Grooming dogs can take a little bit of practice. You can always take your dog to a pet store or a groomer rather than attempt it yourself, but you can do it at home too. Basic dog grooming equipment includes dog shampoo, nail clippers and a comb or brush for the fur. Reliable dog grooming information is available through a veterinarian, in books or on the Web.
Be sure to find dog grooming instructions related to the specific breed and coat type of your dog. Some dogs will require more care than others. Short-haired breeds may require less in the way of dog grooming supplies than long-haired breeds, but all dogs can benefit from a basic grooming session performed on a regular basis. Grooming can be a bonding experience for both owner and pet, and it keeps your dog looking great.
There are some simple tips you can follow to make it all that much easier:
- Get them started young: start regular grooming sessions when they are just a puppy to get them accustomed to being groomed. Ensure you regularly handle their ears and paws as these are often trouble spots later in life.
- Start with shorter grooming sessions and reassure/reward them often.
- Choose a grooming time when they are most likely to be relaxed such as after a meal or a long walk.
- Take note of where your dog likes to be combed and brushed (usually their tummies) and focus on these areas to turn grooming into their special treat.
- Give them a treat after each grooming session to reward good behaviour.
Shaving a dog in the hot summer months is thought to keep them cooler. But hair on the dog works two ways; keeping the dog warm in the cold, and serving to protect against heat and sunburn. Shaving a dog completely is not necessary. If your dog has a thick undercoat, good lucking finding a pair of clippers to do the job.
Brushing your dog
Start at the head and follow the flow of the hair. Pay special attention to behind the ears, and the base of the tail. These areas tend to get overlooked. Fleas gather there. Mats tend to form on the chest, flanks and near the tail. In the winter, pay special attention to the feet. Check the pads for cracking or sores.
Keep flea and tick treatments on your dog especially on outdoor dogs. Be sure that the treatment is safe. Before using an over-the-counter product on your dog call your veterinarian.
Properly done, grooming your dog need not be a chore and can be a lot of fun. Bathing your dog is an opportunity to bond. It is an intimate moment between you and your dog. It is a moment to show him or her how much you care; to feel their skin and make sure everything is all right with them. Ideally, you’ll start bathing your dog as a puppy. Be gentle, but lather and rub dirty areas as needed, as you might do on your own body. Don't rush the animal through the experience. Take your time in properly lathering and let the shampoo sit for a few minutes in order to let the natural oils sink into the coat. When bathing, care should always be taken to thoroughly rinse all traces of shampoo to prevent skin irritations. Care should also be taken to prevent water from getting into the ear canal or nose, while also preventing any products from getting into the dog's eyes.