When I first started breeding Maremma Sheepdogs years ago, I quickly realized that new livestock guardian dog owners faced a unique challenge: how do you properly groom a 100+ pound working dog with a thick double coat who’s designed to be independent and weather-resistant?

After over four decades in professional dog grooming and hundreds of livestock guardian dogs raised, I’ve learned that proper grooming isn’t just about appearance—it’s about health, comfort, and maintaining your dog’s ability to do their job effectively.

Why Livestock Guardian Dogs Need a Different Grooming Approach

Unlike companion dogs who live indoors and get regular grooming appointments, livestock guardian dogs present special considerations:

Their coats are built for extremes. That thick double coat that protects them from predators and weather can quickly become problematic if not maintained properly. Trapped dirt, burrs, and moisture can lead to hot spots, matting, and skin infections.

They’re working athletes. An uncomfortable, matted livestock guardian dog can’t move freely to patrol their territory or respond to threats. Regular grooming keeps them agile and effective.

They need to trust you completely. A livestock guardian dog who resists handling during grooming will also resist it during health emergencies. Building positive associations with grooming creates a foundation for lifelong care.

The Foundation: Making Grooming a Positive Experience

Before we dive into specific techniques, let’s establish the most important principle: grooming should never be a battle.

I see too many livestock guardian dog owners who dread grooming sessions, and their dogs pick up on that anxiety. Instead, think of grooming as relationship-building time. When done correctly, your livestock guardian dog will actually look forward to these sessions.

Start with the right mindset:

• Schedule grooming when you’re relaxed and have plenty of time
• Use high-value treats throughout the process
• Keep sessions shorter rather than trying to do everything at once
• End on a positive note, even if you don’t complete everything

It’s crucial to understand that shaving a double-coated LGD is almost never appropriate except in very specific medical situations. Here’s why:

• The double coat provides natural insulation against both heat and cold
• LGDs don’t cool themselves through their skin; they regulate temperature primarily through panting
• Removing the coat can actually make your dog hotter by exposing them to direct sunlight
• Shaved coats often grow back with altered texture and diminished protective qualities
• The undercoat may grow back faster than the guard hairs, creating a perpetual matting problem

Instead of shaving, proper brushing and bathing techniques will keep your LGD comfortable and their coat functioning as intended.

Essential Grooming Tools for Livestock Guardian Dogs

Over the years, I’ve tried countless grooming tools. The investment in quality tools pays off immediately. Cheap brushes that can’t penetrate the coat frustrate both you and your dog, making the experience unpleasant for everyone. Here are the ones that actually work for thick, weather-resistant coats:

For Regular Brushing and Dematting

• Undercoat rake: The workhorse tool for removing loose undercoat
• Slicker brush: For finishing and smoothing the topcoat
• Dematting tool: For tackling small mats before they become problems
• Wide-toothed comb: For checking your work and finding hidden mats
• Mat splitter: For safely breaking up stubborn mats
• Detangling spray: Makes brushing easier and less stressful for your dog

For Maintenance Care

• Nail trimmers: Regular nail care prevents foot problems
• Styptic powder: In case you trim a nail too short
• Ear cleaning solution: For regular ear maintenance
• Gauze or cotton pads or baby wipes: For gentle ear cleaning
• Blunt-tipped scissors: For trimming loose hairs and around feet
• Cordless Clippers: for trimming sanitary areas and around wounds

Bathing Your Livestock Guardian Dog: When and How

LGDs typically need fewer baths than pet dogs because their coats naturally repel dirt and debris. However, occasional bathing is necessary, especially:

• When they’ve rolled in something unpleasant
• If they have a skin condition requiring medicated shampoo
• To help loosen the undercoat during heavy shedding
• If they have flea or tick issues
• Before major events (like travel or family photos)

Bathing Preparation

1. Brush thoroughly before bathing: Always remove as much loose fur and any mats before getting the coat wet, as water can tighten mats and make them worse.
2. Gather all supplies beforehand: Have everything within reach before starting.
3. Protect ears: Consider placing cotton balls loosely in the ear canals to prevent water from entering.
4. Use lukewarm water: Not too hot, not too cold.

