How to Groom an Italian Greyhound

By eHow Pets Editor

Instructions

Step 1:
Rub down the coat. Use a soft cloth, such as satin or soft chamois, to keep the coat shiny and to remove loose hair. Trim whiskers if necessary.
Step 2:
Bathe Italian greyhounds only when necessary. Dry thoroughly after a bath using cloth, not a blow dryer. Place small cotton balls inside the ears to avoid water entering the dog's ear canal.
Step 3:
Protect the skin. Use sweaters and foot pads for cold weather as Italian greyhounds have little body fat. Ask a vet about using canine skin lotions in dry climates; do not use human skin creams as human skin has different oil content.
Step 4:
Clean the teeth. Italian greyhounds have small, pointed mouths, making Italian greyhounds prone to dental disease. Regular brushing prevents tartar build-up and gum disease. Have a vet perform regular dental cleanings to prevent tooth loss.
Step 5:
Clip their nails least twice a month. Use a canine nail clipper or have a veterinarian do this. Italian greyhounds have usually had their dewclaws removed; if a remnant of a dewclaw remains, clip it carefully. When clipping canine toenails, be careful not to clip the cuticle. While not a serious injury, it is painful for the Italian greyhound and may bleed.
Step 6:
Wipe the ears. Use a cotton swab carefully to remove wax build-up from within the ears. Italian greyhound ears have a drop; this inhibits air circulation and can cause wax build-up and infection.

Tips & Warnings

A natural bristle brush also helps keep the coat shiny. Thinning shears remove stray hairs from ears and muzzle if desired.
A final coat conditioner after a bath improves the coat appearance. A gentle skin cream helps minimize elbow calluses on Italian greyhound.

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