How to Groom a Springer Spaniel

Springer spaniels are hardy and need little in the way of grooming.

"Springer spaniel" is a broad term used to reference two separate breeds: the Welsh springer spaniel and the English springer spaniel. Both breeds are similar in size and basic function, though field-bred dogs and show-bred dogs vary in coat length and texture. Bred to be active hunting and retrieving companions, springer spaniels are hardy and need little in the way of grooming, but a steady routine will keep your springer looking his best.

Things You'll Need

• Dog shampoo
• Coat conditioner
• Small clippers
• Pin brush or slicker brush
• Small scissors
• Toenail clippers
• Blow dryer
• Cotton balls

Instructions

1. Using the pin or slicker brush, start at the root of the hair and comb all the way through to the tips. Check behind the dog's ears for any remaining tangles or mats, and trim them out if necessary. Continue brushing the coat until all traces of dead hair are removed, using long, even strokes to avoid damaging or tangling the hair.

2. Use the scissors or clippers to trim the long hair between the dog's pads to make it more difficult for her to pick up mats or stickers.

3. Trim the dog's nails, being sure not to trim too far and cut the quick.

4. Trim the long hair inside the dog's ears carefully.

5. Clip or trim the coat if you'd like, being sure not to burn or nick the dog if the clippers get hot and avoid trimming the coat too close.

6. Place a few cotton balls in the dog's ear, wet the dog thoroughly and generously apply shampoo, working it through the coat from root to tips. Rinse the dog well to remove all the shampoo.

7. Apply conditioner and rinse completely.

8. Towel the dog dry, and remove the cotton from the ears.

9. Dry your springer spaniel with a blow dryer if you choose, starting on a very low setting and working slowly to avoid scaring the dog. Comb the dog's coat from root to tip while blow-drying, which will straighten and flatten the hair as it dries. Use the brush to lift the hair and blow-dry the underside of the coat. Clean your brush often to remove any remaining dead or matted hair from the coat.

Tips & Warnings

• Be careful while using scissors or clippers.

• Avoid dropping trimmed hair into your dog's eyes or ears. Trimmed hair can cause serious damage.

• Take care when bathing a dog in cold weather. Make sure the dog is completely dry before allowing her to go outside.

• If you are not experienced in clipping or trimming with the clippers or scissors, have someone who is experienced show you how to safely trim the dog.

• If you plan to show your springer spaniel, do not trim the coat yourself if you are inexperienced. The coat on a springer is a vital point in judging, and a poorly or incorrectly trimmed coat can knock a dog out of contention.