Grooming a Cocker ...
Bathing a Cocker

Groom before you bathe your dog!
Grooming is the process of combing all the knots out of your cocker's coat. Grooming a dog once a week will keep the coat, and the dog's general health in above-average condition.

Brushing out your cocker is one of the most beneficial things you can do for your faithful pet. Combing is crucial to the proper maintenance of your dog's coat. A coat that is knotted will retain soap, cause skin eruptions (hot spots) and create discomfort. Most of us realize that the oil is removed from our hair when it is washed -- well, it is removed from the dog's coat, too. You are left with a dry, matted mess that can't be combed. The kindest thing you can do at that point is to take the dog to a groomer and have the mess shaved off. Once the hair is off, the skin will be able to breathe and the sores will heal.

Your dog's skin needs air to remain healthy.
A thorough brushing at least on a weekly basis will help to stimulate the dogs circulation, and remove debris such as leaves or particles of sand. Brush from the tail to the head, and from the foot up. Brushing against the grain will remove the dead hair that has accumulated at the skin line. This dead hair lays on the skin and prevents air from getting to the skin. After you brush, Comb with a metal comb. Now your dog is ready for its bath.

Now comes the easy part.
Wet the dog thoroughly with a sprayer or container of warm water. DO NOT submerge the dog. Be generous with your soap, always starting at the head and washing towards the tail and feet. If soap gets in the dog's eyes -- flush them gently with water. RINSE - RINSE - RINSE. Get all the soap out of the coat. Brush the dog gently while you blow dry the coat, and comb with your metal comb!

Following these simple directions will give you a healthier and happier pet. It is perfectly okay to have some treats on hand during the grooming period to reward your pet's good behavior. The only dog that does not need combing before the bath is the Mexican Hairless!!!!

BRUSHING IS BENEFICIAL -- COMBING IS CRUCIAL

When brushing and combing -- do it on a table. Put a small bath mat on the table to give the dog traction. Teach the dog to STAND for grooming. It is impossible for a groomer to use scissors on a dog that is laying down. It will help the dog get used to heights and, in the long run, your back will be saved, and you will have better controil of your dog.

The undivided attention that your dog receives during grooming is just what they want -- SO -- keep it cheerful! This is not a time of drudgery -- this is time spent with and for your pet -- the very same pet that greets you on a daily basis with unconditional love!!! ... A love which has yet to be equaled!!!!

jump to other "what to expect" links:

Bringing Your New Dog Home | Your Dog's 1st Few Weeks | Patience Yields Rewards

This page updated 4/9/06 Get your own FREE Website at