How to groom a dog -The Step by Step Process

Owning a pet is a responsibility not to be taken lightly, and dogs, as members of our family, need the same love and care that is given to a child or ourselves. Hence, grooming should be an integral part of dog ownership. It is also an opportunity to strengthen the bond with your four-legged family member and spend time with them. 

Here are tips to help you learn how to groom a dog, the step by step process, for optimal results.

Step one

The first step is to clear an easily cleanable area, where the dog can be clipped and scrubbed. If your dog is apprehensive, spend some quality time to calm him or her down. The ideal scenario is when the dog starts to relate grooming with fun and relaxed time to spend with their owners. All tools for nail clipping, ear cleaning, a brush, clean cotton for the ears and medicated solutions, toothbrush and toothpaste, dry towels and hair dryers, are some of the essential items for grooming. 

Step two

Long-haired dogs should use a detangle solution before a shower for easy detangling. Short hair dogs can be simply brushed down. A pre-bath trimming of matted fur that cannot be detangled is a good idea, or for long-haired breeds for regular trimming. Regular shears can be used with care for the trimming. Besides that, coat should be brushed every day to maintain a healthy shine and blood circulation. It also allows the owner to spot any skin problem early, saving time, money, and effort. 

Brushing short-haired breed is easier and does not require special handling. Brushing the dog is generally pleasurable and most dogs enjoy this immensely. Cleaning out the dog’s eyes and checking the nail lengths and ears for cleaning is the next step.

Step three

If your dog has wax buildup in the ears, using the appropriate medicated solutions with cotton balls to clean the ears. Pour a few drops of the solution on the cotton balls and gently massage the inner ear with the cotton soaked with the solution. This should be done at least once a week but can be stretched depending on the level of activity of the dog. 

Step four

Nail clipping is of utmost importance and should be done every week to ten days. Clipping too close can cause bleeding of the vein end under the nails called kwik. This may vary, as a very active dog, may have his or her nails filed from regular friction during the walks and exercise and similarly, an older dog may need frequently clipping due to low activity level. 

Step five

The bath should be enjoyable for the dog and the owner and a regular habit will ensure that it is the least stressful time for both. Once a week is good for highly active dogs while dogs with lower activity levels should have a bath every 10 days to two weeks, depending on the environment. 

Remember, your pooch is solely dependent on you for their care, and regularly groomed dogs will have a happy and healthy life with the owners.