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How to Give a Dog a Bath: Top 10 Dog Washing Tips

How to Give a Dog a Bath: Top 10 Dog Washing Tips

It is time to give your dog a bath, but you are not sure how to do it.

You have heard of some horror stories where the dog has been almost drowned by the owner, and others where they didn’t get all the soap out from their fur. This blog post will teach you how to bathe your pet without any trouble.

The way you wash your dog will chiefly be decided by his particular breed. But one thing is certain, you will need to wash him.

Giving a dog a bath is not as easy as you might think. It’s important to understand the best way to give your pet a good scrubbing, and what products can be used safely on them. To help make this process easier for all of us, we’ve compiled some tips that will ensure both you and your pup have an enjoyable experience in the tub.

There are two aspects to washing your dog; how to wash your dog and how often you wash your dog. You’ll learn about bathing frequency and the best products for different hair types. I hope this helps.

How Frequently Should you Wash your Dog?

How often should I wash my dog? This answer depends largely on their coat type.

Dogs with short coats only need bathing once or twice per year whereas dogs with long hair may require more frequent washing if they are prone to shedding or getting dirty faster than most other breeds.

The short answer is “not too often.” A dog’s coat has natural oils that protect it, keep it silky and soft and prevent it from getting damaged or becoming brittle. If you wash him every week, these oils will soon be washed away as well.

How often do you have to wash your dog depends on whether your dog lives inside and sleeps on bed or the lounge. You should wash your dog if he’s smelly or very dirty. How often you wash your dog will depend on what he does during an average day and whether he’s an inside or outside dog.

If he has long hair, he’ll need a bath more often because his hair can become matted or tangled. The time of year can also affect dog bath frequency requirements.

How to Give a Dog a Bath: Top 10 Dog Washing Tips
How to Give a Dog a Bath: Top 10 Dog Washing Tips

 7 Step Dog Washing Procedure

Many people have a difficult time getting dogs clean and smelling fresh. This is because they don’t know the proper technique. It helps to get them in the right place, use products designed for this task. The real fun begins when the right products are ready and you have chosen a suitable location.

Dog washing starts with:

  1. You’ll want to gather all the items you need and place them in an easy to reach location prior to letting your dog know that bath time is coming up.
  2. Mixing shampoo with water will make lather spread easier. Add the shampoo to a full bowl of water and you’ll see how it works better.
  3. Coax or lure your dog into the tub with treats, and he’ll be more inclined to enjoy bath time. The key is getting dogs in a positive mood before they even get wet. One way that’s easy – treat them like royalty until you’re ready for their next move.
  4. Thoroughly wetting your dog’s coat. It is important to use lukewarm water that has been pre-warmed in order for this step to be effective, so make sure there’s hot and cold running water available too! Wet their entire body until it becomes clear they’re soaking up as much of the warm liquid as possible without showing any signs of discomfort or fear.
  5. When it comes time to wash your dog, there are two considerations: the first is getting rid of all his dirt and that second deep-cleaning. So for every shampoo you use on him, make sure he gets a double dose! The first go round should focus primarily on binding up any dust or grime still stuck in his coat; while the second ensures you’re really scrubbing away at those stubborn oils left behind.
  6. Conditioner is a great way to make your dog’s coat shiny and healthy. Just apply it, leave on for five minutes or so, then rinse the conditioner away.
  7. Rinse your dog until no more soap remains in its fur. Make sure all of the soapy residue is removed from their skin too. If you don’t remove all the shampoo, this could irritate the dog’s skin.

How to Wash a Dog’s Face

  • Is your furry friend tearing up from the shampoo you were using? It’s common for dogs to have a sensitivity around their eyes and nose. Take this into consideration by purchasing tear-free shampoos that are designed specifically with these sensitive areas in mind.
  • How to wash a dog’s face? This is one of the trickiest parts about bathing your pup. You don’t want them getting soap or water in their sensitive areas like ears, nose and eyes so save this for after they’re all done. Use a damp cloth with warm water to clean up around those delicate parts before you start on more difficult tasks like washing their back or chest fur.
  • To ensure a thorough clean, use two cloths to wash your dog’s head and face. One should be soapy water-dipped while the other is clear water dipped. Gently but thoroughly scrub off any dirt or grime then rinse with the second cloth before moving on to an area that has not yet been cleaned.

How to Give a Dog a Bath Who Hates Water

If you have a dog, he will probably always be somewhat apprehensive about bath time. To make them more receptive to the experience of taking baths in the future, try giving your pooch lots of attention and encouraging words while bathing him – this should help create positive associations for next time.

