Dog grooming at home is one of the most important skills to acquire if you want to keep your furry friend in tip-top shape. However, it might be tough at times, especially if you are a newbie dog owner. It requires a lot of preparation and patience on your part since let’s be honest, many dogs dislike grooming, especially when they hear the sound of clippers.
In this article, we will give you tips and guidelines to make dog grooming a much easier and even more pleasant experience not just for you but more importantly for your dog. We have gathered some information from experienced dog groomers and veterinarians to improve your technique for dog grooming at home.
The Do’s and Don’ts of Dog Grooming
Before proceeding with dog grooming at home, here are some do’s and don’ts to consider to make the activity more efficient and pleasant.
Do’s
1. Be patient
Many dogs are unable to stand still when their nails or fur around their face are being cut. This may easily frustrate some people, prompting them to chastise or raise their voices to their dogs. If you find yourself losing patience, simply stop what you’re doing and take a deep breath. You can always resume grooming once you and your dog have relaxed.
2. Keep grooming sessions short
Refrain from doing everything at once. Set aside one grooming chore at a time to keep your dog from becoming restless.
3. Use the right tools
Various grooming products from shampoos to brushes are specifically designed for a particular coat type. Choose the appropriate tools you need to make your job easier.
4. Reward your dog
Let your dog associate dog grooming with positivity. Give them small treats and praise them for good behavior right after every nail trim or bath.
Don’ts
1. Don’t attempt something you’re not sure of
If you are uncomfortable trimming your dog’s nails or fur, it is wiser to let someone with experience do it. Educate yourself first by taking advice from a professional groomer, your vet, or from online videos.
2. Don’t use human products
Use products specifically made for dogs such as shampoos and toothpastes, as well as electric shavers/trimmers and nail clippers. These products are specially formulated and designed to better suit their needs.
3. Don’t neglect your dog grooming equipment
Keep scissors and clippers in good condition to avoid pulling your dog’s fur with dull blades. Brushes should also be cleaned thoroughly to prevent bacteria or fungi from growing.
Tips for Brushing Better
1. Do it regularly
Dog breeds with double coats and medium to long hair should be brushed several times weekly, while short-haired dogs can do with weekly brushing. Regular brushing not only prevents little knots from deteriorating into larger matting but also saves you time and energy in the long run.
2. Don’t brush when the coat is wet
When the coat is brushed wet, knotting and matting are likely to form, and hairs from the follicle may be removed, causing pain. Brush them before bathing and after completely drying.
3. Brush in the direction of the coat
Brush their coat in sections, following the direction of the coat and brushing downwards and outwards away from the skin. Finish the job by running a fine-toothed comb throughout the coat.
4. Brush them after being outside
This will remove dirt ticks and lice that might get lodged on their coat.
5. Use a deshedding tool on double-coated dogs
Breeds such as the Golden Retriever, Siberian Husky, and Chow Chow have dense double coats that are prone to shedding. Brush them at least twice a week to reduce loose hairs. Remember to remove matting or tangling first with a detangling brush before using the de-shedding tool.
6. Use a dog grooming glove
Grooming gloves are excellent in lifting superficial loose hairs while also providing a therapeutic massage.
Tips for Bathing Your Dog
1. Don’t Bathe Your Dog Too Often
Short-haired dogs can do with a monthly wash while those with longer coats may need to be bathed twice monthly. Bathing your dogs frequently can dry out their skin which can lead to hair loss.
2. Use a shampoo that is appropriate for your dog’s coat.
Firstly, never use human shampoos since they are more acidic. Secondly, choose a dog grooming product that doesn’t contain harmful ingredients such as parabens, artificial fragrances, and dyes.
Choose a dog shampoo that is right for their coat and skin condition. For example, shampoos with oatmeal can help dogs with dry skin.
3. Shampoo twice, then use conditioner.
The first shampoo effectively gets rid of dirt, while the second one ensures that the skin is thoroughly cleaned. Apply some conditioner afterward to rehydrate the skin and hair, then rinse well.
4. Don’t forget to clean the ears and eyes.
Use a washcloth to clean around the eyes, ears, and other sensitive parts during dog grooming activity.
Tips For Trimming Your Dog’s Fur
1. Visualize first
Before proceeding with the cut, think about the style and look you want to achieve.
2. Bathe and dry the dog before trimming
A dirty coat may clog the hair trimmers and cause an uneven cut.
3. Leash your dog
Keep your dog from moving around too much and place them on a table to make the task easier.
4. Familiarize your dog with the clipper
Let your dog smell and get used to the buzz of the hair trimmer. Use treats as a reward when they respond well during the dog grooming session.
Tips for Trimming Your Dog’s Nail
- Use a nail clipper according to your dog’s size.
- Trim only the hook or the tips of the nail every 3 to 4 weeks.
- You don’t have to clip all the nails in one go. You can trim the other nails on another day when your dog gets too fidgety.
Conclusion
Dog grooming takes time to learn skillfully. By doing these activities regularly, you and your dog will eventually become accustomed to them, making them easier over time. Remember to be patient and observant of your dog’s behavior when grooming to make the process more agreeable.