As an associate business “The Dog House” in Oakville will be offering an introduction course on the basics of grooming your own dog called “Prep your Pooch”. Scroll to the bottom of this article for more information. This course will help out owners who have questions or want to get better at upkeep their dogs between grooms.
Are you considering taking a DIY approach to grooming your canine friend at home? Grooming your dog can be a rewarding experience, but you probably have a lot of questions and want to do it correctly so your pup stays healthy, happy, and looking their best. In this blog post, we’ll cover the dos and don’ts of DIY dog grooming, so you can start to be more confident in your at home care for your canine companion.
The Dos:
- Gather the Right Tools: Before you start grooming, make sure you have the necessary tools like brushes, combs, nail clippers, and pet-friendly shampoo. Using the right equipment can make the process smoother and more comfortable for your dog. If you are unsure what are the right tools to use – try reaching out to an expert or reading blogs relevant to your dogs specific breed.
- Create a Calm Environment: Choose a quiet, well-lit area for grooming to minimise distractions and stress for your dog. A calm atmosphere can help your pup feel more at ease during the process.
- Brush Regularly: Regular brushing keeps your dog’s coat in good condition, prevents matting, and reduces shedding. The frequency of brushing depends on your dog’s breed and coat type, so consult your groomer or vet for guidance.
- Brush All Over: Make sure you are brushing all of the fur on your dog, not just the easy areas to brush. The most common areas dogs can become matted are: Behind the ears, between back legs, along the dog’s backside, groin area, underneath front legs, under the collar, the lower legs.
- Nail Care: Keep your dog’s nails at a safe length to avoid discomfort and injury. If you’re unsure about how to trim nails, consult a professional or ask for a demonstration during a grooming appointment.
- Use Pet-Friendly Shampoo: Always use a dog-specific shampoo. Human shampoos can irritate your dog’s skin. Ensure you rinse thoroughly to avoid residue.
The Don’ts:
- Don’t Rush: Grooming should be a relaxed, unhurried process. Rushing can cause anxiety for your dog and potentially lead to accidents.
- Avoid Over-Trimming: Be cautious when trimming your dog’s fur. Cutting too close to the skin can result in nicks or skin irritation. It’s often best to leave scissoring and intricate cuts to professional groomers.
- Skip Ear Cleaning: Avoid deep cleaning your dog’s ears at home, as this can lead to ear infections or injuries. Instead, consult your vet for ear care guidance.
- Don’t Neglect Safety: Always be mindful of your dog’s safety. Keep sharp tools out of their reach, and be gentle to prevent accidents or injuries.
- Don’t Skip Professional Grooming: While you can handle some grooming tasks at home, it’s essential to schedule regular professional grooming appointments. Experienced groomers can assess your dog’s specific needs, ensuring they receive the care they require.
Remember that every dog is unique, so adapt your grooming routine to your pet’s individual needs. If you’re unsure about any aspect of DIY grooming, consult with your veterinarian or a professional groomer for guidance. Your dog’s health and well-being are the top priorities, and with the right care, your pup will always look and feel their best. Happy grooming!
The Dog House’s is offering Dog Grooming Workshops – where groomers work with owners on proper maintenance of their dogs coat! This helps with dogs that may need a bit more care and can in some cases help extend time in-between grooms if done properly. The purpose of these workshops is so that owners can ask questions Join us every other Saturday, starting December 2nd, for a new education experience. Led by one of our talented groomers, our 1-hour session will unveil the art of brushing your beloved pet between grooms. Discover tips, tricks, and skills to helping keep your pup’s coat gleaming and healthy.
Register here: https://forms.gle/2MZ5o9VmcVW37xsg7
