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Grooming plays an important role in the health and well-being of your dog and strengthens the bond between you and your pet. Here are some general guidelines that dog owners can follow when it comes to proper grooming.

Brushing

Brushing should be done at least once a week. Dogs with longer hair may require daily brushing to help reduce shedding and prevent matting. Matted hair can irritate your dog’s skin and even lead to infections. Brushing before bathing your dog is helpful in removing knots and excess hair.

Bathing

Depending on hair type and length, activities, time of year, and weather conditions, most dogs can be bathed once per month or even every two months. Baths are important to your dog’s overall hygiene, and will help to reduce human allergies to pet hair and dander. Bathing your dog too often however will remove natural oils that help to protect a dog’s skin and coat, leading to dry skin and other conditions. Special shampoos are available for dogs, including those that are odorless, tearless, hypoallergenic, colorless, medicated, or eliminate fleas. Look for products that contain natural botanicals, which are typically milder and less irritating. Special eye drops for dogs are also available to help to prevent irritation from shampoos. Shampoos and conditioners made for people should not be used on dogs as the chemicals and pH balance in these products could trigger an allergic reaction or other skin conditions.

Nail Trimming

A dog’s nails should be clipped at least monthly. If your dog spends time running around on concrete, he may not need his nails clipped as often as a dog who spends most of his time on grass. Nail clipping is very important in preventing pet injuries. Neglected toe nails can splay a dog’s toes, making it difficult to walk, or puncture footpads if too long. Clipping should be handled with great care, as a dog’s nails contain a vein (the quick), which if nicked will cause some bleeding and pain. Several products are now available to dog owners, such as electric filers, that help to make nail clipping easy. Ask your groomer or veterinarian to recommend a product and show you how you can clip your dog’s nails at home.

Tooth Brushing

While most dogs will never have a cavity, brushing your dog’s teeth daily or weekly will reduce tarter buildup and help to prevent gum disease. Chronic periodontal disease is uncommon but serious and can lead to other conditions including heart and kidney conditions. Special toothbrushes and meat-flavored toothpastes are available for dogs.Ear Cleaning
Weekly ear cleanings help to remove dirt and prevent bacterial infections. Dogs with drop ears are more susceptible to ear infections because little air passes through their ears and there is a greater tendency for them to trap moisture. Cotton balls or soft tissues should be used rather then cotton swabs, which may go too far into a dog’s ear canal and cause damage. Ear cleaning solutions are available over the counter at many pet supply stores. Clipping hair that is present on the inside of your dog’s ears also helps to prevent matting and trapping of foreign particles.

Groomers

Professional groomers typically have special tubs, tools, and techniques that they use to groom your pet, and are quite thorough. Choose a groomer that makes you and your dog feel comfortable. Help to maintain your pet’s health by giving your dog regular check-ups and cleanings as needed between grooming appointments.