  • Start bathing your puppy when they are young to encourage them to enjoy the bath. Start today by teaching your pup that a bath is just another fun activity with their family, not something dreaded or avoided at all costs.
  • For most dogs, the worst part about bathing in a tub or sink is being unsteady on slippery surfaces. To keep this from happening to your pup you can buy specialized nonslip mats that are designed for use with water and soap residue.
  • Did you know that there are easy ways to make bath time more enjoyable for your pup? One way is by smearing peanut butter or baby food on the tub or shower door. Your dog will lick it off while you bathe them and they won’t even focus on how wet their fur gets.
  • Don’t use the faucet or showerhead . Noisy water can be really frightening for some dogs, and if your pup hates baths it could just be because they’re scared of all the noise.
  • A dog’s bath can be a scary experience. So, before you put your pup in the tub, make sure to test the water temperature with them.
  • Dogs can smell a lot better than humans, so it’s important to use gentle shampoo and mild-smelling soap.
  • Fortunately there’s hope for pups who hate baths. With some patience and lots of yummy treats can change a dog’s response to baths. Over time, you’ll be able to condition your furry friend into thinking that baths are nothing more than a fun experience. To start off with this process it’s important to reward them heavily when they step near the bathtub – even if their paws never touch water. Once they’re comfortable approaching the tub without being scared or anxious about entering it (or getting wet), feel free to begin rewarding them just as much once inside too in case there was any hesitation whatsoever on first stepping foot in the bathing area. Next up is turning on some running water so while we wait until our four-legged pal becomes accustomed enough with everything.
  • Bathing your dog can be quite a hassle, especially if he fights you during the process. Schedule a bath for your pup only when you have plenty of free time to do things right and with patience.

How to Dry Your Dog

Always towel-dry your pup as best you can before moving on to the next step. A dog specific hairdryer or a human one in medium setting is perfect for this job, but if need be air drying them works too. Brushing their fur after every 10 minutes will help prevent mats from forming.

How to Give a Dog a Bath: Top 10 Dog Washing Tips
How to Give a Dog a Bath: Top 10 Dog Washing Tips

Top 10 Dog Washing Tips:

  1. Make it enjoyable and start as young as possible. Then your dog will get used to the water and being washed.
  2. Choose where you’re going to wash him. This will vary, according to the time of year and the breed. A small dog or puppy can be washed in a tub or sink. A big dog needs to be washed in a bathtub. If the weather is warm, you can use the hose.
  3. The bottom of the tub needs a rubber mat to stop the dog from sliding all around the place. He’ll feel more secure as well.
  4. Before you start the washing process, get everything you need and lay it all out. Towels, shampoo, a bucket and anything else you want. Never turn your back on your wet dog unless you’re keen to chase him.
  5. Only use lukewarm water and shampoo specially formulated for dogs. Choose a tearless shampoo if available.
  6. Don’t get soap or water in your pet’s ears and eyes and wash his head last so it’s not wet for long. This will reduce his urge to shake himself dry.
  7. Rinse him well. Dogs often feel itchy after they have been washed. This is usually caused by not rinsing all the shampoo off or because you have washed him too often.
  8. When it’s winter, keep your pet inside until he’s 100% dry. You can use a dryer set on ‘cool,’ not hot (or it may burn him) can help to dry him faster.
  9. Dogs love shaking themselves dry. It starts with his head so if you hold your dog’s head still, there won’t be much shaking. Put a towel over him as soon as you’re done will help stop him from coating the walls and furniture with water. If you don’t want him to shake at all, train him to only shake when commanded to do so. That will need some patience.
  10. After the wash, tell him to stay/sit. If he wants to shake, guide him into the sit position and command him to stay/sit and then you get out of his way. Then tell him he can shake. Praise him for doing so and then he’ll eventually only shake when allowed to do it.

NOTE: Bathing is a great time to check for rough areas and lumps on his skin. If you find anything unusual, talk to your vet. A well-groomed dog is a healthy, happy dog.

Conclusion

That’s everything you need to know about giving your dog a bath. We hope this article has been helpful for those who are looking to improve their pet-care skills.

If there is anything we missed, please let us know in the comments section below and we will do our best to address it.

In addition, if you have any other questions or concerns related to dogs in general (not just bathing), feel free to email. Thank you so much for taking the time out of your day to read this blog post on how often should I wash my dog?

