Article Advise

submitted: Aug 29th 2008 | by: FionaKelly | Total views: 1 | Word Count: 496 | |

Closely related to the Bichon Frise, the Havanese are a beautiful and playful little dog of the toy variety. These dogs have quickly gained in popularity at dog shows and competitions since the 1970's, and the AKC has responded with a very specific set of guidelines relating to the way owners give their Havanese a hair cut. Not only do these guidelines cover which hair should and should not be cut on your Havanese, but also how long the hair should be, as well as to what should be used to cut it with.

A Havanese hair cut needs to be done with either a number 40 blade (in a pair of clipping shears), or a small pair of grooming scissors. Typically the only hair that should be cut is the hair around the paws; and even then, only just enough to give the paws a more circular shape. Depending on the show you are entering, you can also clip the hair around the rump area, and even the hair inside the ears.

Before giving your Havanese a hair cut, there are some specific Havanese grooming tips you should follow in order to make certain that your pup looks its best after the grooming process is complete. The first of which is to make certain that your Havanese receives a daily brushing.

The AKC only allows for a small amount of grooming when it comes to the Havanese, preferring that the dog retain as much of its natural look as possible.

If you do decide to give your Havanese a hair cut, it is important to remember to only use a number 40 blade in your clipping shears. This will help to prevent the fur around the paws from being clipped too short. If you do make a mistake, simply trim around the affected area carefully, to help restore the round, desired shape. A small pair of trimming scissors may be used to clip the rump and groin areas, but be sure that you adhere to the rules for length.

The most important part of giving your Havanese a hair cut, is that you remember to stay calm throughout the entire process. Toy dogs are by their very nature, much more playful and energetic than larger breeds of dogs and can therefore become quite rambunctious during the grooming process. Soothing them quietly with your hands and voice prior to attempting to give your Havanese a hair cut, will help to ensure that the process goes much easier for you both.

Even if you do not plan to enter your Havanese into any shows or competitions, you will still want to keep their fur trim and neat. Daily brushings for all Havanese are required to help keep their long hair from matting.

And if your dog has dry hair and skin, they will probably require oiling 24 hours prior to giving your Havanese a hair cut. All in all, the Havanese grooming process is an easy one, if you can follow these simple rules.

About the Author

Fiona Kelly is a passionate lover of the Havanese and owns a popular website that can show you how to have a happy, healthy and well behaved Havanese. Among other topics at this website, you can also learn all about Havanese Cuts plus a whole lot more.

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