Why should you groom your dog?
Grooming isn't just about making a dog look and smell gorgeous (though this is a great reason to get your dog groomed!) It's also beneficial to their health and well-being too
Brushing your dog
That’s right, brushing your dog isn’t just to make them look neat and tidy. Brushing your dog removes dead hair and helps get rid of dry or dead skin. It’s also a great bonding exercise for you and your dog.
You should brush your dog every couple of days. This will also help you get to know your dog, helping you to notice any problems with your dogs skin, coat or body.
Brushing your dog regularly means you’ll avoid matts. Not all dogs are prone to matts but if your dog has longer hair it is likely to get these throughout its life. Particularly if you have a poodle or poodle cross, or other longer haired or curly breeds such as cocker spaniels, bichons and shih tzus.
Trimming a dogs nails
It’s so important to keep on top of your dogs nails. Letting them overgrow could lead to posture problems and even bone deformations. Keep them short with regular trips to the groomer. Most groomers will offer nail clipping as part of a full groom, some will just do a dogs nails if this is all your need.
If you decide to cut your dogs nails at home, do some research first. Dogs nails contain something called a ‘quick’ which contains the nerves and blood vessels that provide nourishment to your dogs nails. Cutting through this can be painful for the dog and often bleeds heavily.
Longer nails mean a longer quick. So don’t expect your groomer to be able to take very long nails right back - they may need doing little by little over a period of time.
Cleaner dogs mean a cleaner house
We all know how muddy and grimy dogs can get our on their walks, particularly in the muddy and rainy seasons. Keeping them clean and groomed, means less dirt and hair around the house - and less cleaning for you!
Keep on top of it and you’ll have a fresh smelling and looking dog!
Not all dogs need professional grooming
Just because they don’t need it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t book them in for a professional groom. A professional groomer will take time over your dog, using professional products. The knowledge a groomer has will generally outweigh your own, they’ll know exactly what type of shampoo to use and will have the products to match the coat type. Even short haired breeds need a proper bath and brush once in a while!
How often should I groom by dog?
This really does depend on the dogs breed. For poodles, poodle crosses and dogs with long or curly hair, it’s generally advised to groom them every 6-8 weeks. This will help avoid matts and keep their fur from getting too grotty. Other dogs may need grooming every 12 weeks. Speak to your groomer to get the best advise and remember to keep brushing them at home between grooms!
