Grooming a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Grooming a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is so easy a caveman could do it. Ha! Ha! Don't you just love that commercial?

No seriously, the coat of a Cavalier is so easy to take care of. That is one of the reasons I was attracted to this breed. You can do the grooming at home pretty inexpensively and quickly.

The coat of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is naturally clean. It has fine texture with long feather like fur on the legs tail, and ears. The Cavalier does shed its coat in the fall and spring time of the year. The silkiness and fine texture can cause some knots and mating. So grooming is a must. I usually groom my canines about once a week, unless otherwise needed. Do not bathe them unless they are really dirty or smelly. Over bathing can dry out their skin, especially in the winter time.

Weekly Grooming in 3 (or 4) easy steps:

1. Regular brushing 2-3 times per week is all that is necessary.

o Trimming is not necessary except between the pads of the paws and only about 1 time per month.

o When I groom my Cavaliers, I use a slicker brush and metal comb. I use the brush all over and then the comb on her ears, tail and legs.

o Be very careful when using a comb. Don't pull if you run into any mats. Gently brush them out. I then run my fingers in their fur to feel for any ticks, cuts, or lumps.

2. Wash their face and eye area with a warm wash cloth.

3. I always check the ears for drainage or abnormal smell. If you notice either one, call

your veterinarian.

4. I always end our 5-10 minute grooming session with a doggy treat. Try to make

grooming as pleasant as possible.

Grooming Supplies:

o Canine conditioner

o Pet grooming clippers

o Slicker brush

o Metal comb

o Micro-fiber towels

o Wash cloth

o Cotton ball

o Pet ear cleaner

o Nail clippers

o Hair dryer

Steps for grooming your Cavalier:

1. Gather supplies

2. Brush fur in the direction of hair growth get rid of tangles and knots

3. Trim fur between paw pads (1 time per month)

4. Clip nails (if not comfortable them a groomer or veterinarian can do this for you)

5. Check the water temperature to make sure it is not to hot or cold for the dog.

6. Wash face with a washcloth and warm water

7. Shampoo and condition, rinsing thoroughly

8. Clean ears with a cotton ball and pet ear cleaner

9. Dry thoroughly with micro-fiber towel and blow dry on low heat

10. Treat your favorite canine with their favorite doggie treat

Short sweet and to the point!! Even if you are not as smart as a 5th grader, (ha! ha!) you can easily groom your favorite Cavalier King Charles Spaniel at home quickly and inexpensively.

For more information on Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, visit: mycavalierkingcharlesspaniel.com [http://mycavalierspaniel.com]