Here are parts of the overall grooming process for your Porte:
- Brushing and combing
- cutting nails
- Ear cleaning
- Bathing
- Blow dry
- Shear / scissors
Of the following grooming steps, Steps 1 to 3 should be done weekly, while brushing can happen more often, as the length of the coat and the dog’s activities require. Bathing and drying is good enough every two to three weeks. Clipping can be done as often as needed or desired, depending on the general appearance you want for your dog.
Just like other dogs that have a low shedding, the Portuguese Water Dog needs frequent clipping or clipping. Their coat gets longer and longer, until it becomes unruly without interference. Shearing a dog is very easy to learn and perform, unless the owner prefers a professional groomer. The latter, of course, entails significant costs, so many owners are beginning to learn to take care of themselves. All of this makes the dog clipper a good investment. On top of that, professional grooming can set you back at least $500 a year.
A shaving table, while not a necessity, helps a lot. The purpose of this is for the dog to be able to lie down on a flat, hard surface where they will feel safe while being groomed.
Nail clippers or a nail grinder are essential items that you will need to master using them. Surprisingly, many dog owners are ignorant of the fact that careless positioning of the tool when trimming nails can lead to blood vessel injury, which may explain the animal’s dislike of nail hygiene.
But what if the cut happened despite your best intentions? Then the next item that shouldn’t be missing from your personal care kit, nor your first aid kit: an astringent powder. This chemical helps stop most bleeding.
Being an eared breed, the Portuguese Water Dog will need help getting some ear issues under control, something that pointy-eared dogs are not without. Perform some regular cleaning with over-the-counter ear cleaners after consulting your vet.
Optional items in your grooming kit could be: a dog conditioner (other than the mandatory shampoo) that controls matting and prevents unsightly hair breakage; A hair dryer to help dry your dog faster and to help him avoid wiping his coat off surfaces around the house.