Home Grooming The Companion Old English Sheepdog Plucking Hair From The Ears Of An Old English Sheepdog (A dog with much more ear hair.)

Below is just one way an Old English Sheepdog owner tends to a dog's ears.  Dogs often need to be slowly desensitized to any new process.  This process can be more challenging to some owners because some dogs are more sensitive to having hair plucked from their ears. The vibration of electric clippers can startle a dog so you need to be slowly desensitize a dog to this process.  You need to proceed slowly, respect the dog's limits, praise and reward lavishly so the dog will learn to tolerate it.  Only you know your dog and how he or she may respond.  Seek assistance from a professional if there is any chance your dog could be harmed by it's exuberance or fear or if the dog could display an aggressive behavior. Follow all product safety instructions provided by individual manufacturers.  Try to make grooming a special one-on-one time that both you and your dog will look forward to.   These instructions are offered as-is and without guarantee or warranty.

Page 1   ~   Page 2   ~   Page 3

Before Beginning... I inspect the ears to see if they are unusually dirty or for signs of infection like redness, yeast or drainage.   If the ears are dirty, I thoroughly clean them out and wait until the next day or two to pluck them.  If any infection or unusual odor is noted, I will not pluck the ears.  I address the problem with a visit to the vet and wait until the ears are again healthy.

If the ears look good, I gather up my supplies and kibble treats.  I have the dog get up on the grooming table but you can do this sitting on the floor, couch or bed as well.   I had the dog lie on his side and gave him one piece of kibble.  Then I got to work.  NOTE:  I give the kibble with the hand I'm not using to remove ear hair! 

Page 1   ~   Page 2   ~   Page 3

Copyright 2010- J. Dunne.  All rights reserved.  The photographs and instructions on this page are the property of the author. Do not reproduce or copy for public use without written permission from the author.