Page 1 of 1

Need help brushing

Posted: 03 Jul 2012, 16:33
by janek
Please can anyone give me advice on how to get your dog to let you brush their beard etc. Klara is 9 months old and I introduced her to a brush at an early age. She just sees it as a big game to bite the brush, wagging her tail all the time. Her last trim ended up a bit severe because she had knotted legs and beard.

I have started brushing her beard every day to prevent the tangled mess it was last time. I always reward with a treat and hold a treat to occupy her mouth whilst I brush.

Any other advice welcome

Re: Need help brushing

Posted: 03 Jul 2012, 19:36
by tombaker
Have thought about gently holding her muzzle as you brush on one said then swap sides?

Re: Need help brushing

Posted: 03 Jul 2012, 22:01
by Caramomo
A good bushy beard is so useful for holding a schnauzer still whilst you brush!

Re: Need help brushing

Posted: 04 Jul 2012, 17:14
by hula-hoop
I do what Tom says, hold the muzzle. Also try and hold near the root of the section of hair you are brushing, so it doesnt hurt them as much if you are brushing out a tangly bit

Re: Need help brushing

Posted: 05 Jul 2012, 18:40
by janek
Thanks for the advice.
I am holding her muzzle and brushing her beard twice a day, so we're making progress. She wags her tail furiously, so she doesn't mind too much. My last mini hated being brushed and would have a nip at my fingers or run and hide at the sight of the brush.

Re: Need help brushing

Posted: 08 Jul 2012, 12:42
by Snazy
Firstly, get rid of the treat!

second, put her up somewhere high on a non slip surface and be business like - no high, cheery voice and actions you do when playing. A dog needs to learn to be still and quiet, then have a mad game when all is done. Think about the groomer getting sharp scissors around her eyes, and you will understand why she needs to learn to settle down. Don't be afraid of saying NO (seems to be a dirty word to some people these days! *rollseyes*)

When brushing, tip her head back, holding the the muzzle, brush upwards along the lower jaw, layer by layer (think how a hairdresser works through your hair when cutting or drying it!). One the lower jaw is brushed, work upwards in layers along one side and then the other.

If you still have problems, ask the groomer to show you how it is done.

Tools I use are a slicker brush and then a comb.