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How To Choose A Dog Groomer

Top Tips: How To Choose A Dog Groomer

Picking a dog groomer is an important decision. In order to find the best groomer, you should first think about what your budget is and where you live. You can also ask friends or neighbors for recommendations. Once you have narrowed down to who might be good options, it’s time to do some research on them.

If you own a pet, then pet grooming is a crucial part of that ownership. Most owners don’t want the hassle of grooming their dog themselves because it’s either too difficult or too time-consuming. It’s messy and if it’s not done properly, it can cause harm to your pet.

A dog’s physical appearance is important because it reflects its overall health, which becomes more difficult to maintain if not cared for properly – especially when they have long fur that requires brushing on a regular basis. The needs vary from small breeds who just need trimmed nails (which you should do every three months) up to large dogs who require baths as well.

Although having your dog groomed by a professional might be expensive, it’s well worth it because your pet will look and feel good and that will make him happy and you’ll also be happy and have good peace of mind. However, there are some poor groomers out there who, although properly trained, don’t do the best job and there have been cases where dogs have been mistreated or hurt as a result.

Your dog groomer should be kind, trustworthy, and have experience handling dogs. Follow these tips for finding the best person to groom your pup.

To find qualified good dog groomers today just takes some simple internet research. There is no need to drive around town looking for one: all you have to do is visit their website or look online on sites like Facebook for reviews left by people that actually use them regularly.

How to Find a Good Dog Groomer

  1. The first place you want to look is on the internet. Type in “finding a dog groomer” and it will bring up all sorts of businesses that perform this service near your area, along with their contact information if they have one available. Sometimes there’s also reviews for these companies too.  The next step would be checking out any website or Facebook page that may exist from them as well. Finally, go visit whichever company best suits what you’re looking for by having an open mind about where/who might offer what type of services needed because sometimes people only hear about certain places but others are more suited based on personal experience.
  2. The next time you’re at the vet’s office, ask for a recommendation from them. They may know of reputable groomers in your area and if not they can recommend someone who works out of their clinic.
  3. If you meet someone with a similar breed as yours and their dog looks nicely groomed, ask which groomer they use.
  4. Ask you breeder who they recommend.
  5. Dog grooming associations can be a great resource for finding the perfect groomer. These websites are usually well-organized and have many useful features including “Find A Groomer” search function that will help you locate an ideal match in your area.

Finding Good Dog Grooming Professionals

There are lots of professional dog groomers available so you have to find the one you trust that’s right for both you and your beloved pet.

First you need to work out what you need from a groomer. Do you need a mobile groomer or one with their own salon?

Find out what services the dog groomer offers:

  • Does the dog groomer offer a mobile service or pick-up and delivery?
  • Do they collect your dog from you and return him when he’s done?
  • Have they been professionally trained and how experienced are they?
  • Do they do bathing, drying and brushing?
  • Do they clean ears, clean teeth?
  • Is nail clipping provided as part of the service?
  • Do they specialize in small or big dogs?
  • Are they experienced in handling show dogs?
  • Do they offer discounts for two or more dogs?
  • Does the dog’s size affect the price?

Questions Owners Should Ask Dog Groomers

  • What credentials do the groomers have?
  • What is the price for their services? Do they have a list of prices, with specifics about what each service includes and how much it costs?
  • Do they have experience grooming breeds like yours? Do their staff members know how to groom your breed of dog properly, or are you just taking a risk each time with an unfamiliar company’s service.
  • Ask if they have before and after photos to show you of dogs similar to yours.
  • Will your dog be left unattended on a grooming table?
  • Will trainees be grooming on your dog?
  • Will your pets always have the same person to groom them?
  • Do you have insurance to cover my dog in case of an emergency or an accident?
  • What would you do in an emergency?
  • Ask them for references.
  • Do they have a waiting list?

If a groomer is heavily booked, that’s a strong indicator that he’s trustworthy, reliable and is good at what he does.

Seek advice from other owners. You may be able to get recommendations.

Do More Research on the Potential Dog Groomer

Once you have narrowed down who might be good options, it’s time to do some research on them! Look up reviews online and see if they have any complaints filed against them. If there are complaints, pay attention to how honest the company is in their response. If they seem defensive or refuse to take responsibility, that may not be a company that will treat your pet well during grooming sessions. It’s worth spending some time researching this process before selecting your pup’s groomer.

