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What Are the Best Tips for Grooming a Lhasa Apso?

Madeleine A.
Madeleine A.

The best tips for grooming a Lhasa Apso are brushing the coat prior to bathing the dog and trimming the hair around its paws for a polished look. The Lhasa Apso has a long, dense coat, which mandates daily brushing to eliminate the risk of matting, and to keep the coat looking smooth and shiny. To avoid accidentally nicking the dog with a clippers, it should be able to lay on its side or back quietly for minutes at a time. Training the dog early on will help the dog learn to sit or lie quietly.

Although brushing the dog should be done every day, grooming a Lhasa Apso should be done approximately every one to two weeks. Grooming a Lhasa Apso should include giving it a bath and removing tangles from the coat. Keeping the coat maintained is not hard if brushing and combing is done regularly, however, if the coat is neglected, a mat comb or splitter may be needed to break the mat apart. In severe cases, the mats may need to be cut out to avoid painful pulling of the dog's delicate skin.

Electronic clippers may be used to trim a dog's fur.
Electronic clippers may be used to trim a dog's fur.

While grooming a Lhasa Apso, it may be helpful to wash to coat with a quarter-sized amount of coat conditioner to smooth away tangles. Pet detangler, which is available at most pet stores, can also be sprayed on the coat to facilitate easier combing and impart a sleek shine to the coat. Spraying grooming products onto a dog's coat should be done carefully to avoid contact with the eyes, nose, and mouth.

Pet nail clippers may be used to clip a dog's nails.
Pet nail clippers may be used to clip a dog's nails.

Grooming a Lhasa Apso may also involve pinning its hair in place with hair bands or barrettes to avoid hair from falling into the eyes, which can cause tearing and staining around the eyes. It is important, however, that the elastic hair band and barrettes not be fastened too tight, as this can cause the hair to pull and hurt the dog. The ears of the dog should also be cleaned on a regular basis to prevent odor and possible infection. A commercial pet ear cleanser can be used by saturating cotton balls and gently washing the outer area of the ear. Pushing the cotton too far inside the ear canal can damage delicate tissues and cause significant pain.

Nail care also needs to be considered when grooming a Lhasa Apso. Their nails grow relatively fast and should be trimmed every few weeks. The nails should be clipped carefully and clipping should stop well before reaching the quick. Nicking this sensitive area can cause significant bleeding. If a dog owner is not comfortable clipping the nails, the dog should be taken to a professional dog groomer or the veterinarian's office.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I groom my Lhasa Apso?

Grooming a Lhasa Apso should be a regular part of their care routine. Ideally, brushing should occur daily to prevent matting and tangling of their long, dense coat. Professional grooming, including a bath and haircut, is recommended every 6 to 8 weeks to maintain their coat's health and appearance.

What type of brush is best for a Lhasa Apso's coat?

For a Lhasa Apso, a high-quality pin brush is ideal for their long, straight coat. This type of brush effectively detangles and smooths the hair without causing discomfort. Regular use of a pin brush can help distribute natural oils throughout the coat, keeping it shiny and healthy.

Is it necessary to trim a Lhasa Apso's hair around their eyes and feet?

Yes, trimming the hair around a Lhasa Apso's eyes and feet is important for their comfort and hygiene. Keeping the hair short around the eyes prevents irritation and potential vision obstruction, while trimming the feet helps to reduce the accumulation of dirt and debris, which can lead to infections.

How can I prevent my Lhasa Apso's coat from getting matted?

To prevent matting in a Lhasa Apso's coat, consistent grooming is key. Daily brushing with the appropriate tools will help remove loose hair and prevent tangles. Additionally, using a detangling spray or conditioner can make brushing easier and more effective. During grooming, pay special attention to areas prone to matting, such as behind the ears and under the legs.

Can I bathe my Lhasa Apso at home, and how often?

Bathing a Lhasa Apso at home is certainly possible and should be done every 3 to 4 weeks, or as needed. Use a gentle dog-specific shampoo and ensure you thoroughly rinse the coat to prevent irritation. After bathing, carefully dry their coat with a towel and a low-heat hairdryer to avoid matting.

What are the signs that my Lhasa Apso needs professional grooming?

Signs that your Lhasa Apso may need professional grooming include a dull, tangled, or matted coat, overgrown nails, excessive scratching, or an unpleasant odor. Professional groomers can address these issues and provide services like ear cleaning and anal gland expression, which are essential for your dog's overall well-being.

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    • Electronic clippers may be used to trim a dog's fur.
      By: exopixel
      Electronic clippers may be used to trim a dog's fur.
    • Pet nail clippers may be used to clip a dog's nails.
      By: Diana Taliun
      Pet nail clippers may be used to clip a dog's nails.