Grooming Supplies for Cairn Terriers

Cairn terriers have fur unusual to the terrier family in that they do not shed. Cairns are double-coated dogs; their outer coat is rough and weather resistant and the undercoat is soft and thick. They need to be brushed several times a week. Cairn terriers should not be bathed more than once a month. With proper and diligent grooming, your Cairn terrier will look and feel healthy and clean.

  1. Furniture

    • A professional groomer's table has a safe tether arm.

      When grooming your Cairn use a grooming table or other secure surface. A proper grooming table is ideal because of the extension that allows you to tether your Cairn while grooming. A sturdy table will do just as well if your Cairn is not averse to grooming. Never leave your Cairn on a table unattended.

    Tools

    • Many people prefer a professional groomer trim their dog's toenails

      A fine-tooth metal comb is needed to untangle any mats in the coat. A slicker brush is used to keep the soft undercoat free of tangles or mats in hard-to-reach areas such as the legs, underbelly or groin. Nail clippers are necessary to keep your Cairn's toenails short, and a file helps to keep the nails from getting jagged. Sharp scissors with a blunt tip are used to trim around your Cairn's face and muzzle and for severely matted fur. Thinning shears should be used to trim the long hair around your Cairn's ears. All these tools can be purchased at a pet store.

    Cleaning and Bathing Products

    • All dogs should have their teeth checked at least once a year by a veterinarian.

      A shampoo made especially for rough coats should be used on your Cairn. Don't use conditioners or detangling products, as these make the coat too soft and can actually cause more mats. A doggie toothbrush and paste should be used frequently to prevent plaque buildup and bad breath. Ear-cleaning pads help keep ears free from parasites and removes dirt and wax. There are also sprays and rinses for ear cleaning, but the pads are the least invasive and alarming to your dog. Eye cleansing pads or tear-stain removal pads are an easy way to keep your Cairn's eyes clear and infection-free.

    MVT - Most Valuable Tool

    • The most valuable grooming tool for your Cairn is the stripping knife. Like any other tool, the stripping knife ranges in price from inexpensive to top-of-the-line. This tool is for pulling out dead fur. A coat of dead fur is dull and can promote skin diseases. The stripping knife painlessly rakes it out, leaving a healthy and mat-free coat. These can be purchased at a pet store. Some people use rubber fingers, which are rubber caps that fit over your finger tips, that allow a better grip on dead fur.

    Treats

    • Reward for good behavior

      Keep treats on hand and award them to your Cairn periodically throughout the grooming process. This will make the whole process a little less strenuous for you and for your Cairn.