VOLUME 1

APPLIED THEORY : the first volume of Simply the Best.

Introduction to Volume One: Applied Theory for Professional Grooming

The first volume of the "Simply the Best" manual is an essential work for anyone who wants to approach professional grooming. This first volume is designed to present in a detailed and clear manner the knowledge necessary for the groomer to operate skillfully and competently, addressing all the techniques of the grooming industry.

Is theory in grooming really important?

We understand that some may be tempted to skip the theoretical section and go straight to the breed information they need to cover the following day. However, we strongly recommend that you take the time to read this volume carefully. The concepts covered are extremely practical and fundamental to fully understanding the later sections on breeds. The numerous pictures accompanying the text are a great visual aid.

We firmly believe that Applied Theory for Professional Grooming is the most indispensable volume for every groomer. The contents are extensive and may not all be familiar, so it is an excellent resource for those seeking a comprehensive guide to professional grooming.

Contact us to receive information

applied theory for professional grooming
1. Preface 
2. Glossary 
3. Origins and purposes of grooming
4. Integumentary apparatus 
4.1  Skin structure 
4.2  Life cycle and hair structure 
  4.3  The different types of hair
4.4  Fur wetsuit
 
5. The fur birth verses
5.1  Uniqueness of each subject 
5.2  Pouring of hair birth in the perianal area
 
6. Anatomy of the dog 
  6.1   Nomenclature of body regions 
6.2  Basic terminology in reference to anatomical planes
6.3  Measurements, proportions and angles in the dog
6.4  Grooming, a tool for adjusting the dog to the aesthetic model
6.5  Head structure 
6.6  Body structure
 
7. Approach with and handling of the dog 
 
8. Initial procedures of the grooming session
  8.1  First client approach and assessment of the subject to be groomed
8.2  Ear cleaning 
8.3  Cleaning periocular and muzzle folds 
8.4  Nail cutting 
8.5  The cleaning of the spaces between the plantar pads 
8.6  Hygienic cleaning of the genital areas  
8.7  Cleaning of the perianal glands
 
9. Bathing: hygiene and care for skin and hair
9.1  Purpose of the bath
  9.2  Function of products
  9.3  Bathroom methodology
9.4  Short, sparse hair 
9.5  Medium hair: double coat/semi-long, silky and fringed, hard or rough 
9.6  Long curly hair
9.7  Long smooth cascading hair
9.8  Wavy or rustic hair
9.9  Corded hair (see section on Poodles)
9.10  Naked dogs
 
10. Drying: techniques according to texture
10.1  Drying equipment
10.2 Short, sparse hair
10.3    Medium hair: double coat/semi-long, silky and fringed, hard or rough 
10.4 Long curly hair
10.5 Long smooth cascading hair
10.6 Wavy or rustic hair
10.7 Fast drying technique by Paola Acco
 
11 Basic groomer tools: brushes and carders
11.1  The brushes
11.2 The carder 
11.3 The use of the carder on various types of hair
11.4 The jointing of the hair
11.5 The jointing technique by Paola Acco
11.6 Dangerous points for carding/unclamping
 
12.  Essential tool for the groomer: the comb
 12.1 The comb
 12.2  The comb handle
 12.3    Use of the comb in the curly hair, following the direction of the direction of the hair direction
 12.4     Comb movement in curly hair
 12.5 Comb movement in the smooth hair
 
13.  The clipper
13.1 The technical features of the clipper
13.2 The different types of clippers and their differences
13.3 The heads: measurements and systems compared
13.4 Shearing: premise 
13.5 Handling and use of the clipper
13.6 Degree of clipper inclination
13.7 Technique of using the clipper
13.8 Using the clipper in the direction of the hair or against the hair
13.9 Specific use of the clipper on the ears
13.10 The elevations to be applied to the heads
13.11 Technique of using elevations 
13.12 How to avoid making mistakes with the clipper 
13.13 Dangerous points for shearing
 
