What kind of regular grooming and maintenance does your dog need? Healthy dog grooming is a great way to keep your animals looking and feeling their best. The specific requirements will vary depending on the breed of dog you have – and their coat type – but you can rely on some general tips to keep your pup at peak grooming excellence.
The Basics of Healthy Dog Grooming
Understand Your Dog’s Coat
Each breed and dog has a coat with individual needs. Long-haired dogs, especially those with soft fur, will require regular visits to a groomer. Your groomer can help figure out a good schedule for when to bring your dog in and keep their coat neat. If you want to give your pup a trim in between visits, use clippers with a guard on them. Never use scissors–even ones designed for cutting hair–as it’s easy to accidentally cut their skin (especially when dealing with mats or antsy dogs). This can lead to serious infection. You may want to just brush their coat daily to help deter mats from forming between visits to the groomer.
Make Bath Time Fun
Bath time causes stress for many pups and pet-parents alike. To make it easier and less of a scary event, give them lots of treats. Minimize the chance of making them uncomfortable–use only lukewarm water, and avoid getting soap in their eyes. Some products provide a welcome distraction for your pup, like slow feeders that suction to the side of the tub that you can spread peanut butter on. Pups with sensitive skin will likely need gentle soaps made with natural ingredients, like oatmeal. There’s no specific recommended frequency for bathing–it mostly depends on what you do on a daily basis–is you outside often, or are they more of a couch potato?
Keep Those Nails Trimmed
Some dogs have no problem getting their nails trimmed, while others may require visits to the groomer or vet to get it done safely. It’s easy to cause harm or infection by “quicking” them (cutting the sensitive flesh at the base of their nails), so only do it yourself if you are comfortable. Make a habit of holding your dog’s paws when you’re just relaxing to accustom them to having their feet handled.
Clean Their Ears
If your pup’s ear is looking a bit dirty, there are liquid sprays you can use to clean them. Never dig deeply in their ears with Q-tips; instead, just apply the ear cleaner, rub their ear to work it in, then use a paper towel to clean any excess. Just like with trimming nails, do not attempt to clean their ears yourself if you aren’t comfortable. A vet or groomer would be happy to help!
Exercise is Important
Your dog will feel their best when they receive the appropriate amount of activity. 30-60 minutes of brisk exercise each day is good enough for most breeds, but it can vary. Smaller dogs may only need to play indoors, while high-energy dogs will need a longer period to run their energy out.
Don’t Forget Dental
Dental hygiene is extremely important for dogs, but sadly goes ignored in many cases. Regular cleanings at the vet along with receiving dental treats or brushing at home will help keep their teeth and gums healthy. There are even water additives you can get that will help fight bacteria and make their breath smell better.
Besides healthy dog grooming, one of the best things you can do for your dog is to have them properly trained. An obedient dog that understands the rules is a safe and happy dog – and a more integrated part of the household. Call Gulf Coast K9 Dog Training to day to learn more about our obedience classes, play care and puppy training.
