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| Bathing Dogs |
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Dogs, unlike humans, only have sweat glands in their paws, and as such do not
need daily bathings as people do. However, their coats will pick up dirt and
odors from around, so you should only bathe your dog as often as is needed with
the exception of show dogs which may be bathed more often to keep their coat in
pristine condition. How often you bathe your dog will depend on the breed, the
coat and what your dog's activities are. A show dog may be bathed as much as
once a week, but probably can do with much less. Remember that the natural oils
secreted by the dog are part of the natural finish of the coat. Brushing the
dogs coat can sometimes be far more effective at bringing out the natural sheen
than a bath. Shampoo has a tendency to dissolve these natural dog oils - so
first brush your dog - and if you feel he needs a bath make sure you get the
right shampoo for your dog. If your not sure please invest some money an time
in dog grooming books
Bathing a dog too often may dry out their skin, and that along with shampoo or
conditioner residue may cause your dog to itch. Never use human shampoo (it is
not suited to a dogs skin and fur), and when selecting a dog shampoo or
conditioner look for mild, hypoallergenic brands that will be less likely to
cause skin problems. And always remember to rinse your dog thorughly afterwards.
Before bathing your dog you will want to remove as much of the loose overcoat
and undercoat as possible and cut out any matting in the hair. If you have been
following a regular grooming schedule that shouldn't be much work. Always bath
your dog in warm but not hot water and be sure to protect the eyes and ears. It
is usually better to start on the dog's head and work your way down. When you
are done be sure to rinse the dog's coat thoroughly. Short haired dogs can be
quickly dried with an absorbent towel but a pet blow dryer may be more
appropriate for long and wire haired dogs. |
| Brushing Dog's Coats |
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| The amount of brushing a dog requires is again dependant upon the coat and his
activities. Dogs with undercoats should be be brushed with both a regular dog
brush and an special undercoat brush. Extra brushing should be applied when dog
is 'blowing' its undercoat. Regular brushing will distribute the natural oils
throughout the coat and lead to a shinier coat. Some wire-haired breed require
a different technique know as stripping by (where a small serrated edged knife
to is used pull out loose hair). |
| Trimming Dog's nails |
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Trim your pet's nails about once per month. You'll need a clipper designed
specifically for the kind of companion animal you have. Either a scissor- or
guillotine-style clipper can be used. You should also purchase a small bottle
of blood-clotting powder.
- Have your companion animal sit beside you. Then place one of his or her paws in
your hand and gently pull it forward. If your pet dislikes being handled this
way, slowly accustom him or her to it by offering treats and praise.
- Gradually shorten one nail. Be sure to stop before you reach the quick, which
is the part of the nail that contains nerves and blood vessels. If you cannot
see the quick clearly, stop cutting just behind the point at which the nail
begins to curve downward.
- If you cut into the quick, do not panic. Put some clotting powder on a moist
cotton swab and press it firmly against the nail for several seconds.
- Repeat the process until all of your companion animal's nails have been
trimmed.
- Do not forget to trim the dewclaw, which is located on the inside of each front
leg just above the paw. (Some dogs do not have dewclaws.)
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