Dog grooming is a basic requirement that you should undertake on a fairly regular basis to not only ensure your dog stays in good health, but also to help maintain its appearance. It is a fundamental part of dog ownership – as dogs, just like people, need physical maintenance to look their best. Dog grooming is not as simple as just washing your dog in the bath once a month, but more of a bonding routine that brings together dog and owner, while keeping him or her in tip top condition. Depending on your dogs breed, hair type and conditions, you will have to make slight amendments to the grooming process.
Hair Brushing
Many dogs love to be brushed, which while feels great for you pup, allows you to keep their coat clean and free of knots. When brushing a dog, you should choose the right tools depending on its hair type.
Long haired dogs commonly require daily brushing in order to keep them well maintained.
Medium-haired dogs are prone to matting and often tangle so should be brushed at least once per week.
Short haired dogs can sometimes go weeks without needing brushing, but attention should be kept on
Regardless of your dog’s breed and hair type, it is recommended that you brush them daily, which will ensure they maintain a healthy and shiny coat. Frequent brushing on shredding season can help prevent hair build-up and excess shredding, while keeping their skin healthy.
Nail Trimming
Nail trimming is sometimes difficult to do with a number of dogs, as often dogs detest even having their paws touched. When nails are trimmed to short they can hurt the dog, whereas when they are too long the can become dirty, problematic and unattractive. The best way to avoid your dog building a fear of nail trimming is to enforce the procedure correctly and exercise in caution, which would get them into good habit over time. Some dogs need monthly nail trims, but it is highly dependent on your individual dog’s rate of growth.
Bathing
Bath time is not always fun time for dogs. Many are scared of being placed in the bath rub and could cause problems when they begin running around the house, dripping wet in a state of panic. If you learn to bathe your dogs in a friendly and calm manner, they will quickly get used to the process and become happy to bathe. There are also dog grooming services that are geared up to calming dogs down and in turn giving them a nice bath in a professional manner. It is advised that most dogs are bathed monthly, but bathing as much as once per week is in no way considered harmful. Depending on the skin condition of you dog, and its type of coat, your vet may recommend a certain shampoo and washing process.
Ear Care
Dog’s ears are famous for being an absolute sanctuary for many bacteria types, which means there is a risk of developing ear infections and other problems. Ear cleaning should be addressed during the monthly bath, but depending on the condition of your dog’s ears, you may need to attend on a more regular basis.
Dogs with floppy ears can find it harder to maintain cleanliness and a healthy set of ears, as the ear canal simply doesn’t have enough air exposure. Some ear problems can be a sign of allergy so sometime your vet will assign a certain medication. If your dog’s ears are relatively healthy, you are able to maintain them with proper ear care.
Haircuts
Dogs are constantly growing their hair, and as such will require a haircut every now and then. Depending on the breed, time of year and hair type will dictate where. It is recommended that you book a professional dog groomer to undertake this activity as it takes an experienced groomer to apply the correct haircut depending on the breed, hair type, season and dogs general appearance.
Image Credit: “Dog Groom UK” by Mark is licensed under CC BY 2.0