How To Choose A Dog Groomer
How To Choose A Dog Groomer

Visit the Salon Before Making a Grooming Appointment

Before you schedule your grooming appointment, it is important to visit the salon first. The groomer will be happy to show and chat with you about their space before they take on a new client. Meet all of their staff and get an idea for how they operate. A good dog groomer will make sure that your visit is enjoyable while also making it clear what grooming package would be best suited for your needs.

Dog Grooming at the Grooming Salon

The grooming visit is supposed to be enjoyable and safe for both the pet owner and their pup. Do you think your dog will handle being sent into an unfamiliar environment for grooming sessions?

How can you ensure your dog has a positive experience at the groomer’s?

The right dog groomer should be able to meet any physical or behavioral needs while still achieving an attractive haircut.

When it comes to dog grooming, many people prefer a regular salon experience while others like the convenience and comfort of their homes. The question is which option would be better for your pup?

How Often Should Your Dog Visit the Dog Groomer?

There are many benefits of grooming – not only does a professional trim help keep the hair in good condition and prevent matting so no matter how long their coat is they always have a healthy feel.

Grooming also helps get rid of any excess dander or dirt that may be stuck deep within fur which keeps allergens at bay for those with sensitivities. It can even make them smell better too.

Dogs don’t need to be bathed every time they’re trimmed but seeing an expert once per month will really give him shiny coats and reduce shedding while making sure all his potential mats are taken care of before anything becomes unmanageable.

What Would You Like Your Dog Groomer To Do?

Here are some things that a dog grooming service might be able to provide: nail trimming, ear cleaning and plucking, sanitizing baths for dogs of all sizes. They might also offer special services such as brushing teeth or clipping hair around the eyes.

How To Choose A Dog Groomer
How To Choose A Dog Groomer

How to Keep Your Dog Groomer Happy

The relationship you have with your dog groomer is very important, for it’s a bond that leaves much-loved dogs in their care. Here are some tips to ensure they’re happy and keep them around:

Give as many specifics as possible about what you expect of the finished groom. Provide a photo if possible.

You know how we all want our dogs to look at their best? But sometimes, it’s just not possible. In cases of extreme matting where the groomer can’t do anything for you dog without causing distress, they’ll recommend a short trim this time around and maybe even schedule another appointment in the future as well as educating customers on home grooming maintenance.

  • Be punctual. The dog groomer is not running a dog crèche.
  • Dogs must go to the potty place before any grooming appointment. Your pet will be much more comfortable and cooperative with their groomer if he or she is already empty from using his/her bathroom spot beforehand.
  • Make sure to let your groomer know the dietary requirements of your dog so they can easily plan out a healthy menu. If you want them to use certain treats, be sure and bring those with you.
  • Give your groomer a heads up if you think there’s something wrong with your dog that might affect their grooming.
  • Feel confident in your furry friend’s health by scheduling regular appointments for preventative treatments and keeping an eye out for signs of fleas. It is not a good idea to take a flea infested pooch to any groomer.
  • Never take a female dog in season to a dog groomer.
  • Tell them that you don’t know how to groom your dog, but would like to learn how to maintain the dog’s coat between salon visits.
  • Ask them if they have any tips on where to buy dog grooming products from a trustworthy source?
  • Ask the groomer for advice on which grooming products to use on your dog between grooming sessions.

Check Your Dog After a Visit to The Dog Groomer

When you visit a groomer for the first session, carefully check your dog afterwards. Most pets will be a bit shaken but if your dog is very nervous or shy when he gets home, he may have been harmed.

Look for razor burns, scratches or cuts. See if there are red rashes. Check the nails as some professionals have split nails or cut off dew claws accidentally whilst trimming.

If you believe that the groomer has mistreated your pet, the first step is to talk to that groomer. Show them the problem and ask for an explanation.

If that doesn’t satisfy you, you have two choices. You can report them to the organisation that gave them the licence. They can advise you on how to what else you can do. You can call Consumer Affairs. This will be advertised publicly so other people will see your complaint and may decide not to use that groomer without further questions.

A licence to be a dog groomer is like a licence to be a cosmetologist. There are certain standards that must be followed. If the groomer hasn’t complied, they can be placed on probation or lose that licence.

If it’s a severe case of mistreatment, you can call the police and/or animal control and report them. As with every registered business, there are black lists and your groomer can be put on such a list if a problem was proved to be true.

As with hairdressers and mechanics, you may need to try several groomers before finding the ideal one for your needs. Some aren’t qualified to do certain things. Make your choice wisely and report problems you discover.

