hi Karen,
I asked this very question a while back about my mum's 7 year old cocker bitch(also spayed).
Unfortunately it was deemed "too late"" for her coat - and I agree - although Lucy is clipped all over. However it might not be to late for your poochies - but I wouldn't like to say - I'm sure one of the more knowledge groomers should be able to tell you that
However my mum has now got a coat king (thanks Jen
) and some thinning scissors and is having a good old bash at keeping her tidy. It has made a difference on her back and her ears, they feel more silky rather than the wooly lamb look/feel she was sporting
unfortunately though the longer the fur becomes the more difficult it becomes to brush and i think it becomes an even bigger task to groom them then when they just need a good brushing and have never been clipped.
currently we are looking at various more"chunky" stripping knives to do Lucy's legs - but I think my mum has resigned herself to the fact that we might have to keep having her legs clipped.
We are also looking into various oils / hair relaxers / conditioners
that may calm down her un ruly frizz.
If we find out anything intersting I'll let you know.
A good tip if your dogs are just looking dull is either a hound glove or a good quality bristle brush - 5 - 10 minutes daily brisk brushing with these should help stimulate the natural oils in the coat to come through which help keep the coat shiny
HTH
Kel