14. The scissors 
14.1 The structure of the scissors
14.2 Scissor measurement system
14.3 The Straight Scissors  
14.4 The Curve Scissors 
14.5 "Toothed" scissors: Thinners, Blenders, Super Blenders, Fluffers and Chunkers
14.5.1  Principle, functionality and purpose of "teeth"
14.6 Cutting percentages of the "toothed" scissors
14.7 The Double Toothed Scissors or Thinners 
14.8 The Blenders scissors 
14.9 Super Blenders scissors
14.10 Chunkers scissors  
14.11 Fluffers scissors  
14.12 Scissor cutting technique: premise 
14.13 Handling and use of scissors  
14.14 Scissor training exercises
14.15 Pre-bath roughing technique
14.16 Cutting techniques on different body areas
14.17 "Classic Technique" of Blenders scissors   
14.18 "Finger Technique" with Blenders Scissors - Trunk
14.19 "Finger Technique" with Blenders Scissors - Head
14.20 "Comb Technique" with Blenders Scissors - Trunk
14.21 "Comb Technique" with Blenders Scissors - Head
14.22 Thinning technique with Thinners scissors
14.23  Trimming the edge of the ears with straight scissors
14.24 How to avoid making mistakes with scissors 
 
15. Stripping on rough and woolly hair: instrumentation and general concepts for both
15.1 Stripping tools
15.2 Stripping knives
15.3 Stripping stick knives
15.4 Knives or "Palettes" from Carding
15.5 Pumice stones
15.6 The slaners
15.7 Stripping aids: thimbles, gloves, chalk, and powders  
15.8 Stripping technique: premise
15.9 Grip and use of Stripping knives
15.10 Grip and use of Stripping pumice stones
 
16. Stripping techniques on the rough and hard coat
16.1 Stripping movement on the rough, hard coat
16.2 Practical application of Stripping on rough and hard hair
16.3 The importance of respecting the directions of hair birth in Stripping
16.4 "Zone Stripping" Technique
16.5 The Rolling Coat on the rough and tough coat
16.6  Trimming on rough and hard hair
16.7 Plucking on the rough, hard coat
16.8 Flatwork on the rough and hard coat
16.9 Sloughing on the rough, hard coat
16.10 Carding on the rough, hard coat
16.11 Total Stripping on the rough and hard coat
16.12 Stripping processing of various body regions
16.13 Situations in which Stripping is not recommended
16.14 Change of texture on subjects that have undergone several shearing processes
16.15 Pre or post Stripping bath on rough and hard hair
 
17. Stripping techniques on the woolly coat of the Spaniel type
17.1 Practical application of Stripping on the woolly coat of Spaniel type
17.2 Plucking on the woolly coat of Spaniel type.
17.3 Stripping with pumice stone on the woolly coat of Spaniel type
17.4 Stripping with Knives (sticks) on the woolly coat of Spaniel type
17.5 The slaning technique on the woolly coat of Spaniel type, with slaner
17.6 The slaning technique on woolly Spaniel-type hair, with elastic on the comb
17.7 Carding on the woolly coat of Spaniel type.
17.8 Trimming on woolly hair of Spaniel type.
17.9 Change of texture on subjects that have undergone several shearing processes
17.10 Pre or post Stripping bath on the woolly coat of Spaniel type
 
18. Other equipment needed by the groomer 
 
 
19. Equipment maintenance
19.1 Maintenance of clippers
19.2 Head maintenance
19.3 Scissors maintenance
19.4 Maintenance of Stripping knives and slaners
19.5 Maintenance of various equipment
 
20. Occupational safety
20.1 Risks of workers
20.2 Personal protective equipment
20.3 First Aid Box
 
21. Major occupational diseases in the category
 
22. The basics of First Aid aimed at grooming animals 
22.1 Main animal health issues that may arise in grooming and their management 
22.2 First Aid Box for Animals
23. Hints of the main Zoonoses and Parasitology

Chapter 1 - Preface

In the preface of Applied Theory for Professional Grooming, we explain the intentions behind writing this work.

Chapter 2 - Glossary

the text starts with a small glossary so that the terms usually used are clear to everyone.

Chapter 3

Purpose of Grooming

In the third chapter, we look at the purposes of grooming, which go beyond aesthetics and include functional and health aspects, both for the dog and its human cohabitants. If you are wondering how to groom your dog effectively and healthfully, this chapter provides all the answers.