Final Thoughts on How To Choose a Dog Groomer

Grooming is designed to make sure the pet is healthy, both from a physical and emotional viewpoint. Your dog must be groomed so he looks good and maintains skin health. Correct grooming will ensure this is the case.

When you do find the right groomer for your needs, stick with them. Your dog’s safety is worth more than money. It’s peace of mind and also the mental and physical comfort of your pet that’s at stake. You can spread the word and tell others that he or she is a great groomer.

Copyright CaninePals.Com. All Rights Reserved


15 Common Dog Grooming Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

15 Common Dog Grooming Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

This article will teach you the common dog grooming mistakes that many people make, as well as share tips on how to avoid these pitfalls. 

Grooming your dog is a necessary task, but it’s also easy to make mistakes. It can be difficult to know how often you should bathe your dog and what type of shampoo or conditioner to use. If you’re struggling with grooming, then this blog post will help you out.

Grooming is a key element in the overall care of your pet. It makes a major impact on your choice of the dog breed you own. Regardless of the breed, you choose to take home, you’ll need to ensure he’s regularly groomed and bathed so he’s as healthy, comfortable, and visually appealing as possible.

In an ideal world, it’s best to leave grooming to the dog grooming professionals. However, it’s tempting to do it yourself because it can work out cheaper to do so. Grooming is a way you can bond with your pet. It can be very rewarding for both you and your pet, as long as you follow all the advice your vet or groomer gives you and that you feel comfortable doing it yourself.

It’s ideal if you can get a professional groomer for the job. However, you can do it for yourself if you buy a good quality pair of clippers. Most pet shops sell this type of product. In the long run, you’ll save heaps of money.

15 Common Dog Grooming Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
15 Common Dog Grooming Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Tips to Help you Avoid Dog Grooming Mistakes

There are many types of coats in the dog kingdom: long hair, short hair, double coats, and coats that don’t shed. Each type needs some unique grooming techniques but there are other grooming elements common to all dogs.

The Top 15 Dog Grooming Mistakes to Avoid

1. Failing To Brush Dog’s Coat Before Bathing

Every dog needs a regular brush as it gets rid of the surface dirt on the coat. It spreads the dog’s natural oil over his skin and helps stop the hair from becoming tangled. Brushing lets your feel your dog’s whole body and is an ideal method for checking for sores, bumps, and lumps that may need to be treated.

You should begin brushing your puppy when he’s very young so he becomes used to that activity. Reward the puppy with yummy treats while he sits quietly and patiently. At first, you should only do it for about two minutes and slowly increase the amount of time you spend brushing your pet.

Boxers, Staffordshire Terriers, and other dogs with smooth, short coats have a nickname of ‘wash’n’wear’ dogs as it’s very easy to look after their coats. A rubber brush should go against the lie of the fur generally is all you need. One tip here is that it’s wise to use a chamois cloth and rub it over your dog’s coat. This action polishes it and makes the coat shiny.

If your dog has a long coat and a protective undercoat, he’ll need to be brushed thoroughly every other day. If this doesn’t happen, his hair will become matted and very uncomfortable. To remove all loose hair, use a wire slicker brush. Use a wide-toothed comb to gently eliminate all the tangles and mats in your dog’s coat. It’s also vital that you trim the hair growing between his toes.

Dogs such as Bichon Frise, Schnauzers, and Poodles have a type of hair that continuously keeps growing, like wool, but it never sheds. Because of this, they’re ideal pets for those with allergies. However, they still need bathing regularly and their coats should be trimmed every 6-8 weeks using a decent clipper.

2. Failure to Train Your Dog

If you wish to groom your dog without causing him any harm, anxiety, or a complete mess, you must put in a lot of effort into training your dog so he’s comfortable whenever he is being groomed. To do this properly, it’s imperative that training him should begin when he’s as young as possible.

Part of this training involves ensuring he’s comfortable when he’s touched on his body, tail. paws, legs, head, and face, and that he’s used to hearing buzzing and other types of grooming tools.

He should also be comfortable with other people who touch him because you might hire a groomer down the track and you won’t like your dog to be afraid and, perhaps, nip him.

If you have adopted your dog when he’s older, it’s still essential to make him comfortable with all aspects of dog grooming at home. You have to create an environment that’s free from stress and ensure you give him lots of rewards and praise while you’re washing him and brushing his fur and teeth.

Be extremely patient and create a positive experience. Your dog could easily be nervous the first few times but persist with it. This will make your dog less anxious, preventing grooming a miserable time for you and your dog.

