Pet Training

One of the most expensive things about owning poodles is keeping them well groomed, but if you learn to do this yourself, you'll develop a better relationship with your pet, and you'll save a lot of money in the long run. Although grooming poodles may seem complex, anyone can learn and master the skill. You just need patience and the willingness to practise your skills.

Grooming standard poodles completely takes about three hours, once you get good at it, and while you're still learning, you might have to spread the job out over a few days. This is both to give you a break, and for your poodle. If you're not willing to learn poodle grooming on your own, or are worried about the time it takes, you'll have to choose a professional to do it, but remember to pick this person out carefully. The best way to find a good groomer is by talking to other peoples who owns poodle.

We can look at some books and I can suggest some cuts, but you'll have to decide which trim you prefer. Poodles have coats that lend themselves to plenty of different looks, however, your choice will in part be dictated on how much time and effort you're willing to put into keeping your dog's coat in shape. Show poodles have a limited range of acceptable cuts and trims, so why you own your poodle will make a difference in the cut you choose.

All show poodles must have a variation on the traditional lion cut, of which there are three variations on this kind of poodle grooming - continental, English saddle, and puppy. Each of these cuts, as it turns out, is a derivative of the famous "poodle" cut that is seen so often. Originally, this cut was created to help these dogs swim more effectively while retrieving birds from the water, as a long mane of fur on the chest protected the lungs and heart, and the tufts on the legs offered joint protection.

There are many more choices for poodles that do not compete. If you opt for a shorter trim, you'll find maintenance easier, especially during the winter months when it's easier to dry. Longer trims are showier, but they'll require more maintenance, so check some grooming books, or take a look at a few poodles to figure out what you prefer.

Most people choose to clip the fur at the base of the tail and on the feet and face very short, as this works better for the dog's hygiene, since long hair can trap food. Short clipped feet don't pick up grass seeds, and mean that your dog won't track in as much dirt, and remember that shorter coats are easier to wash and dry, and they don't need as much brushing as a fluffy, long coat. Always wash your poodle before grooming to keep your clippers and scissors in good shape, and use high quality equipment, too. Since it is quite expensive to start with, but it will help in making poodle grooming much easier.