Dogs Grooming Basics

Dogs need physical maintenance to look and feel their best. A dog's grooming needs are dependent upon the breed and hair types. If your dog is suffering from a skin, ear or nail issue, follow your veterinarian's instruction regarding grooming.

Following are some dog grooming basics

Hair Brushing
Most dogs enjoy having their coats brushed, and hair brushing sessions strengthen the bond with your dog, while also maintaining a healthy coat. A dog's brushing needs vary depending on its hair type. select the right tools and follow these.

• Long haired dogs usually require daily brushing to prevent matting and tangling of hair.
• Medium-haired dogs may be prone to matting and tangles and should be brushed at least weekly.
• Short-haired dogs can typically go up to a month without brushing.

Nail Trimming
Nail trimming is disliked by dogs and owners alike. Most dogs to not like even having their paws handled and their nails hurt if they are cut too short. Dog owners are also uncomfortable with the process for fear of hurting their dogs. The best thing to do learn how to trim nails correctly and exercise caution. You can learn how to do it form your vet but if you're still not confident, it's best to let the experts handle this task.

Bathing
Most dogs should be bathed on a monthly basis. A tub is usually the easiest place to bathe a dog, though very small dogs can be bathed in a sink. With the help of a hand -,held sprayer soak your dog from head to toe with warm water. Avoid the eyes and inside of the ears. Many dogs have water resistant coats; therefor, a thorough soaking is usually requisite to penetrate the pets hair all the way through.

Eye Care
A dog's ears can be a sanctuary for bacteria and yeast, if kept unclean. while some dogs can go their whole lives without ear disease and require multiple cleanings a day. Dogs with floppy ears or long hair, such as Cocker Spaniels, tend to be vulnerable to ear problems because their ear canals do not get adequate air exposure. Ear problems can also be a sign of allergies. If foul odour is emanating from your dog's ears, your veterinarian will most likely prescribe special ear cleaners and appropriate medications.

Haircuts
Dogs with long and abundant hair, such as the Poodles and Shih Tzus, typically need a haircut every two to four weeks, depending on the breed of the dog and the style of the cut. Hair cutting should be left to professional groomers, although some dog owners are able to lean basic maintenance haircut