Before grooming your Bedlington Terrier, it's essential to give them a bath, thoroughly dry their coat, and comb it out to remove any tangles. Once prepped, secure your dog in a comfortable position, and you're ready to begin the grooming process, following specific techniques to achieve the breed's characteristic look.
Essential Grooming Tools
To effectively groom your Bedlington Terrier, you’ll need to gather some basic grooming tools. These include electric clippers, a metal comb, sharp grooming scissors, a slicker brush, and a pet-safe hair dryer. Having these tools readily available will make the grooming process smoother and more efficient.
Pre-Grooming Bath and Drying
Start with a bath using a high-quality dog shampoo. After washing, it's crucial to thoroughly dry your Bedlington's coat using a pet dryer. While drying, use a comb or slicker brush to brush out any tangles and straighten the hair. This step is critical for achieving a clean, even cut during the grooming process. A well-dried and brushed coat is easier to manage with clippers and scissors.
Clipping the Underbelly, Ears, and Face
Begin by using the electric clippers to trim the fur on the bottom of the feet, around the genital area, and under the ears. This ensures hygiene and comfort for the dog. Next, use the clippers to shape the ears. The goal is to shave the ear completely, shaping it with a distinctive "V" cut at the tip. Leave some longer hair towards the base of the ear.
Creating the Bedlington Terrier Face Trim
For the face, shave a straight line from the base of the ear to the corner of the eye, and a diagonal line from the corner of the eye to the corner of the mouth. The hair on the jaw should be shaved forward, ensuring not to expose the corner of the mouth. For the neck, shave a "V" shape, starting at the base of the ear down to about 2 cm below the throat. The lowest point of the "V" should be adjusted according to your dog's unique features. These lines are critical to achieving the breed’s characteristic facial expression.
Tail Grooming Techniques
Contrary to what some guides may suggest, tail grooming is essential for the breed's appearance. The tail is almost entirely shaved, with slightly longer hair remaining at the base. To groom the tail properly, have your dog stand with its hocks perpendicular to the floor. Pull the tail downwards, and for male dogs, leave enough hair to cover about half of their testicles; for females, ensure the area is completely covered for privacy. You will then need to switch to using your grooming scissors to refine the tail’s shape. Pay close attention to shaping, as this is a focal point of the breed’s characteristic look.
By following these steps, you’ll be able to groom your Bedlington Terrier effectively, maintaining its distinctive look and overall well-being.