If you’re brushing a toy poodle, you could even set them on your lap for easy access.
Not only do conditioners help break up tangles, but most of them make your dog smell good, too. If your dog has sensitive skin or allergies, talk to your vet before using a conditioner spray.
If you take your dog to a groomer, you may have seen them using a slicker brush. Slicker brushes are similar to pin brushes, but they can hurt or scratch your dog’s skin if used incorrectly. Unless you’re a professional, it’s better to stick with a pin brush.
Brushing in sections is a good way to keep track of what you’ve brushed already and what you still need to get to.
Be gentle and very careful when using a metal comb. If it gets caught on a knot, you could hurt your dog by pulling too hard.
If your poodle wears clothing or a harness a lot, check carefully for mats in the spots that the material touches their fur. The constant friction can create a lot of matting.
Try not to brush inside of your dog’s ears. A dog’s ears are sensitive, and they don’t have much hair inside of them to brush anyway. If your dog’s ears are dirty, you can clean them with a mixture of white vinegar and rubbing alcohol.
To work systematically, try starting from the back of your dog (their tail or hind legs) and working your way forward (across their body, front legs, and head).
If you come across any mats while bristle brushing, go back in with your pin brush to work them out slowly.
If you’re finding that you can’t keep up with a regular brushing schedule, consider setting up a standing appointment at the groomer for your dog on a weekly or bi-weekly basis. If your dog’s fur is severely matted, your groomer may recommend going to the vet for a cut instead.
High-value treats are treats that your dog doesn’t get very often. Boiled chicken is a popular one, because it’s easy to digest (but still super tasty).
If your poodle has short fur, you can brush them every other day. While you should brush your poodle every day, you can save bathing them for about once a month. Bathing your dog too often strips their fur of natural oils, which can lead to dry skin and other issues.
