If you have a Wirehaired Fox Terrier, you will know that combing and brushing is an important part of their grooming routine. So it’s important to know how to properly brush and comb their fur. This includes knowing exactly which tools should be used and in which order.
Why Brushing and Combing a Wirehaired Fox Terrier is Important
Regular brushing and combing of your pupper is crucial for maintaining their coat’s health and well-being. Neglecting to do so can lead to a host of problems, including: matting, skin irritation, and even infection.
By regularly brushing and combing your doggo, you can remove tangles and mats that can cause discomfort and pain. Brushing also helps to distribute natural oils throughout their coat, keeping it shiny and healthy. Regular grooming also provides an opportunity to check for any skin irritations, bumps, or lumps that may require veterinary attention. By catching these issues early, you can ensure that your wirehaired fox terrier receives prompt and appropriate care.
Another important aspect that may be overlooked, is that regular grooming also provides an opportunity for bonding between your doggo and you. Take that time to cultivate a trusting and special bond between the two of you. This will not only bring you closer to your pooch, but allow them to complete the necessary grooming ritual in a safe and loving way. This will create positive lasting effects, especially when they then transition to regular groomer or veterinary appointments.
Brushing also helps to remove dirt, debris, and loose hair, which can reduce shedding. This also helps to reduce the amount of loose hair and pet dander within your home; thus reducing the increased risk of exposure for allergy sufferers.
The wirehaired fox terrier has a thick, dense coat. It is recommended to brush them about twice a week.
What You’ll Need
Before you start brushing and combing your wirehaired fox terrier, make sure you have the following:
- Brush Types
- A wire pin brush
- A firm bristle brush with short, closely-spaced bristles
- Comb Types
- A fine-tooth comb
- A medium-tooth steel comb
- A rake
- Other Tools
- A mat table or high surface
- A detangling spray or conditioning treatment (optional)
- Scissors
- A treat to reward your wirehaired fox terrier for good behavior
Preparing to Brush and Comb a Wirehaired Fox Terrier
It is important to start the grooming process as early as possible. For pupper up to 4 months of age, you should brush several days a week with a metal pin brush in order to begin to establish a grooming routine. Always make sure to remain patient and gentle when completing. Place the puppy on an elevated surface with a non-slip mat such as a dog grooming table in order to complete the grooming routine. Get them comfortable lying on their side and standing while on the higher surface. Just make sure you grab all the necessary equipment required prior to placing your pup up high, and if you have forgotten something then lower them back down to the floor so as you’re making sure not to leave them on a high surface unattended.
Bringing them to a higher work surface will not only signal to your pup that ‘now it’s time for the grooming routine,’ but will also save your back. It will allow you to have proper body mechanics, which will become especially important as they become bigger and stronger. Also, please make sure to incorporate praise and treats prior to and after completing the grooming routine. This will not only help solidify the bonding experience, but will signal to your pupper that the grooming process is a safe and loving space for them.
How to Brush a Wirehaired Fox Terrier
- You should start by removing all mats, dirt, debris, and loose hair from their coat. Attempt to use your fingers firstly, by gently pulling apart small sections at a time and working your way from outermost mat sections and moving closer to the skin. You can use your comb or metal rake to assist, trying to work the tangle out delicately and in small sections at a time. And a detangling spray is always a good option in order to ease the tangles out more freely.
- Start by brushing your dog’s coat with a firm bristle brush with short, closely-spaced bristles. Brush in the direction of hair growth using short, gentle strokes. Be careful with the belly, as this area is sensitive.
- Then, use a wire pin brush to brush the hair on the legs and feet. Remember to brush against the direction of growth to make hair stand out. When brushing the feet, you can look to trimming up the hair between the pads of the toes. Pay special attention to the intersection where the legs meet the body, as this area is prone to matting.
- Now brush to brush the hair on your dog’s tail. Brush in the direction of hair growth.
- Then brush the hair on your dog’s head and ears. Brush in the direction of hair growth. Pay special attention to the base of ears, which is prone to matting.
How to Comb a Wirehaired Fox Terrier
- Starting at the neck, comb the hair towards the tail with a medium-tooth steel comb. You can
- use long, smooth strokes while combing as long as the comb can move freely through the hair.
- Now, comb the hair on the legs and feet, combing in the direction of hair growth.
- Next, comb the hair on the tail, starting at the base and brushing towards the tip.
- Now, comb the hair on the head and ears. being gentle around the eyes and nose.
- For the face, you can use a fine-toothed comb. When combing the face, there are special considerations. You should be extra gentle with the beard. You will want to comb the beard forward and trim as needed. You can consider a rake for extra hard tangles. Once all the matting is gone, go over to make sure you can smoothly comb through entirely. You can use a pair of scissors to snip any odd strands. When combing the eyebrows, comb them forward and pull the hair towards the center in a ‘V’ pattern. Then comb down, pulling the eyebrows into a triangle shape. Again, cut off any extra tidbits. It is good to comb through the beard after meals or digging holes in order to quickly remove dirt and food debris so it won’t end up as hard-to-remove mats and tangles later.
Tips for Maintaining a Wirehaired Fox Terrier’s Coat
To keep your doggo’s coat healthy, you should brush and comb it regularly. Here are some tips:
- Brush their entire coat about twice a week
- Use a pin brush or *slicker brush to remove tangles and mats. (Slicker brushes should only be used by professionals, because if used incorrectly, it will be very painful)
- Use a comb to remove loose hair and debris.
- Be gentle and avoid pulling or tugging on the coat.
- Pay special attention to areas that are prone to tangles, such as behind the ears and under the legs.
- If you encounter a mat, use your fingers first. A detangling spray and/or dematting tool or scissors to carefully remove it are also options.
- Always give a treat and praise for good behavior.
By following these tips, you can maintain your Wirehaired Fox Terrier’s coat and keep it looking healthy and shiny.
As long as you are able to maintain regular brushing, shedding will be minimal.