I know staffies need little grooming but what about their tails?  At crufts they all seemed to have short haired, whip like tails, when my staff seems to have a thicker tail. Is any special grooming required for the tail? He's only seven months so still changing not sure if that makes any difference. Any advice would be great.

Thanks

jens staff

Hi Jen
he should only need a slight trim once in a while on the tail just to relieve him of any *tufty* bits :)

I usually trim my girls tails a week before the show, using a beard/hair clipper, as they both have very bushy tails. Just run the trimmers underneath and along the sides, so theres a nice smooth point at the end. Nearly all of the dogs ive seen at shows are trimmed like this, though I have also seen them with naturally neat tails.

Thanks for the advice, he's my first show staffie. Its a relief to know he's not just a misfit,as he is from show lines and i can't wait to get him in the ring!

Well I am sure you will have fun showing, its very addictive! We really enjoy our ringcraft sessions too, are you joined to any clubs/ringcraft? What are your dogs breeding lines? I'd love to see some pics! :)

Yes it is addictive! I go to obedience locally, ringcraft in waddington, lincs and i've joined notts and derby sbtc so going to go to the handling class there.  He's hard work though he just wants to kiss the judge so wriggles when somneone comes over to him.  His sire is ch valglo casanova at crossguns and Dam belico dark angel of Darkestock(you can see the breeders kennel page on this site).  After going to crufts on the terrier day and seeing all the staffies i just can't wait to get going but i'm still a bit worried about how he behaves in the ring.

I've PM'd you!