Bathing Process

1. Thoroughly wet the coat: This takes time with a dense double coat. A handheld sprayer attachment helps reach the skin.
2. Apply shampoo strategically: Dilute shampoo according to package directions and apply systematically, working from the neck back.
3. Massage thoroughly: Use your fingers or a rubber curry brush to work the shampoo down to the skin.
4. Pay attention to dirty areas: Paws, belly, and the rear end often need extra attention.
5. Rinse completely: Residual shampoo can cause skin irritation, so thorough rinsing is critical. Rinse until the water runs clear with no soap bubbles.
6. Apply conditioner if desired: Especially helpful for dogs prone to matting.
7. Rinse again thoroughly.
8. Remove excess water: Use a squeeze water scraper to remove as much water as possible from the coat.

Flea and Tick Control for Livestock Guardian Dogs

Livestock guardian dogs face unique challenges when it comes to flea and tick control. Their outdoor lifestyle and constant exposure to livestock and wildlife mean they encounter parasites more frequently than house pets.

Understanding the Challenge

LGDs live in environments where parasites thrive:

• Tall grass and brush where ticks wait for hosts
• Contact with livestock and  barn cats that may carry parasites
• Wildlife exposure from various animals crossing the property
• Year-round outdoor living in most climates

This means LGD parasite control requires a multi-pronged approach combining prevention, regular monitoring, and appropriate treatments.

Bathing Products for Flea and Tick Control

Specialized Flea and Tick Shampoos When your LGD has an active infestation, flea and tick shampoos can provide immediate relief:

• Pyrethrin-based shampoos: Natural insecticide derived from chrysanthemum flowers
• Permethrin shampoos: Synthetic pyrethroid effective against both fleas and ticks
• Essential oil-based shampoos: Cedar, eucalyptus, or tea tree oil formulations (use with caution and ensure they’re specifically formulated for dogs)

Application Tips:

• Wet the coat thoroughly before applying shampoo
• Work the shampoo into a rich lather, paying special attention to areas where parasites hide (base of tail, behind ears, under legs)
• Allow the shampoo to sit for the recommended contact time (usually 5-10 minutes)
• Rinse thoroughly – leftover residue can cause skin irritation

Post-Bath Parasite Prevention

After bathing, several products can provide ongoing protection:

Topical Spot-On Treatments. These are applied between the shoulder blades and along the spine, where the dog cannot lick them off:

• Fipronil-based products: Long-lasting protection against fleas and ticks
• Imidacloprid combinations: Often combined with permethrin for broader spectrum control
• Natural alternatives: Some essential oil-based topical treatments (research effectiveness carefully)

Important Note About Topical Applications: When you use spot-on flea and tick products, they will leave a slight residue on your dog’s coat where applied. This often attracts dirt and debris, creating a darkened or dirty-looking patch along the back between the shoulder blades. This is completely normal and expected – it’s simply dirt sticking to the product residue. While it may not look ideal, this residue is necessary for the product to work effectively.

Alternative Application Methods: If the cosmetic appearance of topical residue concerns you, consider these alternatives:

• Oral flea and tick medications: Pills that provide systemic protection without topical residue. Your vet must prescribe these.
• Flea and tick collars: Provide protection without coat residue (though may not be practical for working dogs who could catch collars on fencing or brush)

Environmental Management

Property Treatment:

• Diatomaceous earth: Food-grade DE can be applied to areas where your dog rests, though claims about the effectiveness of this haven’t been proven
• Beneficial nematodes: Microscopic worms that eat flea larvae in soil
• Regular mowing: Keep grass short to reduce tick habitat

Livestock Coordination: Work with your veterinarian to coordinate parasite control between your LGDs and livestock, as some products used on livestock can be toxic to dogs. (Most animals your LGDs will guard don’t get fleas, but they may be prone to ticks, lice, and mites, and the treatment for these parasites could be toxic to your LGD if they lick or rub on the stock after the pesticides are applied.

