Care Tips — BLOK & BORSTEL

By Coat Type

Double-Coat De-Shedding

Breeds with double coats (Huskies, Golden Retrievers, Shepherds) shed their undercoat seasonally. Brush 3–4 times weekly during shedding season with an undercoat rake. Never shave a double coat — it disrupts the natural thermal regulation and may not grow back correctly.

"A shaved double coat is a Mondrian with the grid lines removed — it loses all structure."

Wire Coat Maintenance

Wire-haired breeds (Schnauzers, Terriers, Wirehaired Dachshunds) need hand-stripping every 6–8 weeks to maintain coat texture. Clipping softens the wire coat over time. Use a stripping knife or stone, working in the direction of hair growth.

Curly Coat Detangling

Poodles, Bichons, and Doodles have continuously growing coats that mat easily. Brush daily with a slicker brush, working in sections from the skin outward. Use a detangling spray for stubborn knots. Professional grooming every 4–6 weeks prevents matting.

"Every curl is a rectangle waiting to be discovered."

Smooth Coat Care

Short-haired breeds (Beagles, Boxers, Dalmatians) benefit from weekly brushing with a rubber curry brush. This removes loose hair, distributes natural oils, and stimulates the skin. Bathe only when necessary — over-bathing strips essential oils.

By Breed Size

Small Breeds: Nail Geometry

Small dogs' nails grow faster relative to wear. Trim every 2 weeks. Use guillotine-style clippers for small nails. Cut at a 45° angle, avoiding the quick. If nails click on hard floors, they're overdue.

"The click of long nails on tile is the sound of chaos."

Small Breeds: Dental Planes

Small breeds are prone to dental overcrowding and tartar buildup. Brush teeth daily with enzymatic dog toothpaste. Dental chews help, but aren't a substitute. Professional cleaning annually recommended.

Large Breeds: Joint-Friendly Bathing

Large dogs can't always stand comfortably in a tub. Use a walk-in shower or outdoor setup. Non-slip mats are essential. Support their weight during drying — wet large dogs are heavy and anxious. Limit bath time to 15 minutes.

Large Breeds: Ear Architecture

Floppy-eared large breeds (Labs, Spaniels, Bassets) trap moisture and debris. Clean ears weekly with veterinary ear solution. Dry ears thoroughly after swimming or bathing. Watch for head shaking or odor — signs of infection.

"Healthy ears are the right angles of canine well-being."

By Season

Spring: The Great Shed

Spring triggers massive shedding in double-coated breeds. Increase brushing to daily. Schedule a professional de-shedding treatment. This is also prime allergy season — regular baths with hypoallergenic shampoo reduce allergen load on the coat.

"Spring shedding is nature's way of decomposing last year's composition."

Summer: Sun & Heat Protection

Never shave a dog for summer — their coat provides UV protection and insulation. Keep long-haired breeds trimmed (not shaved). Apply pet-safe sunscreen to exposed skin (nose, ear tips, belly). Schedule walks for early morning or evening. Always provide fresh water.

Autumn: Coat Preparation

Autumn is when the winter undercoat begins growing. Increase brushing to prevent the new growth from tangling with the old coat. A professional grooming session in early autumn sets the foundation for a healthy winter coat. Check for foxtails and burrs after outdoor walks.

Winter: Paw & Skin Care

Winter dries out skin and pads. Use a paw balm before and after walks. Trim fur between paw pads to prevent ice ball accumulation. Wipe paws after walks to remove road salt (toxic if licked). Consider a humidifier indoors. Reduce bathing frequency to prevent dry skin.

"Winter care is the black grid line — invisible support holding everything together."