| By Fran Black
Animals generally like to be left alone
and are not very comfortable when someone touches them.
Hence, in the beginning, dogs don't generally respond
positively to the grooming routine. In order to make the
process easier teach the dog early on to allow all parts
of his body to be touched, handled, and groomed without
objection. The goal is to teach the dog, first that such
touch does not hurt, then that touch must be accepted,
then later, that such touch is actually pleasant.
Ears Check your dog's ears twice per month.
The skin inside and on the flaps should be paile pink.
If there is a foul odor and/or any red brown or black
skin, have a vetinarian examine the dog's ears. Moiston
a cotton ball with warm water or a small amount of mineral
oil and use to to clean the opening into the canal and
the flaps. Do not probe too deeply into the dog's ear
canal.
Bathing Place a rummer mat or towel in the
bottom of the bathtub or sink prior to bathing your dog.
This will provide the dog secure footing. Always brush
the dog before you bathe, getting a tangled, matted coat
wet will only make it worse.Place a cotton ball in each
of the dog's ears to prevent water from entering their
ears. Rinse the dog with warm water. Use a spray hose
if one is available. Be sure to keep the nozzel very close
to the dog's body. Never spray him or her in the face.
Use shampoo specifically designed for dogs.
Use it in small amounts, working from head to tail. Be
sure to clean between toes, behind ears and under the
chin. Avoid getting shampoo in the dog's eyes. Rinse the
dog thoroughly with warm water, making sure that you get
all excess soap out of their coat. Towel dry the dog.
Trimming and Clipping There are many things
to consider when trimming a coat. Firstly, and most importantly,
is the type of dog and condition of the coat. Since hair
is a reflection of a proper diet, good environmental condition,
each coat type will vary from one dog to another.
There is some debate about whether a summer
haircut will actually help a dog. Clipping a dog is a
laborious procedure, and may not be a good idea for the
dog. Some professionals argue the coat insulates the dog,
keeping out the heat, UV rays, and insects. Consider all
factors prior to making a decision about clipping a dog.
Grooming Tips Start grooming from an early
age. That way, the pet will get use to grooming. Never
let the dog mistake grooming tools for toys. Don't let
the dog play with brush or clippers because the dog may
start treating grooming sessions as play time. Never hit
your pet with a grooming tool or the dog will start associating
grooming tool with punishment and will try to avoid grooming
session.
Brush the dog regularly and the dog will
become comfortable with the process and may even look
forward to it. Let the dog sniff the brush and comb before
grooming begins. Dogs don't generally like being touched
with an unfamiliar object. Throughout the grooming talk
to the dog in a reassuring tone. Always be as gentle as
possible while brushing your pet. All dogs have sensitive
areas that need to be groomed more carefully than others.
Consideration will make the dog less likely to resist
grooming sessions in the future.
About the Author
Francesca Black works in marketing for Dog Pound http://www.dog-pound.net
and Horse Stall http://www.horse-stall.net
leading portals for pet management.
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