3. Washing Your Dog’s Inner Ears

Many people are under the impression that their dogs’ ears ought to be cleaned from time to time. However, this is not true! As a matter of fact, cleaning your dog’s inner ear can do more harm than good.

If your pup seems to have an ear issue, you should probably go see the vet. You’ll want them to check out how bad it is and determine what kind of treatment they need in order for their ears to be as healthy as possible.

4. Not Rinsing Your Dog Thoroughly

Whether you’re bathing your pup or just giving them a quick water spritz, it’s important to make sure that all the shampoo is off of their coat. If not rinsing thoroughly enough can lead to irritated and dry skin which will need extra attention at bath time as well as an increased chance for infections in those tender spots on their body.

Not rinsing their coat thoroughly can lead to things like the dreaded hot spots or worse yet itchiness and scratching which will drive any pup mad as they try so hard to scratch themselves raw because of an uncontrollable urge from the skin irritation.

5. Failure to Brush A Wet Dog

Apart from brushing him prior to a wash, it’s vital that you brush him after the wash. This makes brushing afterwards an easier, less painful process. Bathing him loosens even more hair. These hairs will become tangled in his coat if not brushed out. This is yet another reason for brushing him before and after his bath.

6. Lack of Grooming Consistency

Even though your schedule doesn’t say it’s time to cut his fur, bathe him and give him a complete grooming session, that’s no reason to avoid basic duties such as brushing his coat.

Some owners don’t groom their dog at a specific time of the year or might go for a couple of weeks without the urge to trim or bathe their dog. However, it’s essential to maintain the grooming routine so he’ll feel less stressed and won’t forget what grooming feels like when you return to regular dog grooming.

7. Not Being Thorough

Brushing your dog’s back is easy. However, a lot of owners forget there’s also an entire dog body connected to his back that will need your attention as well. Parasites and pests love infesting these other body parts including the face, belly, neck, ears, armpits, and tail. Looking for these areas on your dog’s body, as well as getting rid of mats and tangles won’t merely help them look fantastic, but it also maintains their good health.

8. Dog Grooming in Winter

Many owners are concerned about cutting their dog’s hair in the Wintertime, that their dogs will feel the cold. So, they don’t cut their dogs’ hair. They also ignore the other grooming tasks.

This often means their dogs have severe matting prior to warmer months and the only way to remedy the problem at this point is to do a short shave on their dog’s coat, the opposite of an owner’s goal in Winter. The extra length of the dog’s fur won’t keep him stay much warmer in Winter.

Keep up with his regular grooming: bathing and brushing, and trim his coat, too. This avoids tangled, matted fur and his natural coat will keep him warm. There’s no need for a full shave, but maintaining his coat is essential.

9. I Cut My Dog While Grooming

You must be very careful because a single slip when shaving a dog with clippers can cause your dog pain and harm. Damaging the dog’s skin with clippers is known as razor burn on dogs.  This isn’t just a physical injury. It’s also an emotional injury. It takes ages to build trust with your pet, to begin with, and if you hurt him, that trust can quickly evaporate, leaving your pet wary of you from then on.

Shaving a Dog with Clippers
Shaving a Dog with Clippers

The first mistake you can make is shaving too close to the skin. Clippers may leave a horrible razor burn that may later cause an infection. If you do accidentally cause such a burn whilst shaving a dog with clippers, immediately stop and apply first aid. Clean the wound and then apply some anti-bacteria salve. Give your pet lots of hugs and apologize for causing such pain and say that it was just an accident.

Although your pet may not understand the actual words, he’ll understand your tone and will react to you in the way you intend. Emotional pain can be as bad as physical pain. Keep your eye on the wound and if it starts oozing pus or turns red, take him to the vet straight away. If he licks or tries to scratch his wound, use a plastic protective collar because you don’t want him aggravating it while it’s trying to heal.

10. Shaving Your Dog For Summer

Shaving your dog for summer can be a dangerous and painful process. The sun heats up the blades of the razor, which could cause burns if touched by sensitive skin on their muzzle or ears. And because dogs have fur that grows in different directions, it’s not always easy to keep them from getting nicked when shaving certain areas like under the tail.

It’s important for double-coated spitz dog breed owners to be aware of the risk that shaving can cause problems. Double coated dogs like the Pomeranian are at higher risk for a variety of issues related to grooming, including hair loss after being shaved in an effort to stay cool during the summer months. Owners should avoid severe fur trimming on these breeds and opt instead for keeping them cooler with plenty of water and shade throughout the day.

