Tips to Grooming Dogs

By Fran Black Animals generally like to be left alone and are not very comfortable when someone touches them. Hence, in the beginning, dogs don't generally respond positively to the grooming routine. In order to make the process easier teach the dog early on to allow all parts of his body to be touched, handled, and groomed without objection. The goal is to teach the dog, first that such touch does not hurt, then that touch must be accepted, then later, that such touch is actually pleasant.

Ears Check your dog's ears twice per month. The skin inside and on the flaps should be paile pink. If there is a foul odor and/or any red brown or black skin, have a vetinarian examine the dog's ears. Moiston a cotton ball with warm water or a small amount of mineral oil and use to to clean the opening into the canal and the flaps. Do not probe too deeply into the dog's ear canal.

Bathing Place a rummer mat or towel in the bottom of the bathtub or sink prior to bathing your dog. This will provide the dog secure footing. Always brush the dog before you bathe, getting a tangled, matted coat wet will only make it worse.Place a cotton ball in each of the dog's ears to prevent water from entering their ears. Rinse the dog with warm water. Use a spray hose if one is available. Be sure to keep the nozzel very close to the dog's body. Never spray him or her in the face.

Use shampoo specifically designed for dogs. Use it in small amounts, working from head to tail. Be sure to clean between toes, behind ears and under the chin. Avoid getting shampoo in the dog's eyes. Rinse the dog thoroughly with warm water, making sure that you get all excess soap out of their coat. Towel dry the dog.

Trimming and Clipping There are many things to consider when trimming a coat. Firstly, and most importantly, is the type of dog and condition of the coat. Since hair is a reflection of a proper diet, good environmental condition, each coat type will vary from one dog to another.

There is some debate about whether a summer haircut will actually help a dog. Clipping a dog is a laborious procedure, and may not be a good idea for the dog. Some professionals argue the coat insulates the dog, keeping out the heat, UV rays, and insects. Consider all factors prior to making a decision about clipping a dog.

Grooming Tips Start grooming from an early age. That way, the pet will get use to grooming. Never let the dog mistake grooming tools for toys. Don't let the dog play with brush or clippers because the dog may start treating grooming sessions as play time. Never hit your pet with a grooming tool or the dog will start associating grooming tool with punishment and will try to avoid grooming session.

Brush the dog regularly and the dog will become comfortable with the process and may even look forward to it. Let the dog sniff the brush and comb before grooming begins. Dogs don't generally like being touched with an unfamiliar object. Throughout the grooming talk to the dog in a reassuring tone. Always be as gentle as possible while brushing your pet. All dogs have sensitive areas that need to be groomed more carefully than others. Consideration will make the dog less likely to resist grooming sessions in the future.

About the Author
Francesca Black works in marketing for Dog Pound http://www.dog-pound.net and Horse Stall http://www.horse-stall.net leading portals for pet management.

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