Grooming Your Dog – Breed Matters.
Any dog owner will be aware that they need to look after their dog physically, beyond just going for walks and food and drink. When you have a dog, you need to help them take care of their coats, teeth, and claws.
Once upon a time, before we domesticated dogs, they would have done this themselves, but as we domesticated them, and crossbred pups to get more home-friendly fur babies, they started needing our help more.
Of course, not every dog is the same, a Basset Hound needs different help from a Poodle. While every dog will need help and care, those needs will vary from breed to breed. Depending on hereditary conditions, pet health insurance may be a good investment.
So, when you get a dog, what do you need to do? Well, let’s find out.
And if you are looking for extra information, do not be afraid to check out Petsmao.com.
Brushing.
Any pet with fur will need a good brushing from time to time, however, some dogs need it more than others. Since dogs like to go jumping in puddles, or scratch at the ground, it is not uncommon for long haired dogs to get their fur matted and muddy.
Of course, bathing your dog helps if they are filthy, but even if they seem clean, brushing can help to stop tangles, and dryness.
When we brush our hair, we distribute natural oils evenly through our hair to prevent dryness. When we brush our dogs, this does the same for them. It also reduces excessive shedding in dogs who do shed, as well as preventing fur from becoming matted or tangled.
Brushing your dog’s fur also helps you spot issues sooner, you will get a good look at their skin and fur while you brush and if there are any bumps, lumps, or skin conditions around, you will see them. This can help to avoid any bigger issues further down the road.
Cleaning those teeth.
Dog’s don’t go to the dentist regularly like we do, but they still need to practice dental hygiene. However, we’ve never seen a dog brushing their teeth in the bathroom, and it’s unlikely any dog can do that.
You do not need to be brushing Fido’s teeth every day to prevent periodontal diseases, however, it is important to care for their teeth, as bacteria and plaque can easily gather around their gums.
If you get a dog as a puppy, start brushing early on, or at least simulating it, to get them used to it and make it easier when they are older. Certain chew toys can also help them to clean their own teeth to make your job a little easier on you.
Make sure you use dog specific products for this, though. Start off using your finger and move to a toothbrush when they are comfortable with it, starting at a 45-degree angle.
Pest Control!
Part of grooming is preventing pests such as fleas and ticks that could lead to many health issues. They are painful for your dog and the bites can be super annoying-for both of you.
Having these pests in your dog’s coat can lead their skin to dry out. It could also lead to anemia, or even tapeworms.
Annoyingly, fleas exist everywhere, and that is the main issue with them. You should be very vigilant and always take care during flea season.
You can prevent these issues from taking hold by vacuuming regularly – every day is a good idea, washing your dog’s bedding regularly, and making herbal sprays for your yard to keep fleas from the garden (garlic works wonders).
If your dog does catch fleas, see your vet and get treatments for them, and keep brushing. You can also get flea combs, which will electrocute the fleas as you brush your dog’s fur.
Puppy Mani-Pedi.
In the wild, animals such as cats and dogs would be using their claws enough that they would keep them in good shape naturally. However, living a chilled-out domesticated life means that these mini-weapons are not naturally kept in such good nick. This means you need to look after them, taking your dog to see a groomer is often the best bet.
Long nails can lead to poor posture and arthritis, so walks would no longer be so fun.
Pup nail clippers are available, and can even trim hard and tough nails, of course you can also get nail grinders too, if your dog doesn’t like the clippers.