POST GROOMING DAY WITH MY BOYKIN SPANIELS🥹

It's always such a joy to see my Boykin Spaniels, Velvet and Oak, after a good grooming session! Their beautiful brown coats truly shine, and it makes me think about how much care goes into keeping their fur healthy and vibrant. If you're a fellow Boykin owner, or just love these adorable pups, you know their rich, liver-colored coat is one of their most distinctive features. It's often described as curly or wavy, and it's surprisingly soft to the touch, especially when well-maintained. For Velvet and Oak, maintaining that signature brown coat is a labor of love, but so rewarding! Their curly fur, like many spaniel breeds, can be prone to matting if not brushed regularly. I usually aim for a quick brush-through every other day, and a more thorough session twice a week. I find a slicker brush works wonders for detangling, followed by a comb to get into those denser areas, especially behind their ears and under their legs where mats love to hide. During shedding season, which for Boykins can be year-round with peaks, a deshedding tool also comes in handy to keep the loose fur to a minimum around the house. Bathing is another important part of our routine. I try not to over-bathe them as it can strip their natural oils, but when they've had a particularly adventurous day out, a gentle dog shampoo and conditioner designed for curly coats does the trick. I always make sure to rinse thoroughly to prevent any skin irritation. And for that extra sparkle, a dog-friendly leave-in conditioner or a conditioning spray can really enhance the shine of their brown fur. Post-bath, I gently towel dry them and then often use a low-heat blow dryer, brushing as I go to prevent tangles and help their curls settle nicely. Seeing Velvet with her yellow pom-poms and Oak looking so dapper in their camouflage bandanas after a fresh bath is just the cutest! Beyond the brushing and bathing, what goes into their bodies is just as important for a healthy coat. A high-quality dog food rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids can make a noticeable difference in the luster and strength of their fur. Sometimes, I'll even add a fish oil supplement to their meals, especially if I notice their coats looking a bit dull. Plenty of fresh water is also crucial for overall health, which naturally reflects in their skin and coat. Dealing with a Boykin's brown coat also means being mindful of things like burrs and debris when they're out exploring. Those beautiful curls are magnets for sticks and seeds! A quick check after every walk helps prevent these from burrowing deep and causing discomfort or mats. Ultimately, keeping Velvet and Oak's beautiful brown coats in top condition isn't just about aesthetics; it's about their comfort and health. A well-maintained coat means less itching, fewer skin issues, and a happier, healthier pup. It's a commitment, but one I happily make for my beloved Boykin Spaniels, and the cuddles with their soft, shiny fur are the best reward!