Taking your first dog to your home is exciting, heartwarming and at sometimes a bit overwhelming. Along with cuddles and playtime keeping your dog clean, healthy and comfortable is also your responsibility. Grooming is not only about making your dog look good but also it is a vital aspect of the overall well-being of the dog.
There is no need to worry in case you are a new owner of a dog. Grooming does not need to be complex and stressful. It can even become a fun experience that you and your dog both enjoy with the correct approach and with some consistency.
Why Grooming Matters
It is important to know the reason behind grooming before getting into how to do it. Frequent grooming keeps the skin and coat of your dog in good condition, keeps infections at bay and gives you a chance to identify possible health problems at an early stage. Such details as lumps, skin irritations, or parasites, may not be noticed without regular grooming.
It also can lessen shedding, makes your home cleaner and makes your dog smell fresh. Above all, grooming makes your dog feel comfortable- particularly during hot or humid weather.
Understanding Your Dog’s Coat Type
The grooming requirements of all dogs are not the same. The short-haired dog will have a different routine than a long-haired or double-coated dog.
Short-haired dogs do not require a lot of brushing, although they should be groomed on a regular basis to get rid of loose hair and spread natural oils. Breeds with long hair, however, are more prone to tangles and mats so they need to be brushed regularly. Dogs with the double coat shed a lot of hair at some times of the year and require special care at such times.
Take some time to learn the type of coat that your dog has. This will assist you in selecting the appropriate tools and developing a grooming regime, which is most effective.
Brushing: The Art of Grooming
One of the easiest and the most essential grooming activities is brushing. It aids in eliminating dirt, hair that falls off and mats do not form.
Most dogs will need brushing a few times a week. Long-haired breeds may require brushing every day, particularly in places that are likely to become tangled such as behind the ears, underneath the legs and around the tail.
Apply a brush that matches with the coat of your dog. Slicker brushes are helpful in the detangling process whereas the bristle brushes are very helpful in smoothing and finishing. It is always advisable to brush softly so as not to harm the skin of your dog and also offer them some form of reward, be it praise or even a reward to make the experience a good one.
How to Bathe Your Dog in Right Way
Bathing ensures that your dog is clean, however, excessive bathing will remove natural oils and result in skin drying out. The majority of dogs will only require a bath once in 4 to 6 weeks, but this may differ based on their way of life.
Wash them with a dog shampoo- human shampoo may be too harsh on them. Ensure that the water is not too hot or cold. Begin by giving your dog a good bath, pour shampoo over his/her head, and rub it into the fur.
Wash thoroughly since residual shampoo may irritate. Dry your dog with a towel or a pet-safe dryer, after bathing. Ensure that they are completely dry more so during colder weather to avoid discomfort or illness.
Nail Trimming Without the Stress
It may seem daunting at first but nail trimming is a necessary aspect of grooming. Long nails might hurt, influence the posture of your dog and even injure him.
Clip the nails of your dog after every 3 to 4 weeks, or so. When your dog walks on hard floors and you can hear clicking sounds it is time to trim him.
Have the right dog nail trimmers and cut small bits at a time. Take care not to touch the quick–the tender portion of the nail which is apt to bleed. In case of a doubt, begin slowly or consult a professional groomer or a veterinarian.
Ear Cleaning Basics
The ears of your dog may gather some dirt, wax and water that can cause infections unless they are cleaned frequently. Dogs that have floppy ears are particularly susceptible to ear problems.
In case of bad smell, redness or too much wax, it can be an indication that it is infected and should be examined by a veterinarian.
Wipe the ears with a cotton ball or a soft cloth and an ear cleaner that is approved by veterinarians. Do not put anything down into the ear canal. Mild cleaning is sufficient to maintain healthy ears.
Dental Care Should not be Neglected
Most of the first-time dog owners overlook the necessity of dental care yet it is as important as any other grooming activity. Lack of dental care may cause bad breath, gum disease and other more serious health problems.
Have your dog have its teeth brushed a couple of times a week with a dog toothbrush and toothpaste. Human toothpaste should not be used; it is dangerous to dogs.
In case it appears that brushing is hard, then begin slowly. Allow your dog to familiarize him/herself with the flavor of the toothpaste and gradually introduce the brushing action. Oral health can be maintained using dental chews and toys as well.
Dealing with Shedding
A natural process is shedding, and it may be overwhelming when one is not ready. The most effective way of dealing with shedding is regular brushing to put all the loose hair in place.
In shedding seasons, which are normally spring and fall, your dog might require more frequent brushing. A de-shedding tool can be a huge help, particularly with a breed that has a double coat.
A healthy, balanced diet of your dog can also help the coat, and help curb excessive shedding.
When to See a Professional Groomer
Although most grooming activities can be carried out at home, sometimes a professional groomer is more appropriate. Don’t be afraid to ask someone to help you if your dog has a thick or high-maintenance coat, or you are not sure how to trim nails or how to deal with mats.
Professional groomers are equipped with equipment and expertise to perform the grooming activity safely and effectively. They will also be able to provide you with tips that are helpful depending on the breed and the type of coat of your dog.
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