Monitoring and Detection

Daily Checks During Peak Season:

• Run your hands through your dog’s coat, feeling for bumps that might be ticks
• Pay special attention to the ears, neck, armpits, and groin areas
• Look for signs of flea dirt (small black specks that turn red-brown when wet)

Proper Tick Removal:

• Use fine-tipped tweezers or a tick removal tool
• Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible
• Pull straight up with steady pressure (don’t twist)
• Clean the area with an antiseptic after removal
• Save the tick in a jar with rubbing alcohol for identification if your dog becomes ill

Seasonal Considerations

Spring and Fall: Peak tick seasons requiring increased vigilance

Summer: High flea activity, especially in humid climates

Winter: Reduced activity in most areas, but year-round prevention may be necessary in warmer climates

Working with Your Veterinarian

Given the unique challenges faced by working LGDs, develop a parasite control strategy with your veterinarian that considers:

• Your local parasite population and disease risks
• Your dog’s lifestyle and exposure level
• Interaction with livestock and other animals
• Cost-effectiveness for working dogs vs. house pets

Remember: Effective parasite control protects not just your LGD, but also your livestock and family from vector-borne diseases.

Seasonal Shedding: What to Expect

 LGDs typically undergo two major shedding events each year:

Spring “Blow Out”

In spring, your LGD will shed much of their thick winter undercoat. This is the most dramatic shedding period, and you’ll be amazed at the amount of fur that comes out. Regular brushing during this time can significantly reduce the amount of fur scattered around your property and help your dog feel more comfortable.

Fall Coat Change

In fall, your LGD will shed their lighter summer coat to make way for the denser winter undercoat. This shedding is typically less dramatic than the spring shed but still requires attention.

Between these major shedding events, LGDs continuously shed small amounts of fur. Regular brushing helps manage this ongoing process and prevents matting.

*Companion LGDs who live indoors will shed year-round due to the climate-controlled area and artificial lighting interfering with their biological rhythms. I highly recommend a Roomba to help with the constant dog hair in your house!

Step-by-Step Brushing Technique

Effective brushing is the foundation of LGD coat care. Here’s my proven approach:

For Regular Maintenance (Weekly)

1. Choose the right location: Find a clean, comfortable spot where both you and your dog can relax. Many LGDs prefer being groomed outdoors where they can continue monitoring their territory. This also keeps the mess out of your house or barn.
2. Start with a thorough inspection: Run your hands through your dog’s coat to locate any mats or foreign objects (burrs, stickers, etc.)
3. Use the undercoat rake first: Working in small sections and following the grain of the coat, gently rake through the coat. Pay special attention to the “pants” (rear leg feathering), chest, and neck areas where mats commonly form.
4. Address any mats immediately: Use your dematting tool or mat splitter on small tangles before they become serious problems.
5. Follow with the slicker brush: This removes smaller loose hairs and smooths the topcoat.
6. Check your work with a comb: If the comb catches on any areas, you may need to go back with the dematting tool or undercoat rake.
7. Pay attention to often-forgotten areas: Between toes, behind ears, under the tail, and the belly require special attention.

For Heavy Shedding Periods (Spring/Fall)

During heavy shedding periods, increase the frequency of brushing to 2-3 times per week. The process remains the same, but you’ll remove significantly more fur each session.

A high-velocity dryer can be extremely helpful during shedding season, even when used on a dry coat. The force of air can blow out loose undercoat efficiently.

Drying Your LGD

Proper drying is crucial for LGDs to prevent skin issues and matting:

1. Start with towels: Use absorbent towels to remove as much moisture as possible.
2. Use a high-velocity dryer: These professional-style dryers are worth the investment for LGD owners:
   
   
   • Start with the dryer on a lower setting to accustom your dog to the noise
   • Keep the nozzle moving continuously to prevent heat concentration
   • Work methodically from front to back
   • Use your free hand to lift and separate the coat for thorough drying
   • Dry all the way to the skin to prevent “wet spot syndrome” that can lead to hot spots
3. Brush while drying: Combining drying with brushing helps remove more loose fur and prevents matting.

