Things You'll Need
- Metal Comb
- Pin Brush
- Slicker Brush
- Spray Water Bottle
- Blunt-ended Scissors
- Nail Clippers
- Styptic Pencil
- Fur-Whitening Shampoo (available at pet stores)
- Cotton Balls
Instructions
Spray the dog's coat with water before combing. The hair of the Japanese Spitz is fragile and may break if combed while dry. Like all double-coated dogs, the undercoat may become matted if not combed regularly.
Using the pin brush, start at the tail and comb through the hair, working your way up toward the head. Switch to the slicker brush to comb out the legs. Roll the dog onto its belly and use the slicker brush to comb out this area.
Clip the hair between the pads on the bottom of the dog's feet, using the blunt-ended scissors. Shorten the nails, if required, taking care not to cut into the "quick". If this occurs, use the styptic pencil to staunch any bleeding.
Check the dog's eyes, using a cotton ball dipped in warm water to clean away any mucus. Using the blunt-ended scissors, remove any long hairs surrounding the dog's eyes. Tears or mucus can discolor the white fur around the eyes. If this occurs it can be corrected using a whitening shampoo. Follow the manufacturer's directions for its use.
Check the dog's ears regularly. If any evidence of mites or infection is found, take the dog to the vet. Do not attempt to treat the dog's ears yourself.