The Zim Family Cocker Spaniel Forum

Hey Everyone,

I am new to the forum and have some questions regarding the correct grooming terminology. I've only had my dog for three months--he's a three-year-old rescue--and we took him to the groomer and it turned out great. However, I know I want to make some adjustments for next time and I am frustrated that I can't accurately describe what I want because I don't know the terminology e.g. what is a natural back, what is carding/stripping, what are the general types of cuts he could get, etc.

I'm sorry that's a very vague question, but I'm at the point where I don't even know enough to know what to ask.

I am posting pictures of what he looked like immediately after grooming, and a few weeks later to show you how it's growing out. Any advice on how I could improve this look, and any definitions/terms you could share to make me better able to communicate what I want would be extremely helpful. TIA

Welcome to the forum Courtney and Max. He's a real cutie! We have some excellent groomers here who will jump in after me. I'm a complete amateur, but do my own grooming. Generally speaking, he looks pretty good. To get picky, I would say his skirt starts a little high on the side of his body, his topknot could use a little refining, and the top 1/3 of his ear should be shaved. I can't speak to stripping or carding at all. A "natural" back would be one that isn't shaved. Right now, Max's looks to be shaved - but you can grow that out if you prefer the look of a natural back.

If you plan to keep him in a short "puppy" cut, you can use the search feature above and search for pictures of a puppy cut that you can take in with you. Sometimes that's the best way to get the look you want. Also check out Jim & Julie's DVD that's for sale and save yourself some money on grooming costs.

We're glad to have you join us.

Courtney, here is a discussion on carding. viewtopic.php?f=15&t=4305&p=52294&hilit=carding#p52294

It's kinda hard to tell you what you want lol! I can tell you what is wrong with his grooming though, if you're looking for a good cocker grooming.

It looks like his back is shaved with a ten blade. I never recommend going shorter than a seven blade. The groomer went way to far down on his chest, not far enough on his shoulder and made no attempt (that I can see anyway) to blend his back coat into his skirt, legs etc. Plus yes, the ears. Really important that cocker ears be clean clean clean at the top. It's not just an aesthetic thing, it's for their ear health. The legs skirt etc look good. She/He did a nice job scissoring that.

Here are a few pictures of dogs I've done in different lengths and styles. Feel free to print any of them out to take with you next time. Maybe we can make the groomer a better cocker groomer at the same time.

Courtney and Max. Max is a cutie pie. Oh how I wish I lived close to you Julie, Aussie would look runway ready all the time Those cockers are so cute.