How to trim around the face of my Fluffy Dog

In the case of many fluffy breeds, such as Maltese crosses, there is quite a bit of fur that grows around their sweet little faces. This may look adorable but their facial hair sometimes falls into their eyes and causes a lot of weeping around the eyes. When the weeping becomes excessive, the “gunk” tends to build up on the hair on the lower eyelid and nose area, becoming a thick scab-like irritation that can cause underlying dermatitis. This can be uncomfortable and painful for the dog.
The hair around the eyes needs to be trimmed regularly so that the hair doesn’t get into your dog’s face & eyes. Use blunt-ended children’s scissors and trim carefully and slowly, taking your time to make sure you don’t distress your dog and don’t mistakenly cut your dog. If you are still unsure sure  how to approach this, talk to your Vet and they will be able to demonstrate how to do it in a safe manner.
Your dog will relax & become desensitised to you doing this gradually over time, making it easier each time for you to trim the hair. Lots of groomers will offer this service as part of their grooming practice.
If your dog’s eyes are still very weepy and “gunky” in spite of this – there may be other eye conditions that need further investigation by your Vet. Talk to your Vet or Groomer if you are concerned. Until next time,

Leah & Angela Omeara (Hound Dog Day Care – Dog Boarding, Pet Sitting, Doggy Day Care)