Groom a dog

Around 300 quid: to have your dog groomed six times a year

17.79-21.78 GBP: depends if you need to buy to do it yourself and that's start up, a plastic collar, etc... Does not include the price of clippers but that will pay for it's self again and again.

What to do 1st

Have a dedicated grooming area: it helps the dog to understand that it isn't play time. First you need to detangle: start from the end of the hair and work into the tangle. A small pair of scissors can break up knotted hair. Add talc to the hind quarters if necessary: this helps to absorb any moisture from excrement and makes it easier to brush out. Check between toes and in the ears, mouth and armpits for foreign bodies: if you find any, remove them.

Washing

If you're washing your dog in the bath, place a plastic collar around its neck and a non-slip mat in the tub - both make it easier to handle a wet dog, as can a second pair of hands.

Wash the dog from the back towards the front, leaving the head for last, a dog shakes when its head is wet, so you'll need to spend less time drying later. Wet the dog, then use the jug to apply pre-diluted shampoo, rather than applying shampoo directly to the dog.

Use a baby shampoo around the dog's face if there is a risk of it getting in its eyes. Take care not to get water in the ears either. Longer-coated dogs may need conditioner. When finished the dog should be shampoo-free.

Towel dry. You may also need to use a hair dryer on longer haired breeds. If so, set the hair dryer to warm, not hot.

Brushing

Brush the dog using a suitable brush for its coat. Lift the legs to access the friction areas under its legs where hair can knot. Take care to work in the direction of hair growth for a good finish. Frequent brushing is good, but don't brush too much or you may damage the skin.

Maintenance

Use dedicated ear wipes, taking care not to go in too deep, and eye wipes to remove tear stains. Nails can need trimming if a dog isn't regularly exercised on hard ground if you don't feel comfortable doing this, take your dog to a groomers. Trimming is easier if a dog has a white nail as you can clearly see the flesh inside, preventing you from cutting too far. Only ever cut the excess nail. If you are using a dedicated nail clipper, trim in several shorter clips rather than in large motions. Alternatively, use a nail file so you don't take too much off.

Trimming

Sharp scissors or clippers and lively dogs can be a risky combination - if in doubt, use a professional groomer (find one through the Pet Care Trust at petcare.org.uk). If you do want to trim the coat yourself, get specific instructions for the breed of dog you're dealing with the Dog Breeders Association is a good place to start. Use well-oiled, dedicated dog hair clippers and scissors with rounded ends for trimming around sensitive areas. Consult product instructions to make sure you are using the correct blades, and clip in the direction of the hair. Clippers can upset dogs so get a second person help, and touch the clippers regularly to make sure they don't overheat.

You will need

*Brushes and shampoo suitable for your dog's coat
*Clippers and scissors (optional)
*Baby shampoo and conditioner (optional)
*Jug
*Plastic collar
*Non-slip mat
*Towel
*Ear and eye wipes
*Nail file
*Clippers and scissors (optional)

HERE' A FILM FOR SOME TIP'S !