If you don’t have a high-velocity dryer, towel dry thoroughly and then brush frequently as the coat dries naturally.

Detangling Tips and Tricks for LGD Coats

Even with regular brushing, livestock guardian dogs can develop mats, especially during seasonal coat changes or after outdoor adventures. Here’s how to tackle them safely and effectively:

The Golden Rule of Detangling is to never pull or force mats apart. Doing so causes pain and can make your LGD resistant to future grooming sessions.

Step-by-Step Detangling Process

1. Assess the Mat. Before you begin, determine the severity of the mats:

• Surface mats: Loose tangles that haven’t tightened to the skin
• Moderate mats: Tighter tangles but still workable
• Severe mats: Tight to the skin, possibly causing discomfort

2. Apply Detangling Product. Saturate the mat completely with a high-quality detangling spray or conditioner. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to penetrate the tangle. Never attempt to work on a dry mat.

3. Work from the Outside In. Start at the edges of the mat and work toward the center. Use your fingers first to gently tease apart the outer layers of the tangle.

4. Use the Right Tools

• Detangling spray: Essential for lubrication
• Wide-tooth comb: For initial separation
• Dematting tool: For stubborn mats (use carefully)
• Mat splitter: For very tight mats that won’t come apart otherwise
• Deshedding rake: Useful for looser mats and undercoat that needs to be removed
• Slicker brush: For removing dead undercoat and looser tangles after the heavy mats have been broken up

5. The Slice Technique For tight mats, use a mat splitter or dematting tool to carefully slice through the mat vertically (never horizontally against the skin as you could cut your dog). This breaks the mat into smaller, more manageable pieces that can then be brushed out.

Pro Tips for Stubborn Mats

The Cornstarch Method: For grease or sticky substances in the coat, sprinkle cornstarch on the area, let it sit for 10-15 minutes, then brush out. The cornstarch absorbs oils and makes removal easier.

Ice for Gum or Sap: If your LGD gets gum or tree sap in their coat, apply ice to harden the substance, then carefully work it out with a comb.

Patience is Key: Take breaks if your dog becomes stressed. It’s better to work on a mat over several short sessions than to fight through in one stressful encounter.

When to Call a Professional

Some situations may require professional intervention:

• Mats that are tight against the skin
• Extensive matting covering large areas
• Mats in sensitive areas (armpits, groin, behind ears)
• If your dog becomes reactive or extremely stressed during detangling

Remember: Prevention is always easier than correction. Regular brushing during shedding seasons prevents most matting issues.

When Shaving Becomes Necessary: A Realistic Approach

Strategic Spot-Shaving for Problem Areas

While I strongly advocate for maintaining your LGD’s natural double coat whenever possible, I also understand that real-world situations sometimes require practical solutions. After decades of grooming dogs and years working with livestock guardian dogs, I’ve learned that strategic, partial shaving can sometimes be the most humane option.

When Spot-Shaving Makes Sense

Severe Matting in Specific Areas: Some LGDs develop chronic matting problems in particular spots due to their individual habits and environment:

• Water lovers: Dogs who lie in water troughs to cool off often develop severe matting on their bellies and rear areas
• Fence rubbers: Dogs who patrol along fencing may mat the hair on their sides and shoulders
• Diggers: Dogs who create cool dirt beds may have persistent matting on their undersides

Medical Necessities:

• Embedded foxtails: When barbs from invasive weeds work deep into the coat, sometimes shaving is the safest removal method
• Skin conditions: Hot spots or dermatitis may require hair removal for proper treatment and air circulation
• Injury access: Wounds may need surrounding hair removed for cleaning and monitoring

Quality of Life Issues:

• Extreme discomfort: When mats are so severe that they restrict movement or cause pain
• Hygiene problems: Sanitary areas that cannot be kept clean due to matting
• Heat stress: In extreme climates where matted areas trap excessive heat

The “Summer Lion Cut” Approach

Rather than shaving an entire dog, I use strategic spot-shaving that I call a “summer lion cut.” Yes, it makes them look a bit funny, but it’s far better than removing their entire protective coat.

