A natural look is an attribute of the barbet. The hair protects him from the cold and in the sun from overheating.
The basis of grooming is combing/brushing. For this purpose, it is a good idea to stock up on:
- pin brush with metal pins - comb out dead hair with it.
- slicker brush with long pins for poodles (the best is the one designed for the Russian terrier) - reliable in combing out tangles.
- metal comb with mixed spacing of teeth (50/50 or 80/20) or one with thick, long and widely spaced teeth and the other smaller with shorter, rotating pins - it works well for thorough combing out the beard and getting the puppy used to grooming.
- rounded tip scissors to shorten the hair between the pads.
How to brush? With the hair, of course. It's best to start at the bottom of the hair and work your way up. While combing, if you feel tangles, use alternate brushes. Use a comb on hair and check the effect of your work.
It's a good idea to schedule combing once a week. When the coat is well combed it's easier to inspect it after walks and control whether, despite the applied protection, there are no ticks attached.
How often should you bathe the barbet? It's your decision depending on the places where you stay with your dog and the degree of dirt (on average every 4-6 weeks). It is important that the bath is after a thorough brushing.
There's a huge selection of cosmetics for dogs. Look for shampoos and conditioners with smoothing, detangling, moisturizing effect, such that maintain the natural texture of the hair. Beware of cosmetics that add volume !!
In the first year of life, it is best to use a puppy shampoo and conditioner - bath time will be shorter.
Barbet ears get overgrown with hair, and you need to make sure they are properly ventilated:
- gradually remove excess externally growing hair from the ear canal (in a circular motion, easiest way with a gauze pad wrapped around your finger), which facilitates the drainage of accumulated ear wax.
- combing the earlobe and wiping it with a damp cotton swab.
The claws need to be inspected and trimmed depending on the ground the dog walks on most often. In winter, you can apply an oily paw balm. The hair between the pads should be checked with the fingers, protruding hair should be trimmed.
Remember, the success of grooming is not guaranteed by the most expensive equipment or cosmetics, but regular work.
