a second. touch individual toes. Gently press on a nail. Rub between the toes. Then let go.

That's it.

Not every interaction with your dogs feet needs to end with nail clippers appearing.

In fact, we specifically WANT dogs to experience people handling their feet when absolutely nothing happens afterward.

You're teaching:

Someone touched my foot.

The world did not end.

Do it casually while you're sitting together. Keep sessions ridiculously short at first. You aren't trying to prove that you can hold onto the paw longer while the dog pulls it away. We're not having a battle of wills with a 8 week old puppy or a 14 year old senior dog over a toenail.

Once paw handling becomes boring, introduce the nail clippers without immediately launching into a complete nail trim.

Let the puppy see them.

Touch a paw while you're holding them.

Touch the clippers gently against a nail without cutting it.

Clip ONE nail if the pet is comfortable.

You don't necessarily have to finish every foot because you've started.

One successful nail is more useful than finishing all of them after the dog has become frightened, frantic and determined to never let another human being touch its feet again. It’s a negative experience when we turn it into one consistently. It’s a no big deal experience when we work to make it no big deal.

Getting Your Dog Used to a Nail Grinder Without Starting With the Nail Grinder

Some dogs do much better with a Dremel or other electric nail grinder than they do with traditional nail clippers. It’s getting the nails to a healthy length when we can that matters, not which tool we use to do it. It’s usually best to let them pick if they have a preference rather than trying to force them through the process and make them hate nail trims.

If an owner tells me their dog absolutely hates nail trims, one of the first things I'll do is simply show them both the nail clippers and the Dremel separately before I ever touch a foot. It's amazing how many dogs immediately tell me which one they don't like and associate with negatively on sight. Sometimes they'll barely react to one tool but become noticeably anxious the moment they see or hear the other.

That tells me a lot.

Whenever it's safe and practical, I'll often start with the tool they're least concerned about. In many cases, it's the one they haven't had unpleasant experiences with in the past. My goal isn't to prove one tool is better than the other. My goal is to get the nails to a healthy length while making the experience as positive as possible in a way that works the best for THEM long term.

Some dogs hear that nail grinder thing turn on and immediately decide they're leaving the country.

The sound is part of it, but vibration is a big part too. A grinder touching the nail creates a strange vibration that travels through the nail and into the toe. If a puppy has never experienced anything remotely like that before, turning on a loud grinder and immediately sticking it against their toenail is a pretty big first introduction. With older dogs this can be especially uncomfortable for old arthritic bones and joints with all that vibration.

And then there’s the smell which is MUCH stronger to them than to us and can induce panic in some pups.

This is where an electric toothbrush can come in handy if your pup is gonna tolerate the dremel in the future or your groomer has informed you that your pup does not like dremels but you REALLY want those suckers dremeled.

An electric toothbrush isn't going to feel exactly like a nail grinder, nor is that the point. What it does give you is a much smaller, less intimidating vibrating object that you can use to introduce the general idea of vibration.

Start by simply turning it on nearby.

If your puppy doesn't care, great.

Then you can touch the handle against the body for a second. Eventually work your way down the legs and toward the feet. When your puppy is comfortable with that, briefly touch the vibrating handle against a toe or nail.

Again, we're not trying to hold the puppy hostage until they surrender.

A second is fine.

Then two seconds.

Then maybe a few more.

Once vibration around the feet has become completely uninteresting, introducing an actual nail grinder is much less of a jump.

You can use the same gradual process with the grinder itself. Turn it on without touching the dog. Let that become boring. Bring it closer. Touch the body of the tool against the foot without grinding anything.

Eventually, briefly touch the grinder to one nail.

And stop.

You do not have to Dremel 18 nails during the first lesson just because the puppy let you do one.

When actually grinding nails, use short contacts rather than holding the grinder continuously against one spot. Friction creates heat, and heat hurts. Also if you are concerned about quacking your pup? Be aware that dremels frequently come into contact with the quicks, it’s not less often than a nail clipper. The difference is that the heat and friction from the grinder usually cauterizes the nail and prevents further bleeding unless it’s much further into the quick so it’s likely to go unnoticed.

Also pay attention to long hair around the feet. Hair wrapped around a rapidly spinning Dremel is an entirely different problem and can be FAR more painful than a quicked nail that nobody needs.

Keeping Nails Smooth After Grooming and Between Trims

You may occasionally notice that your dog's nails aren't quite as smooth as you'd like after a nail trim. Other times, they may have felt perfectly smooth at first, only to develop a tiny rough edge over the next several days.

That's completely normal.

Dogs don't spend their days sitting in bubble wrap. They walk on sidewalks, scratch at the back door, dig in the yard, jump off the couch, wrestle with their toys and generally use their feet exactly the way dogs are supposed to. A tiny rough edge can develop simply through normal daily activity.

Fortunately, this is one of the easiest parts of nail care to maintain at home.

A regular human emery board or nail file is all you need.

Hold your dog's paw the same way you would if you were looking at the nails. Support the toe with one hand and use the emery board with the other. Using light pressure, gently file only the rough edge until it feels smooth. You don't need to bear down or spend several minutes on each nail. A few gentle passes are often all it takes.

Every few strokes, stop and feel the nail with your fingertip. If it no longer catches your skin or snags a blanket, you're finished.

Remember, you're not trying to shorten the nail or perform another nail trim. You're simply smoothing the little rough spot that's bothering you.

If your dog has had enough after one or two nails, that's perfectly fine. Touch up another one later. There's no rule that says every nail has to be clipped or filed in one sitting.

One quick note for cat owners: this works beautifully for most dogs, but cat claws are built differently. Because cats naturally shed the outer layers of their claws, an emery board or dremel often causes those layers to fray and shred instead of smoothing them. For cats, simply trimming the sharp hooked tip is usually the better option.

Keeping an inexpensive emery board with your pet supplies is one of those little things you'll probably use far more often than you expected. And you won’t need to stress out your pet and the folks trying to keep those nails at healthy lengths trying to get everything to your liking in one shot every nail trim.

Cat Nails Need Attention Too

Cat nail trimming is generally pretty simple once you know what you're looking at.

Gently press the toe so the claw extends. On most cats, the claw is translucent enough that you can clearly see the pink quick running through it.

You aren't trying to cut anywhere near that.

You're simply clipping off the sharp curved hook at the end.

Cat claws are usually much easier to read than black dog nails, which is nice because the cat may provide plenty of other challenges to keep things interesting.

Dewclaw-type inner claws and the claws on older cats deserve particular attention.

Cats normally shed the outer layers of their claws as they scratch. You may have found those little hollow-looking claw sheaths around a scratching post and wondered whether your cat somehow lost an entire claw.

They didn't.

That's normal.

As cats age, however, they may become less active, scratch less or have more difficulty maintaining their own claws. The claws can become thicker and continue growing until they curl toward the paw pad.

Some cat nails can grow directly into the pad.

That's painful and can create a wound and infection.

Senior cats should have their feet checked regularly even if nobody has ever needed to trim their nails before.

Why Did They Say My Dog Has Long Quicks?

Here's another thing we see often. Someone finally decides their dog's nails are way too long and wants them cut extremely short in one appointment.

Except we can't necessarily do that.

Remember that the quick is living tissue inside the nail.

As a dog's nails remain long, the quick can extend farther down into the nail. That means there may simply not be enough dead nail available to safely remove everything you would LIKE removed at once. You can't just decide where the nail should end and cut there.

This is where regular trims become important.

If nails and quicks have become excessively long, trimming them approximately every two weeks can gradually help work the nails back as the quicks move back into a more natural and preferred length.

Each time, you're removing the safe excess and getting closer to the quick without intentionally cutting into it. Over time, the quick can gradually recede, allowing the nail to be shortened farther. This is not an overnight process. And how quickly it happens varies from dog to dog.

The goal isn't to chase the quick backward by repeatedly cutting into it. The goal is frequent, conservative nail trimming that keeps removing the excess as the nail and quick adjust.

If you have a dog with extremely long nails, think gradual improvement rather than trying to fix six months of nail growth in six minutes.

One Exception to the Rule

Throughout this article, we've talked about avoiding the quick whenever possible during routine nail trims.

There is one exception that may be worth discussing with your veterinarian.

If your dog is already scheduled to be under general anesthesia for a dental cleaning or another surgical procedure, ask your veterinarian whether intentionally shortening the nails farther than would normally be recommended on an awake dog would be beneficial.

Because your dog is already under anesthesia, they won't experience the brief sting associated with exposing the quick, and there is no struggling or fear associated with the process. For dogs with chronically overgrown nails and excessively long quicks, this can be an excellent opportunity to reset the nails to a much healthier length, allowing them to grow back into a healthier, more manageable position that's much easier to maintain with regular nail trims.

While you're having that conversation, it's also a good opportunity to ask whether removing any pesky dewclaws that may be at risk of being torn off in the future would be beneficial while your dog is already under anesthesia. If your veterinarian feels it's appropriate, addressing both during the same procedure may help prevent problems down the road.

Okay, You Hit the Quick. Now What?

First, this is why we recommend having Quick Stop or another styptic powder available BEFORE you start trimming nails and in general for first aid for torn or bleeding nails. Not after.

Before.

Because naturally, the one time you don't have it will be the time somebody jerks their foot at exactly the wrong second. Styptic powder helps stop bleeding by promoting clotting at the cut surface. Put some directly onto the bleeding nail and apply firm pressure. Don't dab at it or check it every three seconds to see if it's still bleeding.

Pressure needs time to work. Hold it there.

Most accidentally quicked nails look considerably more dramatic than they actually are because even a relatively small amount of blood can quickly get smeared across a paw, your floor, your clothes and possibly every surface your dog can reach while you're trying to catch them.

Once you've stopped the bleeding, keep the dog reasonably quiet for a little while so they don't immediately knock the clot loose running around the house.

What If You Don't Have Quick Stop?

Of course, emergencies rarely happen when you've thoughtfully assembled every supply you could possibly need.

If you accidentally quick a nail and don't have styptic powder, cornstarch or flour can be used temporarily to help control the bleeding. Put some into a small container or your palm, press the nail into it and then apply steady pressure.

The pressure is important.

A clean bar of soap can also be used in a pinch by gently pressing the bleeding nail into the softened soap.

These are emergency substitutes, not reasons to permanently replace styptic powder if you're regularly trimming nails at home.

Quick Stop is inexpensive.

Buy some.

Put it with the nail clippers and/or dremel.

Then you don't have to tear through your kitchen cabinets with a bleeding dog under your arm trying to remember whether I said cornstarch or baking soda.

It was Cornstarch.

When a Bleeding Nail Is More Than Just a Quicked Nail

There is a big difference between accidentally clipping into the quick and having a nail tear, split or partially rip off.

Dogs can catch nails on carpets, blankets, furniture, fencing and plenty of other things.

Dewclaws are especially vulnerable because of where they sit on the leg.

A torn dewclaw can bleed A LOT.

Again, don't panic just because there's blood everywhere. Nails are vascular, and blood gets spread around quickly.

Your first job is controlling the bleeding.

Apply styptic powder if you have it and use firm pressure with clean gauze or another clean absorbent material.

If the nail is partially attached, don't start yanking on it because it looks like it should come off.

That remaining piece may still be attached to living tissue and pulling it can be extremely painful and cause additional damage.

If bleeding won't stop with sustained pressure, the nail has torn significantly, the nail is dangling, the nail bed is exposed, your pet is in substantial pain or you're dealing with a deep injury around the toe, it's time to contact your veterinarian.

Broken nails can sometimes require removal of the damaged portion, pain management and treatment of the exposed nail bed.

The same applies when an overgrown nail has penetrated a paw pad.

Don't simply clip the nail out of the pad and assume the problem is finished.

That nail has created a puncture wound.

The area may need veterinary attention, particularly if there is swelling, discharge, significant pain, odor or any other sign of infection. Your groomer will usually remember to inform you if there was an embedded nail during their grooming or nail trim appointment so you can properly monitor the area.

How Often Should Nails Actually Be Trimmed?

There isn't one perfect schedule for every dog.

Some dogs naturally wear their nails down considerably by walking on hard surfaces. Others barely wear them at all. Dewclaws aren't hitting the ground, so don't assume they're fine because the other nails look good.

For many dogs, checking nails every few weeks is a good habit. If you're trying to gradually shorten excessively long nails and encourage long quicks to recede, approximately every two weeks is a reasonable schedule.

The easiest way to avoid having to fix severely overgrown nails is simply not letting them become severely overgrown in the first place. If your dog sounds like a tiny tap dancer walking across the kitchen floor, take a look at their feet. If the nails are touching the ground it’s probably time for a visit to the groomer.

Nail Care Doesn't Have to Become a Wrestling Match

Nail trimming is necessary.

Turning every nail trim into an event worthy of professional wrestling is not.

Start handling feet, preferably when your dog is young but it’s never too late.

Teach puppies that touching their toes is normal.

Introduce clippers and grinders gradually.

Use an electric toothbrush if vibration is the scary part.

Use an emery board to smooth those ridiculous little razor blades just after and in between trims.

Keep styptic powder nearby.

Learn what the quick looks like.

And remember the easiest visual rule when you're wondering where you're supposed to trim:

Look for the curve.

That's generally the excess nail you're trying to remove.

If your dog already has a serious fear of nail trimming, don't assume the solution is simply holding them harder. Sometimes slowing down and rebuilding their tolerance to having their feet handled will get you much farther than winning another wrestling match.

Because ultimately, nail trimming should be routine maintenance.

Not a traumatic life event for the dog, the owner, the groomer and three innocent bystanders.

Final Thoughts

Hopefully, you've come away with a better understanding of what really goes into trimming nails and why it isn't always as simple as it might appear. Hopefully, you now understand that accidentally quicking a nail is not the end of the world, not a major injury and certainly not automatic proof that someone was careless or negligent. Hopefully, you'll also understand why your dog's nails may not always be quite as short, smooth or perfectly rounded as you were hoping after a single appointment, and why that's sometimes in your dog's best interest.

Most of all, I hope you'll be a little kinder to the person holding the nail clippers. Whether that's your groomer, veterinarian, veterinary technician, bather or even yourself, we're all trying to do what's best for a living, moving animal that doesn't always feel like cooperating or understanding of the fact we're trying to help them. Because one day, the person trimming your pup's nails might just be you.

Whether you're using a mobile groomer , visiting a traditional grooming salon, having your veterinarian handle those toes or tackling nail trims at home, may all your future nail trims be much smoother sailing, your quicks remain untouched and your Quick Stop stay safely in the container where it belongs.

Dog Breed Spotlight - The French Bulldog

Tue, 14 Jul 2026 02:16:17 GMT

Dog Breed Spotlight: The French Bulldog

This is a breed VERY near and dear to this author/groomer's heart.

Meet the French Bulldog

French Bulldogs have exploded in popularity over the last decade or so, and it's easy to understand why. Their oversized bat ears, expressive faces, clownish personalities, and compact size have won over families around the world. They're affectionate, endlessly entertaining, and seem to possess an uncanny ability to become the center of attention wherever they go.

If you're looking for a quiet, eager-to-please companion that hangs on your every command, however, this probably isn't the breed for you. French Bulldogs are intelligent, independent, stubborn, and completely convinced that their ideas are usually better than yours. Fortunately, they make up for it with enough personality to keep you laughing for years.

Breed History

Despite their name, French Bulldogs actually originated in England, not France. Their story began in the mid-1800s after bull-baiting was outlawed in England in 1835, when breeders began developing smaller Toy Bulldogs better suited for companionship than blood sports. During the Industrial Revolution, many Nottingham lace workers relocated to northern France, taking their little Bulldogs with them. There, the dogs were crossed with local ratting dogs and other small breeds, gradually developing the distinctive bat ears, compact build, and affectionate personality we recognize today.

Originally, these little dogs served two purposes. They were treasured companions for the lace workers while also helping keep homes and workshops free of rats and mice. As their popularity spread from working-class neighborhoods to Parisian cafés, artists, and high society, the breed became known as the Bouledogue Français before eventually making its way to America in the 1880s.

That ratting heritage also helps explain a few things about the modern French Bulldog. Although they're no longer expected to hunt vermin, many still retain the boldness, determination, confidence, and terrier-like intelligence and attitude that made them effective little ratters. It's one of the reasons Frenchies often seem to have no idea they're small, why they can be surprisingly stubborn, and why they aren't always the social butterflies some people expect them to be around other dogs.

Personality and Temperament

Life with a French Bulldog is rarely boring.

Frenchies seem to have only two speeds. They're either asleep so soundly you find yourself checking on them, or they're tearing through the house at what feels like two hundred miles an hour because someone picked up a toy, opened the refrigerator, or dared to ring the doorbell. Moderation simply isn't part of their vocabulary. OR they may be busy entertaining that high-powered brain and figuring out everything you hoped they wouldn't if left to their own devices for too long.

French Bulldogs thrive on attention. This is probably THE key insight into understanding the true French Bulldog. It's always all about them. They genuinely enjoy being involved in everything their family does.

Cooking dinner? They're supervising.

Folding laundry? They're helping...whether you asked for help or not.

Trying to use the bathroom alone? Good luck with that.

They also have an incredible sense of humor. Whether they're making ridiculous facial expressions, carrying around a toy twice their size, or proudly showing off something they definitely weren't supposed to have, French Bulldogs have an amazing ability to make people laugh. Which, of course, gets them even more attention.

Living with a French Bulldog

There are a few things French Bulldog breeders don't always mention to first-time owners.

One of them involves the other end of the dog.