Typical Areas for Spot-Shaving:

• Belly and chest: Where dogs lie in water or wet ground
• Rear end and sanitary areas: For hygiene and comfort
• Under the front legs: Where mats commonly form and restrict movement
• Lower legs: If constantly wet from water troughs or muddy conditions

Areas to Preserve:

• Back and shoulders: Primary protection from the sun and weather
• Neck and head: Temperature regulation and protection
• Tail: Maintains dignity and some weather protection
• Upper legs: Keeps protective coat where it’s most needed

Practical Shaving Guidelines

Clipper Selection: For thick LGD coats, you need professional-grade equipment:

• Heavy-duty clippers: Designed for professional grooming, not lightweight pet store versions
• Sharp blades: Dull blades pull and cause discomfort
• Multiple blade lengths: #10 for close work, #7 or #5 for general areas
• Cooling spray: Clippers get hot during extended use

Safety Considerations:

• Cool, sharp blades: Hot or dull blades can burn or cut skin
• Steady hands: Take breaks if you’re getting tired
• Watch for skin folds: Easy to accidentally nick loose skin
• Have styptic powder ready: In case of minor cuts

Technique Tips:

• Go with the grain: Clip in the direction of hair growth when possible
• Use steady, overlapping strokes: Don’t rush or make choppy cuts
• Stretch skin gently: Helps prevent cuts in wrinkled areas
• Take breaks: Both for you and your dog’s comfort

Making the Best of an Imperfect Situation

Setting Realistic Expectations:

• Your dog will look somewhat ridiculous for a while – and that’s okay
• The coat will grow back, usually within 3-6 months
• Some areas may grow back with a different texture initially
• Your dog will still be an effective livestock guardian despite the funny haircut

Maintaining What’s Left:

• Brush remaining coat areas more frequently
• Monitor shaved areas for sunburn or irritation
• Continue regular grooming routines
• Watch for uneven regrowth that might need touch-ups

When to Seek Professional Help

Consider taking your LGD to a professional groomer or veterinarian if:

• Extensive matting: More than 30% of the coat is severely matted
• Reactive behavior: Your dog won’t tolerate the process
• Medical complications: Skin conditions or embedded foreign objects
• Lack of proper equipment: Professional clippers make a huge difference
• Time constraints: Sometimes it’s worth paying for efficiency and expertise

Questions to Ask Professionals:

• Do they have experience with large, double-coated breeds?
• Are they comfortable with partial shaving rather than full body clips?
• Do they understand the working nature of your dog?
• Can they accommodate dogs who aren’t used to grooming salons?

Prevention for Next Time

Strategies to Avoid Future Shaving:

• More frequent brushing during problem seasons
• Environmental modifications: Raised beds instead of ground sleeping
• Professional maintenance: Quarterly professional grooming during heavy coat seasons

The Bottom Line on Shaving

I’m not going to guilt-trip anyone for making practical decisions about their dog’s comfort and health. Sometimes, spot-shaving is the kindest option available. The goal is always your dog’s well-being, not perfect grooming standards.

My Philosophy:

• A partially shaved, comfortable dog is better than a fully coated, miserable one.
• Practical solutions beat perfect ideals when reality intervenes
• A funny haircut doesn’t diminish your dog’s effectiveness as an LGD
• Coat grows back, but trust and comfort in grooming should be preserved

Remember: Even professional groomers sometimes recommend shaving for severely matted dogs. You’re not failing as an owner if you make this choice – you’re prioritizing your dog’s immediate comfort and long-term grooming relationship.

