Trimming my 2 Yorkies - any tips plzz ???

[Gizmonster]

We've got 2 Yorkies and have all the trimming equipment etc.

My question - how the devil do I trim them when they wriggle so much - they really don't like the noise and vibration of the trimmers. We took them to a doggie parlour the last time - what do they do - strap them down on the table so they can't move lol ???

Any tips plzz ????

[jules77]

They are well experienced in how to deal with wriggly dogs, but probably use a H frame attached to a grooming table. It may be an idea to book one of them in for a trim at the grooming parlour and stop with them to see what they do. Some grooming places also offer a one day course on how to trim/cut/bath your own dog, so you get a double whammy, learn to know how to do it, and get your dog trimmed at the same time.

[tamborine]

soak, then secure on table

[lankeela]

No, please don't soak, trim them first then bathe them or you will make any mats harder to remove. They do indeed strap them down, or rather hold them up, a strap on their collar and one under their belly or round their middle. I have just been looking after a 4 month old Yorkie boarding at my friends kennels - what a little cutie, the tongue gets right up your nose and she wriggles like a thing possessed. Sorry to tell you, but you would be horrified at some of the things necessary to get a dog clipped or trimmed without cutting off something vital! You need to start very young by holding the clippers near to them so they get used to the noise, and then by brushing or combing them while holding the clippers but not actually cutting till they are used to keeping still.

[Gizmonster]

Thanks for the replies peeps - looks like I'll carry on taking them to the doggie parlour .......

[madmaggot]

I've stopped taking mine to the groomers as she (normally a very confident dog) was becoming increasingly distressed each time I took her. I now groom her at home and have taken a lot of time and effort to calm her so she will stand to allow me to groom her. Don't take the 'out of sight, out of mind' attitude; they are just doing a job and have to get the job done in a specific time. I'm not saying they are cruel but you are the best one to care for your dogs. Just be very, very patient and make sure you never hurt your dog whilst grooming. And use rewards for good behaviour.