Because of their compact build and tightly curled screw tails, many French Bulldogs simply can't clean themselves very well after going to the bathroom. It isn't glamorous, but keeping pet wipes handy and checking beneath the tail regularly can help prevent irritation, infection, and some very unpleasant odors.

Consider yourself warned.

French Bulldogs are also champion snorers. With that flat face, they grunt, snort, snore, sigh, and make enough strange noises to convince visitors there's a small pig living somewhere in the house.

And then they fart.

Despite their stubborn streak, they're incredibly devoted to their families and generally want to be wherever their favorite people happen to be. Don't expect much privacy. French Bulldogs firmly believe every room in the house should include them.

Training and Social Behavior

French Bulldogs are intelligent enough to learn just about anything.

Whether they feel like doing it is another matter entirely.

Training should always be consistent, positive, and patient. They respond much better to praise and making training enjoyable and a game than they ever will to force or harsh corrections. However, it is important to understand that, to most Frenchies, ALL attention is good attention. Even when you're hopping mad, they're STILL the center of attention. Frenchies don't like to do much of anything unless they see something in it for themselves.

With their extremely sensitive stomachs, digestive systems, and tendency toward allergies, they are often on pretty strict diets, so treats should be given in moderation. They also aren't nearly as motivating or behavior-shaping to the average Frenchie as enthusiastic praise and positive attention.

Prospective owners should also understand that French Bulldogs are generally bold, confident little dogs. They are not a breed that should automatically be assumed to enjoy the company of every dog they meet or even get along well with dogs they already know. While training and appropriate, controlled social experiences help teach good manners, they do not change inherited temperament.

French Bulldogs often have far more confidence than their size would suggest and may be unwilling to back down if conflict occurs. Don't assume your French Bulldog needs a dog park to be happy or that, simply because they're small, they'll get along with every dog they encounter. They like to establish themselves as "the big man" at the dog park or daycare and, being pretty selfish by nature, they don't always react kindly to other dogs touching...well...anything, because in their minds, it's theirs.

Many are perfectly content being the only dog in the household or living with established canine housemates under the supervision of the family leader. Introductions to unfamiliar dogs should always be made thoughtfully and under control.

Understanding and respecting the breed's naturally more terrier-like temperament is one of the best ways to help keep everyone safe.

Grooming Requirements

One of the biggest misconceptions about French Bulldogs is that their short coat makes them low maintenance. Nothing could be further from the truth. While they don't require regular haircuts, they absolutely require extensive brushing, routine professional grooming, and a good home maintenance routine to keep the shedding under control.

French Bulldogs shed... A LOT.

If you're looking for a dog that leaves very little hair around the house, a Frenchie probably isn't the breed for you. Regular brushing removes loose hair before it ends up on your furniture, clothing, and floors, while professional de-shedding baths every four to eight weeks can make a tremendous difference in keeping that coat under control.

Good nutrition also plays an important role in maintaining healthy skin and coat. Feeding a high-quality diet and discussing omega fatty acid supplements with your veterinarian can often improve skin and coat quality while helping minimize excessive shedding.

One thing you should never do is shave your French Bulldog to reduce shedding. It simply doesn't work. The hair will continue to shed, and the coat helps protect the skin while providing insulation from both heat and cold.

Because French Bulldogs are so commonly affected by allergies and sensitive skin, ask your groomer to use fragrance-free, hypoallergenic shampoos whenever possible. Skip the perfumes and finishing colognes altogether. A simple de-shedding bath using gentle products is usually the best choice for this sensitive breed.

Those adorable facial wrinkles require regular attention as well. Moisture, food, and debris can collect within the folds, creating the perfect environment for irritation or infection. Keeping the wrinkles clean and dry should become part of every owner's routine.

Don't forget the ears. Those famous bat ears allow excellent air circulation, but they still need to be checked regularly for dirt, excess wax, or signs of infection. Nail trimming is equally important. Long nails affect the way a dog stands and walks and can eventually contribute to discomfort and orthopedic issues.

Professional grooming isn't just about making your French Bulldog look nice and reducing the amount of hair they shed around your house . It's also an opportunity to monitor the skin, ears, nails, coat, and overall condition while catching small problems before they become much larger ones.

Health Considerations

French Bulldogs are wonderful companions, but they are not a breed prospective owners should purchase without understanding their potential health concerns. Many live long, happy lives, but responsible breeding, appropriate health testing, and preventative care are incredibly important in this breed.

Because they are a brachycephalic, or flat-faced, breed, many French Bulldogs are affected by Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) . Their shortened skull structure can make breathing more difficult, particularly during exercise, excitement, or hot weather. While some French Bulldogs breathe quite well, others may eventually require medical or surgical intervention to improve their quality of life.

French Bulldogs are also well known for allergies and immune-related disorders. Environmental allergies, food sensitivities, chronic ear infections, itchy skin, inflamed paws, and recurring skin infections are unfortunately common within the breed. Some Frenchies spend years working with their veterinarian to find the right combination of diet, medication, and environmental management to keep them comfortable.

Because of their prominent eyes, French Bulldogs are also more susceptible to painful corneal ulcers and eye injuries than many other breeds. Squinting, excessive tearing, redness, cloudiness, or holding an eye closed should always be treated as a reason to contact your veterinarian promptly.

One of the most misunderstood health concerns in French Bulldogs is the spine. The breed's signature screw tail is actually part of the spine and is itself a form of hemivertebrae, or malformed vertebrae. In fact, hemivertebrae and other vertebral abnormalities are more common than not in the breed. Finding them on X-rays is not automatically a reason to panic, and many French Bulldogs live perfectly normal, active lives with spinal changes that never cause clinical problems.

The important question isn't simply whether vertebral abnormalities exist. It's whether they are severe enough to affect the spinal cord, mobility, comfort, nerve function, or overall quality of life. Unfortunately, some French Bulldogs do develop significant spinal disease at a very young age, resulting in chronic pain, weakness, loss of coordination, paralysis, or even the heartbreaking decision to euthanize a young dog. This is one of the reasons responsible preservation breeders place such importance on spinal health and why prospective owners should never hesitate to ask breeders about the spinal history of their bloodlines, what health testing has been performed, and whether there have been dogs that developed significant back problems early in life.

French Bulldogs are also predisposed to Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) , which can occur suddenly and become a true medical emergency. Any French Bulldog that suddenly cries out in pain, becomes weak, wobbly, drags a foot, loses coordination, or is unable to stand or walk normally should receive immediate veterinary attention.

The breed's natural structure also means hip dysplasia and luxating patellas are not uncommon and are frequently present from birth. Again, the question is not simply whether these conditions exist in this breed, but whether they are severe enough to affect the dog's comfort, mobility, and quality of life.

Heart disease is another condition responsible breeders work diligently to reduce through careful health testing and thoughtful breeding decisions.

Reading this list may sound intimidating, but it doesn't mean every French Bulldog will experience these problems. Many never do. It does, however, reinforce why choosing a responsible preservation breeder is one of the most important decisions you'll make. A breeder who is open about the health of their bloodlines and performs appropriate health testing is giving your future puppy the best possible start in life. Considering the potential cost of treating many of these conditions, pet insurance is also well worth considering while your French Bulldog is still young and healthy.

French Bulldogs and Heat Don't Mix—Sometimes Humidity Too

French Bulldogs and hot weather are a dangerous combination. Their shortened airways make it much harder to cool themselves, allowing them to overheat far more quickly than many other breeds.

Every French Bulldog owner should know the signs of heat stroke before they ever need to recognize them. If your Frenchie begins struggling to breathe, collapses, becomes disoriented, or shows signs of overheating, treat it as a true medical emergency.

Many experienced Bulldog and French Bulldog breeders carry a summer heat emergency kit that includes lemon juice. As an overheated French Bulldog struggles to breathe, thick mucus and foam can rapidly build up in the throat, making an already compromised airway even worse. A small squirt of lemon juice can help cut through that mucus while you're actively cooling your dog and heading immediately to the nearest emergency veterinary hospital.

Lemon juice is first aid, not a cure. Its purpose is to help keep the airway as clear as possible while buying precious time on the way to emergency veterinary treatment.

If you'd like to learn more about preventing, recognizing, and treating heat stroke, be sure to read my complete article dedicated to this life-threatening emergency.

Choosing a Responsible Breeder

One of the biggest decisions you'll make isn't what color French Bulldog you want or whether you prefer a male or female. It's choosing where your puppy comes from.

A responsible preservation breeder should be happy to discuss the health testing performed on their breeding dogs, explain why they selected a particular breeding, and answer your questions honestly. They should also be just as interested in learning about you as you are about them. Responsible breeders care deeply about where their puppies spend the rest of their lives and remain a resource long after you bring your puppy home.

If someone always has puppies available, advertises multiple "rare" colors, refuses to discuss health testing, cannot provide documentation, or seems more interested in collecting a deposit than educating prospective owners, it's worth slowing down and asking more questions.

A well-bred puppy is worth waiting for.

French Bull Dog Club of America Breeder Referral
https://frenchbulldogclub.org/breeders/

Rescue Is Another Wonderful Option

Not every French Bulldog begins life under ideal circumstances. Every year, wonderful Frenchies find themselves needing new homes because of changes in their owner's life, unexpected medical expenses, or other situations that have nothing to do with the dog itself.

Breed-specific rescue organizations work tirelessly to provide veterinary care, evaluate each dog's temperament, and match them with families that understand the unique needs of the breed.

Adopting an adult French Bulldog can be an incredibly rewarding experience and is well worth considering if you're open to giving a deserving dog a second chance.

French Bull Dog Club of America Rescue Organizations
https://frenchbulldogclub.org/rescue/

The "Rare Color" Trend and Fad Breeding Is Hurting the Breed

French Bulldogs have become one of the most popular breeds in the country, and unfortunately, that popularity has come at a price. Social media is flooded with advertisements for "rare," "exotic," and "designer" French Bulldogs in fad colors that responsible preservation breeders simply are not trying to produce.

The French Bull Dog Club of America, the official parent club recognized by the American Kennel Club, has established a breed standard that responsible preservation breeders work hard to protect. Their goal is to preserve the breed by producing healthy, structurally sound French Bulldogs with excellent temperaments. They are not breeding for whatever color happens to be fashionable or brings the highest price.

The color itself isn't what causes health problems.

The real concern is that the tremendous demand for fad colors has fueled an explosion of backyard breeders and puppy mills that often place little emphasis on health testing, pedigree research, sound structure, temperament, or the long-term future of the breed. Responsible preservation breeders work to improve French Bulldogs. Irresponsible breeders often work to satisfy a market.

While not every fad-colored French Bulldog will have serious health problems, and not every standard-colored French Bulldog will be perfectly healthy, careful preservation breeding and comprehensive health testing remain the best tools we have for reducing inherited disease within the breed.

If you're shopping for a French Bulldog, don't start by asking what colors are available.

Start by asking about health testing.

This is more than a vet exam.

Ask about the parents, the grandparents, and the great-grandparents.

Ask about the health and longevity of the breeder's bloodlines. The cute puppy in front of you has more contributions to its future than just "Mom" or "Dad," and it's frequently their parents that have a lot to do with how that cute puppy turns out in the future.

Ask why the breeding was planned.

Ask whether the breeder follows the recommendations of the French Bull Dog Club of America.

Those answers will tell you far more about your future puppy than the color of its coat ever will.

Helpful Resources

French Bull Dog Club of America
https://frenchbulldogclub.org/

FBDCA Resources (Recommended Reading)
https://frenchbulldogclub.org/resources/

French Bull Dog Club of America Breeder Referral
https://frenchbulldogclub.org/breeders/

French Bull Dog Club of America Rescue Organizations
https://frenchbulldogclub.org/french-bulldog-rescue-organizations/

Nevada SPCA
https://nevadaspca.org/

The Animal Foundation (Las Vegas)
https://animalfoundation.com/

Las Vegas Bulldog Club Rescue Information
https://lasvegasbulldogclub.com/rescue/

Final Thoughts

French Bulldogs have earned their popularity for good reason. They're funny, affectionate, intelligent, endlessly entertaining, and full of personality. They also require owners who understand the realities of the breed, from their grooming needs and stubborn nature to the importance of responsible breeding and preventative healthcare.

If you're willing to invest the time to care for them properly and choose your breeder carefully, a French Bulldog can be one of the most rewarding companions you'll ever have.

Just don't expect them to admit you're the one in charge.

Finally Back!

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 02:07:35 GMT

Finally Back!

That took a little longer than I hoped.

If you've been wondering where all the blog posts disappeared to, I promise I didn't fall off the face of the earth. My web host made some changes behind the scenes that suddenly made it impossible for me to publish posts from my phone. Normally that wouldn't be a huge deal, except I don't have access to a computer. Talk about terrible timing!

The good news? We finally got everything sorted out, and I can post again. I have genuinely missed sharing, and I'm excited to get this blog rolling again.

There have also been some pretty big changes while I was away.

After a lot of thought, I've decided to make Leashes Pet Salon on Ann and Simmons my new home base. It wasn't an easy decision because I truly loved my time grooming at The Ark Animal Clinic. I loved my clients, my coworkers, and all of the wonderful dogs I had the privilege of grooming there. But this feels like the right next chapter, and I'm excited for everything that's ahead. If you've been trying to track me down, this is where you'll find me now!

I'll still be grooming the same way I always have, with plenty of patience, lots of laughs, and an unhealthy obsession with making dogs look ridiculously adorable.

And congrats to my friend Shawna on her beautiful new salon Dogz By Shawna on the corner of Cheyenne and Buffalo. I'd wish you well, but you got the goods and do amazing work, so wishes aren't necessary. ;P

Thanks for sticking with me through the unexpected silence. I'm so happy to be back, and I can't wait to fill this blog with whatever else pops into my head. I'm ready and excited to make up for lost time.

Las Vegas Dog-Friendly Events & Activities: Nevada SPCA Neon Dog Walk

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 01:57:39 GMT

Las Vegas Dog-Friendly Events & Activities: Nevada SPCA Neon Dog Walk

Every year, Las Vegas lights up with excitement as pups and their people gather for one of the city's most colorful charity events—the Nevada SPCA Neon Dog Walk .

This family-friendly evening brings together glowing lights, wagging tails, and a wonderful cause: supporting homeless pets throughout Southern Nevada.

Event Details

Date: Saturday, October 18, 2025

Time: 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Location: Silverado Ranch Park
9855 Gilespie St.
Las Vegas, NV

Presented By: Nevada SPCA

The walk isn't just about taking a stroll—it's about celebrating our four-legged friends in style. Guests and their dogs are encouraged to dress in bright neon colors, glow sticks, and light-up accessories, transforming the park into a sea of glowing paws and smiling faces.

What to Expect

The evening features a glowing walk through Silverado Ranch Park, live entertainment, music, and plenty of excitement to keep tails wagging.

The Neon Village will host local vendors, businesses, and community partners offering shopping, giveaways, and fun activities throughout the event.

Families can also enjoy:

Games
Photo opportunities
Entertainment
Vendor booths
Community activities
Plenty of opportunities to meet fellow dog lovers

Whether you're attending with your own dog or simply want to support a great cause, it's a fun evening for the entire family.

Supporting Homeless Pets

Every registration helps the Nevada SPCA continue providing shelter, veterinary care, rehabilitation, and loving homes for homeless animals throughout Southern Nevada.

The Neon Dog Walk is much more than a community event—it's an opportunity to directly support thousands of pets who are waiting for their forever families.

Helpful Links

Nevada SPCA Neon Dog Walk
https://nevadaspca.org/event/6th-annual-neon-dog-walk/

Nevada SPCA
https://nevadaspca.org/

Ready to glow for a cause?

Gather your pup, grab your brightest glow gear, and join the Las Vegas community for an unforgettable evening supporting homeless pets. Together, we can light up the night while helping change lives—one wagging tail at a time.

Things Your Groomer Wishes You Knew: Episode 1

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 01:19:38 GMT

Things Your Groomer Wishes You Knew: Episode 1

Welcome to the first episode of Things Your Groomer Wishes You Knew —the series where we pull back the curtain on the fur-covered, scissor-wielding, caffeine-powered world of professional dog grooming.

If you've ever wondered what really happens behind the scenes at your grooming salon, buckle up. These are the things groomers talk about every day but rarely get the chance to explain.

We're a Skilled Trade, Not a Coffee Counter or Fast Food Joint

Dog grooming isn't like ordering a latte. We're not standing behind a register asking if you'd like that haircut "extra foamy."

Grooming is a skilled trade that requires years of hands-on experience, practice, continuing education, and specialized knowledge. Think electricians, plumbers, or welders, except our "materials" bark, wiggle, lick our faces, and occasionally decide today's the perfect day to practice their alligator roll.

We're not simply taking orders.

We're making professional decisions that balance your dog's safety, comfort, health, coat type, behavior, and appearance all at the same time. Those decisions are based on training and experience, not just personal preference.

And unlike many skilled trades, we rarely get paid by the hour.

We Don't Have Normal Working Hours

A groomer's schedule is like dog hair on black pants, it's everywhere.

We may start at the same time every morning, but there's absolutely no guarantee when we'll finish.

Ask a groomer what time they get off work and you'll probably see them mentally calculating every possible disaster the day could still throw at them before answering with something that sounds more like a four-hour window than an actual time.

Lunch?

Maybe.

If the phones stop ringing, nobody's doodle decides to roll in the mud on the way to the appointment, no emergency nail trims walk through the door, and the stars happen to align.

It's not unusual for groomers to work ten to twelve hours while only sitting down for a few minutes all day.

So if you think we're "just clipping a little fur," remember that many of us are running a marathon while wearing clogs and carrying extremely sharp scissors.

