Dog Grooming Tips

As a master groomer, Joshua Morales recommends the AdVet Hygienics waterless shampoo for your pet. It contains soothing ingredients like aloe vera, vitamin E, arnica, and echinacea. During your grooming session, make sure you check your dog's ears, skin, and coat. If any of these areas are irritated or dry, it may be time for a bath.

Avoid harsh verbal corrections

Most people overuse the "no" word when grooming their dogs and don't know how to properly project authority. They don't project energy that will deter the dog's behavior and don't convey a powerful presence as the pack leader. This is why many dogs don't understand the basic rules of the pack, and they tend to get wiggly, unruly, or even mildly aggressive when groomed. And the problem behind this is that most dogs haven't received consistent, gentle training in the home.

Avoid bathing your dog too often

The first step in bath training your dog is introducing the tub and equipment one item at a time. Use a non-slip mat when bathing your dog, and practice letting him stand in the tub without any water. After he has stood in the tub for a few minutes, offer him a treat or reward him by putting his favourite toy or playing with him. Don't forget to offer to dry him off when he is finished. You can use a towel, but most dogs will be able to air dry themselves.

Check your dog's skin every time you groom them

It is essential to look for signs of skin problems on your dog. If your dog is scratching excessively or chewing at its nails, its skin could indicate a problem. Other problems with skin include external parasites, infections, allergies, and metabolic problems. In addition to frequent brushing, skin problems can be caused by stress and other factors. 

Check your dog's ears

If your dog's ears are red, inflamed, or smelly, it may have an ear infection. These signs are usually caused by wax buildup, which your dog's ears naturally produce. Your dog may also rub and shake his ears frequently. Regardless of the cause, cleaning the ears of your dog can damage the ear's self-cleaning mechanism. 

Check your dog's teeth every time you groom them

As with humans, it is important to brush your dog's teeth every time you brush them. Using a soft child's toothbrush or a fingertip is an excellent way to brush your dog's teeth. Begin by brushing the top teeth and holding your upper lip up. Brush the dog's front teeth, then move to the side and back. Brush the bottom teeth, too, but remember to keep the lips closed and their head still. To know more about dog grooming tips visit k9 rocks.

Check your dog's coat for mats

To prevent matting on your dog's coat, regularly brush your dog's coat. Run your fingers through the coat to feel for any mats hidden beneath the surface. You can also use a slicker brush or large pin brush to prevent mats. Ideally, you should brush your dog's coat before bathing it. This will prevent mats from forming in the first place.

Check your dog's skin for dandruff

Dandruff in dogs is often accompanied by excessive licking, hair loss, and foul odor. While dandruff is not harmful, it is unsightly and not healthy. Dandruff usually is a secondary problem, so treating it is crucial to eliminating the underlying cause. A diet that is low in essential nutrients may be the culprit. Some dogs may even have allergies, leading to dandruff.

If your dog has dry skin, dandruff may be a sign. Low humidity is one of the leading causes of dry skin in dogs, especially during the winter. By increasing humidity, you can treat your dog's dandruff. However, it is important to keep a humidifier out of your dog's reach, as they may knock it over or get burned by the hot water.