How Often Does My Dog Need To Be Groomed?
What every dog owner needs to know.
By Pets of Perfection
What Determines How Often Your Dog Needs To Be Groomed?
This question can be a bit tricky. Depending on the dog breed, the coat, health needs of your dog and your lifestyle can impact the frequency significantly. Not keeping up with your pups grooming needs, or going too often, can impact their health long-term. Here is some guidance to help you decide on a game plan for your pup’s grooming schedule.
New Puppy Owner?
We advise all of our clients to get their dog accustomed to the groomers as soon as the pup has received his initial puppy shots, usually by twelve weeks of age. This gets them used to bathing, various noises and standing on tables without being frightened. It can be a stressful environment for them if they are not used to it, especially since they will be separated from you for the duration of the process. Bringing them in and getting them acclimated at a young age helps turn the experience into an enjoyable one if started early enough.
Long or curly Coat?
Dog breeds with longer coats such as Maltese, Shih-Tzus and Lhasa Apsos, and those with curly coats such as Bichons and Poodles are recommended for a grooming every 4-6 weeks to ensure proper care of their coats. Frequent brushing should also be considered as “homework” for the owners to keep their coat from getting matted. If Fido is brought in with matted coat, extra time must be spent de-matting. This not only increases the grooming price but more importantly, it can be uncomfortable for your pet. Keeping up with frequent grooming and brushing can prevent this and keep your dog’s coat healthy and beautiful. Have you discovered a tangled mess in your dog’s fur? Do not attempt to bathe your dog, it can make matters — and matts– worse. Schedule an appointment with your groomer as soon as possible to correct the problem immediately.
Bath Time
Depending on your lifestyle and coat type,, Fido can be bathed weekly, providing a high quality pet shampoo is used. It is very important to remember that a dog’s PH is different than a person and using people products can be very harmful to his skin and coat. Regularly brushing your dog a few minutes every day regardless of coat length, helps remove shedding hair and dead skin, which will keep him cleaner in between grooming appointments.
Brushing
Need help deciding which brush and or comb is best for your pup? Ask your groomer for guidance on selecting a brush and comb. We personally like a slicker brush for longer coats and a boar bristle brush for smooth or short coats. A heavy duty metal comb with fine and coarse teeth is mandatory for the long or curly coats. There are a variety of conditioning products available that will help maintain a healthy coat and make brushing easier.
Don’t Forget The Nails!
Dog owners commonly overlook their dog’s nails. Overgrown nails can create health problems. When Fido’s nails are overgrown, the vein inside the nail, called the quick, begins to grow out as well. This can make nail trimmings very painful for your dog. Since dogs’ nails grow in a curve shape, allowing them to get too long can lead to them walking unnaturally and potentially causing injured or broken toes. If you can hear your dog’s nails “click” as they walk on your floor, they are most likely too long. You may also notice your pet chewing on his feet. This is also a sign that his nails are too long. Your pet’s nails should be trimmed every 3-4 weeks .
Ear care
Wax buildup and excessive hair in the ear canal can trap moisture and lead to potential problems. Your groomer can make recommendations for the best steps to take to prevent this.
Teeth Cleaning
Just as humans, dogs can suffer dental issues from a lack of care, such as cavities, gum disease, plaque and tartar buildup. Frequent brushing ensures their mouths are clean and healthy to prevent costly procedures later down the road. Ask your groomer about the best practices for keeping Fido’s mouth clean.
Have More Questions?
Every dog is different and will most likely require different grooming needs. Did we miss any information or do you have questions that are specific to your pup? Feel free to reach out and ask us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or email!