Grooming Isn't Just About Looking Cute

Everyone loves a beautiful haircut.

We do too.

But our job isn't simply recreating the picture you found on Pinterest .

Every groom involves balancing appearance with function, comfort, safety, coat condition, maintenance requirements, and your dog's individual lifestyle.

Your groomer isn't trying to ignore your wishes or reinvent your vision.

We're trying to give your dog a haircut that will still look nice after zoomies through the backyard, a wrestling match at daycare, and the next few weeks of normal dog life.

Unlike a human salon, where appearance is usually the primary goal, professional grooming is first and foremost about your dog's health and comfort.

Making them look adorable is the fun part.

No Two Groomers Are the Same

Have you ever wondered why one groomer says, "Absolutely," while another says, "I'm not comfortable doing that?"

It's not personal.

Every groomer has different training, experience, specialties, physical abilities, and professional standards.

One groomer may agree to shave a Husky or Labrador because they simply don't know the long term risks or are the type to do anything a client asks if possible BECAUSE they asked.

Another groomer may politely refuse because they've spent years learning why that isn't in the dog's best interest.

Neither conversation is about being difficult.

It's about professional judgment.

If your groomer tells you they don't perform a certain service or recommends a different approach than someone you've used in the past, please understand that they're making that recommendation based on their own education and experience, not trying to criticize another groomer. They also shouldn't be under judgement for saying no. Find the one that you fit as much as they fit you and everyone's happy!

No Two Dogs Are the Same

Just like no two groomers are alike, no two dogs are carbon copies.

Two dogs may look nearly identical to you, but to a groomer they're completely different projects.

They may have different personalities, different coat textures, different bone structure, different grooming histories, and completely different behavior on the table.

A matted doodle and a perfectly maintained Poodle that both weigh fifty pounds are not the same amount of work.

A stylish pattern trim takes considerably more time than a simple teddy bear cut.

A dog maintained every three to four weeks at one-quarter inch isn't the same as a dog kept at one inch, even if they're on the exact same grooming schedule.

Then add behavior into the equation.

One dog stands like a statue.

The next one spends the entire appointment trying to breakdance.

Those differences matter.

Grooming Takes Much Longer Than Most People Realize

Many people picture grooming as:

A bath.
A quick blow dry.
A fast haircut.

Reality is a little different.

A typical groom often includes:

A thorough bath.
Complete rinsing.
Careful drying.
Brushing and combing.
De-shedding if needed.
Clipping.
Scissoring.
Nail trimming.
Ear cleaning.
Sanitary work.
Paw pad trimming.

And that's before your dog decides they absolutely must lick the scissors, bite the clippers, sit down halfway through a leg, or convince themselves that standing on three feet is the only acceptable life choice.

Meanwhile, the salon doesn't stop.

Dogs arrive.

Dogs go home.

The phone rings.

Clients have questions.

Laundry piles up.

Tools need disinfecting.

Kennels need cleaning.

Someone has an accident.

A walk-in needs a nail trim.

And every now and then, some mysterious noise somewhere in the building requires immediate investigation.

It's not just a haircut.

Some days it feels more like an Olympic event.

Sometimes We Say Yes Because We Want to Help

One thing many clients never see is that groomers often overbook themselves because they genuinely want to help.

Someone's regular appointment falls through.

A dog desperately needs to be groomed before vacation.

Another client has an emergency.

Before long, we've accepted two or three more dogs than we probably should have because we know how hard it can be to find an appointment.

So if your dog's groom takes longer than expected, please remember we haven't been sitting in the back watching television.

We never know exactly how our day is going to unfold.

We're simply doing everything we can to give every dog the time and attention they deserve.

Until Next Time...

That's a wrap for Things Your Groomer Wishes You Knew: Episode 1.

There are plenty more behind-the-scenes stories, misconceptions, and little realities of the grooming world that most pet parents never get to hear.

We'll tackle more of them in the next episode.

Groomer Confession #1

I've brushed more tails this week than I've brushed my own hair. They don't much care what I look like and I'm getting messy at work anyway.

Why You Shouldn’t Shave Your Pitbull, Bulldog, French Bulldog, or Other Short Coated Breeds to Stop Shedding

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 01:07:41 GMT

Why You Shouldn't Shave Your Pit Bull, Bulldog, French Bulldog, or Other Short-Coated Breeds to Stop Shedding

If you've ever looked at the tumbleweeds of dog hair rolling across your floor and thought, "Maybe I should just shave my dog," you're certainly not alone.

It's one of the most common questions groomers hear from owners of Pit Bulls, Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, Labrador Retrievers, Boxers, Beagles, Pugs, and other short-coated breeds.

It seems logical. Less hair on the dog should mean less hair around the house...right?

Unfortunately, that's not how shedding works.

Why People Think Shaving Will Stop Shedding

When owners see hair everywhere, it's easy to assume the length of the coat is the problem.

If you cut the hair shorter, there should be less of it to clean up.

The reality is that shedding doesn't happen because the hair is too long. Dogs shed because old hairs naturally fall out and are replaced by new ones as part of the normal hair growth cycle.

Whether the hair is one inch long or one-eighth of an inch long, it's still going to shed.

The only difference is the length of the individual hairs you find around your home. And as a shaved dog is still de-shed during the process the heavier shedding for EITHER a haircut or a de-shed service actually resumes at the same time either way requiring a trip to your groomer.

Short Hair Still Sheds

In fact, many short-coated breeds seem to shed even more than long-coated dogs.

Anyone who's owned a Labrador Retriever, Pit Bull, Pug, or French Bulldog knows those short, stiff hairs have an incredible ability to weave themselves into clothing, furniture, blankets, and even car upholstery.

Long-haired dogs often shed too, but much of that loose coat gets trapped in the surrounding hair until it's brushed out.

Short-coated dogs don't have that luxury. Their loose hairs simply fall away, landing wherever your dog happens to be.

That's why shaving a short-coated breed rarely produces the result owners are hoping for.

The dog continues shedding exactly as before—only now the hairs are shorter.

Shaving Doesn't Change the Hair Growth Cycle

A haircut only changes the length of the hair that's already there.

It doesn't affect the hair follicles beneath the skin, and it doesn't stop new hairs from growing or old hairs from falling out.

Think of it like getting your own hair cut.

After visiting the salon, your hair continues growing exactly as it did before. It doesn't stop growing just because it's shorter.

Dogs work the same way.

Shaving changes appearance, not biology.

There Can Be Downsides to Shaving

For many short-coated breeds, shaving provides little benefit while creating a few potential drawbacks.

The coat offers a layer of protection against infection, minor scrapes, sun exposure, and the environment. Removing that protection can leave the skin more vulnerable, especially during hot Las Vegas summers when pavement, sidewalks, and outdoor temperatures can become extreme.

Some dogs may also develop irritation or clipper sensitivity after being shaved unnecessarily. They may be more prone to infections due to irritated or exposed hair follicles.

Unless shaving is medically necessary, has a direct affect on the actual comfort of the pet or recommended for another reason, it usually isn't the best solution for managing normal shedding.

What Actually Helps Reduce Shedding?

If shaving isn't the answer, what is?

The most effective way to reduce shedding is by removing loose hair before it ends up on your furniture, clothing, and floors.

Professional grooming is one of the best ways to accomplish that. A thorough bath, proper high-velocity drying, and de-shedding tools remove a surprising amount of loose coat that's already ready to come out.

Regular brushing at home also makes a big difference. For many short-coated breeds, a rubber curry brush works exceptionally well because it loosens dead hair while gently massaging the skin and helping distribute the coat's natural oils.

Keeping your dog on a consistent grooming schedule throughout the year usually produces far better results than reaching for the clippers.

Things like diet, omegas and environmental allergies or underlying health issues can also contribute to heavier shedding.

Breeds That Shouldn't Be Shaved Just to Reduce Shedding

While every dog is an individual, shaving simply to reduce shedding is generally not recommended in the slightest for many short-coated breeds, including:

Pit Bull
American Staffordshire Terrier
French Bulldog
Bulldog
Boxer
Pug
Boston Terrier
Labrador Retriever
Beagle
Doberman Pinscher
Great Dane
Weimaraner
Vizsla
Chihuahua
Rat Terrier
Jack Russell Terrier
Miniature Pinscher

These breeds naturally have super short flat coats. Since the hair is already close to the body, shaving usually provides little or no benefit for shedding and poor reactions and infections are more common than you would think, Not because the groomer did anything wrong but because that type of coat was shaved when it was never intended to be.

When Is Shaving Appropriate?

There are times when shaving is absolutely the right choice.

A veterinarian may recommend clipping a dog for surgery or medical treatment. Certain skin conditions may also require the coat to be clipped so medication can be applied properly.

Some dogs with severe matting , regardless of breed, may also need portions of the coat clipped or a complete haircut for their comfort or health.

Those situations are very different from shaving a healthy short-coated dog simply because they're shedding.

The Bottom Line

If your Pit Bull, French Bulldog, Bulldog, Boxer, Pug, or other short-coated companion is filling your house with hair, resist the temptation to solve the problem with clippers.

Shaving doesn't stop shedding because it doesn't change the natural hair growth cycle.

Instead, invest in regular professional grooming, brush your dog routinely with the proper tools, and keep them on a consistent grooming schedule. You'll remove far more loose hair than shaving ever could, while keeping your dog's skin and coat healthier in the process.

If shedding is becoming excessive or suddenly increases, it's always worth discussing the change with your veterinarian to rule out underlying medical conditions. But for the average healthy short-coated dog, the solution isn't a shorter haircut, it's better coat maintenance.

What Kind of Brush is Great for De-Shedding Short & Medium Coated Dogs?

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 00:54:42 GMT

What Kind of Brush Is Great for De-Shedding Short and Medium-Coated Dogs?

Rubber curry brushes are one of the best grooming tools for removing loose hair from short and medium-coated dogs .

If you've ever wondered why your Labrador still leaves enough hair around the house to build another Labrador, you're not alone.

Many pet owners assume shedding is simply something they have to live with. While every dog sheds to some degree, using the right grooming tools can dramatically reduce the amount of loose hair ending up on your furniture, clothing, and floors.

One of the simplest and most effective tools for many short and medium-coated breeds is the rubber curry brush .

What Is a Rubber Curry Brush?

A rubber curry brush is a flexible grooming tool made from soft rubber with small rounded teeth or nubs. Unlike slicker brushes or metal combs, a curry brush gently loosens dead hair while massaging your dog's skin at the same time.

Because the rubber creates a slight static effect as it moves across the coat, loose hair clings to the brush instead of falling onto your floor.

Many dogs also enjoy the sensation, making grooming feel more like a relaxing massage than a chore.

Which Dogs Benefit Most?

Rubber curry brushes work especially well on breeds with short to medium coats.

Some excellent candidates include:

Labrador Retrievers
Beagles
Pugs
Boxers
Pit Bulls
Boston Terriers
French Bulldogs
Chihuahuas
Doberman Pinschers
Great Danes
Weimaraners
Vizslas
Rat Terriers
Jack Russell Terriers

They can also be helpful on many medium-coated breeds between professional grooming appointments to remove surface hair before it ends up all over your home.

Why Groomers Like Them

Professional groomers often reach for a rubber curry brush because it's gentle, effective, and versatile.

It loosens dead coat without scratching the skin, stimulates circulation, helps distribute the coat's natural oils, and leaves many short-coated dogs looking noticeably shinier after just a few minutes of brushing.

When used regularly, it can also reduce the amount of loose hair your dog sheds around the house.

Of course, no brush completely stops shedding. Dogs naturally replace old hair with new hair throughout the year. The goal isn't to eliminate shedding—it's to remove loose hair before it ends up on your couch.

How to Use a Rubber Curry Brush

Using a rubber curry brush is simple, but a few techniques can make it even more effective.

Brush using small circular motions with light to moderate pressure, allowing the rubber teeth to loosen dead hair while gently massaging the skin. Work your way across the entire body, paying extra attention to areas where shedding tends to be heavier, such as the back, sides, and hindquarters.

As the brush fills with hair, simply peel the collected fur away and continue grooming.

For many short-coated dogs, brushing once or twice a week is enough to noticeably reduce shedding around the home. During seasonal coat changes, more frequent brushing may help keep loose hair under control.

What a Rubber Curry Brush Won't Do

Although rubber curry brushes are excellent de-shedding tools, they aren't designed for every grooming task.

They won't:

Remove heavy undercoat from thick double-coated breeds.
Work through mats or tangles.
Replace professional grooming.
Trim or shape the coat.

Dogs with long, curly, or heavily matted coats require different grooming tools and techniques.

Pair It With Professional Grooming

Regular brushing at home helps reduce shedding between appointments, but it doesn't replace professional grooming .

Professional baths, high-velocity drying, and specialized de-shedding tools remove significantly more loose undercoat than most owners can achieve at home. When combined with routine brushing using a rubber curry brush, the results are even better.

If your goal is to keep shedding under control year-round, think of home brushing and professional grooming as partners rather than substitutes.

The Bottom Line

If you own a short or medium-coated dog, a rubber curry brush is one of the best grooming tools you can add to your collection.

It's inexpensive, easy to use, gentle on the skin, and highly effective at removing loose hair before it ends up covering your furniture.

Combined with regular professional grooming, a rubber curry brush can make a noticeable difference in the amount of shedding you see around your home while helping keep your dog's coat healthy, clean, and shiny.

Dog Breed Spotlight – The Scottish Terrier

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 00:49:50 GMT

Dog Breed Spotlight: The Scottish Terrier
Scottish Terrier Quick Facts

Breed Group: Terrier

Height: Approximately 10 inches

Weight: 18–22 pounds

Life Expectancy: 11–13 years

Coat Type: Double coat with a harsh, wiry outer coat and soft undercoat

Shedding: Low

Professional Grooming: Every 6–8 weeks

Exercise Needs: Moderate daily exercise and mental stimulation

The Scottish Terrier, or Scottie, is a small dog with a larger-than-life personality. Recognizable by their distinctive beard, bushy eyebrows, and wiry coat, Scotties are intelligent, independent, and full of confidence.

Scottish Terriers have been winning hearts for generations with their unmistakable appearance and fearless attitude. Although they're small in stature, they rarely realize it. They're bold, determined, and often convinced they're the biggest dog in the room.

Their independent nature can make them a little stubborn at times, but it's also part of what makes the breed so entertaining. Scotties form strong bonds with their families and are happiest with owners who appreciate a dog that likes to think for itself.

Temperament and Personality

Life with a Scottish Terrier is rarely boring.

Scotties are intelligent, curious, and often have a mischievous sense of humor. While they're affectionate with their families, they can be reserved around strangers and don't always feel the need to make friends with every person or dog they meet.

Early socialization helps them develop confidence and good manners, but owners should remember that Scottish Terriers were originally bred to work independently. That independent streak is still very much part of the breed today.

Grooming Requirements

One of the Scottish Terrier's most recognizable features is its beautiful double coat, consisting of a harsh, wiry outer coat and a soft insulating undercoat.

Although many people assume the breed is low maintenance because it doesn't shed heavily, proper coat care is essential. Without regular brushing and professional grooming, mats can develop, particularly in the beard, legs, and furnishings.

Most pet Scotties benefit from professional grooming every 6 to 8 weeks, combined with routine brushing at home.

Show dogs are often maintained through hand stripping , a specialized grooming technique that removes dead outer coat while preserving the coat's natural texture and color. While hand stripping remains the preferred method for many dogs competing in conformation, it isn't necessary for most family pets.

For everyday companions, regular trimming, brushing, and combing provide an attractive, practical coat that's much easier for owners to maintain.

At Home Coat Maintenance

Between professional grooming appointments, owners can help keep their Scottie's coat in good condition by:

Brushing with both a slicker brush and a metal comb.

Working from the skin outward to prevent hidden mats.

Paying special attention to the beard, legs, belly, and furnishings.

Avoiding frequent home baths unless they're prepared to thoroughly dry and comb the coat afterward.

Improper bathing or allowing the coat to air dry without combing can actually contribute to matting, making the next grooming appointment more difficult for both the dog and the groomer.

Regular maintenance keeps the coat healthier and helps ensure your Scottie remains comfortable between appointments.

Health Considerations

Scottish Terriers are generally hardy little dogs, but like every breed, they have several inherited health concerns prospective owners should understand.

One of the most unique is Scottie Cramp, an inherited neurological condition that affects muscle coordination during periods of excitement, exercise, or stress.

Although the episodes can look alarming, Scottie Cramp isn't painful and isn't considered a true seizure disorder. Many owners compare it to the way fainting goats temporarily stiffen when startled. Affected Scotties may arch their backs, develop a stiff, high-stepping gait, or appear briefly uncoordinated before returning completely to normal once the excitement passes.

Other health conditions seen within the breed include:

Von Willebrand disease

Hypothyroidism

Transitional cell carcinoma (bladder cancer)

Other forms of cancer that become more common with age

Routine wellness examinations, annual bloodwork, urinalysis, and maintaining a healthy body weight all help support a longer, healthier life.

Is the Scottish Terrier Right for You?

Scottish Terriers are wonderful companions for the right owner, but they aren't the best fit for every household.

They thrive with people who appreciate an intelligent, confident dog with plenty of personality. Scotties are independent thinkers, which means they may question whether your idea is actually worth following before deciding to cooperate.

They're generally loyal to their families and often develop especially close bonds with one or two people. While many are affectionate, they usually aren't the type of dog that demands constant attention.

Because of their terrier heritage, Scotties retain a strong prey drive. Squirrels, rabbits, and other small animals can quickly become the focus of an enthusiastic chase, so a securely fenced yard and leash walks are always recommended.

