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Grooming the Cocker Spaniel (American) |
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Ears |
I don't think there is anything more
beautiful than a well groomed American Cocker spaniel! I just LOVE this
breed and yet it seems it is the hardest breed in the world for people to
groom RIGHT. There is a world of difference between the groom we do for show and what we do in the day to day shop environment, but some things are done the same way REGARDLESS of the rest of the trim. The ears and head can be made to look "correct" to breed profile even if the rest of the dogs is shaved close. The directions on the next pages will help you place your lines and get the profile correct.
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Cocker Spaniels do not have to be all the way
to the floor. Let's face it, a lot of customers prefer shorter looks and a
lot of people just cannot take care of the coat if it is left long.
There are SEVERAL options for the customer to consider. Suburban trims with legs trimmed shorter, Sporting clips with legs scissored or clippered and the "skirt" removed, or even a total shave are all available to the owner. We will explore the options in the pages to follow. There are pictures and explanations galore! If you don't find something you want to know just ask! e mail
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How often do I need to have him groomed?
That question is one of the most often asked questions a breeder or groomer can get.
It is EXTREMELY IMPORTANT that Cocker Spaniels be groomed regularly. A schedule
of four to six weeks is preferred, EVEN IF THEY ARE SHAVED DOWN! This is to prevent
matting of the coat and to help discover any skin, ear or health problems which may arise.
I STRONGLY recommend getting your puppies groomed at no later than 8 weeks of age (if the
breeder had not already done this for you) and keep this up every four to six weeks for the
rest of their lives. Early grooming helps acquaint the puppy with the tools, noises and
procedures involved in the grooming process making it a nicer experience for him as well
as easier on the groomer. It is also VERY important that you find ONE GROOMER and
stay with them. CONSISTENCY is as important in a puppies life in grooming as it is in
every other aspect of their life. With a regular grooming schedule at a salon and regular care from
you at home in the manner of brushing, combing and bathing, your pet will ALWAYS look his best.