Keeping Up Appearances with Dog Grooming Articles | Dogs

By: Matthew Hick

Most people wouldn’t go a week or two without combing their hair or their children’s hair. How could you even think to go that long without combing or brushing your dog’s hair as well? Man’s trusted friend needs some of the same types of grooming as you and I. Most of dog grooming can be done in your own home with a few simple items such as a brush or a fine-toothed comb, a washcloth, clippers for nails, and some of your time. It’s a small price to pay to have a well-groomed dog.

To accomplish dog grooming at home, you should first teach your dog to allow you to focus on him or her. It is a good idea to start your dog grooming at an early age. Dog grooming will require your dog to sit by your side for a period of time so you can examine different parts of his or her body. Learning this at a young age will make your dog grooming sessions more enjoyable. While it is true that some dogs require more dog grooming than others, no matter how long a grooming session takes, you will be able to create a strong bond with the dog. He or she will know how much you care.

It is a good idea to brush your dog’s coat every day as part of at home dog grooming. This will remove the dirt, get rid of the tangles, and allow the spread of natural skin oils to prevent future tangles. This will also keep the dogs skin clean. If you get caught up in a gnarly tangle, treat it like a tangle in your own hair. Gently loosen it with a comb moving from the outside int.

As part of a good dog grooming habit, you should also use a clipper to trim your pet’s nails once per month. It is a good idea to have something on hand to stop the bleeding, in case you cut to close to the paw and nick him of her. Also check your dog’s feet to make sure he or she has nothing stuck between the pads. Ears should be checked for infection and cleaned by using a moisten cotton ball with warm water or mineral oil. Use this to clear the opening as well as the canal and flap. It is also essential as part of good dog grooming to clean the animal’s teeth twice per week. This can be done with a small toothbrush with soft bristles.

You will also want to check the dog’s skin, looking for fleas, ticks or any skin irritations. Dog grooming also includes a bath every one or two months or as needed. You don’t want to bathe too often or you will dry out the pet’s skin by eliminating his or her natural oils. Just remember, before bathing always brush your dog’s coat first. In addition to this home dog grooming, you can also treat your pet to a professional dog grooming session including a hair cut. It will be like a trip to the spa for your pet!