Tips for Grooming Your Dog at Home
Many pets dread going to the groomer. No matter how hard you try, they may still refuse to get in the car and let your groomer clean and clip away at them. For stubborn furry friends, grooming at home may be a better option to make them more comfortable and ease them into the grooming. Check out these tips to give your dog a comfortable and pleasant at-home groom!
Patience and Treats are Key
Grooming can be tedious and stressful for both you and your dog. Try to be patient and understanding toward your pup! Start off with a few shorter grooming sessions so your pooch can adapt to the experience. Another great tip to keep your dog relaxed throughout is to reward them with treats and praise for good behavior. They may squirm, but try to avoid restraining them as this will only cause them more discomfort. You want them to have a positive association with their grooming experience so next time is easier!
Brush Regularly
Just running a brush through your dog’s fur regularly can help remove dirt, excess fur, oil, and tangles. This will keep your pup’s fur much healthier! Depending on your dog’s breed, they may need to be brushed more often than others, so check with your vet to familiarize yourself with good brushing habits. Brushing fur means less hair to vacuum, lint roll, and your dog’s coat will look smooth and sleeker than ever before!
Bathe Regularly
Just like brushing, some dogs need to be bathed more often than others. Try to keep their bathing schedule regular so they can get used to it, and always use a pet shampoo to avoid skin irritation. If your dog has an extremely oily, itchy, or dry skin, talk to your vet about the frequency of their baths and the shampoo you should use.
Trim Nails Regularly
If your dog’s nails start clacking on the hardwood a little more than usual, it may be time for a trim! Taking your dogs for walks on harder surfaces, like cement, can help wear down their nails and keep them healthy, but it’s not a cure-all for their nails. To start trimming, gently lift each paw individually and reward them when they stay calm. Then simply touch each paw with the nail trimmer, again rewarding them for remaining calm. After that, trim one nail and if they seem calm, work your way up to the rest of their nails.
Avoid the Quick
The quick is the pink area in the middle of your pup’s nails that contains nerves and blood vessels. Since it’s a sensitive area, try to avoid it when you’re trimming your dog’s nails. For starters, trim the very top of their nails until you see a black dot in the center of the nail. If you’re concerned about your trimming technique, talk to your vet and ask them to demonstrate proper trimming!
At-home grooming can be tricky, especially if your dog is stubborn or uncomfortable with it. Try to stay patient with them and talk to your vet if you have any questions about grooming!