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the hairs. Dry one area at a time and using a brush will help keep the hairs from tangles. The standard look is brushing the hair down the middle on the top of the head and on down the back allowing the hair to flow down the sides of the face and body. The finished look will drape the body and flow freely.

Once the coat is groomed, the Silky is ready for the cleaning of the ears. This is a simple process of using a cotton ball and water. Some groomers will use mineral oil and/or ear powder. The only concern when cleaning the ears is to be gentle, do not go into the ear canal and do not use Q-tips. If the ears are overgrown with long hairs, these can be easily trimmed away with short scissors. Hemostat scissors are the most common type utilized for this area because of their bent shape at the ends and the groomer is less likely to poke the dog.

A common practice among breeders and dog handlers is to pluck the long hairs on the inside, outside and backs of the ears. Many times these long, overgrown hairs are dead and are easily removed. Unless you are planning to have your Silky in dog shows, this process can be bypassed or is best left to a professional. Long, overgrown hairs around the ears and eyes are best trimmed with scissors by novice groomers.

Nail trimming can be intimidating and should be approached with caution. Inside the toenail is a "quick" that can hurt if cut and even bleed. If you are doing this for the first time, trim a little at a time until you reach the quick without cutting into it. Today's technology has made other tools available for nail trimming that are much safer than clippers and can be purchased for the novice groomer. Nail trimming and ear cleaning can be done before bathing but I prefer to do it after the dog is clean and the coat is manageable.

The coat of the Silky Terrier is flat and fine with a glossy (silky) texture, thus the name. The desired length of the hair from behind the ears to the tail is six inches. Many owners prefer long hair on the head which is usually parted down the middle and sometimes placed in small bows. Topknots and bows are usually reserved for the Yorkshire Terrier but this is up to the owner. The hair on the face and ears should be kept short as well as the coat on the legs at the hock joints to the feet. The eyes should be fully exposed and the ears should look erect and tidy. In between groomings, take extra time to keep the coat combed and trimmed.

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