Grooming for Dogs – Basic Tips, Dos and Don’ts

Having a canine as a best friend requires a lot more than unconditional love. Trimming, grooming, and brushing are only some of the essential care treatments for a clean and happy dog. If you are willing to learn more about grooming for dogs, and perhaps try it yourself, you can follow our tips and get to know more about the basic dos and don’ts.

Dog Grooming Process, From Hair Brushing to Bath

All dogs are different, so do not expect that they all are going to love and enjoy every part of the pet grooming process. Some of them need more time to get used to nail trimming; others do not mind and love their groomer – there are as many dog characters as there are dogs in the world. Whatever category your beloved canine friend falls into, we can only assume that you hold their best interest above everything else. And it truly is in a dog’s best interest to be properly and regularly groomed. So here is a brief overview of some basic steps of this process.

Trimming Nails Is an Essential Part of the Grooming Process

Long nails have to be trimmed from time to time because they can hinder a dog’s walking abilities and lead to arthritis. Usually, it’s best to trim nails at least once a month. You can trim the dog’s nails using special nail clippers, just do not forget that they have veins and sensitive nerves in their nails. If you trim too much, you can actually hurt them.

Brushing Your Pet

Brushing is the best and most straightforward part of the process, and it can be done daily if you want. If your dog has short hair, it should also be brushed. With the use of a right brush, you will be able to remove loose hair and spread natural oils to make its coat shine. There is a special brush for every hair type, so make sure you are using the right one.

Dog Teeth Need Brushing, Too

The vast number of dogs suffers from periodontal and gum disease at a very young age, which can later lead to broken teeth and jaw, and even heart problems. To prevent these problems, you need to brush your dog’s teeth on a daily level. However, you should never use your toothpaste or brush for teeth cleaning. There are special ones that are safe for animal use.

Bath Time

Washing is also something you need to do even if your dog is short-haired. A bath will remove excess grease, dirt, and grime from their coat. Use a gentle pet shampoo, and don’t go crazy with it; it is totally fine to wash your dog with shampoo once in a month.

Don’t Forget the Paws, Ears, and Eyes

Ears need to be carefully cleaned once per month with special cleansers and cotton balls for ears. Since dogs are prone to eye problems, pay special attention to them. They should be clear, with minimal redness, and in case there is hair growing in the corners of the eyes, trim it regularly. Paw pads can be trimmed carefully with scissors.

Grooming Done Right – What to Do?

If you are looking to become a groomer, or you want to give your pet a professional haircut at home, here are some tips and tricks for you:

• Be sure you are using the right tools. For example, a proper shampoo, brush, and comb that are appropriate for your dog’s coat, natural cosmetics, styptic powder, etc.
• It’s best to use only veterinarian-approved products.
• Before nail trimming, make sure you have a styptic pen or powder near you in case it starts bleeding.
• If your dog’s bread has bangs, or hair that goes over their eyes, trim it regularly and make sure that the hair is not falling into its eyes
• During the session, pay special attention to ticks, and consult your veterinarian on how to remove them safely
• In case your dog gets mange, make a warm soapy bath, and add one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to its food.

Grooming Gone Wrong – What Not to Do

You should always keep in mind that despite living by our side for thousands of years, canines are animals with needs that often differ from our own.  So here are some brief suggestions for what you should not do to your pet:

• Human products are a huge no-no for pets – Including conditioners, shampoo, toothpaste, nail polish, etc.
• Don’t try nail trimming if a professional groomer didn’t show you how to do it, or if you do not have the right scissors because there are several sensitive areas that you can injure accidentally.
• You shouldn’t trim your dog’s coat yourself if a groomer didn’t train you to do it right
• When the temperature is too high or low, do not bathe the pet outside because it can trigger a temperature drop.
• In case you notice injuries, wounds, or sores, it is always better to schedule an appointment then to treat them on your own.
• For certain breeds, for example, a Westie, you cannot use colored shampoo because their hair absorbs color.

Help, My Dog Doesn’t Like Grooming

You have to invest some time and tender loving care for your pet to get used to these sessions. If you are at home, find a spot where your home pet spa sessions are going to take place and take good care of it. Be patient and start with cuddling and gentle brushing. Dogs do not care if cosmetics smell like pineapple or morning breeze; it is all the same to them. Rather focus on using the best gentle and natural products that don’t contain chemicals. Eventually, your four-legged friend will start enjoying it, just make sure everything goes without pressure.

How to Become a Pro Groomer for Your Pet?

Make sure you have done your research and that you know everything about your dog’s breed. That is the best way to secure you are providing proper care and treatment for your beloved friend. Be patient and understanding, and always keep in mind that no matter how much your pet may dislike this process, it’s in their best interest.