Finding a Responsible Breeder

If you're considering adding a Scottish Terrier to your family, take the time to research reputable breeders who perform appropriate health testing and are committed to preserving the breed's temperament and health.

Responsible breeders should be willing to discuss inherited conditions found within the breed, answer your questions honestly, and provide ongoing support throughout your dog's life.

Avoid purchasing puppies from pet stores, puppy mills, or anyone unwilling to provide health information about the parents. You can find breeder referrals and rescue resources in the links below.

Final Thoughts

The Scottish Terrier is proof that confidence doesn't come in one size.

Behind those famous eyebrows and that dignified beard is a dog with tremendous heart, unwavering loyalty, and enough personality to fill a house. They're intelligent, entertaining, and wonderfully unique, but they also require owners who understand their independent nature and commit to regular coat maintenance.

Whether your Scottie wears a traditional hand-stripped show coat or a practical pet trim, consistent grooming plays an important role in keeping the coat healthy, comfortable, and looking its best.

With proper care, regular grooming, and plenty of opportunities to explore the world at their own determined pace, Scottish Terriers reward their families with years of faithful companionship, quiet confidence, and more than a few moments that will make you laugh.

If you've ever shared your home with a Scottie, you already know one thing is certain:

You don't own a Scottish Terrier.

They graciously allow you to live with them.

Helpful Scottish Terrier Resources

Scottish Terrier Club of America (Parent Club)
https://stca.biz/

Find an STCA Member Breeder
https://stca.biz/find-a-scottie/find-stca-member-breeders/

Scottish Terrier Rescue
https://stca.biz/find-a-scottie/rescue/

Regional Scottish Terrier Clubs
https://stca.biz/about-the-stca/regional-clubs/

What Is a Puppy Cut? (Hint: It’s Probably Not What You Think)

Sun, 31 Aug 2025 00:07:18 GMT

What Is a Puppy Cut? (Hint: It's Not What You Think)

A Las Vegas groomer explains what people really mean when they ask for a "puppy cut."

If you've ever called a grooming salon and confidently said, "I'd like a puppy cut, please," you may have noticed a brief pause on the other end of the phone.

That pause isn't because your groomer doesn't know what they're doing.

It's because "puppy cut" is one of the most confusing, misunderstood, and mythical phrases in the grooming industry and there is no actual haircut that's called a puppy cut.

There Really Isn't a Universal Puppy Cut

Let's clear up one of the biggest misconceptions in dog grooming.

There is no universally recognized grooming style called a puppy cut.

Now, before you clutch your pearls and say, "But my neighbor's dog gets one!" hear me out.

The term means something different to almost everyone who uses it INCLUDING groomers.

For some people, a puppy cut means clipping the entire coat very short. Others picture a fluffy, shaggy look with plenty of length. Some think it means trimming only the face, feet, and sanitary areas while leaving everything else natural. Others want something that falls somewhere in between.

See the problem?

Every pet parent has a different picture in their head, and unless your groomer has suddenly developed mind reading abilities, asking for a puppy cut is a bit like walking into a restaurant you've never visited and ordering, "I'll have the usual."

Why "Puppy Cut" Creates So Much Confusion

Imagine walking into your hair salon and telling your stylist:

"I'd like the stylish haircut."

She'd probably smile politely while wondering if you meant a pixie cut, a bob, layers, curtain bangs, or maybe even a mullet.

That's exactly what happens when someone requests a puppy cut.

The phrase isn't an actual grooming style. It's a catch-all term that has never had one accepted definition.

Ask ten professional groomers what a puppy cut is, and you'll probably get ten different answers.

Some groomers even joke that "puppy cut" is code for "surprise haircut."

Surprises are great on birthdays.

They're much less exciting when they involve your dog's haircut.

A Better Way to Describe What You Want

I nstead of asking for a puppy cut and hoping your groomer pictures the same thing you do , simply describe the look you're hoping to achieve.

You don't need to know blade numbers or grooming terminology. In fact, most groomers would rather you didn't.

Simple descriptions are far more helpful, such as:

Short
Medium length
Longer
Fluffy
Shorter but still fluffy
Short, but not shaved
Short and cute
Just take a little off
Leave a little fluff

These descriptions immediately give your groomer a better starting point than the words puppy cut ever could.

Once they know whether you're leaning toward short, medium, or fluffy, they'll ask a few questions to fine-tune the haircut.

That's much easier than trying to decode a phrase that means something different to every client. And if you aren't quite sure? We are over the moon! Just tell us to do what we think. We got this.

Groomers Don't Need a Step-by-Step Instruction Manual

One of the most common things we see is pet parents trying so hard to explain the haircut that they forget we already know how to do the job.

You don't have to tell us what blade to use, how to angle the scissors, or exactly how to trim the feet. That's our craft, and every groomer has their own techniques for getting there.

What helps us most is knowing the result you'd like to see and any important factors that affect them, not the exact method you think will achieve it.

If you keep repeating enigmatic terms like "puppy cut" or " teddy bear cut ," we're still left trying to interpret what those words mean to you.

But if you say something like, "I'd like her a little shorter, but still fluffy enough to cuddle," you've given us something we can actually work with and we know JUST what to do.

Why Words Matter

Think of it this way.

When you ask for a puppy cut, you're handing your groomer a puzzle without showing them the picture on the box.

Some of the pieces may fit, but the finished result may not match what you had in mind.

When you use simple, descriptive language instead, you give us that picture. It doesn't have to be perfect. Even a rough sketch of what you're hoping for is usually enough for an experienced groomer to fill in the details.

So...What Is a Puppy Cut?

At the end of the day, a puppy cut isn't really a haircut at all.

It's a nickname.

It's the dog grooming world's version of saying, "Just make my dog look cute."

And while every groomer wants your dog to look adorable, cute means something different to every owner.

For some, it means a shorter haircut that's easy to maintain.

For others, it means leaving plenty of fluff.

Some owners simply use the phrase because they've heard it before without realizing there isn't one standard style behind it.

The truth is simple.

There has never been a universal definition of a puppy cut.

A Groomer's Gentle Plea

The next time you're scheduling a grooming appointment, skip the mysterious "puppy cut" request and tell your groomer what you actually want to see.

Let us know if you prefer fluffy ears or shorter ears. Tell us whether you'd like the tail left natural or neatened up. Tell us if you're looking for a fuller, cuddly appearance or something shorter that's easy to maintain.

We'll take it from there.

That's what we're trained to do.

Think of us as translators. You bring the vision, and we turn it into a haircut that works for both you and your dog (They get to outvote us all).

The Final Word on Puppy Cuts

If you remember only one thing from this article, let it be this:

There is no single, official definition of a puppy cut.

It's one of those grooming phrases that creates far more confusion than clarity.

Instead, describe the length and overall look you'd like using everyday language, then trust your groomer to handle the technical details.

We promise your dog can look absolutely adorable whether you call it a puppy cut, a teddy bear trim , or simply "short and cute."

We'll probably ask a few follow-up questions anyway, because we care far too much about getting it right to rely on a phrase that means something different to everyone.

And remember, while we can't read minds, we can usually turn your vision into a happy, healthy, great looking dog.

Here in Las Vegas, where it's hot enough to fry an egg on the sidewalk and people still manage to dress their Chihuahuas in rhinestone jackets, the phrase puppy cut can mean almost anything. One groomer's "short and fluffy" may be another groomer's "summer trim."

The easiest way to get the haircut you want is simply to describe it in plain language. Your groomer will do the rest, and unlike what happens in Vegas, your dog's haircut is definitely coming home with you.

Dryer Induced Seizures at the Groomer: What Pet Parents Need to Know

Sat, 30 Aug 2025 23:50:33 GMT

Dryer-Induced Seizures at the Groomer: What Pet Parents Need to Know

The first time you hear the words "dryer-induced seizure" from your pet groomer, your heart probably drops into your stomach. After all, the word seizure usually brings to mind a serious medical emergency. For many pet parents, the idea of their dog having one at the groomer sounds frightening.

The good news is that what groomers commonly refer to as dryer-induced seizures are often very different from what most people imagine. In many cases, they're an age-related reaction to the noise, vibration, and stress of a high-velocity grooming dryer. They can frequently be managed with a few simple adjustments during the grooming appointment, allowing your dog to continue enjoying regular grooming safely.

Let's take a closer look at what dryer-induced seizures are, why they occur more often in senior dogs, and how experienced groomers help keep these pets comfortable.

What Are Dryer-Induced Seizures?

When a groomer refers to a dryer-induced seizure, they're usually describing a temporary neurological reaction that occurs while a dog is being dried with a high-velocity grooming dryer.

This is not the same as a grand mal epileptic seizure, which often requires lifelong veterinary treatment and medication.

Instead, dryer-induced episodes are typically triggered by the combination of loud noise, vibration, and stress. Dogs may display behaviors such as:

Trembling
Twitching
Circling
Temporary stiffness
Vocalizing, including screaming or howling
Rapid stepping or "tap dancing"

Although these reactions can look alarming, they're generally not life-threatening. One of the defining characteristics is that the episode usually stops once the dryer is turned off.

Experienced groomers recognize these signs immediately. Rather than pushing through the groom, they stop the dryer, allow the dog to relax, and adjust the remainder of the appointment to reduce stress.

Why Older Dogs Are More Susceptible

Just like people, dogs become more sensitive as they age.

Things that never bothered them when they were younger can suddenly become overwhelming. Maybe your once-confident dog now hides during fireworks or becomes anxious during thunderstorms after years of ignoring them.

Dryer-induced seizures often follow this same pattern.

Many dogs tolerate professional grooming for years without a problem, then begin showing sensitivity later in life. Their tolerance for loud noise, strong airflow, vibration, or the sensation of air against their skin may gradually decrease as their nervous system ages.

This is one reason experienced groomers often make adjustments automatically when working with senior dogs, even if the owner hasn't mentioned a previous history of dryer sensitivity. It's a fairly common age-related reaction, and seasoned groomers recognize the warning signs before the situation escalates

Why Rushing Isn't the Answer

One of the biggest misconceptions is that a dog experiencing dryer sensitivity should simply be groomed faster to "get it over with."

Unfortunately, the opposite is true.

Rushing increases stress, and stress is one of the biggest triggers for these episodes.

Dogs that are prone to dryer-induced seizures usually benefit from more time , not less.

Rather than speeding through the drying process, experienced groomers often slow things down, spread drying over multiple stages, dry the dog on lower speeds and give the dog opportunities to relax between sessions if needed.

Think of it less as rushing through an appointment and more as giving your senior pet extra breaks throughout their spa day.

How Groomers Safely Manage Dryer-Induced Seizures

The encouraging news is that, in most cases, dryer-induced seizures can be managed with a few simple adjustments to the grooming routine. Experienced groomers tailor the appointment to the individual dog, helping reduce stress while still providing a safe, thorough groom.

Some of the most common modifications include:

Modified haircuts : A shorter, easier-to-maintain haircut may be recommended if it significantly reduces drying time. Less drying often means less stress.
Air drying: Some dogs benefit from a combination of towel drying and air drying before a low-velocity dryer is used. Allowing much of the moisture to evaporate naturally reduces the amount of time the dryer needs to be on.
Cotton in the ears or 'happy hoodie': High-velocity dryers are loud. Placing cotton in the ears or a happy hoodie over them helps muffle the noise, making the experience less overwhelming for sensitive dogs.
Lower dryer settings: Reducing the airflow creates a gentler drying experience. This is one reason it's so important to keep your dog's coat free of mats and tangles. A well-maintained coat dries much more easily, allowing the groomer to use lower settings whenever possible.
Frequent breaks: Rather than one continuous drying session, many groomers dry senior or sensitive dogs in shorter stages, giving them time to relax between each one.

In rare cases, a dog simply cannot tolerate being around high-velocity dryers at all. Some are sensitive enough that they can't even remain in the drying room because of the noise. Thankfully, this is the exception rather than the rule. Most dogs with dryer-induced seizures only react during their own drying session and can still be groomed successfully with a modified approach.

Why Lifelong Medication Usually Isn't Necessary

Because the word seizure sounds so serious, many owners worry that their dog will require medication for the rest of its life.

Fortunately, that's usually not the case.

Dryer-induced seizures are considered situational . They occur during the drying process and generally stop once the dryer is removed. They aren't ongoing neurological events that continue throughout the day or require long-term seizure medication.

This is why it's so important to tell your groomer if your dog has experienced dryer sensitivity before. Knowing about previous episodes allows the groomer to adjust the appointment from the very beginning instead of discovering the problem halfway through the groom.

Shih Tzu relaxing during a warm bath at a professional grooming salon.

Should Dogs With Dryer-Induced Seizures Continue Being Groomed?

Absolutely.

In fact, maintaining a regular grooming schedule often becomes even more important.

Skipping grooming can lead to painful mats, unhealthy skin, excessive coat buildup, and additional discomfort. Instead of avoiding grooming altogether, the goal is to adapt the appointment to your dog's changing needs.

Your groomer may recommend:

More frequent grooming appointments to prevent matting.
A haircut that requires less drying time.
Longer appointments with additional breaks.
Regular brushing and combing at home to make drying easier and less stressful.

With these simple adjustments, most dogs continue to enjoy safe, comfortable grooming throughout their senior years.

A Little Perspective

If you're still feeling anxious, remember that dogs usually recover from these episodes much faster than we do emotionally.

While we're replaying the event in our minds, most dogs have already moved on and are looking for treats, belly rubs, or the nearest tennis ball.

It's a bit like Grandpa complaining that the neighbor's lawn mower has suddenly become unbearably loud. His tolerance for noise isn't what it used to be, but with a little patience and a few accommodations, life carries on just fine.

Our senior dogs deserve that same understanding.

What Pet Parents Can Do

Y ou can help your groomer tremendously by communicating openly .

If your dog has ever shown signs of dryer sensitivity, mention it when you drop them off. That information allows the groomer to plan a lower-stress appointment from the start.

You can also help by maintaining your dog's coat between appointments. Regular brushing and combing reduce tangles and mats, allowing the coat to dry more quickly and comfortably.

Finally, try to stay calm yourself. Dogs often pick up on our emotions, and a relaxed owner helps create a more relaxed dog.

The Bottom Line

Dryer-induced seizures may sound frightening, but they're actually a fairly common and manageable issue, particularly in older dogs.

They are not usually a sign of serious neurological disease or an indication that your dog will need lifelong medication. Instead, they remind us that our senior pets sometimes need a little extra patience and a few adjustments as they age.

With an experienced groomer, thoughtful modifications, and open communication, most dogs continue to enjoy safe, low-stress grooming appointments for many years.

After all, grooming has never been just about looking good. It's about maintaining your dog's health, comfort, and quality of life.

Keeping Your Dog Cool in the Las Vegas Heat: Grooming Tips Every Pet Parent Should Know

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 23:39:29 GMT

Keeping Your Dog Cool in the Las Vegas Heat: Grooming Tips Every Pet Parent Should Know

German Shepherds stay cooler with regular grooming and undercoat removal during hot Las Vegas summers.

Las Vegas summers are no joke, and our dogs feel the heat just as much as we do. With triple-digit temperatures and blazing sunshine, many pet parents wonder how they can help their furry family members stay comfortable. Grooming plays a much bigger role in keeping dogs cool and healthy than most people realize. The right grooming routine doesn't just make your dog look fresh—it also helps regulate body temperature, protects the skin, and reduces the risk of heat-related coat problems during the hottest months of the year.

Below are professional grooming tips designed for our desert climate, along with the truth about shaving, double coats, and the best summer grooming practices.

Why Shaving Isn't Always the Answer

One of the biggest misconceptions is that shaving your dog short automatically keeps them cooler. In reality, shorter doesn't always mean cooler.

For many breeds, especially double-coated dogs like Golden Retrievers, Siberian Huskies, and German Shepherds, the coat provides natural insulation. It helps protect the skin from direct sunlight while also helping regulate body temperature.

Shaving a double coat can remove that natural protection, increasing the risk of sunburn and making it more difficult for your dog to stay comfortable in the heat. Instead of shaving , professional undercoat removal is often the better solution. Removing loose undercoat allows better airflow while leaving the protective outer coat intact.

Strategic Trimming Can Improve Comfort

Although a complete shave usually isn't recommended for double-coated breeds, trimming certain areas can improve comfort during the summer.

The belly, armpits, and sanitary areas can often be kept shorter, allowing dogs to cool themselves more effectively when lying on cool tile, shaded concrete, or other cool surfaces.

Regular, maintainable desheds or haircuts can also reduce bulk, make brushing easier, and prevent heavy coats from trapping unnecessary heat.

Mats Make Dogs Hotter

Mats aren't just a cosmetic problem—they can significantly affect your dog's comfort.

When hair becomes matted, airflow to the skin is reduced. Heat and moisture become trapped beneath the coat, creating an environment where hot spots, skin irritation, and infections can develop.

Keeping the coat free of tangles and mats allows proper ventilation and helps your dog stay cooler throughout the summer.

Professional grooming removes mats safely , while routine brushing between appointments helps prevent them from forming.

Don't Forget About Nail Care

Nail trimming becomes even more important during the summer months.

During cooler weather, many dogs naturally wear their nails down by walking outdoors more frequently. In the Las Vegas heat, however, dogs often spend much more time indoors where carpet, tile, and other household flooring don't naturally shorten the nails.

As nails continue growing, they can alter the way a dog stands and walks, placing additional stress on the toes, feet, joints, and legs. Keeping nails properly trimmed helps maintain comfort and supports healthy movement during summer activities.

