Behind a healthy and happy doggo, there are treats, toys, loving pet parents and dog grooming. Grooming our pooch regularly is the most important aspect of being a responsible pet parent. Your dog’s overall well being depends on how you take care of them. Things which seem minor are actually extremely important such as brushing, shaving, bathing, trimming, paw cleaning, etc. At the same time, it is also crucial that you know how to do these things in the right way so that there are no mishaps.
Do’s of Dog Grooming
Let us dive into the grooming do's and donts of your dog before we talk about the don'ts. Mentioned below are a few important points that you can follow if you want to do dog grooming at home.
- Always groom regularly: Did you know that your dog is most susceptible to picking up a skin infection if not groomed on a regular basis? This is why we cannot emphasize enough on the importance of regular dog grooming. They can get matts in their coat or develop complicated medical conditions as well, if not looked after. This is even more important when we talk about long haired dogs. However if you have a short haired dog you must ensure that you trim their nails from time to time, check their skin for any bumps, brush their teeth and give them proper baths with a hydrating shampoo.
- Skin care is im-paw-tent: If your pooch has healthy skin then it is a bright indication of their good health. This is why it is pivotal to check your furry’s skin in regular intervals and see a vet immediately if you find any bumps, excessive hair loss or other skin troubles. Another point to keep in mind is when you see your pooch licking, chewing or biting their skin excessively - it could be an indication of an underlying skin problem. Dog grooming helps you keep a keen eye on your furry’s skin and be watchful for any problems. Therefore, always check the skin when grooming your pooch.
- Woof for oral health: Simply bathing or brushing your pooch is not enough. You also need to take care of your furry’s oral health. Bad breath and gum disease can become a source of a much more serious health condition. Therefore, when you start dog grooming at home, you must make sure that you brush their teeth with a dog friendly toothpaste. You can also give your furry dental dog treats that help in preventing tartar build up and maintain overall oral hygiene.
- Always keep treats handy: Many dogs do not enjoy grooming and we dont blame them.. It does take some time to be brushed, bathed and dried! You can make this procedure entertaining and happy for them by keeping some treats in hand. For instance, you can reward your puppy or adult dog for staying still while being brushed with a yummy treat. This will make your pooch associate dog grooming to a positive reward!
Don’ts of Dog Grooming at Home
While grooming your dog at home is a wonderful bonding experience, certain protocols must be followed for safety and effectiveness. Here are some key don’ts to avoid:
Do Not Use Human Products
Never use human shampoo or grooming products on your dog. Human products can irritate your dog’s skin because their pH level differs from dogs’. Always use dog-specific shampoos that are gentle and suitable.
Never Brush Damp Fur
Brushing wet or damp fur can cause painful tangles and knots. Always brush your dog’s fur when it is dry and be gentle to avoid hurting your furry friend.
Groom Your Dog the Right Way with Zigly
We hope these do’s and don’ts help you groom your furry friend better. For an all-around fun and care experience, visit the Zigly experience center—groom, shop, play, and meet the vet all in one place! Or simply book an at-home grooming session where Zigly’s experts come to your doorstep and pamper your pooch perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How often should I groom my dog?
Regular grooming is essential, especially for long-haired dogs. Aim for weekly brushing and monthly baths, but adjust based on your dog’s breed and lifestyle.
2. Can I use human shampoo on my dog?
No, human shampoos can irritate your dog’s skin due to different pH levels. Always use shampoos formulated for dogs.
3. How can I make grooming enjoyable for my dog?
Use treats and positive reinforcement during grooming to create a happy association. Be gentle and patient.
4. Should I brush my dog’s fur when it’s wet?
No, brushing wet fur can cause tangles and discomfort. Wait until your dog’s coat is dry.
5. What should I do if I notice skin issues during grooming?
Consult your veterinarian immediately if you find bumps, redness, excessive hair loss, or if your dog is excessively licking or biting its skin.
These were a few do’s and don'ts of dog grooming. We hope they help you in grooming your furry better. You can always hop on to the Zigly experience center for a fun filled day with your pooch where you can groom, shop, play and meet the vet. Or you can simply book an at home grooming session where the experts will visit your home and groom your pooch in the most perfect way!
