Grooming is a very important aspect of dog health especially for those dogs of the so called non-shedding variety, like Poodles, Shi-tzus, Maltese, Bichons, etc. It is extremely important for these breeds to be groomed on a regular basis to prevent matting and possible skin infections. Other breeds also need some grooming to keep their coat healthy, regular brushing and an occasional bath will keep a dogs fur and skin healthy. However, grooming itself needs an experienced hand to make the dog feel comfortable. If you are a do-it-yourselfer, I have six tips for you to make your life and your dogs life much happier and healthier.

  • 1. The easiest way to teach your dog that grooming is a pleasurable experience is to start grooming them when they are very young. Sure puppies squirm around a lot, and grooming them will be difficult, but they are still small. They are a lot easier to hold onto now then they will be a year or two down the road. And remember, part of the reason they are squirming and wiggling around is because they are so happy to be with you. If you start brushing their coats and cleaning their ears now, they will start to associate those activities with one on one time.
  • 2. Make sure that you spend some time handling and cleaning your dog’s ears. The more their ears get handled at a young age the easier it will be for your veterinarian to inspect and treat any ear infections your dog might develop later in life. And the easier for the groomer or yourself to pull out or trim ear hair, which will help in preventing ear infections in dogs that grow a lot of hair in their ears.
  • 3. Some dog owners know that trimming their dogs nails can be a monstrous task. Although you shouldn’t have to trim the nails of your new puppy, you can make play with their feet and start getting them accustomed to the feel of your fingers against their paws. This will make your life easier down the road.
  • 4. If you are having a bad day, avoid grooming your pet. They will pick up on your negative energy and be uncomfortable. Not good for grooming or teaching your dog to sit still for grooming.
  • 5. How about burr removal? Pulling out burrs can be pretty traumatic for the dog. Use a seam ripper from a sewing kit to pluck out hair around the burr. This will easily remove the burr. Another trick is to use a oil based conditioner which will help prevent burrs from reattaching to your dogs coat.
  • 6. Of course the best tip for help in grooming your dog and their health is to provide them with essential fatty acids through their diet. The omega 3s, 6s and 9s that are found in fish oil really help out in making the coat slick and healthy. Feeding a raw meat based diet also helps with providing the proper protein for growing of new hair.

    • There you have it the six tips for dog grooming to make your dog happier and healthier.

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