Buyer’s guide to grooming

Grooming is a very important part of your dog’s life. Learning young to tolerate bathing, clipping their nails and brushing their coats and teeth is essential to long term health and well being. With a few simple supplies and some patience and effort on your part grooming can be enjoyable for you and your new friend.

BRUSHES

A good brush that is suitable to your dogs coat is crucial in the grooming process.

• Thick coated dogs will need a pin brush as well as a soft brush to finish their coats.
• Short coated dogs do well with a zoom groom and a softer brush.

BATH TIME

• When bathing your dog be sure to use a dog-appropriate product. Human shampoo is much to strong for our four legged friends. Use a shampoo designed for your pet’s sensitive skin.
• Use specialty shampoos to address specific concerns such as dry skin, shedding and allergies.
• Keep a ear cleaner dryer solution on hand. Use this after a bath to keep down ear infections.

NAILS

• Get a good pair of toe nail clippers to begin with. If your nail clippers are not large enough or sharp enough it can make your dog uncomfortable with the process. Dull clippers will crack the nails and cause your dog discomfort.
• Have some quick stop or other blood coagulating product to stop the nail from bleeding if you inadvertently cut into the quick.

TEETH

• Use doggie toothpaste when you brush your pets teeth as it does not have to be rinsed out and people paste has a tendency to upset their stomachs. Toothpaste designed for our pets also come in yummy flavors like beef, chicken, and peanut butter. This makes my gang look forward to teeth-cleaning time.
• You can use a regular toothbrush or you can purchase a finger toothbrush to help you teach your dog to allow you to brush their teeth.