Golden Retrievers benefit from regular undercoat removal during Las Vegas summers to reduce shedding and improve airflow.

Dog Breeds That Benefit From Regular Summer Grooming

Every dog benefits from routine grooming, but some breeds especially appreciate regular coat maintenance during hot desert summers.

These include:

Shih Tzu
Golden Retriever
Siberian Husky
German Shepherd
Pomeranian
Cocker Spaniel
Australian Shepherd
Labrador Retriever
Maltese
Yorkshire Terrier

Each breed has different grooming needs, but all benefit from keeping the coat clean, free of excess undercoat, properly maintained, and well ventilated.

Grooming Is About More Than Appearance

Looking great is just one benefit of professional grooming .

In Las Vegas, regular grooming helps remove excess undercoat, prevents painful matting, improves air circulation through the coat, keeps nails at a healthy length, and helps dogs stay cleaner and more comfortable during extreme summer temperatures.

A well-maintained coat works with your dog's natural cooling system instead of against it.

The Bottom Line

Summer grooming isn't about giving every dog the shortest haircut possible. It's about choosing the right grooming approach for your dog's individual coat type.

With proper brushing, routine professional grooming, regular nail care, and appropriate undercoat removal, your dog will be far more comfortable during the long Las Vegas summer while maintaining the natural protection their coat was designed to provide.

Understanding Hand Stripping in Dog Grooming

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 23:20:37 GMT

Understanding Hand Stripping in Dog Grooming

If you're looking for hand stripping in Las Vegas, seek out a groomer experienced in this specialized grooming technique.

When pet parents begin researching grooming options for their terriers and other wire-coated breeds, one term they often come across is hand stripping . For some, it sounds like an old-fashioned grooming method. Others know it as the preferred grooming technique for many show dogs. With so many grooming methods available, it can be difficult to know which approach is right for your dog. Understanding what hand stripping is—and when it's used—can help you make an informed decision.

Hand stripping is a grooming technique used primarily on wire-coated breeds. Unlike clipping or scissoring, which cuts the hair, hand stripping removes dead coat by hand or with specialized stripping tools. This allows new coat to grow in with its natural texture, color, and harshness. While the concept is simple, the process is time-consuming and requires skill, patience, and experience to perform correctly.

The Tools Used in Hand Stripping

Professional hand strippers use a combination of their fingers and specialized grooming tools to remove the dead outer coat. Common tools include stripping knives, stripping stones, pumice stones, and rubber finger cots that improve grip on coarse hairs.

These tools aren't sharp like clipper blades. Instead, they're designed to help the groomer grip and remove dead hair in a controlled manner. Because hairs are removed individually or in very small sections, hand stripping takes considerably longer than a traditional clipper or scissor groom.

Experienced hand strippers often switch between their fingers, stripping knives, and stones throughout the groom. The tool selected depends on the coat type and the area of the body being worked on. For example, a stripping knife may be ideal across the back and sides, while fingers or a stripping stone provide greater control around the face and other delicate areas. Learning these techniques takes years of hands-on experience.

Irish Terrier maintained with traditional hand stripping. Finding an experienced hand-stripping groomer in Las Vegas may require seeking out a specialist.

Why Some Dogs Are Hand Stripped

Hand stripping is most commonly associated with dogs competing in conformation shows because it preserves the natural coat texture and appearance required by many breed standards. Wire-coated terriers have traditionally been maintained this way, and judges continue to expect that natural finish in the show ring.

Some pet owners also choose hand stripping because they prefer the harsher texture, richer color, and classic appearance it helps maintain.

That said, clipping and scissoring remain the most common grooming methods for pet dogs today. They're practical, efficient, easier to maintain, and produce beautiful results for the vast majority of family pets. Unless you're actively showing your dog or specifically want a traditionally maintained wire coat, there is no requirement that your dog be hand stripped.

The Cost and Availability of Hand Stripping

One of the biggest differences between hand stripping and traditional grooming is the time involved. Because each section of coat is stripped by hand, appointments take significantly longer and require specialized training. As a result, hand stripping typically costs more than a standard grooming appointment.

It's also a specialty service that isn't offered by every grooming salon. Most groomers focus on clipper and scissor work because that's what the overwhelming majority of pet owners request.

If you're searching for hand stripping in Las Vegas, you'll likely need to seek out someone who specializes in the technique.

Breeds Commonly Hand Stripped

Not every breed is a candidate for hand stripping. The technique is generally reserved for breeds with wire coats that naturally respond well to the process.

Some of the most commonly hand-stripped breeds include:

Wire Fox Terrier
Welsh Terrier
Airedale Terrier
Border Terrier
Scottish Terrier
West Highland White Terrier
Miniature , Standard, and Giant Schnauzers
Irish Terrier
Lakeland Terrier
Brussels Griffon

Many of these breeds are still groomed with clippers instead of being hand stripped, particularly when they are family pets rather than competition dogs. Both grooming methods are acceptable, depending on the owner's goals and lifestyle.

Is Hand Stripping Right for Your Dog?

The decision comes down to your goals, your budget, and your dog's lifestyle.

Hand stripping preserves a traditional wire coat and is the preferred choice for many show dogs, but it requires more time, specialized skill, and a larger financial investment.

Traditional clipping and scissoring are faster, more affordable, widely available, and produce attractive, easy to maintain results for most pet dogs.

It's also important to remember that not every dog enjoys the hand stripping process. While experienced professionals work gently and efficiently, some dogs simply tolerate clipping better. Discuss your expectations with an experienced groomer to determine which grooming method is the best fit for your individual dog.

Hand Stripping vs. Everyday Grooming

In Las Vegas, most grooming appointments focus on keeping pets clean, comfortable, and manageable in the desert climate. Breed trims, pet styles, and practical maintenance grooms performed with clippers and scissors remain the most popular choice for everyday family dogs.

Hand stripping remains a niche specialty, primarily chosen by dedicated breed enthusiasts and owners preparing dogs for the show ring.

Final Thoughts

Hand stripping is one of the grooming industry's most specialized techniques. It requires different tools, more time, and considerable experience, making it very different from a traditional grooming appointment.

Neither hand stripping nor clipping is inherently better than the other. They simply serve different purposes.

Whether your dog is preparing for the show ring or simply enjoying life as a beloved family companion, choosing the grooming method that best fits your goals will help keep them healthy, comfortable, and looking their best.

Why You Shouldn’t Treat Your Pet Groomer Like Your Hair Salon

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 23:14:59 GMT

Why You Shouldn't Treat Your Pet Groomer Like Your Hair Salon

Let's get this out of the way right now: bringing your dog to the groomer is not the same thing as booking yourself a fresh balayage, blowout, or spa day at the salon. Your groomer isn't secretly sipping lattes in the back while flipping through celebrity magazines, waiting to debate curtain bangs with your Doodle. Pet grooming and human hair salons may both involve scissors, brushes, and dryers, but that's where the similarities end.

One exists primarily for your appearance and self-expression. The other exists to keep your four-legged friend healthy, comfortable, and hygienic. And trust me, your dog doesn't care about highlights.

Grooming Is About Health and Hygiene First

When you visit your hairstylist, the focus is almost entirely on appearance. You might be getting a trim, a new color, or a completely different look.

When your dog comes to the grooming salon, appearance is secondary. The first priority is your pet's health, comfort, and hygiene.

That matted Goldendoodle coat isn't just unattractive it's painful. Mats constantly pull on the skin, hide hot spots, restrict air circulation, and can even conceal fleas, ticks, wounds, or skin infections. Long nails don't simply make clicking sounds on your tile floor. As they continue to grow, they force the toes into an unnatural position, changing the way the foot contacts the ground and placing additional stress on the feet, legs, joints, shoulders, and even the spine. Dirty ears can trap moisture, wax, and debris that contribute to irritation and infection.

Your groomer's first responsibility is preventing unnecessary discomfort and maintaining your dog's well-being. If the haircut looks adorable afterward, that's an added bonus.

Our "Clients" Are Very Different

Your hairstylist's client is you.

You sit comfortably in a chair, scroll through your phone, chat with your stylist, and understand exactly what's happening throughout the appointment.

Our clients are a little different.

They're wiggly, nervous, excited, distracted, and sometimes convinced the clippers are plotting against them. Some bark, some squirm, some try to sit down every five seconds, and a few decide that today's the perfect day to practice their wrestling moves.

While we're working with razor sharp shears around eyes, ears, feet, and tails, our client is thinking about squirrels.

That's why groomers often refer to the dog as the client and the owner as the customer. Everything we do revolves around safely caring for the dog.

The Tools May Look Similar, but Their Purpose Isn't

Human salons have color bowls, curling irons, straighteners, and shelves filled with products designed to create volume, shine, and style.

Professional grooming salons have heavy-duty clippers, precision shears, nail trimmers, grinders, force dryers, specialized shampoos, conditioners, and grooming equipment designed to maintain skin, coat, nails, and overall health.

These tools aren't primarily about fashion, they're about keeping pets clean, comfortable, and healthy.

Every Groom Has a Different Goal

When you book a haircut, your biggest concern may be whether your color turns out exactly the way you imagined.

When we schedule a grooming appointment, our priority is completing the groom safely while minimizing stress for the dog.

That means adjusting our approach based on age, coat condition, temperament, medical concerns, mobility, and tolerance for grooming.

Sometimes that means a severely matted Doodle can't safely receive the fluffy teddy bear trim shown in an inspiration photo.

Sometimes it means a senior Pug receives a shorter comfort groom with frequent breaks because standing for several hours simply isn't fair to an aging dog.

Health, safety, and comfort will always come before cosmetic goals.

Grooming Takes More Work Than Most People Realize

A typical human haircut may last 30 to 90 minutes. Even longer color appointments usually involve sitting comfortably while your stylist works.

A professional dog groom can easily take three hours or more depending on the breed, coat condition, behavior, and services being performed.

During that time we're bathing, force drying, brushing, removing undercoat, clipping, scissoring, trimming nails, cleaning ears, checking anal glands when requested, lifting dogs, preventing slips, monitoring behavior, and constantly adjusting to an animal that may not want to cooperate.

It's physically demanding work that requires concentration from start to finish.

Grooming Is an Emotional Experience for Dogs

People may be disappointed by a haircut they don't like, but they understand the process.

Dogs don't. For many pets, grooming is a vulnerable experience. A rushed or frightening appointment can make future visits increasingly stressful.

That's why experienced groomers often slow down, offer breaks, or even recommend finishing another day if continuing would create unnecessary fear or stress.

Building trust is every bit as important as creating a beautiful haircut.

Why the Hair Salon Comparison Doesn't Work

When grooming is compared directly to a human salon, unrealistic expectations often follow.

We hear things like:

"Can you just trim a little off the top?" (Not when the coat is matted to the skin.)
"Why does grooming cost more than my haircut?" (Because your hairstylist isn't bathing you, drying your entire body, trimming your nails, cleaning your ears, shaving your paw pads, and safely working around a moving client.)
"Why doesn't my dog look exactly like this Pinterest picture? " (Because your dog isn't the same breed, doesn't have the same coat, and arrived after swimming, rolling in the yard, and developing mats.)

Every dog is different, and every groom starts with the dog standing on the table, not the picture on your phone.

Final Brush Out

At the end of the day, your hair salon exists to make you look good.

Your pet grooming salon exists to help your dog feel good, stay healthy, and live comfortably.

The scissors and dryers may look familiar, but the goals, challenges, and responsibilities couldn't be more different.

So the next time you drop off your dog, remember that your groomer isn't simply giving a haircut. They're providing an important part of your dog's overall health and hygiene while working with a living, moving client that doesn't always cooperate.

When your dog goes home clean, comfortable, healthy, and wagging their tail, that's a successful grooming appointment .

Ear Educated: A Groomers Take on Grooming, Plucking, and Ear Cleaning Etiquette

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 23:03:58 GMT

Ear Educated: A Groomer's Take on Grooming, Plucking, and Ear Cleaning Etiquette

Let's get one thing straight (or clean): grooming a dog's ears isn't rocket science, but it sure creates plenty of debate. Ear cleaning, ear plucking, and proper ear care are topics that often spark strong opinions between groomers, veterinarians, and pet owners. Understanding where a groomer's role begins—and where it ends—helps everyone work together for the benefit of the dog.

Why Some Groomers Have Become Cautious Or Outright Refuse About Ear Plucking

Picture this: your veterinarian examines your dog's ears, and sometime afterward an ear infection develops. Even if the groomer followed standard grooming protocols weeks earlier, they're often the first person blamed.

This is one reason many groomers have become more conservative with ear plucking and ear cleaning.

Some of the reasons include:

Client backlash after veterinary visits. Groomers frequently hear comments like, "You pulled too much hair," "You didn't pull enough," "You poked too deep," "You got water in the ears," or "You should have cleaned them better," even when they followed accepted grooming practices.
Deep ear debris. Groomers generally don't remove debris deep within the ear canal. Material can surface after a veterinary examination or cleaning, creating the impression that the groomer caused the problem.
Ear infections appearing later. Moisture, wax, allergies, and many other factors contribute to ear infections. When one develops after a grooming appointment, the groomer is often blamed regardless of the actual cause.
Different professional training . Veterinarians receive medical training, while groomers receive grooming education. Both professions have valuable knowledge, but they approach ear care from different perspectives.

What Do Grooming Guidelines Recommend?

According to AKC guidance and professional grooming education, routine ear maintenance is generally limited to the visible portions of the ear.

Safe grooming practices typically include:

Wiping only the visible outer ear with a cotton ball or pet-safe wipe.
Avoiding Q-tips or cotton swabs inside the ear canal.
Lightly thinning ear hair, when appropriate, to improve airflow rather than completely removing every hair.
Keeping water out of the ear during bathing by gently closing the ear flap and, when appropriate, using cotton for protection.

Additional recommendations often include:

Protecting floppy ears during bathing and drying to reduce trapped moisture.
Thoroughly drying the ears after the bath, since excess moisture creates an ideal environment for bacteria and yeast.

Groomers Aren't Trying to Be Veterinarians

Professional groomers care deeply about ear health, but they're not veterinarians and shouldn't be expected to perform medical procedures or diagnose ear disease.

What groomers do exceptionally well is:

Helping prevent water from entering the ears during bathing.
Using appropriate ear-cleaning products during routine grooming.
Following safe, consistent grooming protocols designed to maintain cleanliness without venturing into medical treatment.

Think of groomers as helping maintain healthy ears—not treating unhealthy ones.

Groomer-Style Ear Care at Home

If you want to perform routine ear maintenance between grooming appointments, keep it simple.

Use a veterinarian- or groomer-approved ear cleaner or plain witch hazel if appropriate for your pet.
Apply the cleaner to a cotton ball or soft wipe rather than directly into the ear.
Clean only the visible outer portion of the ear.
Never insert cotton swabs or other objects deep into the ear canal.
Dry the ear thoroughly after cleaning.
If you notice redness, swelling, discharge, a foul odor, pain, or excessive scratching, stop cleaning and schedule a veterinary examination.

If your breed commonly grows dense ear hair, gentle thinning with your fingers may help improve airflow. Avoid excessive pulling, and if you're unsure whether your dog should have ear hair removed, ask your groomer or veterinarian.

Breeds That Commonly Benefit From Ear Hair Maintenance

Some breeds naturally grow more hair inside the ears or have floppy ears that reduce airflow.

These often include:

Cocker Spaniel
Bichon Frise
Poodle (Toy, Miniature, and Standard)
Schnauzer
Shih Tzu
Lhasa Apso
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Golden Retriever
Cockapoos, Labradoodles, and many other Doodle mixes
West Highland White Terrier

Every dog is different, so ear maintenance should always be based on the individual dog's needs rather than breed alone.

Final Thoughts

Good ear care doesn't require drama. Groomers and veterinarians each play different but equally important roles in keeping your dog's ears healthy.

Routine grooming helps maintain cleanliness and reduce moisture buildup, while veterinarians diagnose and treat medical ear conditions.

When each professional stays within their area of expertise and pet owners understand the difference, everyone benefits, especially the dog.

Does Grooming Help With Shedding? Absolutely and Here's Why

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 22:40:52 GMT

Does Grooming Help With Shedding? Absolutely, and Here's Why

Huskies and German Shepherds are just two breeds that benefit greatly from regular de-shedding treatments by a professional groomer.

Let's get real. Shedding is simply part of life when you share your home with a dog. No matter how fluffy or sleek your pup is, you'll eventually find fur on your furniture, your clothes, and somehow even in places that seem impossible. The good news? Professional grooming can make a noticeable difference. Not only can it help reduce the amount of loose hair around your home, but it also helps keep your dog's coat and skin healthier.

Professional Grooming Removes Loose Undercoat

A professional de-shedding treatment does much more than make your dog look nice. It removes loose undercoat and dead hair before it has a chance to end up on your floors or furniture. Excess undercoat can trap heat , contribute to matting, and make it more difficult for air to circulate through the coat.

Professional groomers use techniques and tools designed to remove loose coat safely while maintaining the integrity of your dog's natural coat.

Why Bathing Alone Isn't Enough

Many pet owners believe frequent baths with a de-shedding shampoo will solve the problem. Unfortunately, that's rarely the case.

Bathing too often can dry the skin, strip away natural oils, and contribute to brittle hair and coat damage. Even shampoos marketed for de-shedding aren't miracle products. They can certainly help loosen dead hair, but they can't replace proper brushing, drying, and coat maintenance performed by an experienced groomer.

Professional Groomers Use the Right Tools

Every coat is different.

