How Often Should I Groom My Dog?
Friday, December 20, 2019 11:45:00 AM America/Los_Angeles
Regular grooming is essential to keep your dog healthy and happy! Everyone's seen those before and after pictures of a dog who was abandoned on the streets, is rescued, and receives an extreme makeover. The truth is, a dogs hair can start to get matted and look like this after as little as SIX MONTHS if they aren't bathed, brushed, and cut regularly! However, it's also important to note that bathing your dog too often can cause dry, irritated skin. If your dog is always getting into smelly, dirty things outside and needs baths more than once a week, consider using an indoor potty solution to limit their chances of rolling around in something outside that smells great to them but not us! So many owners neglect taking their dog to the groomers because they don't think it's necessary. However, it's extremely important to maintain your pups coat! In between grooming appointments, it is also essential that you groom your dog yourself at home.
Hair Brushing
Be sure to brush your dog at least once a week- every day or so if you have a dog with hair as opposed to fur. Brushing your dog not only strengthens the bond between the two of you, but removes dirt and debris from the coat, removes dead hair, reduces shedding, and stimulates oil production to keep the coat silky smooth. If your dog has long hair it is especially important to brush a few times a week to prevent tangles that will turn into matting. Extreme matting can cut off blood supply to extremities, and deny regular air circulation- not to mention if you bring your dog to the groomers with matted hair, they'll have no choice but to give your pooch a buzz cut!
Teeth Brushing
You don't neglect your oral hygiene and you shouldn't neglect your dogs! It's suggested that you brush your dogs teeth at least three times a week along with supplementing with dental toys/treats.
Nail Clipping
Most dogs need their nails trimmed every month. Your dog may need their nails trimmed more or less often depending on their breed, activity level, and growth rate. When you hear your dogs paws making those little tapping noises on the floor around the house, it's likely that it's time for a trim as nails shouldn't be touching the floor.
Ear Cleaning
If your dog has floppy ears, it's important to clean them regularly. To start, be sure that you thoroughly dry your dogs ears after being exposed to moisture. Moisture can cause bacteria and yeast to grow in the ear. When the ears are darker pink, seem irritated, have discharge, smell musky, or look swollen, it is extremely important to thoroughly clean them. Prevent this from happening by regularly cleaning them every 3 weeks.
You can read how to properly clean your dogs ears here. Your dogs ears will have to be cleaned more often when it is humid outside. In the hot summer, your dog should have their ears cleaned weekly, especially if they go swimming! You may be able to cut down on this amount of ear cleaning by keeping your dog out of the humidity. A Bark Potty can help greatly with this. Give your dog a place to go to the bathroom indoors when it's too hot out! Keeping your dog out of the heat, rain, and other harsh weather will help maintain their health!
Hair Cuts
Schedule regular hair cuts for your dog with your local groomer. Dogs with rapidly growing hair, like a Poodle or Terrier, should get their hair cut every month. It all depends on the breed. Most dogs should go to the groomers at least every 3-4 months. Don't let 6 months go by without a proper grooming.
Bathing
It is recommended that you bathe your dog at least once a month. You should use dog shampoo or human baby shampoo. If bathing once a week, be sure to use a moisturizing shampoo to prevent dry skin! Regular grooming of your dog is essential to keeping your best friend clean and happy. If you want to extend the time between baths for your dog, try using an indoor potty solution. This way your playful pup won't be rolling in any mud or other smelly things outside. Your dog will thank you for keeping them feeling fresh and clean!!