Whether this is the first time grooming your dog at home or you’ve done this before and are simply looking for a few extra tips, we can help.
The first thing everyone should be aware of is some dogs love to be groomed. They love being pampered and everything that comes with it. But some dogs hate it, and they will try and get away from you. These pups just need some extra TLC and it’s good to know that the more times you groom them, the more they will feel comfortable having it done.
Tools you need to groom your dog:
- Brush
- Comb
- Bog shampoo and conditioner
- Dog toothbrush and toothpaste
- Electric clippers for their fur
- Nail trimmers
Cut the nails
This can be one of the toughest parts when it comes to grooming your dog, but once you have done it a few times you will get the hang of it. Not all dogs need their nails cut as they naturally file when they go on walks, but others may need them cut for them. You should invest in a grooming kit which includes nail clippers and file to ensure they are done properly.
Tips for trimming your dog’s nails:
- Hold the paw firmly.
- Trim any fur that is growing around the nail to give you good visibility.
- Don’t cut the nails too short, just trim the tips. If your dog has lighter nails, avoid cutting where they look pink.
- You should avoid clipping beyond the curve of the nail. Going beyond this can risk hitting what is known as the ‘quick’. This pink area of the nail contains blood vessels and if cut can bleed and be very painful.
Give the fur attention
Once you have cut the dog’s nails, now you can focus on the fur. Firstly give them a brush and try to comb through any knots and tangles. If the fur is particularly long or there are some matted areas that won’t brush, you may need to cut them. To keep their coat healthy and shiny as you give the fur attention, consider using supplements from Mighty Munch that promote skin and coat health.
Time for a wash
You should bathe them in some warm water. While some dogs do like the shower, it can be a shock to them the first time they get groomed, so sitting them in the sink or the bath is the best solution. Use shampoo and conditioner as you would on your hair and rinse thoroughly. Some people recommend giving them a spritz with heavily diluted vinegar to speed up the drying process after.
Take care to dry
You have a few options when it comes to trying off your dog. You can either towel dry them, although this can take time. Or you can use a pet hairdryer or a human hairdryer.
If you use a human hair dryer there are some things you need to consider: The noise can scare them, so have the fan level on low and you shouldn’t use heat. A dog’s skin is sensitive, and you risk burning them if you use the hairdryer incorrectly.
Reward them with treats
Throughout the grooming process, you should praise them when they are good and give them a little treat – they may be more inclined to sit still!