Grooming a Shitz

Question
A an owner of 5 of these lovelys I can no longer afford their professional care and I would like to manage at least their sanitaries in between grooming visits.
I will gladly invest in the equipment needed as long as I do it correctly.
I just want to keep there hineys and privates shaved clean and the bottom of their feet.
I do not want to clip their nails or pluck their ears, not do I want to shape/groom their hair (at least not yet)
Any/all suggestions for the in between proper maintanance that I can do myself to keep them healthy/happy would be appreciated.
Thanks.

Answer
Hi Donna.  You might want to check out a self-serve dog wash. They offer use of their grooming tools at a lower price than having someone bathe your dog for you and, the best part is, they get to clean up the mess.  The names of some of the self -serve dog wash business are; Dippity Do Dog, Wag N' Wash, Mud Puppies.  Just the names make me feel like taking my dogs for a bath.

If you decide to purchase your own grooming supplies, one thing you will need is dog clippers and blades.  Surf the Internet using the key words, "dog groom supplies" and you should find all the supplies you need.

When shaving your dogs privates and bottoms of their feet, be sure to use a snap on comb on your shaver.  This comb will help prevent you from nicking you dogs skin.  The snap on combs come a various sizes.  I suggest that you purchase 2 - 3 various sizes and practice with the larger size first.

PetEdge has a website located at http://grooming.petedge.com that has lots of information, equipment, and supplies that might be helpful.

Good luck, and please do not hesitate to contact me if you have additional questions.  Sincerely, Penny D.