How to trim your dog’s sanitary area
Giving your dog a hygiene trim involves clipping the fur around their belly, inner thighs and private areas. Keeping these areas neatly trimmed helps prevent urine and poo from getting caught in the fur every time your dog goes to the toilet. Not only does this keep your dog cleaner and more comfortable, but it also helps keep their bedding, furniture and anywhere else they like to sit or lie much cleaner too.
The good news is that it's a quick and easy grooming task you can do at home with either a pair of mini trimmers or clippers. The key is to keep your dog standing comfortably and trim the area carefully without rushing.
What you’ll need:
A pair of clipper - I use Heiniger cordless clippers or,
A pair of mini trimmers - I use Shear Magic mini trimmers
Grooming belly sling - to prevent your dog from sitting
I use a dog grooming table when grooming my dogs. You could also use a flat surface like a laundry bench and ask someone to hold your dog still for you while you groom them.
Rather than trying to explain the technique in words, I've put together a step-by-step video where I show you exactly how I give a sanitary trim, how to safely position your dog, and a few professional tips I've learnt as a dog groomer.
Once you’ve finished shaving your dog’s sanitary area, reward them with treats and praise for their good behaviour. This positive reinforcement will help create a more positive association with future grooming sessions.
I’m a qualified dog groomer and fur-mum to two cavoodles; Soda and Poppy. I’m passionate about the health and wellbeing of dogs, as well as helping dog parents groom their dogs at home. I’ll teach you the basics, however if you don’t feel comfortable or confident at any time that’s completely fine, book your dog in for a regular groom and pamper session at the salon. Please never leave your dog unattended on a grooming table.
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