Grooming
Getting into a good grooming routine with your Sussex is paramount if you are to avoid mats and tangles. Ideally Sussex should be brushed and combed on a regular basis, daily if possible. The Sussex coat is fine and can tangle and mat easily. Common places to find mats are in the armpits and behind the ears. Some owners find that keeping these areas short prevent mats and tangles occurring. The long ears of the Sussex often mean that they get muddy and dirty easily. Simple washing and drying followed by regular brushing should keep tangles at bay.
Nails should be kept short.
Finding a good groomer (if you are not doing it yourself) is key in order to keep the Sussex coat in good condition. As a puppy socialisation with any groomer is important and most provide puppy introduction sessions.
Grooming brushes
Slicker brushes – A slicker brush is used for dematting, removing dead hair or finishing. There are two types, a one sided brush (top image) and a version is called a dual dematter (bottom image) with brush pins on both sides, and is specifically designed to tackle mats, knots and tangles.
They can also be great for removing dead hair but care needs to be taken as used wrongly it can be too harsh to use on a Sussex Spaniel body.
Mars Coat King – Coat Kings (there are many different types and brands) will remove even the toughest tangle or matt. It cuts, strips, and combs all at once so great care is needed when using. They come in different sizes so ask your breeder for advice about which one to get.
Pin brush – A good pin brush is essential for daily grooming. It helps remove loose hair and keeps the coat clean and smooth. Look for brushes with soft bristles or rounded pins to ensure brushing is gentle.
Comb – A wide and fine toothed comb is a good tool for going through feathers on Sussex Spaniel legs and ears.
Grooming for the showring
Presentation for the showring
The illustration below is a rough guide which may help those who are new to showing and wish to learn how to trim their dogs for the showring. Alternatively, download and print a copy and show it to a dog groomer. Owners or groomers may trim dogs slightly differently for the showring, for instance, some prefer to have the tail length slightly longer or less feathering on the dog. There is no set rule, but if you are new to showing, it is advisable to visit shows and talk to those who are showing in the breed, people will be happy to help and advise.
