MASTERCLASS

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

MICHELLE WEBER

DAISY

In these tutorials, Michelle performs a basic pet trim on Daisy. Watch as she explains carding out undercoat using a Mars Coat King to achieve a better finish and maintain a healthy coat, prior to the finish clip on an attachment. Michelle finishes the head including using scissors and a #15 inside the ears, also a basic hand strip using finger condoms.

Daisy is a sweet, rescue Cavalier who is owned by the presenter, Michelle. She prefers to have her head down while being groomed and is not in any discomfort or stress.

This tutorial is also available as a fastForward

PART 1 Beginning the basic clip on the Cavalier. Why and when to card during the grooming process and how to reduce the lines. Why following the grain is so important.

PART 2 Basic Ears and Tail on the Cavalier. What the owners prefer when clipping ears, and the best way to clip them to avoid nicks. A quick and easy face using attachments and scissors, then finishing by blending with thinners, leaving you with a beautiful, natural look.

PART 3 Michelle explains how to create the foot. This video shows you how to get a nice tight foot: brush / scissor / brush / scissor is the key!

PART 4 Michelle explains the fan tail on a Cavie, and how to achieve the perfect blend from shorter body to longer tail hair. How to get all those stray hairs even after you brush and scissor.

PART 5 Here we explain the importance of carding a double coat before the clipping procedure, using a few different tools. This is a great way to charge extra money for your groom.

Study Notes | Key Concepts

    • Comfort over aesthetics is critical for senior dogs.

    • Grooming frequency should be increased to reduce session length.

    • Use memory foam mats for comfort.

    • Bathe the dog a day in advance to minimise time on the table.

    • Clipping: Use guard combs to avoid warts and sensitive spots.

    • Scissoring: Visualise the natural shape of the fur and work around the dog's comfort.

    • Stretching Skin: Gently stretch to avoid nicks and uneven grooming.

    • Positioning: Adjust based on the dog's comfort, using props if necessary.

    • Watch for signs of discomfort (e.g., muscle twitches, panting, yelping).

    • Communicate with the dog through touch and voice to soothe them.

    • Hygiene: Groin, pads, nails, and bottom.

    • Regular grooming prevents matting and maintains hygiene.

    • Always have a vet and owner contact info on hand.

    • Know basic pet first aid for emergencies.

    • Emphasise the comfort-first approach.

    • Set realistic expectations for the groom's outcome.