Dog grooming should be a simple and relaxing process at home so we have listed some dog grooming tips to help get you started. Over the last year our children and partners have had to endure the at-home coiffure and the results have been, well, in most cases, hilarious. However, dog grooming is crucial to your pet’s health and comfort so it’s important to get it right. There are, understandably, a few areas of dog grooming that require a great deal of care and upkeep and the team at Pet Head are here to help guide you through their top dog grooming tips.
Step 1: Praise your dog with dog treats!
Not all dogs enjoy grooming and bath time so plenty of rewards and praise can help this become a time for bonding and ultimately they will learn to associate dog grooming time with yummy treats. Coachies Training Rewards are a popular reward treat and come in three delicious varieties: Beef, Lamb and Chicken for adult dogs, Wheat-free Chicken for sensitive tummies, and Chicken for puppies.
Step 2: How to brush your dog
This should be done little and often taking special care around sensitive areas. This will prevent any matting (if they are prone to it) and also acclimatise your dog to the process.
To brush your dog effectively, choose an appropriate brush for their coat type, find a calm and comfortable grooming area, and start with gentle strokes in the direction of hair growth. Check for tangles and mats, using treats and positive reinforcement to create a positive association. Brush all areas, clean the brush periodically, and inspect for fleas and ticks. Finish with a wipe down with our Pet Head Quick Fix Dog Wipes and establish a regular grooming schedule tailored to your dog’s coat. Always be patient and gentle, ensuring a positive and bonding experience during grooming sessions while maintaining your dog’s coat health.
Step 3: How often should you wash your dog?
Long or curly haired dogs will need bathing more frequently however a regular wash for all dogs is advised to keep their coats clean and healthy. Always make sure to start your bath with a knot-free coat or else you’ll risk further matting. Ensure when bathing your dog that you use a good quality dog shampoo and dog conditioner to keep their coat as healthy as possible. Check out our collection of pet shampoos and conditioners to see which is best for your dog’s coat.
Step 4: How to clean dog’s eyes
Should your dog have dirty eyes, never try to trim the coat around the eyes. Instead, to safely remove eye crust from your dog’s eye, begin by washing your hands and calming your dog. Using a clean, damp cloth or gauze pad moistened with sterile saline solution or a recommended eye wash, gently wipe away the crust from the outer corner of the eye. Repeat as needed with a clean section of the cloth, ensuring gentleness throughout the process.
Afterward, pat the area dry, offer praise and a treat, and monitor the eye for any signs of infection or worsening symptoms. If issues persist or worsen, consult your veterinarian for professional advice and care.
Step 5: Look after your dog’s feet
You ought to check your dog’s claws every 3-6 weeks depending on growth. A good way to tell if they need a trim is to look at your dog when they are standing straight. The nails should not touch the floor. If they are, then they need a trim. This should be left to your vet or groomer as an incorrect cut could cause bleeding and pain. You should also regularly check your dog’s paw pads for damage, cracking and sensitivity between the pads especially in extreme temperatures. Pet Head Paw Balm is the perfect product to nourish and care for delicate paws.
Step 6: How to brush dog teeth
Gather a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste, choose a quiet area, and let your dog get accustomed to the toothbrush and paste. Lift their lips gently and begin brushing gradually, starting with the front teeth and using a gentle circular motion. Pay attention to all tooth surfaces, especially the gum line, and be patient and calm throughout. Use dog toothpaste, offer praise and rewards, and gradually increase brushing time. Ideally, aim for at least three brushing sessions per week to maintain your dog’s oral health, but remember to schedule regular vet check-ups for comprehensive dental care and monitoring.
Check out our winter grooming checklist for tips specifically focusing on the cooler months.