The act of grooming your dog is one of the fundamental things that your dog requires. The essential grooming requirements depend on your dog's breed and its characteristics. The first thing a pet owner must manage with is the dog's hair.
Long hair dogs that shed require more frequent grooming than short hair dogs, or those who shed on a seasonal basis. Dogs who frequent the outdoors pick up debris and should be brushed or combed daily. It can often be an effort to untangle the hair as well as remove those bits or particles stuck in the dog's coat after the dog has been outside.
If you're looking for something more convenient and don't mind laying out some cash, you could use a professional groomer. You should be aware that professional dog grooming can get really expensive if you use it weekly. But if you want the best for your dog, you may chose that option. If you want to go strictly for convenience, you can hire mobile dog groomers who have full grooming stations equipped with all your dog's needs in their vehicles. The groomers park their van on your driveway or in front of your house, so you don't even have to leave home. If you're unable to handle grooming tasks yourself, this is the ultimate in convenience. Another benefit to using professional groomers is that you don't have the mess or "damp dog" odor in your home.
To save money, groom your dog yourself. Just equip yourself with the basic grooming tools. It's not a good idea to use your old hairbrush on your dog. Get proper brushes and combs that are designed for your dog's fur. If not, you are likely to incur vet bills if you use your discarded brushes since they could potentially create damage to your dog's skin.
If you're not sure of the correct way to bathe and brush your dog's hair, search online for some resources that can help you through the process. There are many articles and forums available to you, or simply ask a dog groomer or your veterinarian. You could also take a course from a pet store or vet's office to learn the correct procedures and get some expert tips on dealing with your dog's anxieties during grooming as well.
Some may think that grooming your dog is optional, but it's not. Not grooming your dog consistently leaves him at risk for illnesses, parasites, damage to his skin or hair or both. Your dog may be unhappy about having a bath, but you can't let that stop you.
Note that rough scrubbing should be avoided when giving your dog a bath. It can reduce the natural oils that are there to protect your dog's skin and hair follicles. Also, be cautious what types of powders or fragrances you use on your dog. Many are not made for dogs and can cause discomfort or infection. Avoid use of any product that isn't fit for your dog and your dog's breed.
Patience is what is needed when grooming your dog. Take time to gently talk to your pet while you are grooming. Try to make grooming a playful time by rubbing his belly and patting his head. It's best not to initiate the grooming process if you don't have much time or you don't have the needed patience to complete the process. Remember, whatever attitude you project towards the grooming session, your dog will know and it will impact how he approaches them in the future.
SOURCE: Pet Articles
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