8 BEST GROOMING TIPS FROM A DOG GROOMING PROFESSIONAL

Is your puppy’s regular bath day getting closer?
Bathing and grooming your dog might be hit-and-miss. Some dogs and owners may enjoy it, while others do not. Regardless, it’s an essential part of being a dog owner.

All pet owners want their dogs to seem nice and clean, especially if they are indoor pets. However, grooming is also beneficial to a dog’s health. Grooming helps maintain your dog’s skin and coat healthy and free of dead hairs.

If you hate dog grooming, we’ve got you covered. Here are some grooming recommendations for a clean, show-ready dog! Read on to learn more.

1. START GROOMING YOUR DOG AT A YOUNG AGE

Do you have a puppy that didn’t get its first bath yet? Use this chance to introduce bath time as a fun activity. Cleaning your dog will be lot easier if they don’t try to escape out of the bath.
Many dog owners bring snacks to the wash to praise their dogs’ good behavior. If this is your puppy’s first bath, use warm water and plenty of attention. Place your dog on a counter or table and touch their paws.
If you have grooming scissors, let them sniff them first. Teach your dog that the blowdryer is not the enemy. This will make trips to the professional groomer easier.

2. UNDERSTAND YOUR DOG’S COAT TYPE

Dogs come in many different shapes, sizes, and personalities. One of the most crucial aspects of grooming a dog is understanding its coat type. If your dog is short-haired, you don’t have anything to worry about.

On the other hand, several popular dog breeds, such as retrievers, poodles, and shih tzus, require special care. Some dog coats are prone to tangling and matting, making them difficult to manage for a new dog owner. Some dog owners shave their pets rather than use shears.

However, shaving isn’t always the best option for dogs. For some dog breeds, shaving is the sole option for severe matting. It can destroy a dog’s undercoat and cause permanent harm to its fur.

If you have a long-haired or double-coated dog, do some research. It may seem like extra work, but it will save you a lot of time and headaches in the long run.

3. PICK YOUR PRODUCTS

Don’t use any shampoo or conditioner from the pet store. Dogs, like humans, can have skin disorders such as dry or sensitive skin. Using the wrong shampoo might worsen your dog’s skin and cause additional problems.
If your dog has dry skin, we suggest using an oatmeal-based shampoo. Oatmeal is high in anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds. In addition to calming your dog’s skin, it hydrates and moisturizes it.

If your dog’s skin is irritated, consider using a medicated or hypoallergenic shampoo. You can also use conditioners to improve your dog’s skin and coat health.
If you intend to trim and cut your dog’s hair yourself, invest in some quality tools. Keep them all in one area and ensure proper maintenance.

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4. Deshedding/Dematting

As you rinse your dog’s coat, use a comb or brush to remove excess loose hair and detangle any mats that have formed. You’ll find it easier to do this while bathing than when trying to dry them.

5. Grooming Equipment:

If you intend to perform all of the grooming yourself, one highly recommended professional dog grooming tip is to invest in the necessary gear (brushes, scissors, and trimmers). They will not only survive longer, but also perform better than their cheaper competitors. To extend the life of your tools, keep them clean after each use, lubricate them, and sharpen them as needed.

6. Clipping Dog Nails

Most professional groomers start the session by cutting the dog’s nails. If your dog enjoys jumping on you, this will help reduce scratches. Cutting your dog’s nails is also beneficial to their health.
Unclipped nails can cause unexpected breaks, which can become infected and damage your dog. They can also push into your dog’s paws, causing significant discomfort while walking. If left untreated, this can result in bone deterioration.

7. Get a Helping Hand

Because many dogs will not stay still for drying and clipping, you may require some assistance. One dog grooming tip is to utilize a Groomers Helper device to keep your dog from squirming, biting, or spinning. It will actually make your task go lot faster, which will also be beneficial to the dog. If you don’t have the necessary equipment, contact a family member or acquaintance who knows your pet well to assist you.

8. Dry Before Grooming

 Make sure your dog is completely dry before grooming. Coats that have been partially dried will curl more, making it difficult to trim evenly. This manner, you can do a single pass with the clippers.

9. Pay attention to your dog’s diet.

Do you want to know how to make your dog’s coat shiny and luscious? Bathing and hair trimming are not the only aspects of proper grooming. It also requires a healthy and well-balanced diet.

Some dog breeds are prone to skin issues, and their food may not be particularly beneficial. Food allergies could also cause your dog’s coat to lose its sheen. If you want your dog to appear healthy, you must ensure that they are in good form.
Consult your veterinarian about any modifications to your dog’s food. They may also offer vitamins to improve your dog’s skin and coat health.

10. DO NOT SKIP ON YOUR DOG’S ORAL HEALTH.

Your dog should get used to being handled, particularly around the jaw. When grooming your dog, you should never neglect oral hygiene. You want to be able to elevate your dog’s gums and wash their teeth.
Dogs can also develop dental problems, particularly if their teeth are not properly cared for. You may also give your dog chewable treats to help keep their teeth and gums healthy.

11. Stay CONSISTENT

When you think about it, grooming your dog is only one aspect of their training. So, create a routine that suits your and your dog’s lifestyle. Consistency also benefits young dogs who are still nervous about grooming.
If it isn’t bath day, remember to brush and untangle your dog’s coat. This is the most effective method for preventing matting and removing dead fur from your home.

12. DO NOT FORGET THE PAWS.

Paws are rarely given sufficient care to protect other from nail cutting. When grooming your dog, this is the one thing you must not overlook. Trim the fur between your dog’s paw pads.

You can also use a razor if your pet is used to it. Excessive hair growth in this area might cause irritation. Keeping this region trimmed also improves traction, which is essential if your dog lives an active outdoor lifestyle.

Conclusion

Now that you’ve learned how to groom a dog, put those talents to work! Dogs’ demands may always vary, but these grooming techniques will ensure that both you and your pooch enjoy the experience.