[Maximo]

Originally Posted by Pam 19

What to do? I tried to wash Teppi's face with her Tropiclean tearless shampoo (hypoallergenic). I tried to introduce her to all the things I would be using including the water. I put some of the shampoo on a soft wet cloth & the minute I touched her beard she began to fight & wouldn't stop. It just got worse from that moment on! She also fights me really bad when I try to comb or brush her. I have a comb & brush that a groomer @ Pet Smart said would be the best. Her shampoo has very little scent to it but I'm not worried about that. I would appreciate some advice on how to keep her calm when trying to wash her face & brush her. After about 5min. of trying to wash her face I gave up. She was fighting so bad I was afraid she was going to hurt herself or scare her away from baths, grooming, etc. even more. She's going to the groomer in a couple of days so she'll get clean & prettier there but I want to be able to groom her @ home. I did a little clipping on a few areas that needed it but my Mom had to hold her & she still fought some. Any suggestions? Also, I read somewhere not to use scented shampoo on a Yorkie because it could cause skin problems. Is this true or does it matter if you use scented products to clean her up? Some advice would be really helpfull. I've had other puppies/dogs in the past (not Yorkies) & never had such a problem trying to groom them. (chows & Shih Tzus)

Scented shampoos formulated for dogs are fine, but your dog may have a preference for a particular scent. My dogs could not tolerate the smell of Chris Christensen's Day to Day products.

How old is Teppi? You might have to work with her, train her to accept grooming. Go slowly, and be patient, calm, confident, and reassuring. Talk to her, tell her what you are going to do, praise her when she is calm, and offer treats when she behaves correctly.

Work on grooming when she worn out after a play session or a walk. Don't attempt it when she is full of energy. Make grooming a relaxing and pleasant experience. I incorporate a lot of massage into the bathing and combing process.

Careful with water and shampoo near eyes and ears. Be sure to rinse very well to make sure nothing is in the eyes.

Hope some of this helps.