The Doberman pinscher's short and thick coat of heavy, close-set hairs was intentionally bred to need little maintenance. With a bit of elbow grease and a basic set of grooming tools, these heavy shedders can be brought to a lustrous shine in almost no time.
Time to Shine
Step 1
Brush with the shedding blade, using light, firm pressure to remove loose hairs. Use long, even strokes in the direction of the fur's growth. Begin at the base of the head and work your way across your dog's back, over the bum, and down his sides and belly. Clean hair buildup off the blade frequently. Repeat this process as necessary.
Step 2
Rub your dog's coat from nose to tail tip with the damp towel, using brisk, circular motions. Towel down each leg and gently towel your dog's face and outer ears. A good, firm towel rub takes the place of bathing for most Dobies. This removes dirt, dead skin and loose fur.
Step 3
Brush your dog's coat with the pin brush using short, even strokes in the direction of the fur's growth. Begin at the base of the head and work your way down the back and over the dog's bum, down the sides and over the belly.
Step 4
Smooth your dog's coat with the chamois using firm, light, even pressure. Begin at the nose and work your way over the entire head, body, tail and legs. This is the step that really gives your dog that Dobie shine. Use it to smooth any rough patches in the coat and to encourage the fur to lie down flat.
References
Tips
- To keep that champion gloss, groom your pup at least once or twice per week. Use the shedding blade as needed and carry your pin brush and chamois on outings for touchups.
Warnings
- Dobies are prone to skin problems. You can prevent most of these by regular grooming. Do not overdo the baths—Doberman pinschers need only three or four a year, if that. Too much water and shampoo will irritate your gentle giant's sensitive skin.
Writer Bio
Angela Libal began writing professionally in 2005. She has published several books, specializing in zoology and animal husbandry. Libal holds a degree in behavioral science: animal science from Moorpark College, a Bachelor of Arts from Sarah Lawrence College and is a graduate student in cryptozoology.