Like we all groom and take care of ourselves, it is equally necessary that we take care of our pets, too. Grooming is an essential part of a pet’s life for good health and a gorgeous appearance.
While pet grooming services are available all around your place, grooming your pet at home could be a rewarding experience. It helps create a bond between the pet and the parent and a level of trust that is hard to get otherwise.
Nonetheless, you must take on this task with care and knowledge. One wrong move, and either you have a hurt pet or a furious fur boy. In this blog post, we will help you to get none of these pet versions but rather a lovely and clean one.
The Do’s of Grooming Your Pet
Let’s start this article with the Do’s pet grooming
A Grooming Routine
Dogs of all breeds need a regular grooming routine. Some dog breeds are prone to disastrous mats and tangles, which can lead to other skin problems.
By maintaining a grooming routine for your dog, your dog may find it less stressful. You can check skin health, observe any parasite manifestation and trim your pet’s nails on time. Hence, you’re improving its overall hygiene and health but also saving by not going to the professional groomer too often.
Brushing is a must
Long hair or short, all dog breeds require regular brushing to prevent mats. Long-fur dog breeds may need a brushing every week to maintain their shiny coat, while short-haired can go on longer.
Imagine not giving your dog a bath or a combing time, and now you have a dog biting himself due to irritation which leads to skin infections. Sorry, I’m a pet parent and thought of the worst-case scenario instantly.
Nonetheless, regular brushing helps distribute natural oil, keeps their coat shiny, prevents mats, and removes loose hair. Use a slicker brush or a grooming rake and gently brush their hair from the roots to the up.
Ears and Eyes
Some dog breeds are prone to ear infections. Thus, regularly check their ear for signs of redness, discharge, or irritation. In case of finding anything unusual, contact your vet.
Nail Trimming
Trimming your dog’s nails before they get too long is better than letting them grow, as it gets painful for pets. When you hear your dog making clicking sounds while they walk or walking abnormally: you know it’s time to say those nails goodbye.
Use a nail clipper made for dogs, don’t rush, and be cautious not to hurt the dog. If you’re a new pet parent, you can visit a professional for guidance or learn a step-by-step guide to cut your fur baby’s nails appropriately.
Bath Time Matters
If you have a curly-haired dog like a Goldendoodle, a bath in four to six weeks would keep your dog’s coat shiny and healthy. But if your dog has a shorter coat, they can go for about two or three months before they need a bath.
Anyway, a thing that matters in this bathing session is the shampoo you use. Dogs have different pH levels, and your regular shampoo can do more harm than good to their skin.
Choose a shampoo that is made especially for dogs. For example, look for the best shampoo for Goldendoodles. A hypoallergenic shampoo: free from harsh chemicals to keep your Doodle nourished and enhance its naturally shiny coat.
The Don’ts of Grooming Your Goldendoodle
Looking down the don’ts of dog grooming
Dental Health
Many pet parents think of grooming routines as caring for a pet’s appearance. However, grooming includes looking after their dental health, too. Brush your Fido’s teeth regularly with a dog’s toothpaste.
It will prevent any dental disease and keeps their breath fresh and fresh as a daisy (or maybe I’m exaggerating right now).
Don’t Rush
No matter your intentions: your dog might feel anxious for a grooming session. Know your limit, and don’t force your dog to stay calm or stand still.
Would you appreciate it if a professional dog groomer would rush your dog? No, neither will your dog like you if you do it. Grooming sessions should be relaxing. Take your time and provide positive reinforcements like praise or treats to make grooming time fun for your dog.
Over-Bathing is a Big No
Regular bathing is necessary, but over-bathing can strip natural oils off your dog and cause irritation. Follow the recommended guidelines for bathing, or ask your vet. Your vet can help you according to your dog’s breed, coat type, and active life.
Use warm water and gently massage the shampoo, preventing it from entering the mouth, eyes, or inside ears. Bathing during cold weather requires being mindful of the temperature of the bathing setting, as your dog’s body temperature could drop.
Never Skip the Drying Process
Done with the bathing process; now what? Are you supposed to leave your wet dog running through the hall, getting all muddy again? Of course, no.
You can let the dog shake and let them air dry if the weather is warm. Otherwise, always towel dry before you use the blow dryer in the coldest setting to prevent overheating your fur baby. Always pay attention to paw pads and the area behind ears; damp fur can promote bacterial or fungi growth, and we don’t want that.
Neglecting Regular Professional Grooming
Grooming your pet at home is fun. And once you get a hold of it: it becomes a favorite routine for you and your dog. Nonetheless, you must include professional grooming in their habit.
Professional groomers are experts and use tools to provide your dog with the best services. They can give your dog a thorough trim or pluck their ears, tasks that are difficult to do yourself.
Say No to Scented Shampoos
While you like the idea of your dog smelling like strawberries, it is unhealthy for your dog’s eyes and respiratory systems. Keep the tools clean and sanitized. Worn-out or dirty tools can infect the dog or become ineffective.
Don’t Pressurize your dog into the grooming session, especially no tethering. You can ask a friend to help if you find handling your dog and bathing them too tricky to manage alone.
Lastly, (while you’re at it) check for any external signs of fleas or ticks on your Goldendoodles’ coat. If you find any, talk to your vet. You can also use preventive measures like topical flea or tick treatments to help keep these parasites far away.
Conclusion
Grooming your pet at home is my favorite bonding time. It is a rewarding experience for both. Your dog gets the praises and delicious treats they like, and you get a clean dog.
These dos and don’ts can ensure your dog remains healthy and comfortable. Remember to establish a grooming routine and set a comfortable and relaxing area; so your dog doesn’t get nervous.
Keep checking their eyes, ears, and skin for any alarming signs. And most importantly, enjoy the at-home grooming service but don’t forget the importance of seeking professional help; from time to time. With proper care, attention, and love: your four-legged friends can live a happy and healthy life for many years.