Puttin’ on the Dog

When it comes to jockeying for position in the political American Kennel Club hierarchy, it’s a dog-eat-dog world. Never underestimate the ingenuity of professional groomers when it comes to turning Muffy and Fluffy into Madonna and Fabio. Keep in mind that the use of many of the following products in a show ring is considered cheating, and most are not recommended for amateur beauticians.

Alpha Kerry Bath Oil: Mixed with conditioner to moisturize coats. Saturate dog and blow-dry.

Avon Skin So Soft: For warding off fleas and ticks. (Don’t use it if you are showing your dog--it’s much too oily.)

Clairol hair color: For touching up a dog’s coat. Use a semi-permanent color, because permanent dye will turn a dog’s hair brown or orange in the sunlight.

Clown makeup: To enhance poodle faces, available at theatrical, magic and costume shops.

Deli paper: The type used to wrap submarine sandwiches--to keep outer ears clean. Some use plastic bags, but hair breathes better with paper.

Eyeliner: For making eyes look as big as water bowls.

Fabrege Grand Finale Hair Spray: It’s everywhere at dog shows.

Johnson & Johnson Baby Powder With Cornstarch: For whitening dog’s coat.

Kingsford’s Corn Starch: For blotting oil from coats and for whitening.

Maybelline Great Lash Mascara: For darkening a muzzle.

Mrs. Stewart’s Bluing: For use on white poodles.

Niagara Spray Sizing: Sprayed on the hocks of collies, Belgian Tervurens and other hairy herding dogs to make hair stand out.