by Belle Wead

Question:

My dog bites the brush, (he bites me), he’s all over the floor and won’t settle down, how can I get him to accept brushing better?

Answer:

First, choose a time when you are able to relax as your pet “feels” any emotion or anxiety you may be having. Second, for best results, pick a time when your pet hasn’t just eaten, and has experienced a nice walk or exercise time. It’s so hard to not wiggle when you’re full of energy!

Your pet is more likely to be interested in the promise of a treat if he’s not just eaten a meal. Next you’ll want the proper equipment at hand. Slick coated dogs love the Zoom Groom, it’s a soft rubber curry tool. A coated dog will need a slicker brush, I like the orange Wahl Slicker (sold at Wal-Mart) you’ll want a metal comb to check your work, (plastic combs create static and break coat hair creating unhealthy hair that tends to matt more quickly and become dirtier quicker).

A healthy hair shaft is smooth and allows the shedding undercoat to slide off more easily. Have your treats ready, choose a comfortable waist height surface to place your pet on securely — the floor is your pet’s play area. Once your pet is on the table and ready give them a treat and tell them how “Good Boy.” Use an enthusiastic, and slightly higher than normal voice.

I usually start at the back of the dog staying out of their “face space” and brush the coat in layers, checking my work with a comb at the base of the hair pulling outwards. If you find tangles, place your hand between the pet’s skin and hold the matted hair in your hand and separate as gently as possible with the brush. I usually work on that for about five minutes with a puppy, offer a treat then remove them safely from the table.

Brushing stimulates the oil in your pet’s skin naturally helping the coat shine! After a few frequent sessions, your pet will begin to enjoy brushing plus the time doubles as a great bonding experience for you and your pet!

Happy Brushing!!!

Belle Wead is the owner of Best friends Pet with 2 locations: Peculiar Mo and Leawood Ks. Wead is a member of the IPG International Professional Groomers, Inc. Belle’s 30 years of previous grooming experience. Best Friends Pet also offers Pet Chiropractic and Pet Photography. The PetCab service is available for pet grooming pick up and delivery. Call 913-498-1397 in Leawood, KS, or 816-984-5481 in Peculiar, MO, for more information or to schedule an appointment, or visit her on-line at www.bestfriendspet.us.