An experienced groomer evaluates the breed, coat type, coat density, and skin condition before selecting the appropriate grooming tools. Removing loose coat safely requires far more than simply brushing harder or using the sharpest de-shedding tool available.

In fact, many aggressive de-shedding tools can scratch or irritate the skin when used incorrectly. Professional groomers understand how much coat should be removed and which tools are appropriate for each individual dog .

Breeds That Benefit From Professional De-Shedding

Almost every shedding breed can benefit from routine grooming, but some see especially dramatic results.

Examples include:

Golden Retriever
Siberian Husky
German Shepherd
Labrador Retriever
Australian Shepherd
Chihuahua
Samoyed
Pomeranian
Many Terrier breeds and mixes
Border Collie

Each of these breeds has a different coat type, which is exactly why professional grooming isn't a one-size-fits-all service. The techniques used on a Husky aren't the same ones used on a Labrador or Chihuahua.

Home Maintenance Still Matters

Professional grooming is only part of the equation.

Regular brushing at home helps remove loose hair before it accumulates throughout your house while reducing tangles and helping maintain the coat between grooming appointments. Just remember that brushing aggressively or using the wrong tools can damage both the coat and the skin.

Nutrition also plays an important role. A balanced diet with adequate protein and essential fatty acids helps support healthy skin and coat condition from the inside out. Healthy skin produces healthier hair, and healthier hair generally sheds more naturally.

Can Grooming Stop Shedding Completely?

No.

Every dog sheds to some degree, and no groomer can promise a completely shed-free dog. Genetics, breed, season, age, and overall health all influence how much a dog sheds.

What professional grooming can do is dramatically reduce the amount of loose hair ready to fall out, improve coat condition, and make shedding much easier to manage.

The Bottom Line

Professional grooming absolutely helps with shedding. While it won't eliminate shedding entirely, it can significantly reduce loose hair throughout your home while keeping your dog's coat healthier and more comfortable.

Combine regular professional grooming with gentle brushing at home, proper nutrition, and the right grooming tools, and you'll notice a cleaner home, a healthier coat, and a happier dog.

Why Vets And Groomers Should Stay In Their Own Lanes

Sun, 24 Aug 2025 22:29:11 GMT

Stay in Your Lane: Why Veterinarians and Groomers Have Different Jobs

When it comes to caring for your dog, veterinarians and professional groomers each play an important role. The problem begins when one profession starts giving advice that falls squarely into the other's area of expertise. Whether it's a veterinarian critiquing grooming techniques or a groomer trying to diagnose a medical condition, the lines can become blurred, leaving pet owners confused about who they should trust.

The reality is simple: veterinarians and groomers are both highly trained professionals, but they're trained for very different purposes. Their knowledge overlaps in a few areas, but neither profession replaces the other.

When Grooming Advice Comes From the Exam Room

Veterinarians are experts in medicine. They diagnose disease, perform surgery, prescribe medication, and help keep pets healthy throughout their lives. Grooming, however, is not a major part of veterinary education beyond basic coat and hygiene maintenance.

Because of that, it's not uncommon for a veterinarian to recommend that a Poodle always be kept short, suggest that eyelashes should never be trimmed, or offer opinions about ear plucking or coat maintenance that differ from the methods used by experienced groomers.

That doesn't necessarily mean the veterinarian is wrong. It simply means they're offering an opinion from outside their primary field of expertise.

Professional groomers spend years learning coat types, breed standards, skin and coat handling, proper grooming techniques, and how different grooming methods affect different breeds. Those skills are developed through daily hands-on experience rather than medical training.

Sometimes that difference in perspective creates difficult conversations with pet owners. A groomer may recommend shaving a severely matted dog for comfort and welfare, while an owner has been told elsewhere that the coat should never be clipped short. In situations like these, the groomer has to balance the owner's expectations with what's actually best for the dog standing on the table .

Groomers Shouldn't Practice Veterinary Medicine Either

The opposite happens just as often. Many pet owners ask groomers questions that really belong in a veterinary exam room.

"What do you think this lump is?"

"Can you tell if this is cancer?"

"Should I put something on this sore?"

Experienced groomers notice an incredible amount because they spend hours physically handling dogs. They frequently discover lumps, skin growths, parasites, ear problems, dental issues, or changes in a dog's condition long before the owner notices them.

Recognizing something unusual, however, is very different from diagnosing it or knowing how to treat it.

A responsible groomer knows where that line is. They'll point out a concern, recommend that you schedule a veterinary appointment, and allow your veterinarian to determine what's actually going on.

Different Professions, Different Expertise

Neither profession is more important than the other. They're simply different.

Professional groomers develop expertise over years in coat care, breed-specific grooming, handling difficult pets, hand stripping, scissoring techniques, de-shedding, skin and coat maintenance, and keeping dogs comfortable between veterinary visits.

Veterinarians dedicate years to learning anatomy, physiology, disease, diagnostics, surgery, pharmacology, and emergency medicine.

Those are completely different careers requiring completely different training.

When Conflicting Advice Leaves Owners Stuck

Unfortunately, pet owners are often caught in the middle.

Imagine a heavily matted Pomeranian whose veterinarian previously advised against shaving because of possible coat regrowth concerns. The groomer now has a dog whose coat is tightly felted against the skin and causing discomfort. In many cases, shaving becomes the kindest and safest option despite the conflicting advice.

Or imagine a groomer discovering an unusual lump during a routine appointment and recommending that the owner schedule a veterinary examination. The groomer isn't making a diagnosis, they're simply recognizing that something deserves medical attention.

These situations happen every day, and they demonstrate why each profession works best when it stays within its own area of expertise .

The Bottom Line

Veterinarians shouldn't be expected to function as professional groomers, and groomers shouldn't attempt to practice veterinary medicine. Each profession brings valuable knowledge to your dog's care, but that knowledge isn't interchangeable.

Your veterinarian is your dog's medical expert.

Your groomer is your dog's grooming and coat care expert .

When both professionals respect each other's training and pet owners understand the difference, everyone benefits—especially the dog.

The healthiest, happiest dogs usually have both an excellent veterinarian and an experienced groomer working together, each doing what they were trained to do best.

Why Do Groomers Cut Dog Eyelashes? What Pet Parents Should Know

Sat, 23 Aug 2025 21:39:39 GMT

Why Do Groomers Cut Dog Eyelashes? What Pet Parents Should Know

Las Vegas pet grooming answers the question: Is it okay for dog groomers to cut eyelashes?

If you've ever picked up your freshly groomed pup and noticed their long, fluttery eyelashes missing, you're not alone. Many dog owners are surprised and sometimes a little upset to learn that their groomer trimmed their pet's lashes. The truth is, trimming a dog's eyelashes isn't about style. It's about eye health, safety, and practicality.

Why Groomers Trim Eyelashes

Professional groomers are trained to prioritize a dog's comfort and well-being. Long eyelashes can:

Irritate the eyes by rubbing against the surface of the eye or eyelid.
Trap dirt, dust, tear debris, and other particles that may contribute to irritation or infection.
Obstruct vision when they become excessively long or curl into the dog's line of sight.
Cause discomfort, leading some dogs to paw at or rub their eyes.

Because of these risks, groomers may trim eyelashes to help protect eye health rather than simply for appearance.

Why It Happens So Easily During Grooming

Even when eyelashes aren't causing irritation, they're surprisingly easy to trim during a grooming appointment. Here's why:

Eyelashes sit directly in line with the hair around the eyes. When groomers carefully trim the face, the lashes are often in the path of the scissors.
Standard facial grooming involves clearing excess hair from around the eyes to improve visibility and comfort. During that process, eyelashes may also be trimmed.
Some breeds naturally grow eyelashes that blend into the surrounding facial hair, making them difficult to distinguish during grooming.
Dogs move. Even experienced groomers working carefully can accidentally shorten eyelashes when the client suddenly turns or jerks.

In short, even if your dog's eyelashes weren't causing a problem, trimming them is often a natural part of safely grooming the face.

Do Dog Eyelashes Grow Back?

Yes. Just like the rest of your dog's coat, eyelashes grow back naturally. In most dogs, they begin returning within a few weeks and continue growing over the next couple of months.

Some dogs also rub or wear down their own eyelashes when they become irritating, so it's not unusual for lash length to vary between grooming appointments. Groomers are frequently asked to leave the lashes only to find... they aren't there before we even do anything. Most likely the dog has rubbed them off themselves.

The Bottom Line

If your groomer trims your dog's eyelashes, it isn't always a mistake though that definitely happens too. It's often done to improve comfort, visibility, and eye health while safely grooming the face. Although long eyelashes may look adorable, they can also contribute to irritation, eye injury, collect debris, or interfere with vision. Since they grow back naturally, trimming them is generally a temporary part of routine grooming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it okay for groomers to cut eyelashes?

Yes. It's actually preferable in many cases. Trimming eyelashes is considered safe and is commonly done to improve comfort and maintain a clear area around the eyes for eye health.

Are pet groomers supposed to cut eyelashes?

Many groomers do. Eyelashes are often trimmed while grooming around the eyes, although individual groomers may have different preferences and grooming styles.

Can cutting off eyelashes hurt my dog?

No. Trimming eyelashes is painless and does not harm your dog. And they grow right back like everything else.

Will my dog's eyelashes grow back?

Yes. In most cases, they grow back within a few weeks to a couple of months.

Can long eyelashes hurt my dog?

Yes. If they curl inward or rub against the eye, they can cause irritation, injury, excessive tearing, discomfort, or even scratches to the surface of the eye. They can also interfere with vision. Dogs frequently rub them off of their own accord without the aid of a groomer because they are bothering them.

Do dog eyelashes protect their eyes?

Yes. They help keep dust and debris away from the eyes. However, when they become excessively long or curl inward, they can do more harm than good.

Should I cut my dog's eyelashes at home?

It's generally best left to a professional groomer, as trimming around the eyes carries a high risk of accidental injury.

Do all dogs have eyelashes?

Yes. Some breeds naturally have short, barely noticeable eyelashes, while others develop long, dramatic lashes.

Which breeds have the longest eyelashes?

Breeds such as Poodles, Shih Tzus, Cocker Spaniels, Maltese, and many Doodle mixes are well known for having longer eyelashes.

Why did my groomer cut my dog's eyelashes without asking?

Removing eyelashes that may irritate or harm the dogs eye is a PART of standard, regular grooming. Many owners are also not aware that their pup has rubbed off their lashes on their own before they even arrived at the grooming shop. But even when we WANT to leave them accidents can happen. It often happens as part of safely grooming around the eyes. Eyelashes can blend into the surrounding facial hair and every groomer develops their own techniques and preferences through training and experience.

Take your comb or brush. Brush the hair in the front of your pups head completely forward. now imagine removing that WHILE trying to find, keep separate and miss eyelashes that are all twined up in there.... hmmm. Oh, and they move. FAST

If keeping your dog's eyelashes is important to you, mention it during your grooming consultation, and many groomers will do their absolute best to preserve them for you when possible if the pup will remain comfortable.

Can long eyelashes cause eye infections?

Long eyelashes themselves don't cause infections, but eyelashes that constantly rub the eye or trap debris may contribute to irritation, corneal abrasions, or conditions that increase the risk of infection.

Do dogs need eyelash extensions or eyelash styling?

No. While some owners enjoy the appearance of long eyelashes, dogs don't need cosmetic eyelash styling. Their comfort, vision, and eye health should ALWAYS come first.

Remember, professional dog grooming isn't about following human beauty trends. First and foremost, it's about keeping your dog healthy, comfortable, and safe. Looking adorable is simply an added bonus.

Products We Love - The Furminator De-shedding Rake

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 21:28:06 GMT

Why We Always Reach for the Furminator Grooming Rake for De-Shedding

When it comes to professional-grade grooming tools that work just as well at home, the Furminator Grooming Rake is always at the top of our list. Whether we're working in the salon or helping pet parents manage shedding at home, this tool continues to prove itself as one of the best for both effectiveness and safety.

Gentle Yet Effective Design

Unlike some de-shedding tools with exposed blades, the Furminator Grooming Rake is designed with rotating metal teeth that gently work through thick coats without scratching or irritating the skin. That means no painful tugging and no risk of accidental nicks, making it one of the best de-shedding tools for double-coated dogs and a safe choice for pet parents who may not have professional grooming training.

Built for Double-Coated Breeds

This grooming rake shines on breeds with dense undercoats. It removes loose fur before it turns into mats, helps regulate body temperature , and keeps coats healthier overall.

We love using it on:

German Shepherds
Huskies
Pomeranians

These breeds shed heavily, and the rake works through their coats in a way that's comfortable for the dog and efficient for the groomer.

Other Breeds That Benefit from the Furminator Grooming Rake

Of course, those aren't the only dogs that need extra help with shedding. The Furminator Grooming Rake is also perfect for many other coated breeds, especially those with heavy shedding cycles or thick double coats. Some of our top picks include:

Golden Retrievers – Long coats that shed constantly benefit from regular raking.
Collies (Rough & Smooth) – Their dense coats can mat without consistent undercoat care.
Samoyeds – Known for their fluffy white fur, they shed heavily during seasonal coat blows.
Bernese Mountain Dogs – Thick coats stay healthier with routine de-shedding.
Chow Chows – Their lion-like mane can quickly become compacted without proper grooming.
Australian Shepherds – Medium double coats that surprise many owners with how much they shed.
Alaskan Malamutes – Even more coat than Huskies, making this rake a lifesaver during coat blows.
Great Pyrenees – Massive double coats stay healthier with consistent undercoat removal.
Newfoundlands – Water-resistant coats benefit from removing loose undercoat to reduce bulk and shedding.
Pembroke Welsh Corgis and Cardigan Welsh Corgis – Small dogs with surprisingly heavy year-round shedding.

Regular use of this tool helps pet parents reduce shedding at home, keeps coats healthier, and helps prevent matting. It's an easy way to achieve professional-looking grooming results without the risks that come with sharp-bladed tools. One of the reasons we recommend it is because it doesn't rely on exposed blades that are as likely to cause abrasions, nicks, or cuts when used by someone without professional grooming experience. However be aware these are always possible when brushing an area for long periods or with a heavier hand.

Comfort and Durability

The Furminator Grooming Rake is built to last, with a sturdy, ergonomic handle that makes longer grooming sessions more comfortable. Whether you're brushing out a large Husky or tackling the thick coat of a Samoyed, this tool provides the control and durability needed to get the job done efficiently.

Final Thoughts

Shedding is part of life with a double-coated dog, but with the right tool, it doesn't have to take over your home. The Furminator Grooming Rake remains one of our favorite recommendations because it's safer, effective, trusted by professional groomers , and simple enough for pet parents to use confidently at home.

Grab Yours on Amazon

Ready to try it for your pup? Check out the Furminator Grooming Rake on Amazon.

How often should you bathe short haired dogs?

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 20:57:26 GMT

How Often Should Short-Haired Dogs Be Groomed? A Guide for Chihuahuas, Bulldogs, Pit Bulls, Boxers, and More

Why Regular Grooming Still Matters

When people think of dog grooming, they often imagine fluffy breeds with thick coats that require regular trimming. But short, flat-coated breeds such as the Chihuahua, French Bulldog, Pit Bull, Boxer, Boston Terrier, and Pug also benefit from consistent grooming even if they don’t need haircuts. Grooming these dogs on the right schedule is essential for their health, comfort, and reducing shedding.

Why Grooming Matters for Short Coated Dogs

Even though breeds like the Dachshund, Pug, Pit Bull, and Boxer have sleek coats, they still shed. Regular grooming removes loose fur, dirt, and dander while also improving circulation and helping keep the skin healthy. It also includes routine ear wiping to help reduce wax and debris buildup and regular nail trimming to keep the feet functioning properly.

When nails become too long, they force a dog's toes to spread and change the way the foot contacts the ground. Over time, this unnatural stance can place extra stress on the feet, wrists, legs, shoulders, and even the spine, leading to discomfort and affecting the way a dog walks. They may also possibly start to grow into the dog's pads or skin. Keeping the nails properly maintained helps support normal movement and overall comfort while keeping your dog looking, feeling, and smelling fresh.

How Often Should You Groom These Breeds?

A full bath and brush every 4–12 weeks is usually ideal for Chihuahuas, French Bulldogs, Pit Bulls, and Boxers. This schedule helps keep shedding under control without drying out the skin.

Brushing once or twice a week at home with a rubber curry brush or grooming glove can help keep the coat shiny and minimize loose fur around the house.

Grooming too often, such as weekly baths, can actually cause dry, itchy skin and strip away the natural oils that protect the coat.

A good rule of thumb is if you can hear those toes tippy tapping on the floor as you walk along it's probably time for a spa day.

What Should Grooming Include?

When you take a Chihuahua, French Bulldog, Pit Bull, or Boxer to a professional groomer, you can expect more than just a bath. A well-rounded grooming appointment usually includes:

Bath with a gentle shampoo and conditioner
Thorough brushing and de-shed to remove loose fur
Nail trimming (important for comfort and posture)
Ear cleaning to help prevent infections
Paw pad and sanitary care, if needed
Some groomers check anal glands, but not in the same internal manner as a veterinarian.

Groomer vs. Veterinarian for Routine Maintenance

Many pet parents make special trips to the veterinarian just for nail trims or ear cleaning. However, in most cases, a professional dog groomer can provide the same basic maintenance for a Bulldog, Chihuahua, Rat Terrier, Boston Terrier, or Boxer at a lower cost. Your dog also gets the added benefit of a bath and brush during the same visit.

