Dog grooming is an essential aspect of pet care, but not many dog parents tend to do this job on their own. Dog grooming, if outsourced, costs a fortune. Therefore, we recommend dog owners do it themselves to save time and money.
So, how to groom dogs?
If you’re new to dog grooming, you might be confused about the start. To save you some time, we have shared some dog grooming tips for beginners:
Brushing: Brushing your dog’s coat on a daily basis doesn’t only improve your dog’s health, but also maintains its appearance. Daily brushing can also help prevent matting and tangling. Experts advise dog owners to brush their dog’s coats at least once a week – more often if they have long hair.
Bathe: Bathing your dog is also very important for their health. However, we should avoid doing so very often. As per experts, dogs that are washed quite frequently lose their coat’s natural oils. Dogs need baths once or twice a month. Unless your dog is very dirty or smelly, avoid giving her a bath.
Trim nails: Overgrown nails can be uncomfortable and even painful for dogs. Therefore, dog owners should trim their pooch’s nails every few weeks. If you’re unsure how to do this, ask your veterinarian or a professional groomer for guidance.
Clean ears: A dog with clean ears will heed your commands better. Just kidding! Keeping your dog’s ears clean helps prevent infections. Use a damp cotton ball or cloth to wipe the inside of the ear flap, being careful not to insert anything into the ear canal.
More tips:
Use appropriate tools: Make sure you have the right tools for grooming your dog, such as a brush, comb, nail clippers, and ear-cleaning solution. You can find these tools at most pet supply stores.
Take breaks: Grooming can be stressful for some dogs, especially if they’re not used to it. Take breaks as needed, and reward your dog with treats and praise for good behavior.
Be gentle: Dogs have sensitive skin, so be gentle when brushing and bathing them. Avoid pulling on tangles or mats, and use lukewarm water when bathing.
Watch for signs of distress: Pay attention to your dog’s body language during grooming. If they’re showing signs of distress, such as growling or trying to move away, take a break and try again later.
Seek professional help when needed: If you’re unsure how to groom your dog, or if your dog has a particularly challenging coat or behavior, consider seeking help from a professional groomer or veterinarian.
Note that grooming is an essential part of pet care, and regular grooming may keep your dog healthy and happy. With these dog grooming tips for beginners, you can get started on the right track.