Cords can grow to an amazing
 length, sometimes longer than the dog. To create cords, the hair is never combed, but is continuously rolled and twisted with the fingertips, applying an oil to encourage the process if required. (Paraffin and Vaseline were used for this, once upon a time, but today we have special grooming oils that are non greasy and serve the purpose very well, being less messy. Ask for details at your grooming supplies store.)

The cords are tremendously hard work to maintain, and most people find they look unattractive, preferring the Poodle to have a more popular fluff),, powderpuff appearance. However, where ringlets form, as opposed to matted plates, this can be quite attractive.

PROCEDURE

Equipment needed: Only fingers to separate the cords.

Breed tip: Brushing will destroy the cords.

• Separate any hair that has matted at the skin and encourage it into curls or cords.
• Bathe your Poodle in a protein shampoo.
• It is essential that you rinse the shampoo out very thoroughly. Any shampoo that is left in the coat, or an excessively strong shampoo, could cause the dog to itch and scratch.
• Again, check to ensure the ringlets are not matted at the skin, splitting them with your fingers where necessary and blending into cords.
• Pat the coat dry with super absorbent towels, and finish off in warm air or a drying cage or cabinet. (Left to dry of its own accord, the coat could take up to 24 hours, which could cause the dog to catch a cold.)
• Check the Poodle’s nails, ears and teeth.
• The face, the feet, the front of the neck and the base of tail are clipped as with the Poodle in all the other trims.
• The hindquarters and legs can be shaved in the same way as for the “Continental Lion” clip “, leaving a rosette on the hips, which is left to cord.

Check out more grooming tips for Poodles.