In the heart of Vosselaar, we find Dogz grooming salon, where Shirley Hartogs has been passionately grooming dogs for 16 years. Clipping, washing, brushing—it seems simple, but good coat care requires precision and patience. We chatted with Shirley to discover the secrets of a professional dog stylist and get some tips for those who want to get started themselves!
The Perfect Grooming Session: How Does It Work?
🔹 Where do you start with a haircut?
I always start with the back, from head to tail, because this follows the natural growth direction of the coat. Then I work systematically towards the hind legs and then forward. This ensures an even result and prevents me from missing any areas. For larger dogs, I usually use scissors, while for smaller dogs, I often use clippers to trim the coat evenly.
🔹How long does a full treatment session take?
It depends on the dog, but on average, it takes me an hour and a half to two hours. Large dogs take longer because of their size, but it can also take a long time with smaller dogs, especially if they have a lot of tangles. Washing and drying often takes a surprisingly long time, especially with dogs with thick or long coats.
🔹What 's the hardest part of your job?
Combing out tangles is definitely one of the most difficult and time-consuming tasks. In dogs with long or curly coats, tangles can become deeply embedded in the fur, making it painful to try and remove them. Furthermore, the paws are often a challenge, especially for smaller dogs that quickly retreat or struggle when you approach them.
🔹 Are there any techniques you should definitely master?
Yes, especially around the eyes, ears, and muzzle, it's essential to be careful. With breeds like the Shih Tzu, which often have a short muzzle and long ears, you have to be extra careful not to accidentally remove too much hair or cause them discomfort. If you're in doubt, it's better to consult a professional than to take any risks.
🔹How do you deal with restless dogs?
Some dogs simply can't stand still for a moment, which makes grooming difficult. In that case, I use a special technique where I gently support them or lightly restrain them to a grooming post so they don't suddenly jump away. But the most important thing is patience and a calm demeanor. The calmer you are, the faster the dog will relax.
🔹 Which tools are indispensable in your salon?
I use a variety of tools, depending on the dog and its coat. I mainly use clippers for short coats or to trim the undercoat, a detangling brush helps prevent matting, and good scissors are essential for the finishing touches. For a natural-looking result, I like to use thinning shears, which create a smooth transition between coat lengths.
Grooming Your Own Dog? 7 Essential Tips!
Want to get started at home? Follow these tips from Shirley:
✅ Remove tangles first – Brush the coat before washing to prevent pain.
✅ Keep legs short – Prevents dirt build-up and winter problems such as ice floes.
✅ Work with good scissors – Use thinning scissors for a natural effect.
✅ Pay attention to sensitive areas – You should be extra careful around the eyes and ears.
✅ Follow the natural coat line – Don’t cut in straight lines, but in the flow of the coat.
✅ Wash after clipping, not before – This prevents dirt from drying into the coat.
✅ Take your time drying – Use a microfiber towel and blow-dry on a low setting.
Extra Care: Nutrition for a Shiny Coat
Besides a good grooming, nutrition plays a crucial role in coat health. A beautiful, shiny coat starts from within! Gutsy Skin & Coat supplements contain salmon oil, biotin, and omega 3 & 6 , helping to keep the coat strong, supple, and shiny. Ideal for dogs with a dull coat, hair loss, or sensitive skin.
Want your dog to truly shine? Combine a professional grooming with the right food and supplements, and your four-legged friend will not only look fantastic but feel great too!
