help with grooming my puppy's front hair

by Wendy
(Stockton, CA)

hello i just got a Coton, from my mom who was not caring for her, She was living with other family that was mistreating her, and she was greatly matted. I was able to buss off most of the matted hair from her back, butt, tail, and legs.However, i was unable to cut her front hair. She tries to bite me when i try.


Any advise on what to do, also i dont want to tramatize her more, shes pretty scared. I am giving her lots of TLC and treats. Should i live her from hair alone, its not matted. But i wonder if she can even see.

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May 01, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		grooming NEW
by: Vicky & Jonah (Az)

Remember when u start trimming the nails just the little tip at top maybe 1/16. Do this weekly & by just a little u will never cut into the quick.

Also by a little at a time it will also make the quick shorten itself naturally in the nail. I like using the sm cat and dog scissors u can pick up at Walmart for $3.97. By using the scissor type I can see better where and what I am cutting.

I lay Jonah on his side on the bed and put the toe between my fingers so it does not move and snip.

At 1st I would do 2-3 at a time treat break not to spook him. Also the sense ur confidence so go slow so u r comfortable.

Yes starting out it take longer but now since he has never had blood drawn on his nails he lays their and I can do front and back if need at same time. Mostly thou the back take care of them selves from walks.

Congrats again on ur new puppy I hope ur having fun.

Jonah loves to play frizbee. I use the splash ones designed for the pool that r soft to catch about $2. I pick them up at Fry's every yr. to replace the old ones every yr. in the summer.
May 01, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		Thanks everyone thanks very much NEW
by: Wendy

hanks everyone for the advise given, she is doing better. I have been slowly combing her daily. She fights with me sometime, but after talking to her and giving her kisses and saying, "good girl your okay, i love you, no body is going the hurt you." She starts to relax, and lets me comb her, well for a short time. Also, while hugging her i rub her feet and lightly pull her nails to get her use to the touch and maybe let me cut her toe nails soon. thanks again everyone.
May 01, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		Thanks NEW
by: Wendy

Thanks everyone for the advise given, she is doing better. I have been slowly combing her daily. She fights with me sometime, but after talking to her and giving her kisses and saying, "good girl your okay, i love you, no body is going the hurt you." She starts to relax, and lets me comb her, well for a short time. Also, while hugging her i rub her feet and lightly pull her nails to get her use to the touch and maybe let me cut her toe nails soon. thanks again everyone.
Apr 20, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		Thanks NEW
by: Wendy

Thanks so much for ur advise and quick responds
Apr 19, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		Hair grooming NEW
by: Vicky & Jonah (Az)

If a puppy he will bite just as a puppy play. It will not hurt to wait until he lets u touch him more. Check thou beside his cheeks and underneath his neck for mats. I would not worry right away if u need be cut them out. This way when he itches as dogs do his nails will not get stuck in the mat. Also instead of putting him through combing until ur more comfortable cut this way he will not learn to hate grooming.

Start now thou playing games w/him touching his feet & peak a boo w/ hand ovr eyes. Treat. This will get him use to u touching feet to cut nails and if u do want to trim his bangs later he will let u cover his eyes to trim bangs.

If u would like the hair away from his eyes u can get the little rubber bands at a Walmart or Walgreens. When u go to take them out just snip w/a pair of scissors. Good luck u will do fine & they r wonderful companions. Thanks for rescueing.
Apr 19, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		Coton's grooming issues... NEW
by: Kathy

Hi Wendy,

First...thank you for taking ownership of this Coton from neglectful family members. I applaud your actions!

If you've got most of your dogs mats removed and his facial hair is long, but not matted--don't worry about trimming it (especially if he's trying to bite you). Heavy grooming can be traumatic for dogs who aren't used to any grooming.

It's going to take time for him to get over his fears and trust you, since he's been mistreated. Please take the time to build a good relationship with him first. Do light daily "maintenance" grooming, now that his mats are gone, with lots of kinds words and reassurance.

Hope this helps!

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