Grooming is very important for dog to keep it healthy and also for looking attractive.
It is important to start grooming when they are puppies. The care of the coat depends and varies on the breed. Terriers coats are plucked to remove dead hair while short-haired dogs require brushing. Terrier
breed dogs require some brushing and combing in between the plucking. Long haired dogs are first combed and then brushed. Regular brushing and grooming keeps the coat tidy and also helps when the dog is losing or shedding its hair. The
dog will lose its hair once or twice in a year so that dog will be clean and free of dander and helps to stimulate circulation. Brushing twice weekly is recommended, but brushing daily is the best.
Daily grooming is required for dog breeds with rich, dense, long coat. Bathing for a dog is necessary only when it is very dirty or carries a bothersome odor. Over washing will make the dog's coat dry and brittle and also removes natural oils. Mild soaps are recommended for
dogs and see that all soap is rinsed from the coat and get a towel around the dog immediately, as it will shake to remove the excess water. If the weather is cool or windy keep the dog indoors to make it dry. Mats are found behind the ears or under the legs of dogs with long hair. Mats can be removed by teasing or picking apart with one or two teeth of a comb. Cutting of mats must be done carefully.
Nail trimming is important part of
grooming. The nails are cut so they are just above the floor. To trim dog’s nails, purchase a set of nail clippers that are meant for dogs. Place the clippers over the nail and clip the tip of the nail. Do not clip too close, as cutting off too much will expose and damage the vein. If the vein is accidentally get cut, apply pressure to the wound with a clean gauze pad until the bleeding stops. Brushing dog’s teeth is another task in grooming. Do not use regular toothpaste as it is not safe for dogs to swallow. Use a medium to heavy bristle toothbrush or a rubber “finger brush” to gently rub on dog’s teeth and gums.
The ears of dogs are sensitive. To clean dog’s ears, lightly dampen the end of a cotton tip swab. Use the damp swab to gently clean the exterior areas of its ears. Mineral oil or alcohol should never be used to clean dogs ears, because oil remains in the ear causing hearing problems. Dog exercising is also a part of grooming. The best exercise for dogs is to allow them to play with other dogs. If there are any difficulties in
grooming a dog, then take it to a professional groomer so that he can give some tips on how to groom the dog.