15 Common Dog Grooming Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
15 Common Dog Grooming Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

11. Using Dull Clippers

You should never use dull clippers on dogs, and if you do the cut will be uneven. There are other issues as well that can arise from using a dull blade of any variety like infection or unnecessary discomfort for your dog when clipping is done too close to the skin’s surface. If you want to avoid these pitfalls make sure all blades are sharp before starting with grooming.

Don’t jump into nail clipping head first. First, you need to check that your clippers are sharp. They need to be replaced regularly. Dull nail clippers will crush your dog’s nails instead of properly cutting them, potentially making them slip and causing injuries.

Another mistake that you, as a novice groomer, can make is getting shampoo or other similar chemicals in your pet’s eyes. Whether it’s your fault or perhaps your pet moved his head at the wrong time, soap can easily splash. This can make your pet’s eyes sting and cause him to relate pet grooming with that unpleasant experience from then on. Again, trust is lost unnecessarily.

Wash his eyes with water or a saline solution and then dab them with a soft sterile cloth. Comfort your pet by hugging and patting him to take his attention off his eyes.

Give him a treat or grab his favorite toy. Hold the toy so he can see it and move it back and forth. Watch his eyes for any signs that they’re irritated as the eyes follow the toy up and down, back and forth.

13. Not Restraining Your Pet While Grooming

One mistake that may prove fatal is leaving your pet loose or unrestrained while you’re trying to groom him. Cats hate baths, as do some dogs, and they’ll try to escape at any opportunity. Your pet might try to escape while you’re grooming him.

He may run out into the road and get hit by a car or be attacked by another animal. Ensure you use a dog grooming restraint.

Preferably a leash and perhaps he needs a dog grooming head restraint such as a muzzle as well. This protects both him and you. If washing him outside, do it in a fenced area so he’s not tempted to run away.

14. Using the Wrong Equipment and Not Cutting Precisely and Slowly

Proper trimming of a dog’s nails is an enormous challenge for the majority of dog owners. This is an important reason for ensuring your dog is comfortable having his paws handled properly while training.

Learn the right way to spot the nails quick. If your dog’s nails are light in color, you’ll likely see the quick as a pink circle around each nail. If your dog’s nails are dark, the quick might be visible as a black circle when you cut into the nail.

Make sure you take your time and avoid cutting into the quick because it will cause pain and bleeding. If you don’t know how to do it, ask your vet or an experienced groomer to help you.

15. Letting Your Dog Go Outside Right After Grooming

Most dogs will go crazy after their bath, even if they have been fully dried. The first thing they want to do is run around and roll in things, such as the grass, mud, dirt, etc.

While there are numerous reasons for them wanting to do this, it’s critical that your dog be kept inside after being groomed. If not, he’ll run around outside and when he comes in again, you’ll need to wash everything off him and groom him once more.

Let your dog run around inside for a while until he loses the urge to go outside.

Final Thoughts Dog Grooming Mistakes to Avoid

The conclusion of this article of the list of the most common dog grooming mistakes and how to avoid them. In order to help you keep your pup looking his or her best, I compiled this list of some of the most common mistakes that people make when they are trying to groom their pet dog at home.

These tips will be sure to save you from any unwanted hairballs in the future! Let me know if there are other questions about these topics that need more clarification before putting our advice into practice with your furry friend. We’re happy to answer all your queries and provide helpful solutions for keeping your puppy well-groomed.

Copyright CaninePals.Com. All Rights Reserved.

Tips on Dog Grooming
Tips on Dog Grooming

 

 

dog

Dog Wash and Grooming Tips

Some pet owners refuse to groom their dog because every time they attempt to do so, it turns into a nightmare with both the dog and themselves losing confidence and feeling stressed. Many owners appreciate that their pet needs to be groomed and so they take him to a professional groomer, praying that they’ll work a miracle and groom the dog without poor behavior getting in the way.

Most dog owners return later and, when they see their precious pet, they’re devastated because the best the groomer could do was half the job they were being paid to do. They’re told to take their dog home, even though he’s only half clipped and isn’t combed at all. The groomer says it’s the owner’s responsibility.

The fact is that pets hate being groomed. Dogs love swimming in rivers and playing in mud puddles but become petrified when they see the bath being filled. Cats love being petted all day long but the moment their owner picks up a brush, they’re out the door and up a tree.

Owners must realize that if they can’t wash or brush their pet at home, the groomer has no chance of being able to do so. A professional groomer can make your dog look good BUT he can’t train your dog and nor should he be expected to.

