Grooming Hacks - from a Professional Dog Groomer
January 28 2023 – Canine And Countryside
Most dogs need regular professional grooming every 4-6 weeks. In between grooming appointments it is important to maintain the coat with brushing and bathing at home. The reason consistent coat care is so important, whether your dog's coat is long or short, is that a clean and brushed coat will effectively insulate your dog's body from the environment helping to correct body temperature. Contrary to popular belief, a double coated breed does not need to be shaved in summer. This is because when we consistently brush and wash our double coated breeds, we're keeping their coats light weight and clean and allowing their hair to protect them from the harsh summer sun. When we keep our dog's coat and skin clean and and regularly brushed, we are doing so much more than just making them look good.
The following are important grooming hacks for those in between grooming periods:-
- Brush your dog every day or every second day to avoid matting, coat build up and to stimulate hair follicle growth and to spread your dogs natural oils. (All dogs need brushing despite coat length.)
- Bathe your dog once a week. We recommend using a shampoo and conditioner that is chemical free(SLS and SLES), paraben free, and free of synthetic perfumes. It is not recommended that you use human shampoo and conditioner on your dog as human skin has a very different pH balance and doing so can result in an allergic reaction or a visit to the vet.
- Much like humans, dogs are temperature sensitive. This means when you bathe your dog make sure the water is a nice temperature and not too hot and not too cold.
- When grooming at home it is important to have a quiet and safe space dedicated to your brushing and bathing. Grooming at home is an opportunity to bond with your dog and to make it an enjoyable experience for you and your friend. Always reward good behaviour during and after grooming to encourage cooperation.
- If your dog is not used to being brushed (or is a puppy) take regular and short breaks in-between with food rewards for good behaviour.
- Have fun and make grooming a positive experience. Your dog, and your Groomer will thank you!