Dog Grooming Basics

Dog Grooming Basics include, how to set up a grooming area, how to train your dog and develop a system to make the process go smoothly and quickly. Learn some advanced techniques and what tools you will need.

Grooming and brushing, not only makes your dog’s coat look super shiny, but there’s also some health benefits, such as checking for fleas or dangerous ticks. Not to mention the money you’ll save by doing it yourself.

The basic reasons for brushing dog’s hair:

• Eliminate uncomfortable tangles
• Get rid of skin problems
• Prevent parasite infestation
• Prevent smells
• Save money at the vet/groomers
• Eliminate loose pet hair around your home

Make sure that you brush and check every part of your dog. This includes their ears, eyes, coat, skin, and anal area. Set aside a regular brushing grooming appointment time, you’ll be surprised to find how quickly you best friend will learn this routine.

In the beginning the whole grooming process can seem intimidating. But once you know how, you’ll find it’s not only easy to do but enjoyed by both of you.

Getting Started

Some dog grooming basics you need to be aware of before you get started.

1. First, you need a flat surface with good traction. Some people place a rubber mat down on a firm table.
2. Then, train your dog to be still whenever they are in this location. If you have a puppy, or need to train your dog you can do so in short sessions at first.
3. Be sure to make this experience fun for you and your dog.
4. Your dog will learn to stay still and obedient throughout the grooming process as long as you repeat yourself, correct mistakes, and praise them a lot when they are behaving correctly.
5. Never hit your dog and maintain a smooth and even tone throughout the whole process.
6. After you’re done grooming you need to be sure to reward your dog. This could be verbal praise or even a physical treat,
7. Prevent problems during the grooming session, take your dog out to the bathroom before and after.

Now, once you have the set up and have them trained on expected behavior it’s your time to learn the dog grooming basics of brushing. These are different depending on the type of coat your dog has.

If you’re unsure you can ask an experienced breeder or dog groomer. A general rule of thumb is to groom your dog at least once per week.

Keep in mind some will need to be groomed three times per week.

Dog Grooming Basics To Keep In Mind

• Brush his hair good before you bathe your dog. When dog’s hair gets wet the knots are more difficult to get out. It can also prevent thorough rinsing of your shampoo.
• Start brushing along the back and then toward the front. This helps to prevent irritation
• Use a system to make sure you groom every area
• When you brush around limbs, hold them at a natural angle
• Keep in mind that the hair you see on the surface is not the only hair there is. There is also an undercoat to pay attention to.
• You can be firm with your dog, but never hit him.
• Do remember to praise when your dog is following your orders.

Advanced Techniques

After you've learned the dog grooming basics there are some more advanced techniques to learn as well.

• When your dog has long, dense, or curly hair you should know that brushing on the surface will not get out the knots. Be sure to brush the undercoat hair that is closest to the dog’s skin.
• You should start at the bottom of the back leg to lift the hair up.
• Brush each part of the leg, then work your way to the body and belly.
• Check your comb to make sure there are no hidden knots
• Be extra careful when you’re near the eyes because you wouldn’t want to damage them
• The hock and stomach areas are also extra sensitive

Tools You Will Need To Do A Good Job

There are certain tools you will need to do a good job.

• If you have a smooth haired dog it is best to use a rubber brush to loosen the hairs.
• A bristle brush is great for getting rid of dead skin and improving circulation.
• You can use a chamois cloth to add some shine to their coat.
• For dogs with shorter coats use a slicker brush and a bristle brush.
• Some with longer hair may require a comb to get out stubborn knots.
• Curly haired dogs will need a pin brush and comb

The follow up here for all this effort is to schedule in the play time afterward, but make sure if it’s outdoors play there are no mud puddles available, mud puddles just seem to attract freshly groomed dogs.

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