What Do You Need to Groom a Yorkie Yourself?

Grooming a dog with lots of fur like a Yorkshire terrier is a necessity, but paying a professional groomer to routinely groom your dog can be expensive. However, you can easily groom your yorkie at home with a few simple tools, saving you time and money, and saving your dog the often-frightening trip to the groomer.

  1. Brushing Fur

    • Before giving your dog a bath, brush its fur thoroughly to remove tangles and matting. Purchase a wide-toothed comb made of metal to gently remove tangles, recommends the Yorkshire Terrier Club of America. Purchase a brush as well as a detangling agent for difficult matting.

    Shampooing

    • Wash your dog regularly to keep its fur clean and smelling fresh. Ask your veterinarian for a shampoo and conditioner that is safe for your dog and will leave its fur clean and shiny. You can also purchase shampoo and conditioner from your local pet store. A sponge is useful for washing your dog's face. Keep plenty of towels on hand for drying your dog and mopping up spills. A hair dryer with low heat settings will help your dog's fur dry faster.

    Cutting Fur

    • Purchase clippers designed for cutting dog fur. Choose a set that includes a variety of blade lengths for cutting your dog's fur. Check with your local pet store for options. In addition, scissors will make it simple to cut fur around your dog's face and other difficult-to-reach areas.

    Ears, Teeth and Nails

    • In addition to caring for your dog's fur, take time when grooming to care for its ears, teeth and nails as well. Ask your veterinarian for an ear-cleaning solution or pick one up at your local pet store. Follow the directions on the packaging, but avoid using ear swabs to clean your dog's ears, as these can cause damage. Purchase a toothbrush designed for cleaning your dog's teeth and clean them during grooming time. Keep nail clippers on hand for clipping your dog's nails while they are soft from bathing.