Making The Blow Dry Last
Video link https://youtu.be/BQAiVWVK5UA?si=SZqptkD5ZUIYQPuO
Hi everyone! I’m Allison from Leading Edge Dog Show Academy, and today I’m here with our wonderful model, Rico, to share some essential tips on how to make the blow dry last. Even when it is pouring rain outside, we need to ensure that your dog’s blow dry lasts until he’s either ready for the show or back with his owner.
Preparing for the Blow Dry
To achieve the best results, there are certain things you should keep in mind during the grooming process:
No Collars or Harnesses: First and foremost, Rico won’t be wearing a collar, harness, or any type of clothing. We want him to be as natural as possible during the grooming process.
Drying the Top Knot: Before we start banding his top knot, it’s crucial to ensure that it’s 100% dry. Even a small amount of moisture can compromise the look. Keep in mind that if Rico drinks water or shakes off, any new droplets need to be dried thoroughly.
Avoid Playtime: Rico must avoid playing with other dogs or interacting with friends right now. We want that blow dry to last, so playtime is off the table until we’re finished.
Choosing the Right Surface: Rico shouldn’t be on a rough or textured bed, as even a towel can cause his hair to crinkle. Opt for something with a satiny smooth surface to keep his coat looking great.
Monitoring Outdoor Time: When it’s time for Rico to do his business, he needs to go to a covered area where the ground is dry. If there’s no dry option, you’ll need to dry any wet areas as soon as he comes in to maintain that blow-dried look.
The Importance of Drying Technique
One common mistake I often see is handlers not keeping the dryer close enough to the dog. Make sure to keep the dryer positioned near Rico while being mindful of his comfort. This will ensure quicker drying times and a straighter result.
During the drying process, I cycle through the sections, starting from the middle and working methodically.
Systematic Drying: Instead of jumping from one area to another, dry the area next to the one you just finished, gradually working your way up and down the legs. This method ensures no wet sections are left between the dry areas.
Check for Dampness: Once you're done, turn off the dryer and visually inspect the coat. Areas that seem dry might still be damp when touched. For instance, the hair on the side of the foot should feel the same as the rest—smooth and straight. If you notice separation or coolness in the hair, it’s a sign that it needs more drying.
Final Checks
After drying, check the hair’s temperature. The dry hair feels warm, while damp hair feels cool. If any part seems cool or damp to the touch, it hasn't dried completely.
By keeping your eye on these details, you’ll ensure that Rico looks his best. If you’d like to learn everything there is to know about grooming Havanese dogs with Rico, be sure to check out our course on grooming techniques!
Join Us for More!
Thank you for joining us for today’s tutorial from Leading Edge Dog Show Academy! Make sure to visit leadingedgedogshowacademy.com to access our premium content and webinars covering in-depth grooming, training, and more.
Don’t forget to like and subscribe to our YouTube channel so you never miss an episode. If there’s a topic you’d like us to cover that we haven’t yet, just drop your suggestion in the comments below, and we’ll be happy to create that content for you.
Once again, I’m Allison from Leading Edge Dog Show Academy, and I hope you enjoyed today’s tutorial. Happy grooming!
