Dog grooming is a very important step in keeping your dog healthy and happy. Grooming removes dirt and debris from your dog’s coat and skin, as well as removing knots or tangles that can cause pain and discomfort. It also helps to maintain the health of your dog’s ears, eyes, nails, mouth and paw pads. If you don’t feel comfortable performing some of the tasks involved in dog grooming (like brushing teeth or cleaning ears), it is best to take your dog to a professional groomer for these services.
Most dogs do not enjoy having their bodies handled so much, so it is important to make the process as positive as possible. Try to get your dog used to having their body touched from a young age, and groom them gently to start. It is a good idea to give your dog breaks during grooming sessions, and reward them with attention and treats for being calm and patient.
Begin by combing your dog with a brush or comb that is appropriate for the breed of your dog. A brush that is meant for a long-haired dog should have bristles that are long and wide, while a comb made for short hair should have finer teeth. It is recommended that you comb out your dog at least once every day to prevent the formation of large mats, as they can be very painful for your pet.
After you have combed out your dog and have removed any tangles, use clippers to trim the fur around the body. Start on the top of your dog and work down toward their legs, being careful not to touch the skin. When you reach the area around the dog’s tail, move them slowly to avoid clumping of fur.
The next part of the grooming process is to brush out the fur again, making sure to pay special attention to the areas that are hard for your Dog grooming Fort Lauderdale to see or reach, such as between their toes and in their ear canal. You should also check the area between your dog’s hind legs and under their armpits for any tangles or matting. Severe matting can cause your dog to pull at their skin when they move, and it may be necessary for you to cut or shave the tangles if they are severe.
The final part of the grooming process is to bathe your dog with a shampoo that is appropriate for their type of coat. It is a good idea to bathe your dog at least once per month, and you can increase this number if they are particularly dirty or stinky. Make sure you are using a gentle shampoo that is not drying, and take care to rinse your dog completely to remove all of the soap.