Dog Grooming

All dogs need grooming – some more and some less.
Proper dog grooming has tremendous benefits for dog and the owner but it can be time consuming. It is surprising that so little advice is given on adoption about the grooming needs of a dog and how to groom. Sadly, this leads to thousands of dogs being given up for rehoming as owners do not have the time to groom and the dog develops problems associated with lack of grooming.

Ignoring your dog’s grooming needs may result in him suffering. Grooming can prevent mats that pull a dog’s skin causing pain and lead to hot spots or wounds. Regular grooming prevents problems such as itchy skin, excessive shedding, painful mats, strong unpleasant body odours and bad breath. It may also identify other problems, for example sores, fleas lumps, cuts, rashes etc that might go unnoticed without the hands on attention.

Grooming is also an excellent way of establishing and enhancing bonds with your dog. Dogs are pack animals and in the wild, dogs and wolves groom each other as part of normal pack social behaviour and subordination.

Grooming should be a pleasurable experience for the dog and owner or, and if done gently it can form another source of affection and attention. You can start getting your dog used to being groomed when he/she is still a puppy by gently running a soft brush or comb over every area of the body including ears, under tail, and under chin, gradually increasing pressure until you are able to properly brush through coat without causing any distress.

If you are thinking of getting a dog, be aware that a long haired dog will require regular grooming throughout its life – in addition, having a long haired dog living in your house will mean more cleaning as the long haired dog sheds more hair and will bring in more mud etc. If you don’t wish to groom your dog regularly or don’t have the time to do so, then it would be wise to employ the services of a professional groomer to care for your dog’s coat. Alternatively, a short haired dog may be a better choice as a family pet.

To summarise regular grooming leads to a healthier and contented dog and a happier owner.

Benefits of Grooming

Healthy coat

Reduces unpleasant dog odour in house

Reduces risk of skin complaints

Reduces licking and scratching which is annoying to owner and dog.

A good bonding exercise

If you have a breed of dog that needs a specific type of grooming click here or here for excellent advice.

Want to know more about how to choose a professional groomer or dog grooming advice? or A Career as a Dog Groomer?