Grooming Tips For a Healthy Dog
In this general guide to dog grooming, we will discuss some important basics to keeping your dog healthy. Every dog is different, so you may need to adjust some of these tips accordingly. As a dog owner, you know your pet better than anyone, and by following some simple rules you can ensure that your companion is healthy and happy. Many grooming techniques can be done at home. This is often the best place to do it, because you and your dog will be more comfortable in a familiar environment.
To start off, let’s talk about hair trimming. Before trimming, it would be a good idea to leash/restrain your dog before proceeding. If your dog is well behaved, this may not be necessary. Brush your dog’s hair out before and after trimming to remove old hair and stimulate hair growth. Brush through the hair gently, and look out for any strong resistance in the hair, indicating a “matt”. Matted hair is a tangled clump of hair in the coat. If it does not come out with gentle brushing, it should be removed with scissors. The longer the hair, the more trimming will be required. You can obtain a quality pair of dog clippers at your local pet store, or of course the internet.
Before trimming, it is a good idea to give your dog a bath. This removes dirt and debris that is caught within the coat, and also removes excessive oils. If you’re like me and enjoy having your dog in the bed or on furniture, you can purchase a sanitizing dog shampoo to remove germs. Form a foamy lather on the coat and give the dog a good massage for maximum cleanliness. Avoid getting soap into the eyes.
Regular nail trimmings are a must- it is best to start clipping nails when they are puppies to get them accustomed to the process. Take care to avoid cutting the “quick” – a blood vessel within the nail. Take small shavings off at a time. A high quality dog clipper is the best way to go, and are inexpensive.
Finally, you will want to care for the ears, eyes and teeth. Many people don’t think dogs need their teeth brushed. However, a lack of proper cleaning can lead to gum disease and eventual loss of teeth. This can easily be avoided with regular teeth brushing. Special brushes and flavored paste are available for this. Check your dog’s ears for parasites like mites and fleas, and also any cuts or abrasions. Some dogs have hair patches that grow around the eyes that can block vision. Take a pair of scissors and carefully cut this away. If you notice excessive eye drain, be sure to give them a good wipe, as this could lead to infection.
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