The most important thing is that your LGD remains healthy, comfortable, and effective at their job. Sometimes that means making tough grooming decisions, and that’s perfectly okay.

Product Recommendations for Strategic Shaving

Professional-Grade Clippers:

• Heavy-duty motor for thick coats
• Quiet operation (important for noise-sensitive LGDs)
• Efficient cutting to minimize grooming time

Essential Blade Sizes:

• #10 blade for close work and sanitary areas
• #7 blade for general body work
• #5 blade for blending areas

Support Products:

• Clipper oil for maintenance
• Cooling spray to prevent overheating
• Styptic powder for minor nicks
• High-value treats for reinforcing calm behavior and cooperation

Ear Care for Your LGD

LGDs can be prone to ear issues. The combination of drop ears and living outdoors in dirt, dust, pollen and damp conditions is a recipe for fungal infections due to allergies. Regular ear maintenance prevents infections and discomfort:

1. Inspect weekly: Check for excess wax, redness, odor, or debris.
2. Clean as needed: Most LGDs need ear cleaning every 2-4 weeks:
   
   • Apply a veterinarian-approved ear cleaning solution to a gauze pad
   • Gently wipe the visible parts of the inner ear
   • Never insert anything into the ear canal
   • Allow your dog to shake their head after cleaning
   • Wipe away any excess solution
3. Watch for signs of infection: Head shaking, scratching, odor, or discharge warrant a veterinary visit.

Nail Care

Working LGDs who spend most of their time on abrasive surfaces may wear their nails down naturally. However, many will still need regular nail maintenance:

1. Inspect nails regularly: Long nails can affect gait and cause discomfort.
2. Trim every 4-6 weeks: Use quality nail trimmers appropriate for large dogs.
3. Avoid cutting the quick:
   
   
   • On light nails, you can see the pink quick
   • On dark nails, trim small amounts at a time
   • Stop if you see a black dot in the center of the nail when viewed from the end
4. Have styptic powder ready: In case you nick the quick.
5. Consider a nail grinder: Some dogs tolerate grinders better than clippers.
6. For Puppies you can use cat nail trimmers

Sanitary Trimming

Some minimal trimming helps keep your LGD clean and comfortable:

1. Trim around the anus: Keeping this area clean helps prevent impacted anal glands and fecal matting.
2. Trim belly fur as needed: Especially on males, excess belly fur can collect urine and become unsanitary.
3. Be conservative: The goal is cleanliness, not style.

Special Considerations for Working LGDs

LGDs actively guarding livestock require some adaptations to their grooming routine:

1. Respect their job: Schedule grooming during quiet times when they feel their flock or herd is secure.
2. Consider location: When possible, groom where they can still see their livestock or their LGD partner.
3. Maintain schedule: Regular, shorter grooming sessions are better than infrequent marathon sessions.
4. Be mindful of scents: Strong-smelling products might interfere with their ability to detect predators or could transfer to livestock. Skip the doggie cologne!
5. Guard against parasites: LGDs working with livestock have increased exposure to fleas, ticks, and other parasites. Check with your veterinarian for the best options to control these parasites.

Seasonal Grooming Calendar

Adjusting your grooming routine seasonally helps keep your LGD comfortable year-round:

Spring

• Increase brushing frequency to manage heavy shedding
• Schedule a thorough bath and blow-out to remove winter coat
• Check for any skin issues that developed during winter
• Begin parasite prevention if not maintained year-round

Summer

• Monitor for hot spots, especially in humid climates
• Check between paw pads for foxtails and burrs
• Ensure ears stay clean and dry and watch for fungal ear infections due to summer allergies
• Maintain regular brushing to remove loose fur and improve air circulation

Fall

• Prepare for coat change as winter undercoat grows in
• Check for matting as the coat thickens
• Schedule another bath and blow-out if needed
• Inspect skin thoroughly before winter coat fully develops

Winter

• Pay special attention to paw pads for ice and salt damage
• Check areas where snow might ball up in the coat
• Monitor for matting in locations where the dog lies on snow or wet ground
• Maintain regular brushing despite the cold weather

