Extensive Definition
In animal grooming, cording is a technique in
which dog coats are teased
patiently into dreadlocks for coat care or
presentation purposes. Some dog breeds that are often corded are
the Puli and
the Komondor. The
Havanese
is also occasionally corded for showing.
Although considered attractive and desirable for
show
dogs, a corded coat acts very much like a dust mop as the
dog moves through its environment. Dust, dirt, twigs, leaves, burs,
and everything else quickly become tangled in the coat. To keep the
coat attractive, the owner must put in considerable time and effort
in cleaning it and in entertaining and exercising the dog in a way
that minimizes the accumulation of litter. Such dogs often have
their cords tied up or covered with assorted dog clothing when they
are not in a clean environment.