Chow Chows are known for their dense, lion-like coat, which requires regular grooming to stay healthy and beautiful. Chow Chows are generally not supposed to be trimmed a lot, and they are supposed to be kept in a natural state. If you want to keep your Chow Chow’s coat clean and healthy, some regular maintenance is required. We have created 5 tips to help with grooming your chow chow to keep them looking teddy-bear like!
Tip 1: Start Grooming Early
Begin grooming your Chow Chow as soon as you bring them home from the breeder. Get into a daily routine of brushing their coat to prevent matting and hotspots. Pay special attention to problem areas such as the armpits, chest, and ears. Brush from the skin, parting the hair to ensure that you’re reaching the skin. This will make grooming easier for you and your future groomer.
Tip 2: Use the Right Tools
Invest in the right tools for grooming your Chow Chow, including a medium/coarse steel comb or poodle comb, a small fine-toothed comb with a handle, straight and thinning scissors, a slicker brush, a nail clipper, a hair dryer, and a blaster. These tools will help you groom your Chow Chow effectively and efficiently.
Tip 3: Bathe Regularly
Bathing is essential to keep your Chow Chow’s coat looking good. Bathe them as often as once a week using a good shampoo that lathers well. Brush out any obvious knots or mats before bathing, and make sure to wash all the way down to the skin. Rinse thoroughly to ensure that no shampoo is left in the coat. For a shiny coat, use a detangling high shine shampoo for the second wash. If your Chow Chow has a dry coat, use a coat conditioner.
Tip 4: Dry Properly
After bathing, towel dry your Chow Chow’s face and ears before using a blaster to get as much water out of their coat as possible. Avoid blasting their face, and aim for medium power to prevent creating more knots. Comb through their coat thoroughly before blow-drying. Encourage your Chow Chow to lay down on its side, making drying and grooming easier. Start with the belly hair and legs, working your way to the spine, blowing the coat while brushing down to the skin with a pin brush. Use the slicker and/or pin brush, followed by a comb, to remove all dead and shedding hair.
Tip 5: Trim Excess Hair and Keep Nails Short
Trim any excess hair from your Chow Chow’s feet and keep their nails short to prevent discomfort and health issues. Regular trimming will also help prevent matting and hotspots.
By following these tips, you can keep your Chow Chow’s coat healthy, beautiful, and manageable. It is important to remember that shaving a chow chow is bad for them. They use their coat to regulate their body temperature and protect them from the sun.
Chow Chow Community’s Recommended Grooming Essentials
Discover everything you need to keep your pet looking and feeling their best, from gentle shampoos and conditioners to professional-grade brushes and nail clippers. Find the perfect grooming tools to enhance your pet’s coat and comfort.