The simplest method for teaching your dog that grooming is fun and enjoyable is to start doing it when he’s very young. Puppies will naturally squirm at first but because they’re small, they’re easier to manage. The bigger they get, the harder it can be to groom them because when they do move around, it can take all your strength to keep them calm and still. Puppies and kittens squirm because they love being with you. Brush and wash them early on and they’ll begin associating those tasks with some fun time with you.

Time must be spent on their ears as well. This includes playing, stroking and cleaning. If you do that from a young age, it will be much easier for both you and your vet to care for their ears as they get older.

Pet owners know that when it comes to nail trimming, it’s a very difficult task. You won’t have to trim nails of your kitten or puppy but still spend time playing with his feet so he gets used to that type of handling for when it’s time to start trimming. Do it early on in their life and it will be much simpler to do later on.

Once grooming is finished, give your pet some treats and play with him. Soon he’ll learn that if he sits still, he’ll be able to play with you and have treats faster.

Home Doggie Grooming Tips

1. Prepare all your Supplies and Equipment

Get your comb and grooming brush, ear cleaner, styptic powder and nail clippers. Then add bath towels and shampoo. Get everything you need beforehand because you can’t leave your dog alone while you’re grooming and bathing him because he can easily hurt himself if he struggles to escape. His short attention span may restrict the amount of time you can spend with him doing these tasks.

2.Secure your Dog

Get a tub that will keep him secure while you control him. Small dogs can be washed in a rubber bin or in a sink. You need a rubber surface or mat for his feet. Secure him with the use of a grooming lead, not a normal collar, and ensure it won’t strangle him if he struggles. If he bites, have a muzzle ready.

3. Clean his Ears

Have cotton balls and a dog ear-cleaning solution. Keep him secure and check his ears to see if there’s any redness or irritating marks. Softly drop a few drops of the solution into the ear flap and down the canal. Don’t push the applicator too deep. Damp cotton balls should be used to get rid of discharge or debris from within the ear flap.

4. Trim your Pet’s Nails

Get a good pair of nail clippers and styptic powder. Take each paw and lightly push the pad to extend the nail. If the nails are white, you’ll see the quick or section with the blood vessels. Softly cut a tiny piece of the tip of the nail at a 45 degree angle. If the nails are dark, snip tiny snips until you see a black dot appear in the centre of the nail. That’s the quick and is to be avoided. If you do cut the quick and draw blood, blot the blood. Put styptic powder on the nail to stop the blood. If he has dewclaws, they must also be trimmed.

5. Brush your Dog’s Coat to Get Rid of Mats and Debris

Every dog needs this because it helps boost circulation, gets rid of debris and decreases shedding. Brush down to his skin as you look for ticks, scrapes and cuts. If he has two coats, brush them both. If you do find mats on his legs or behind his ears, get rid of them by using a slicker brush with slanted, short metal bristles. Don’t pull the mat because it won’t move and it will only hurt your dog.

6. Wash your Dog Properly

Run warm water (never hot water) across his back, body and the back of his head. Apply some of the shampoo and softly massage it through his whole body, avoiding the front of his head. Cover his eyes and nose while rinsing the front of his head and then rinse the rest of his body from top to bottom. If he’s very dirty, do this process twice.

7.Thoroughly Dry Him

Pat him down with towels instead of rubbing which may cause matting and tangling of his coat. Then use a dryer on a low setting but don’t point it at his face. Make sure it doesn’t get too hot or it can damage his skin. Make sure your dog is 100% dry before he’s allowed outside if it’s cold weather.

Items You Will Require for Grooming

  • Grooming comb/brush/s/slicker brush.
  • Styptic powder/canine nail clippers.
  • Pet shampoo/pet ear cleaner.
  • Rubber bin or tub for small dogs and rubber mat.
  • Muzzle/grooming lead.
  • Cotton balls/dryer/towels

Dog wash and Grooming Conclusion

If your day is a bad one, regardless of the reason, don‘t groom your pet. He’ll sense your negative vibes and the task will be much harder to accomplish. He’ll feel trapped while sitting in your lap. Instead, play with him, without making him feel trapped. You’ll still give him your undivided attention and you’ll find it’s therapeutic for you both. It’s a win-win situation.

Ensure you make every grooming session with your pet a positive one and you’ll find that the sessions become easier and faster and you’ll enjoy them as well.

Copyright CaninePals.Com. All Rights Reserved.