Dog Grooming Tips

When it comes to grooming man’s best friend, some dogs are naturally easier to care for than others. A dog with long hair, for instance, requires daily brushing while a dog with shorter hair may only require brushing several times each week. The best way to approach dog grooming is to assess what your dog needs and find the most effective way of keeping him/her looking fluffed and fabulous.

The first step to grooming your dog is to find the right brush for the job. You should start by letting your dog sniff the comb or brush before beginning with gentle strokes that will allow your pet to get acquainted with the feeling of being brushed. Although this may promote a nervous or anxious feeling at first, your dog will soon adapt to the process. You should always brush in the direction of the hair growth and be aware of any knots or tangles that may be present. If you find any problem areas that are resistant to regular brushing and/or an anti-tangle comb, you can carefully remove the tangle with scissors.

Every dog owner’s approach is different when it comes to bathing their pet, but it’s an important step that must not go overlooked. Despite their fascination with dirt, dogs don’t want to stay dirty and they rely on us to make sure they are clean. In the beginning, most dogs will be resistant to the idea of a bath, which is why it’s important to get them used to the process as early as possible. If you teach him/her how to act at a young age, bath time will be a breeze by the time your pup reaches adulthood. Depending on the size of your dog, you may need an extra pair of hands to hold him/her while you proceed with the bath. It’s important that your pet not slip away until being fully rinsed of any shampoo.

The final step to grooming your dog is clipping and filing his/her nails. It is important to use only those trimmers that are specifically designed for this purpose. While holding the dog’s paw firmly in your hand, cut the tip of the nail with a single stroke making certain to stop before reaching the quick. This area is most visible immediately following a bath, but can also be enhanced with the use of baby oil. After clipping your dog’s nails properly, using a file will help to smooth over any rough areas that may be left behind.

The information contained in this article is designed to be used for reference purposes only. It should not be used as, in place of or in conjunction with professional veterinary advice and/or recommendations surrounding dog grooming. For additional information on techniques, safety and health concerns, consult with your local veterinarian.