|
The discussion about grooming a
Spinone will vary from one extreme to possibly another extreme, depending on who
you talk to. In Italy, the UK, and all other countries except the USA, the
Spinone is a breed that is stripped of its coat, most especially before they
enter the show ring. There are many thoughts as to why stripping is done,
one being it is the practice of removing dead coat. Stripping the coat
(pulling out the dead hair) is a fairly quick method and thorough. A dog running
through the brambles might do the same thing, only not as uniform. Another
reason for stripping, especially with dogs that enter the show ring, is in
stripping the coat from head to toe, a judge can easily see the conformation and
the structure of the dog from nose to bottom. A dog with a longer correct
coat can visually hide flaws with the coat. If stripped, the flaws are very
present.
I think every Spinone owner that
has a dog with a longer coat or a very hairy face, should at least have the
opportunity of seeing the possibilities of what grooming can do to the look of
their dog. A very important feature of the Spinone is the expression in
their eyes. With their eyes covered with floppy coat from the top of their head
and/or from the bridge of their nose, you cannot see that beautiful expression.
Once properly groomed, the face comes alive. This is, of course, my
opinion.
|
|
Grooming the head |
|
Jan Anderson from the UK has provided a
wonderful description, including photos of grooming the head
of the Spinone, for a beautiful look that fully realizes their
expression. You will find this thorough piece of work on the
following site, take the link for 'Grooming The Head'
Barba
Bagnata Spinoni:
www.barba-bagnata-spinoni.com
Take this
link, select 'Spinoni', then select the link for 'Grooming' |
|
|
Grooming the feet |
|
Cut the toe nails and file
the edges. Use a blunt end scissor to trim the hair under and
around the pads (be careful). You can also use #10 blade and
shave the pad area of hair—then apply ‘Bag Balm’ to the area.
Use Quick Stop if you cut the nail too short and it bleeds. |
|
|
Bathing |
|
Comb out all the dead hair
you can before bathing. Use only a Harsh Coat Shampoo and
rinse at the skin level. Ordinary shampoo contains
conditioners which are oils. Any oil will soften the
coat and will not rinse out well. Towel off the dog and allow
to air dry. [use waterless shampoo between baths to spot
clean. Use one part water to one part Listerine for the same
purpose and to treat skin abrasions.] |
|
|
Ears |
| Ask any Spinone
owner and will probably find their dog has had some issues
with their ears. Some more so than others. To find all
the information you will need on ear care, go to:
Ears |
|
