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Writer's pictureChristopher Mayell

Dog Grooming Basics to Make Your Pet Look Their Best

Updated: Feb 13

Dog grooming is one of your dog's basic needs and an essential part of dog ownership. Dog grooming needs depend upon the breed, hair type, lifestyle, and health of your dog. It is also necessary to check the AKC dog breeds list for grooming requirements. Even if you have a dog with short hair, it's still essential to groom your dog regularly.


Regular dog grooming includes brushing the dog coat and trimming any matted or tangled hairs that can occur from time to time, even in dogs with smooth coats of fur.


Dog grooming also includes cleaning your dog's ears, clipping their nails, checking for fleas and ticks, removing debris from eyes, applying sunscreen when needed, and more depending on what breed they are and how active they are.


Skin & coat

Most dogs enjoy being gently brushed, and it's an excellent opportunity to inspect your dog for any problems or injuries. Brushing helps spread the natural oils from his skin throughout their coat and removes dead hair, dirt, and debris that can cause tangles. It also prevents painful mats caused by tangled fur getting caught on something like carpet fibres or burrs in long-haired dog's coats that can even cause dog skin conditions.


Grooming brushes

Choose the right brush and follow these guidelines:


· A dog with a double coat, such as an American Eskimo dog breed, needs brushing every day.

· Long-haired dogs, such as Maltese, usually require daily brushing or combing to prevent matting and tangling of hair.

· Medium-length dog coats also need brushing a few times per week.

· Short-haired dogs, such as pugs, require daily brushing to stimulate the natural oils in the skin and coat.

Brush your dog outside versus inside because you will have better luck getting rid of dog hair and dirt outside. If you must brush your dog inside, lay some old newspapers on the floor for easy clean-up.


Many dog owners find it helpful to talk their pets through the grooming process to be more comfortable with what is going on. Try not to go overboard if your dog starts getting nervous or anxious because this could make him feel worse about the process.


You should also consider making dog grooming a fun time for your pet with some dog treats or their favourite toy. Ensure you are using positive reinforcement and rewarding them for being calm and patient, rather than punishing them for unwanted behaviour.



Bathing your Dog

It's just as important to bathe your dog regularly with natural dog shampoos and conditioners. If your dog gets dirty, bathe them. Be sure to have dog shampoo and conditioner ready to use. If your dog has a skin, ear, or nail condition, follow your veterinarian's instructions regarding bathing and grooming.


Ensure you have the right grooming essentials needed right next to you to get the job done efficiently, including towels, dog shampoo, dog conditioner, dog brushes, combs, dog hair dryers, or even a do-it-yourself home kit if your pet is cooperative.


Allow for a specific dog-friendly place where your pet can get groomed, especially if it is their first time being bathed by you. If they aren’t used to being bathed, this may help calm them down before you start, which will avoid unnecessary stress for the dog and potential injuries.


Final Thoughts

Grooming your dog is essential to make sure they look their best and feel good. It’s also important for their well-being. Bathing, brushing their coat and trimming their nails are all part of dog grooming basics that every dog owner should know about.


Don't be afraid to try dog grooming basics. Once you know what needs to be done, it's easier than you think! Just make sure you learn dog grooming basics tips and tricks first, then try them out on your pet.



 

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