Chapter 4

Anatomy of the Dog

The fourth chapter delves into the anatomy of the dog, describing in detail the skin, coat and its life cycle. Special attention is paid to the different types of coats. Understanding anatomy is essential for anyone who wants to improve their grooming techniques.

Chapter 5

The Birth Verse of Hair

The fifth chapter is devoted to the birth direction of the coat, an aspect so unique to each dog that it is comparable to the human fingerprint. The manual provides the tools needed to learn how to read and respect this particular element, which is essential for successful grooming.

Chapter 6

Basics of Anatomy

In the sixth chapter, the basics of dog anatomy are covered, including nomenclature of the various body areas and proportions. These basics are essential for working professionally and understanding advanced grooming techniques.

Chapter 7

Approach to the Dog

The seventh chapter provides guidelines on how to approach the dog, how to contain him, and how to position yourself in relation to him to perform different grooming tasks. Numerous supporting images facilitate understanding of the concepts.

Chapter 8

Subject Assessment and Initial Procedures

The eighth chapter covers the evaluation of the dog with its owner and describes initial procedures such as habituation to hygienic grooming and nail trimming. This section is ideal for those seeking professional grooming advice and wanting to learn more about grooming techniques.

Chapter 9

The Bathroom

In the ninth chapter, the bathing process is addressed, with a detailed analysis of the products to be used and application methods according to different coat types and hair lengths.

 

Chapter 10

Drying the Dog

The tenth chapter describes tools and techniques for drying the dog after bathing. Drying techniques vary according to coat type and are crucial in preparing the coat for subsequent grooming.

 

Chapter 11

Brushes and Carders

The eleventh chapter examines in detail brushes and carders, indispensable tools for any grooming. These are essential tools for professional grooming, and the manual thoroughly explains their use.

 

Chapter 12

The Comb

The twelfth chapter is devoted to the comb, described as the extension of the groomer's hand. Learn about the different types of combs and their ideal use for each type of texture and hair length.

Chapter 13

Clippers and Heads

The thirteenth chapter offers a technical description of clippers and heads, comparing the different features to help the groomer choose the most appropriate tool. Clippers are essential tools for professional grooming, and this chapter delves into their use and maintenance.

 

Chapter 14

The Scissors

The fourteenth chapter explores the use of grooming scissors, valuable tools for the groomer. Learn proper handling and cutting techniques, including scaling, with explanations supported by detailed images.

 

Chapter 15

Stripping Tools

The fifteenth chapter describes stripping equipment, an advanced grooming technique. The manual provides a comprehensive guide on the use of stripping tools, ensuring optimal results without damaging the dog's coat.

Chapter 16

Stripping for Hard Hair

The sixteenth chapter delves into stripping for hard-coated dogs, examining practical techniques and common problems. This section is ideal for those who want to master grooming for rough coats.

 

Chapter 17

Stripping for Spaniel Coats

The seventeenth chapter discusses stripping for Spaniel-type coats, with a detailed analysis of slaning techniques. These techniques are fundamental to the professional grooming of dogs with Spaniel coats.

 

Chapter 18

Other Grooming Tools

The eighteenth chapter examines other useful tools in a grooming business, describing their functions and variations. Knowing the right tools will enable you to optimize spending and improve the quality of work.

Chapter 19

Maintenance of Tools

The nineteenth chapter is devoted to tool maintenance, which is essential to maintain high efficiency and durability. Good maintenance of grooming tools is essential to ensure high-quality service.

Chapter 20

Occupational Safety

The twentieth chapter addresses workplace safety, analyzing the risks of the profession and systems to prevent them. Following safety practices is crucial to preventing accidents and protecting the groomer's health.

Chapter 21

Pathologies of the Groomer

The twenty-first chapter discusses disorders and diseases related to the grooming profession, offering tips on how to minimize physical stress. Knowing about grooming-related ailments will help you prevent health problems and work more safely.

Chapter 22

Health Emergencies

The twenty-second chapter describes how to handle dog health emergencies, providing guidance on how to give first aid while waiting for the veterinarian. Being prepared for health emergencies is a critical skill for any professional groomer.

Chapter 23

Zoonoses and Parasites

The twenty-third chapter discusses zoonoses and parasites that can affect dogs and cats, and that can be transmitted to humans. This section offers valuable information to protect the health of dogs and their owners.