1. nail clippers or a nail grinder (trim toenails every one to two weeks)
2. baby powder (prevents the fine fur behind the ears from matting)
3. spray bottle (mist your dog's fur with water before brushing or you will damage his coat)
4. pin brush
5. slicker (for grooming right down to the skin)
6. Belgian comb (you should be able to run a comb freely through his coat when you are done)
7. toothbrush and pet formula toothpaste (once a week, do NOT use human formula toothpaste)
8. scizzors (to trim the excess fur between the pads of his feet)
Shelties have a double coat. The fine, soft undercoat is shed once a year. Regular brushing willl help remove the dead undercoat and prevent matting. If you wait until your dog's coat becomes matted it is a much bigger job to groom, and is uncomfortable for your dog. I would recommend a quick run through with spray bottle and pin brush at least once a week and a more thorough line brushing with slicker and comb at least once a month. Grooming can be your quiet time together. The stroking sensation of the brush is soothing and removing dead, itchy fur and stimulating the skin are important contributions you can make to your dog's good health. It is also important to observe your dog's skin for hot spots, hair loss, injuries and flea dirt. Skin is an important excretory organ and protective mechanism.. Infection can set in once the skin barrier has been breached. Do not forget to check ear canals for dirt or foul odor.
It is necessary to be aware of your dog's regular bowel and urine habits. Be aware of his appetite and water intake as well. This information can be valuable to your veternarian when trying to diagnose an illness. You will be more sensitive to your dog's general health and be able to identify potential problems early.
You are always welcome to bring one of my puppies back to me for a thorough grooming and trimming of ears, hocks and feet.