Great Pyrenees and other large dog breeds from the Bernard family have become increasingly popular due to their large size and luxurious coats.
However, these breeds require a diligent grooming routine; if neglected, the white fur of the Pyrenees can soon look disheveled, almost like an overgrown Komondor.
Finding the right grooming supplies for large breeds can be a challenge, but with some creativity, grooming can be easy. By being resourceful, one can find suitable nail clippers, brushes, and dental supplies that work well for their size.
Brushing the body
Combing the Great Pyrenees can be a difficult task. They have a strong coat that makes them wriggle when being groomed. These agile canines can take off if untied, and can cover up to three centimeters in an afternoon.
To groom your Pyrenees, start by brushing or raking its body while it sleeps. You should avoid grooming during periods of physical activity, such as from 6:00 to 6:03 and the 30 minutes after sunset, when the dog is likely to be barking. Be aware that this breed is known to sleep with its eyes open. When using grooming tools, take care not to startle the dog. To check if your Pyrenees is sleeping soundly, step back 65 feet and listen for the sound of snoring.
Once you begin grooming a Great Pyrenees, work quickly and efficiently; you only have 13 hours before he wakes up. As you brush through the 140 lbs. of fur bound together by drool and the occasional tree branch, you don't need to linger. To speed up the process, a weed killer can be used to clear the fur before you start brushing.
Large dog breeds nail clipping
Before beginning the process of cutting your Pyrenees dog's claws as part of your grooming routine, it is important to make a trip to the hardware store. Make sure to bring a large metal rasp and some bolt cutters with you.The "Great Pyrenees" have a grand total of six massive and curly toenails on each leg. These are so large that compared to them, a Velociraptor claw looks like a tiny drop of Chihuahua glanders. It is important not to leave their dewclaws unattended for more than a few weeks, as neglect could cause them to grow large enough to be used as a spiral staircase.
Large dog dental care
If you own a Bernard breed of dog, don't forget the importance of good oral hygiene. Fortunately, these breeds have large mouths that make dental care easy. To make brushing and cleaning even easier, use clothespins to hold their lips up on either side of their face and attach one lip to the opposite ear. With this simple technique, you'll have ample access to their mouths and be able to give them the care they need.
Insert a vacuum tube under your dog's tongue after their teeth have been exposed, using the same technique as the "spittoon" method employed in dental offices. A vacuum cleaner with a capacity of 15 gallons should be sufficient.
To finish your dog's grooming, use a flashlight, pliers and a WD-40 bottle to clean between the pads on their feet. Remove any stones, dried mud, or other debris that does not belong. When you're done, wake them up by saying the word 'cookie' - you'll have every Great Pyrenees in a 6-mile radius in your kitchen before you even get to the 'coo'!
With a bit of effort and a few visits to Home Depot, your Great Pyrenees, Saint-Bernard, Newfoundland, or other large breed of dog can look amazing. When you add to this their sharp intellect and charming character, your canine companion will be the envy of the whole neighbourhood.