Fear-Free Handling Techniques

Many LGDs aren’t naturally enthusiastic about grooming. Using fear-free handling techniques makes the process more pleasant for everyone:

Building Positive Associations

1. Start young: Acclimate puppies to grooming tools and handling from an early age. Good breeders will groom the puppies regularly so that they are used to the experience by the time they go to their new homes.
2. Use high-value treats: Make grooming sessions rewarding with special treats or licky mats reserved only for grooming time.
3. Begin with short sessions: Start with just a few minutes and gradually increase duration.
4. End on a positive note: Always finish before your dog becomes overly stressed.

Cooperative Care Techniques

Cooperative care involves teaching your dog to actively participate in their grooming:

1. Teach a “station” behavior: Train your dog to go to a specific spot for grooming.
2. Develop a consent signal: Some handlers teach their dogs to place their chin on a rest (like a table or chair) when they’re ready to be handled.
3. Respect “no” signals: If your dog shows signs of stress, take a break or end the session. It’s better to leave part of the job for another day than stress out your dog and make grooming an unpleasant experience for them.
4. Reward calm behavior: Reinforce moments of relaxation during grooming.

For Nervous Dogs

1. Use familiar locations: Groom in places where your dog feels secure.
2. Employ gentle restraint: Less is often more when it comes to restraint.
3. Try calming aids: Consider pheromone diffusers, calming music, or anxiety wraps.
4. Break the process down: Complete grooming over several short sessions rather than one long one.

Recommended Resources for LGD Owners

Books on Cooperative Care and Fear-Free Handling

• “Cooperative Care: Seven Steps to Stress-Free Husbandry” by Deb Jones
• “From Fearful to Fear Free” by Dr. Marty Becker
• “Grooming Without Stress: Quicker, Safer, Happier” by Terrie Hayward, KPA CTP
• “Low Stress Handling, Restraint and Behavior Modification of Dogs & Cats” by Dr. Sophia Yin

Online Courses

• Fenzi Dog Sports Academy offers courses on cooperative care
• Fear Free certification courses provide excellent information on low-stress handling

While not required, investing in professional grooming equipment can save your back and make grooming easier. An electric grooming table does the heavy lifting for you and can be used for more than just grooming your LGD. 

Professional Grooming: When to Seek Help

While most LGD owners handle routine grooming themselves, there are times when professional help is appropriate:

1. Severe matting: Extensive mats may require professional attention.
2. First comprehensive grooming: A professional can set you up for success with a clean slate.
3. Behavioral challenges: If grooming causes extreme stress, a professional can help. Your veterinarian can prescribe anti-anxiety medications like Trazadone if needed. Veterinarians who offer grooming services can also sedate your dog if it is especially fearful of grooming.
4. Time constraints: Seasonal blow-outs might be more efficiently handled professionally.

When selecting a groomer, ensure they have experience with double-coated breeds and understand the special needs of LGDs.

If possible, choose a Fear-Free certified groomer or veterinarian. Animals are at their best when they feel at ease. Fear Free® offers science-based, behavior-led strategies and education to prevent and reduce fear, anxiety, and stress for pets worldwide. 

Conclusion

Proper grooming is an investment in your Livestock Guardian Dog’s health, comfort, and working ability. By establishing regular grooming routines and using the right techniques, you can keep your LGD’s coat functioning as the remarkable natural protection system it was designed to be.

Remember that each dog is an individual—what works perfectly for one may need adjustment for another. Pay attention to your dog’s preferences and responses, and adjust your approach accordingly.

With patience and consistency, grooming can become a positive bonding experience that strengthens your relationship with your guardian companion while ensuring they remain comfortable and effective in their important work.

The Real Goal of Grooming

When I watch one of our adult Maremmas calmly standing for a complete grooming session, I know we’ve succeeded in more than just coat care. We’ve built a partnership based on trust and positive experiences—exactly what every livestock guardian dog family deserves.