The Bottom Line

Even though breeds like Pugs, Jack Russell Terriers, Dachshunds, Miniature Pinschers, and Chihuahuas don't need fancy haircuts, they still thrive on regular grooming. Aim for a bath and brush every 4–8 weeks, with at home brushing in between appointments. You'll enjoy a cleaner home with less shedding, and your pup will be healthier, happier, and more comfortable.

Some examples of short, flat-coated breeds that may benefit from visiting your groomer instead of your veterinarian the next time they need a nail trim include:

Chihuahua
Dachshund
Pug
Beagle
Boston Terrier
Miniature Pinscher
Pit Bull
Boxer
Bulldog
American Bully
French Bulldog
Jack Russell Terrier
Rat Terrier
Weimaraner
German Shorthaired Pointer
Vizsla
Great Dane
Basenji
Italian Greyhound
American Staffordshire Terrier
Dalmatian

For affordable, quality and loving grooming for your flat coated pup in Las Vegas give Leashes pet Salon a call.

How to Tell the Groomer What Haircut or Services You Would Like

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 20:16:44 GMT

How to Tell Your Groomer What You Want

When you bring your dog to the groomer, it's completely normal to feel unsure about how to explain the haircut or services you want. In the grooming world, this conversation is called a consultation. A consultation isn't just about you choosing a haircut or placing an order like your groomer is at a fast food or coffee counter. It's a chance for your groomer to learn about your dog, your preferences, your lifestyle, and the amount of coat maintenance you're willing or able to do at home. All of those things help the groomer determine the details and which haircut will work best for both you and your pup.

It's important to remember that you're responsible for keeping your dog's coat in good condition between grooming appointments. It is not up to your groomer and not typically included in the base service cost or the usual appointment time for your groomer to spend more than a reasonable 20 minutes or so doing any detangling or de-matting. The haircut you hope for only works if the coat is properly brushed and maintained at home and your pet is tolerant of the process. Your groomer will do their best to match your vision, but your dog's coat condition, structure, lifestyle, and your home maintenance routine all play a huge role in the final result.

Keep It Simple

When describing the length you want, simple words usually work best. Instead of trying to use grooming terminology, tell your groomer things like: Short, Medium Long, Short but no skin, all the same length nose to tail, try to keep the ears out of the water bowl etc. Trying to sound like a groomer often creates more misunderstanding than it helps. Especially since we don’t even use the same terms for the same things from shop to shop.

For example, saying, "Take an inch off," doesn't tell your groomer what length you actually want your dog to be. Grooming lengths are measured by the amount of coat left on the dog, not by how much is removed as might happen with humans. Saying, "I'd like about a half inch left," or "I want him nice and fluffy," gives your groomer a much clearer picture.

Tell Us About Your Lifestyle

Your dog's lifestyle matters just as much as the haircut itself. Does your dog: Swim regularly? Hike or camp with you? Spend time at the dog park? Wear sweaters or harnesses often? Love rolling in the grass or mud? These things affect how practical certain haircuts will be. A beautiful long coat may look amazing, but it also requires much more brushing if your dog is constantly outdoors or getting wet and long may not be the best option for an active pet or swimmer.

Be Honest About Brushing

One of the most helpful things you can tell your groomer is how often you realistically brush your dog. Not how often you plan to brush. Not how often you wish you brushed. How often you actually do it.

There isn't a right or wrong answer. We aren't judging you. We're simply trying to recommend a haircut that fits your maintenance and lifestyle instead of one that becomes matted before your next appointment. If you hate brushing, tell us. We'd much rather give your dog a cute, easy to maintain haircut than see them uncomfortable in between grooms because the coat couldn't be maintained.

Also... we know the difference. We know when you THINK you're brushing and combing properly but aren't. We know when you aren't brushing the ENTIRE dog. We know when you haven't brushed your dog for months. We know when you bathe your dog and don't brush or dry it properly. We know when your pup wears sweaters. We know that didn't just take a week. Each of those situations has different patterns that WE see every day, so honesty is always the best policy.

We don't judge you. Let’s face it, life happens and not everyone has an hour or three a day to comb out every square inch of their dog. It just helps us help your pup. We also don't mind giving tips on brushing, combing, maintenance, and bathing.

Tell Us What You Love

If there are certain features you absolutely love, let your groomer know. Maybe you love: A round teddy bear face. Long eyelashes . A fluffy as possible tail. Long ears. Short ears, Clean (shaved) feet, A fuller beard or face Those details help your groomer prioritize the features that matter most to you if we can.

Pictures Can Help OR HURT

Pictures are one of the best communication tools you can bring to a grooming appointment. The best photos are actually of your own dog after a previous haircut you loved. If you don't have those, choose pictures of dogs with a similar breed, coat type, coat condition, and body structure. A photo of a perfectly groomed social media dog may not be realistic if your dog has a completely different coat and body and temperament. We can't turn your Lhasa Apso into a Schnauzer or create coat or structural foundation that just isn't there. Just because two dogs are the same breed does not mean they are the same dog and we can make your pup look just like another. Let us find ways to make your pup shine as their own beautiful self if we need to.

Don't Worry About Knowing Grooming Terms

Every groomer has their own style, preferences, techniques, and shop policies, so never assume everyone uses the same terminology. In fact, trying to speak "groomer" can sometimes create more confusion than simply describing what you want. Instead of saying things like, "Scissor the feet," “scissor the sani” or requesting a specific blade length you've heard online, tell your groomer the result you're hoping for in simple human terms. That tells us far more than trying to direct the technical side of the groom which is what WE trained to do. We will follow up with questions that help us understand and clarify.

A Word About Haircut Names

Terms like " puppy cut ," " teddy bear cut ," and even "breed cut" don’t actually mean anything at all or have specific details attached to them that describe a whole haircut and can mean different things to different groomers and owners alike. If you use one of those terms be ready to follow it up with a description or a photo and answer questions so everyone is picturing the same haircut.

Matting Changes Everything

If your dog's coat is matted, your groomer may not be able to safely achieve the style you requested. Matting often limits the haircut options because brushing out severe tangles can be painful and may even injure the skin. Sometimes the kindest and safest choice is a shorter haircut that allows the coat to grow back healthy. Your groomer isn't trying to disappoint you. They're putting your dog's comfort and safety first.

Think of It as a Conversation Because That’s What it Is

The best grooming appointments start with good communication. Think of the consultation as a discussion, not placing an order. Your groomer can't see the picture in your head, but they can help you choose a style that fits your dog's coat, your lifestyle, and the amount of maintenance you're comfortable doing at home. If the first haircut isn't exactly what you envisioned, that's okay. Adjustments can almost always be made at the next appointment, and dog hair grows back much faster than ours. Regular grooming every 4 to 10 weeks gives you and your groomer the opportunity to fine-tune the perfect look over time.

Hopefully we've eased some common issues that lead to misunderstandings between groomers and customers and your next appointment goes MUCH more smoothly

Summer Grooming Tips for Coated Dog Breeds: Why De-Shedding Beats Shaving

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 16:55:03 GMT

Why Shaving Your Coated Dog Isn't the Best Option And Doesn't Keep Them Cooler

1. Double Coats Are Designed to Protect

A double coat isn't just there to keep a dog warm during the winter. The dense undercoat and protective guard hairs work together to help regulate body temperature while shielding the skin from direct sunlight, insect bites, and everyday environmental hazards.

Removing the guard coat through shaving takes away much of that natural protection and leaves the skin far more vulnerable to sunburn and irritation.

2. Coat Regrowth Problems

One of the biggest problems groomers see after shaving a double-coated breed is poor coat regrowth.

The soft undercoat often grows back much faster than the protective guard hairs. The result can be a coat that grows in unevenly, feels coarse or woolly, mats more easily, and may never return to its original texture. Some dogs experience permanent coat damage, especially after repeated shaving. Poor regrowth can also be a sign of a health issue affecting hair growth. It is not uncommon for a dog to look normal after shaving years but then it grows back poor and patchy. This should be taken as a sign to investigate any underlying health issues which may be the main cause.

3. Shaving Doesn't Fix the Real Problem

Many owners believe shaving will make a thick-coated dog cooler because there's "less hair."

In reality, what's making many of these dogs uncomfortable isn't the length of the coat. It's the loose, impacted undercoat trapped underneath.

A thorough de-shedding treatment removes that dead undercoat while leaving the protective outer coat intact. This allows better airflow through the coat without sacrificing its natural protection.

Let me also break down why people think shaving reduces shedding.

In order to shave a dog the undercoat is removed. The shedding continues. The higher shed rate resumes at the same time as the hair grows back whether or not the pet was shaved. So... grooming is needed at again ON THE SAME SCHEDULE whether the pet is shaved or a bath and de-shed service was performed. The de-shed is just the better, healthier, more comfortable option for the pet and coat integrity in MOST cases. On much rarer occasions shaving may be determined to be the best option due to impacted matted coat or some health issues but never to keep a dog cooler.

The Better Solution: Regular De-Shedding

1. Use the Right Tool

Removing loose undercoat requires more than a quick brush.

Undercoat rakes , slicker brushes, high-velocity dryers, shedding tools, and other professional grooming equipment are designed to remove dead undercoat without damaging the healthy guard hairs.

Using the wrong tool or brushing too aggressively can damage the coat just as easily as shaving.

2. Technique Matters

Proper de-shedding isn't simply brushing the top of the coat.

Working in small sections from the skin outward allows loose undercoat to be removed without unnecessarily pulling healthy coat. Even weekly maintenance at home can dramatically reduce shedding, improve airflow, and help prevent impacted undercoat.

3. Beat the Heat, Not the Fur

Removing loose undercoat allows air to circulate closer to the skin while preserving the coat's natural protection from the summer sun.

Regular brushing also removes dirt, loose hair, and debris while helping distribute natural skin oils throughout the coat.

For most healthy double-coated breeds, that's exactly what they need during the hottest months of the year, not a shave.

Examples of Summer Grooming for Popular Double-Coated Breeds

-German Shepherds: Regular de-shedding is one of the best things you can do for a German Shepherd during the summer. Their dense undercoat sheds heavily, and removing that loose hair helps keep the coat lighter and more comfortable without sacrificing the protective guard hairs.

-Border Collies: Border Collies benefit from routine de-shedding to remove loose undercoat while preserving their beautiful outer coat. Shaving can interfere with the coat's natural protection and may result in uneven regrowth.

-Australian Shepherds: Australian Shepherds experience heavy seasonal coat blow-outs. Regular brushing and professional de-shedding treatments help remove dead undercoat far more effectively than clippers ever will.

-Golden Retrievers: Goldens are famous for shedding, especially during seasonal coat changes. A thorough de-shedding treatment helps remove loose undercoat, improves coat condition, and can significantly reduce the amount of hair left around your home.

-Labrador Retrievers: Many owners don't realize Labradors have a dense double coat. Professional de-shedding removes the loose undercoat while preserving the healthy outer coat that helps protect the skin.

-Siberian Huskies: Huskies naturally "blow" their undercoat, often releasing handfuls of fur during shedding season. Professional de-shedding is designed for exactly this purpose. Shaving usually creates more problems than it solves.

-Shetland Sheepdogs (Shelties): Their beautiful double coat requires regular brushing and de-shedding to prevent impacted undercoat. Shaving removes the protective guard hairs and exposes the skin to unnecessary sun and environmental damage.

Bonus Tips for a Cool, Comfortable Summer

Keep Fresh Water Available

Regular grooming helps your dog stay comfortable, but it doesn't replace the basics. Always provide plenty of cool, fresh water.

Provide Shade

If your dog spends time outdoors, make sure they always have access to shade or a cool place to escape the sun.

Know When to Stay Inside

During extreme heat, limit walks and outdoor activities to the early morning or evening hours. Hot pavement can burn paw pads in seconds, and heat stroke can develop quickly. It can also blister and burn exposed pads.

Watch for Skin Problems

If your dog's shedding seems excessive, patchy, or is accompanied by redness, odor, hair loss, or irritation, schedule a visit with your veterinarian. Underlying skin conditions, allergies, or parasites may require medical treatment rather than grooming alone.

Grooming Is More Than Looking Good

Regular brushing and professional grooming aren't just cosmetic. They help remove loose undercoat, prevent mats, improve coat condition, reduce shedding around the house, and give your groomer the opportunity to spot potential skin or coat problems before they become more serious.

Bottom Line

For double-coated breeds like German Shepherds, Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Siberian Huskies, and Shelties, shaving may seem like the logical solution to summer heat, but it usually creates more problems than it solves. And it most definitely does not keep them cooler, it removes their built in cool off protection instead.

A thorough de-shedding treatment removes the loose undercoat that's no longer serving your dog while preserving the protective guard hairs that nature designed for the job.

If you're trying to help your dog stay cooler this summer, skip the shave and invest in regular brushing and professional de-shedding instead. Your dog's coat, skin, and overall comfort will thank you.

Dog Breed Spotlight - The Giant Schnauzer

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 09:13:40 GMT

Giant Schnauzer: A Majestic Guardian for the Dedicated Owner

The Giant Schnauzer is a breed that commands attention with its imposing stature, dignified presence, and unwavering loyalty. Originally bred in Germany for herding livestock and guarding property, this noble working dog thrives in active households with owners who can meet its physical, mental, training and grooming needs. While they can be incredible companions, great guard dogs and protectors they are not a breed for everyone and are generally not recommended for first time or inexperienced dog owners.

Temperament & Traits

Giant Schnauzers are highly intelligent, alert, confident, and deeply loyal to their families. As members of the Working Group, they thrive when given purposeful tasks and excel in obedience, agility, scent work, protection sports, and other activities that challenge both their minds and bodies.

They are also known for being rowdy, boisterous dogs, especially throughout adolescence. Without plenty of daily exercise, consistent training, and clear boundaries, they can become difficult to manage. It is extremely important that a Giant Schnauzers needs are met as much as the owners or those qualities that make them so great may turn into excess aggression or other behavioral issues.

Because they were bred to guard, Giant Schnauzers have strong protective instincts. Early socialization is essential, and training should begin early and continue throughout their lives. Without proper handling and leadership, some Giant Schnauzers can become overly protective, territorial, or aggressive toward unfamiliar people or animals. A well-trained Giant Schnauzer is a remarkable companion. An untrained one can quickly become overwhelming and pretty scary.

Grooming Needs

Maintaining the Giant Schnauzer's distinctive wiry coat requires regular grooming. Most family pets are clipped for easier maintenance.

Their beard, furnishings, and dense coat require routine brushing to help prevent tangles and mats. Professional grooming is typically recommended every 4 to 8 weeks , depending on coat length and the amount of maintenance performed at home.

Prospective owners should also consider grooming costs before choosing this breed. Giant Schnauzers require considerably more time, labor, shampoo, drying, brushing, clipping, and scissoring than many other breeds. As a result, they are significantly more expensive to groom than smaller Schnauzers and many other family dogs. Grooming is an ongoing commitment that should be factored into the lifetime cost of owning a Giant Schnauzer.

Health Considerations

Like many large breeds, Giant Schnauzers are predisposed to certain inherited health conditions. Hip dysplasia, cataracts, and autoimmune diseases are among the more common concerns seen within the breed. Responsible breeders perform recommended health screenings to help reduce the risk of inherited disease, and prospective owners should always ask about health testing before purchasing a puppy.

Maintaining a healthy weight, feeding a quality diet, providing regular exercise, and scheduling routine veterinary care all contribute to helping Giant Schnauzers live long, healthy lives.

Is a Giant Schnauzer Right for You?

If you're looking for a laid-back dog that's content spending most of the day on the couch, the Giant Schnauzer probably isn't the right fit. These dogs were bred to work and are happiest when they have a job to do. They need daily exercise, mental stimulation, regular grooming, and an owner who is willing to invest the time to train them properly.

For experienced owners who are prepared for the commitment, Giant Schnauzers are loyal, affectionate, and incredibly rewarding companions.

Breeders & Rescue

If you're interested in adding a Giant Schnauzer to your family, take the time to research responsible breeders or consider adoption through a breed-specific rescue.

Breeder Listings

The Giant Schnauzer Club of America maintains a breeder directory featuring breeders who follow ethical breeding practices and recommended health testing.

https://www.giantschnauzerclubofamerica.com/

Rescue Organizations

Adoption is another wonderful option. HT-Z Giant Schnauzer Rescue is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming Giant Schnauzers in need.

https://www.htzrescue.com/

“Why Groomers in the Know Rarely Reach for Oatmeal Shampoo - The Truth Beyond the Hype”

Sun, 17 Aug 2025 09:00:01 GMT

Why Your Groomer May Not Want to Use Or Recommend Oatmeal Shampoo

Oatmeal shampoo is one of the most requested products in pet grooming. Owners often ask for it, bring their own bottle, or specifically instruct the groomer to use it because their dog is itchy.

The problem is that itchy skin does not automatically mean dry skin, and oatmeal shampoo is often the wrong choice.

Many professional groomers do not reach for oatmeal shampoo unless there is a very specific reason to use it. It may temporarily soothe mild dryness, but it is not a treatment for allergies, yeast, bacterial infections, parasites, or other underlying skin problems. In some situations, it may even make the problem worse.

Why Owners Ask for Oatmeal Shampoo

Oatmeal shampoo has been marketed for years as gentle, natural, moisturizing, and soothing. It is inexpensive, easy to find, and commonly associated with sensitive skin.

That reputation has made it the automatic choice for many pet owners. When a dog starts scratching, oatmeal is often the first thing they think of.

Unfortunately, itching is a symptom, not a diagnosis.

A dog may be itchy because of fleas, allergies, yeast, bacteria, parasites, environmental irritation, hormonal problems, or another medical condition. Choosing a shampoo without knowing the cause can delay proper treatment and may leave the dog just as uncomfortable as before.

