Be sure to purchase shampoo that is specially formulated for canines. Human shampoo contains many ingredients that can be harmful or irritating to dogs. You can even purchase dog shampoo that is formulated for your pup’s specific needs – like sensitive skin, brittle coat, or puppy formulas. A slicker brush is the most common type of brush used on dogs. It has wire (sometimes plastic) teeth that work well to remove excess hair and work out tangles and mats.
You can also use an outdoor space for grooming as long as it is fully enclosed (like a fenced-in yard or garage) to ensure your dog can’t escape. But be mindful of weather conditions. You don’t want to groom your Yorkie Poo outside if it is too cold or rainy.
Brushing your Yorkie Poo regularly is the single best thing you can do to keep up with your at-home grooming regimen and keep your dog looking its best. You can brush your Yorkie Poo as often as every day, but be sure to do it at least once every three days or so. The longer and curlier your Yorkie Poo’s hair is, the more frequently you’ll need to brush it.
Use water that is slightly warm – never cold or too hot. Be sure to put down a nonslip surface in the bathtub to help your dog with traction and to prevent slipping.
Be careful to avoid getting shampoo in your dog’s eyes, ears, and nose. This can be stressful and uncomfortable for your dog. Again, be sure to only use shampoo that is specially formulated for use on dogs.
Make sure that you thoroughly remove all of the soap and soap residue. Any remaining on your dog’s skin could cause irritation.
Be sure to use the blow dryer on the lowest/coolest setting available to ensure you don’t burn your pup’s skin. Most dogs are initially frightened by the sound of the hair dryer. But, over time, your dog should grow accustomed to it. Try introducing the dog to the noise slowly at first and building up to longer sessions.
If you accidentally make your dog’s nails bleed, don’t feel too bad. This even happens to professional groomers from time to time. Make sure you have some styptic powder or cornstarch on hand to dip the nails in if they start bleeding. This will help coagulation.
Use a Number 10 blade on the clippers to get a short cut. Be careful not to cut your dog’s skin as you clip his fur. Be sure to purchase hair clippers made for dogs – they have more teeth than human hair clippers, which works better for the thicker hair in a dog’s coat. Make sure your Yorkie Poo is secured to something during the grooming process so that it doesn’t fall and hurt itself.
Give your Yorkie Poo doggie treats that are intended for promoting canine dental health. Chewing on these may help clean your dog’s teeth each time it eats one. You can also brush your Yorkie Poo’s teeth. Some dogs don’t like this, but they can grow accustomed to it over time. Use a double-headed toothbrush and toothpaste that is meant for dogs. Do not use human toothpaste as it contains fluoride, which can be toxic to dogs. Additionally, ask your veterinarian to check your Yorkie Poo’s teeth at your annual checkup.
