Dog Ownership 101 - May/June 2016

Water Dogs, Poodles and Irish Water Spaniels are
a few breeds that have this type of coat. A lot of
maintenance, including brushing and clipping, is
required for dogs with curly coats.
3
SHORT-HAIR COATS
It’s easier to groom dogs with shorter
coats. You can even find dogs that are
hairless or almost so. There are breeds, such as
the Chinese Crested, who have some leg and head
hair. But even a hairless breed needs grooming,
because you have to take care of their skin. You
have a dog that’s wash and wear when there is a
short coat. But they aren’t always happy in cold
climates because they aren’t protected like their
furry friends. It’s best to buy them a coat from a
pet store. They could have single or double coats
like the Basenji and Beagle.
4
HOW COATS DICTATE GROOMING
When it comes to coats, dogs have
various thicknesses and lengths that can
determine how time consuming the grooming
may be. Short haired dogs get little protection
from the elements. Longer hair takes a great deal
of time to maintain. Medium haired breeds such
as Border Collies and Cardigan Welsh Corgis have
medium coats that are fairly easy to groom, even
though they have a top and undercoat. Dogs that
have long, luxurious hair often draw the attention
of the crowds. However, this beauty requires a
good amount of maintenance. Most dogs with
a long coat are prone to matting and tangles if
their hair isn’t properly maintained. Expect a large
amount of time spent at the groomers if you have
a long-coated dog. Some examples of canines with
long coats are Afghan Hounds and Irish Setters.
COAT COLOR VARIATIONS
5 The color of dogs may range from white,
tan, brown, red to black and any colors
that weren’t mentioned. This is in addition to the
wide range of patterns of the fur. The main factor
in determining a dog’s color and color pattern is
the type of breed that they belong to. You will find
that some types of shampoo and conditioners
will help your dog’s coat look its best. Look for the
brands that will make your black dog shine, your
white dog sparkle and your brown dog radiate.
HOW GROOMING METHODS VARY
6 Different dogs have different types of
coats and therefore need different sorts
of grooming. Carefully checking your pet’s fur
should give you an inkling of what sorts of things
you’ll need to groom him. You may only need to
66 DOG ownership 101 | MAY / JUNE 2016