Why Professional Groomers Often Avoid Oatmeal Shampoo

1. It Can Be a Poor Choice for Yeast

Yeast is a common cause of itchy, greasy, irritated skin. Dogs with yeast may also have a strong odor, darkened skin, recurring ear problems, or a smell owners sometimes describe as corn chips.

Many groomers avoid oatmeal shampoo when yeast is suspected because oatmeal may provide additional nourishment for yeast growth instead of helping control it.

“Oatmeal can actually make a yeast infection worse. If it’s yeast, go tea tree or sulfur.”

A groomer on Reddit

That quote reflects one groomer’s experience, not a recommendation to treat yeast at home. Suspected yeast infections should be evaluated by a veterinarian so the correct treatment can be chosen.

2. It Does Not Treat the Cause of Itching

Oatmeal may temporarily calm irritated skin, but temporary relief is not the same as treatment.

If a dog is scratching because of allergies, infection, parasites, or another medical problem, oatmeal shampoo does not correct the underlying cause. The dog may feel slightly better for a short time while the actual condition continues.

Persistent itching, redness, odor, hair loss, sores, greasy skin, or recurring irritation needs veterinary attention.

3. It Often Does Not Clean as Well - ( yeah, we hate washing dogs and still feeling ick and residue and grease that affect our haircut cause someone else determined the shampoo)

Many groomers find that oatmeal shampoos do not clean as deeply as the professional products they normally use.

Some formulas may leave residue, contribute to buildup, or fail to remove grease, dirt, odor, and product accumulation as effectively as a good cleansing shampoo.

A shampoo that sounds soothing on the label is not necessarily the shampoo that will leave the skin and coat in the best condition.

4. It Is Often Requested by the Owner, Not Chosen by the Groomer

Oatmeal shampoo frequently enters the grooming salon because the owner requested it, not because the groomer believes it is the best product for that dog.

Professional groomers choose shampoos based on coat type, skin condition, cleanliness, odor, grease, buildup, and the results the dog needs.

Another groomer described the frustration this way:

“I throw [oatmeal shampoo] into the routine to humor the parent, it makes no difference and wastes their money and my time.”

A groomer on Reddit

That may sound blunt, but it reflects a common problem. Owners and sometimes even vets sometimes insist on a product because of its reputation, even when the groomer has a more appropriate option available.

5. Specialty Products Can Become Impractical in a Salon

Oatmeal shampoo may not be used often enough in a professional salon to justify keeping it prepared and ready.

Many grooming shampoos are diluted before use. Once mixed, they should not sit indefinitely. A specialty shampoo that is requested only occasionally may lose freshness or quality before the entire mixture is used.

Groomers often prefer dependable professional products they use regularly and know will produce consistent results.

6. Different Skin Problems Require Different Products

There is no single shampoo that is right for every itchy dog.

Some dogs need a deep-cleaning or degreasing shampoo. Others may need a veterinarian-recommended antibacterial, antifungal, medicated, or exfoliating product containing ingredients such as salicylic acid.

Oatmeal is broadly marketed as soothing, but it is not targeted enough for many of the skin conditions groomers regularly see.

Before You Bring Your Own Shampoo

Ask your groomer before bringing a bottle from home or instructing them to use oatmeal shampoo.

Your groomer may already have a professional product that is better suited to your dog’s skin, coat, odor, grease level, or grooming needs.

Bringing your own shampoo may also affect the grooming service. Some salons charge extra for owner-supplied or specialty products, while others prefer not to use outside products at all.

Your groomer is not refusing oatmeal shampoo to be difficult. They may be trying to avoid using a product that cleans poorly, leaves residue, fails to address the real problem, or could make an existing skin condition worse.

What Pet Owners Should Do Instead

If your dog has persistent itching, redness, odor, hair loss, greasy skin, recurring ear trouble, sores, or other ongoing skin problems, schedule a veterinary examination.

Do not assume that every itchy dog needs oatmeal shampoo.

Let your veterinarian determine whether there is an allergy, infection, parasite, yeast problem, or other medical cause. Then allow your veterinarian and groomer to choose products that match the actual condition.

Conclusion

Oatmeal shampoo became popular because it was marketed as the gentle answer for itchy dogs. That does not mean it is the best choice.

Professional groomers often avoid it because it may not clean well, does not treat most causes of itching, can be a poor choice for yeast prone skin, and is frequently requested by owners when another product would work better.

When your groomer recommends something other than oatmeal shampoo, there is usually a reason. The goal is not to use the most familiar product. The goal is to use the product that is actually right for your dog.

Before You Bring Your Own Shampoo

Ask your groomer before bringing a bottle from home or instructing them to use oatmeal shampoo.

Your groomer may already have a professional product that is better suited to your dog’s skin, coat, odor, grease level, or grooming needs.

Bringing your own shampoo may also affect the grooming service. Some salons charge extra for owner-supplied or specialty products, while others prefer not to use outside products at all.

What Pet Owners Should Do Instead

If your dog has persistent itching, redness, odor, hair loss, greasy skin, recurring ear trouble, sores, or other ongoing skin problems, schedule a veterinary examination.

Do not assume that every itchy dog needs oatmeal shampoo.

Conclusion

Oatmeal shampoo became popular because it was marketed as the gentle answer for itchy dogs. That does not mean it is the best choice.

Dog Breed Spotlight: The Miniature Schnauzer

Sat, 16 Aug 2025 08:33:40 GMT

Miniature Schnauzer Breed Guide

Let's Talk About the Miniature Schnauzer

If you've ever met a Miniature Schnauzer, you know they're convinced they're the biggest dog in the room. With their unmistakable beard, expressive eyebrows, and confident personality, these spirited little dogs pack a whole lot of charm into a compact package.

Originally bred as hardworking farm dogs to hunt rats and keep vermin under control, today's Miniature Schnauzers are loving family companions that want to be involved in everything you're doing. They're intelligent, loyal, entertaining, and full of personality. They may be small in size, but they carry themselves with the confidence of a much larger dog.

Breed Snapshot

Miniature Schnauzers typically stand 12 to 14 inches at the shoulder with a sturdy, nearly square build. Their distinctive beard, bushy eyebrows, and alert expression make them one of the easiest breeds to recognize.

Their coat is a double coat consisting of a wiry outer coat over a soft undercoat. The traditional show coat is hand-stripped to maintain its crisp texture, although most family pets are clipped for easier maintenance.

The three colors recognized by the current AKC breed standard are:

Salt & Pepper
Black
Black & Silver

You may also see white Miniature Schnauzers, and they can be AKC registered. However, white is not an accepted color under the current AKC breed standard for conformation showing.

You may also come across breeders advertising "rare" colors such as liver (chocolate), merle, parti, wheaten, or other unusual colors. Don't let the word rare fool you into thinking they're more desirable or valuable. Responsible breeders place their focus on health, temperament, and preserving the breed rather than producing fad colors.

While Miniature Schnauzers are considered a low-shedding breed, they are definitely not a low-maintenance breed.

Grooming Needs

If you're thinking about bringing home a Miniature Schnauzer, regular grooming should be part of the plan. That iconic beard and those expressive eyebrows don't stay looking great without routine care.

Most owners should expect to visit the groomer every 4 to 12 weeks , depending on how long they prefer to keep the coat and how much maintenance they're willing to do at home.

Many owners choose a shorter Schnauzer trim because it's easier to maintain, stays cleaner between appointments, and honestly, we think the Schnauzers appreciate it too.

Between grooming appointments, you should:

Brush and comb several times each week.
Keep the beard clean after meals and messy adventures.
Check the ears regularly.
Keep nails trimmed.
Remove small tangles before they turn into mats.

A little maintenance at home goes a long way toward making grooming appointments easier and more comfortable for your dog.

Health Considerations

Miniature Schnauzers are generally a healthy, long-lived breed, but there is at least one health concern every owner should know about: bladder stones .

This breed has a higher risk of developing urinary stones than many other breeds. Fortunately, there are steps owners can take to help reduce that risk before stones ever become a problem. Feeding an appropriate diet, encouraging plenty of fresh water, maintaining a healthy weight, and following your veterinarian's recommendations can all play an important role in supporting urinary health. If your veterinarian recommends a prescription urinary diet, it's important to stick with it.

Even with the best care, stones can still occur. Watch for frequent urination, straining, accidents in the house, blood in the urine, or signs of discomfort while urinating. If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule a veterinary appointment promptly.

Miniature Schnauzers are also predisposed to elevated blood fat levels (hyperlipidemia), which can increase the risk of pancreatitis. Feeding a quality diet, limiting fatty table scraps, maintaining a healthy weight, and following your veterinarian's recommendations can go a long way toward helping prevent problems. Responsible breeders should also perform recommended eye examinations and appropriate genetic testing.

Personality & Training

One of my favorite things about Miniature Schnauzers is their personality. They're incredibly intelligent, eager to learn, and happiest when they're included in family life. They love having a job, whether that's learning tricks, going for walks, competing in agility, or simply supervising everything happening around the house.

They're also known for being vocal dogs. Miniature Schnauzers make wonderful little watchdogs and aren't shy about letting you know when someone is at the door or something catches their attention. Some can even learn to "talk" and say phrases like "I love you." It's adorable if you're the owner. Grouchy neighbors may not always appreciate their conversations quite as much.

Rescue or Breeder?

Whether you're looking for a puppy from a responsible breeder or hoping to adopt, take your time and do your homework. A reputable breeder should be happy to answer questions, discuss health testing, and let you meet the parents whenever possible. If you're interested in adoption, Miniature Schnauzers regularly find themselves looking for loving homes through breed-specific rescues.

American Miniature Schnauzer Club (AMSC)
https://amsc.us/

AMSC Rescue
https://amsc.us/rescue/

Miniature Schnauzers in Las Vegas

If you're looking for training classes, dog sports, or simply a great way to meet other dog lovers, Las Vegas has several excellent clubs that welcome newcomers. Whether you're interested in basic obedience or competitive events, these organizations are a wonderful resource for both you and your Miniature Schnauzer.

Silver State Kennel Club (Las Vegas)
https://www.silverstatekennelclub.com/

All-breed conformation, obedience, and AKC events.

Vegas Valley Dog Obedience Club
https://vvdoc.org/

AKC-licensed club offering puppy classes, obedience training, performance events, and trials.

Looking for something outside Southern Nevada? The AKC Club Search Tool can help you locate clubs throughout the country.

AKC Club Search Tool
https://www.apps.akc.org/club-search/

Las Vegas Heat and Your Pet: Emergency First Aid for Heat Stroke

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 07:03:40 GMT

Las Vegas Heat and Your Pet: Emergency First Aid for Heat Stroke

Living in Las Vegas means we're no strangers to scorching summers. But while we can duck into air conditioning or grab an icy drink, our pets are far more vulnerable to heat related illness. Heat stroke in dogs can happen in minutes and for certain breeds like Pugs, Bulldogs, and Shih Tzus, the risk is even higher.

In this post, we'll walk you through how to spot heat stroke, what to do in an emergency, and how to create a pet heat stroke first aid kit including a lesser known lifesaving tip for brachycephalic ("smash face") breeds.

Why Las Vegas Heat is So Dangerous for Pets

In the Mojave Desert, summer temperatures can easily top 110°F. Unlike humans, dogs and cats don't sweat across their bodies, they cool themselves primarily through panting and cooler air that circulates through their layers of coat. On hot days, panting simply isn't enough to keep up, especially for:

Brachycephalic breeds (Pugs, French Bulldogs , English Bulldogs, Shih Tzus, Boston Terriers)
Overweight pets
Older pets or those with health issues
Dark-coated animals, which absorb heat faster

Even brief exposure like a short walk on asphalt or time in an unshaded yard can lead to dangerous overheating.

Signs of Heat Stroke in Dogs & Cats

Watch closely for early symptoms. The faster you recognize heat stress, the better your pet's chances.

Early Warning Signs

Excessive panting or difficulty breathing
Bright red gums and tongue
Drooling or thick, sticky saliva
Lethargy, confusion, or unsteady walking

Severe Signs (Emergency!)

Vomiting or diarrhea (possibly with blood)
Collapse or inability to stand
Seizures
Unresponsiveness

If you see any severe signs, treat it as a life-threatening emergency.

Emergency First Aid for Heat Stroke

While your first step should always be to head straight to the nearest veterinary clinic, immediate action while on the way there can save your pet's life.

Do This While in Transit to the Vet

Move your pet to a cool, shaded area or into an air conditioned car.
Begin cooling immediately:
Wet your pet with cool (not ice cold) water especially on the belly, armpits, and paws.
Use a fan to increase evaporation.
Offer small amounts of cool water but don't force them to drink.
For brachycephalic breeds, if they appear to be struggling with airway swelling, a small amount of lemon juice (a few drops on the tongue) may help break up thick mucus and open the airway just enough until you reach the vet. (This is a short-term aid, not a cure and should never replace veterinary care.)

Build Your Pet Heat Stroke First Aid Kit

Having a dedicated kit in your home and car can make a huge difference.

Include:

Digital thermometer (for pets, normal is 100–102.5°F)
Spray bottle filled with cool water
Instant cold packs (wrapped in a towel for use)
Small battery powered fan
Absorbent towels
Bottled water
Collapsible water bowl
Small container of lemon juice (for brachycephalic breeds)
Emergency vet contact list and directions

Prevention is Always Best

While first aid is critical, preventing heat stroke should be every Las Vegas pet parent's priority:

Walk pets early in the morning or after sunset.
Avoid hot asphalt it can burn paws in seconds.
Provide constant shade and fresh water outdoors.
Never leave pets in a parked car not even for "just a minute."

Bottom Line

Las Vegas summers are no joke, and heat stroke can kill quickly. Recognize the signs, keep a first aid kit ready, and always seek veterinary help immediately. For brachycephalic breeds, those few drops of lemon juice could help buy precious time—but nothing replaces fast, professional care.

My Point of Groom

Dog and Cat Nail Care: Nail Clippers, Dremels, Long Quicks and Bleeding Explained

Dog and Cat Nail Care: What Pet Owners Actually Need to Know

So Where Exactly Are You Supposed to Cut a Dog's Nail?

So What Is the Quick?

Blood Does Not Always Mean the Groomer Just Quicked the Nail

Why Can Such a Tiny Nail Injury Look Like So Much Blood?

Being Quicked and Being Terrified of Nail Trims Are Not the Same Thing

Start Playing With Your Dogs Feet

Getting Your Dog Used to a Nail Grinder Without Starting With the Nail Grinder

Keeping Nails Smooth After Grooming and Between Trims

Cat Nails Need Attention Too

Why Did They Say My Dog Has Long Quicks?

One Exception to the Rule

Okay, You Hit the Quick. Now What?

What If You Don't Have Quick Stop?

When a Bleeding Nail Is More Than Just a Quicked Nail

How Often Should Nails Actually Be Trimmed?

Final Thoughts

Dog Breed Spotlight - The French Bulldog

Dog Breed Spotlight: The French Bulldog

Meet the French Bulldog

Breed History

Personality and Temperament

Living with a French Bulldog

Training and Social Behavior

Grooming Requirements

Health Considerations

French Bulldogs and Heat Don't Mix—Sometimes Humidity Too

Choosing a Responsible Breeder

Rescue Is Another Wonderful Option

The "Rare Color" Trend and Fad Breeding Is Hurting the Breed

Helpful Resources

Final Thoughts

Finally Back!

Finally Back!

Las Vegas Dog-Friendly Events & Activities: Nevada SPCA Neon Dog Walk

Las Vegas Dog-Friendly Events & Activities: Nevada SPCA Neon Dog Walk

Event Details

What to Expect

Supporting Homeless Pets

Helpful Links

Things Your Groomer Wishes You Knew: Episode 1

Things Your Groomer Wishes You Knew: Episode 1

We're a Skilled Trade, Not a Coffee Counter or Fast Food Joint

We Don't Have Normal Working Hours

Grooming Isn't Just About Looking Cute

No Two Groomers Are the Same

No Two Dogs Are the Same

Grooming Takes Much Longer Than Most People Realize

Sometimes We Say Yes Because We Want to Help

Until Next Time...

Groomer Confession #1

Why You Shouldn’t Shave Your Pitbull, Bulldog, French Bulldog, or Other Short Coated Breeds to Stop Shedding

Why You Shouldn't Shave Your Pit Bull, Bulldog, French Bulldog, or Other Short-Coated Breeds to Stop Shedding

Why People Think Shaving Will Stop Shedding

Short Hair Still Sheds

Shaving Doesn't Change the Hair Growth Cycle

There Can Be Downsides to Shaving

What Actually Helps Reduce Shedding?

Breeds That Shouldn't Be Shaved Just to Reduce Shedding

When Is Shaving Appropriate?

The Bottom Line

What Kind of Brush is Great for De-Shedding Short & Medium Coated Dogs?

What Kind of Brush Is Great for De-Shedding Short and Medium-Coated Dogs?

What Is a Rubber Curry Brush?

Which Dogs Benefit Most?

Why Groomers Like Them

How to Use a Rubber Curry Brush

What a Rubber Curry Brush Won't Do

Pair It With Professional Grooming

The Bottom Line

Dog Breed Spotlight – The Scottish Terrier

Dog Breed Spotlight: The Scottish Terrier Scottish Terrier Quick Facts

Temperament and Personality

Grooming Requirements

At Home Coat Maintenance

Health Considerations

Is the Scottish Terrier Right for You?

Finding a Responsible Breeder

Dog Breed Spotlight: The Scottish Terrier
Scottish Terrier Quick Facts