Smooth Fox Terriers are beautiful dogs with unique coats. Their smooth and shiny fur is one of their most prominent features. But maintaining their coat can be a challenge, especially for new dog owners. In this grooming guide, we will provide you with some simple steps to make grooming your Smooth Fox Terrier a breeze.
Step 1: Start Grooming Early
Grooming should start at an early age to make it a habit for your Smooth Fox Terrier. This will help them get used to the grooming process and make it a less stressful experience. Start by gently brushing their coat with a soft-bristled brush to remove loose hair and dirt.
Step 2: Use the Right Tools
Using the right tools is essential for effective grooming. The tools you need for grooming your Smooth Fox Terrier include:
Soft-bristled brush
Metal comb
Shedding blade
Scissors
Clippers
The soft-bristled brush is used to remove loose hair and dirt from the coat. The metal comb is used to detangle the fur and remove mats. The shedding blade is used to remove dead hair during the shedding season. Scissors and clippers are used for trimming and shaping the fur.
Step 3: Regular Grooming
Brushing
Brushing is the first step in grooming your Smooth Fox Terrier. It removes loose hair and dirt from the coat and prevents matting. Use a slicker brush or a pin brush to brush your dog’s coat. Start at the head and work your way down to the tail, brushing in the direction of the hair growth. Pay extra attention to the areas behind the ears, under the legs, and around the tail, as these areas are prone to matting.
Bathing
Bathing your Smooth Fox Terrier is essential to keep their coat clean and shiny. Use a dog-specific shampoo that is gentle on their skin. Wet your dog’s coat thoroughly and apply shampoo, working it into a lather. Rinse the coat thoroughly with lukewarm water, making sure to remove all the shampoo. Use a towel to dry your dog’s coat, and avoid using a hairdryer as it can damage their skin.
Nail Trimming
Trimming your Smooth Fox Terrier’s nails is important for their health and safety. Long nails can cause discomfort and pain, and can even cause them to break or split. Use a sharp nail clipper and trim the tip of each nail, making sure not to cut the quick, which is the pink part of the nail that contains blood vessels and nerves. If you accidentally cut the quick, apply styptic powder to stop the bleeding.
Ear Cleaning
Cleaning your Smooth Fox Terrier’s ears is essential to prevent infections and ear mites. Use a dog-specific ear-cleaning solution and a cotton ball to clean the ear. Gently wipe the inside of the ear flap and the ear canal, being careful not to go too deep. Do not use cotton swabs as they can push wax deeper into the ear canal and cause damage.
Teeth Cleaning
Oral hygiene is essential for your Smooth Fox Terrier’s health. Brush your dog’s teeth daily with a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste. Start by introducing your dog to the toothbrush and toothpaste, letting them smell and taste it. Then, gently brush their teeth, focusing on the gum line and the back teeth. Reward your dog with praise and treats to make the experience positive.
Grooming the Face
The Smooth Fox Terrier’s face requires special attention as it is prone to tear stains and dirt buildup. Use a damp cloth or a dog-specific facial wipe to clean the face, being careful not to get water or solution in their eyes. Gently trim the hair around their eyes and ears using scissors, being careful not to poke their eyes.
Coat Care
Coat care is an essential part of grooming your Smooth Fox Terrier. Use a dog-specific conditioner to keep the coat shiny and soft. Use a de-matting comb or a slicker brush to remove any mats or tangles in the coat. Trim the hair around their paw pads and anus to prevent dirt buildup.
Eye Care
Smooth Fox Terriers are prone to eye problems, such as cataracts and glaucoma, which can lead to vision loss if left untreated. Therefore, it’s important to inspect their eyes regularly for any signs of redness, discharge, or cloudiness. Use a damp cloth or a dog-specific eye wipe to clean the area around their eyes, being careful not to get any solution in their eyes. If you notice any signs of eye problems, consult your veterinarian.
Anal Gland Expression
Anal gland expression is a necessary but unpleasant part of grooming your Smooth Fox Terrier. Anal glands are small sacs located on either side of their anus, which secrete a foul-smelling liquid. If the glands become impacted, it can cause discomfort, pain, and even infection. To express the glands, place a tissue or paper towel over your finger and insert it into the anus. Apply gentle pressure to the glands to release the liquid. If you are uncomfortable doing this, ask your veterinarian to demonstrate the process.
Paw Care
Smooth Fox Terriers are active dogs that spend a lot of time on their paws, which can lead to cracked, dry, or infected paw pads. To keep their paws healthy, inspect them regularly for any signs of cuts, cracks, or foreign objects. Use a dog-specific paw balm or moisturizer to keep their paw pads hydrated and supple. Trim the hair around their paw pads and between their toes using scissors or clippers.
Tail Care
The Smooth Fox Terrier’s tail requires special attention as it can become matted or tangled. Use a slicker brush or a pin brush to brush the tail, starting at the base and working your way down to the tip. Pay extra attention to the areas where the tail meets the body and the underside of the tail, as these areas are prone to matting. Trim any long hairs using scissors, being careful not to cut the tail.
Scent Glands
Scent glands are small glands located on either side of your Smooth Fox Terrier’s anus that secrete a musky odor. While not all dogs have strong scent glands, some Smooth Fox Terriers can produce a strong and unpleasant smell that can be overwhelming. To reduce the odor, use a dog-specific spray or shampoo designed to neutralize the scent. If the odor persists, consult your veterinarian.
De-shedding
Smooth Fox Terriers shed their fur moderately year-round, with heavier shedding occurring in the spring and fall. To minimize shedding, use a de-shedding tool or a grooming glove to remove loose hair from their coat.
Grooming your Smooth Fox Terrier can be a breeze with these simple steps. Regular grooming not only keeps your dog looking its best, but it also promotes healthy skin and coat. Smooth Fox Terriers are high-energy dogs that require a lot of exercises, so grooming can be a great way to bond with your dog while also keeping them healthy.
It is important to use dog-specific grooming products and tools to prevent skin irritation or other issues. When introducing grooming to your dog, start slowly and make the experience positive with praise and treats. Consistency is key, so make sure to groom your dog regularly to prevent matting, tangles, and other issues.
While grooming can be a time-consuming task, it is an essential part of owning a Smooth Fox Terrier. The benefits of a clean, healthy coat and healthy teeth and ears far outweigh the time and effort required. By following these simple steps, you can make grooming your Smooth Fox Terrier a breeze and enjoy a beautiful, healthy dog for years to come.
