Expert advice and tips on dog grooming
To help first-time and veteran dog owners alike, Mira Showers enlisted animal charity, Wood Green, and professional grooming experts at Purplebone, London's premier dog grooming spa, to provide these at-home grooming tips:
The do's of dog grooming at home:
- Use a handheld shower to introduce water gradually
- Use lukewarm water
- Start at the head and work your way backwards down the legs and body
- Be careful around your dogs eats, eyes and paws
- Assess for lumps, bumps and skin irritation
- Reward your dog with treats
The don'ts of dog grooming at home:
- Don't use human shampoo
- Use hot water
- Bathe your dog too often
- Get water down the ear canal
- Don't rush
- Get shampoo in your dog's eyes
- Attempt hair clipping, scissoring, ear plucking or nail clipping at home (unless you are experienced)
Top tips:
- The water temperature of your shower or bath should be lukewarm. Being able to comfortably run the water over your forearm is a sign the temperature is just right.
- Avoid getting water down the ear canal, as this can lead to infections.
- Be mindful of their eyes too, as shampoo can sting, just like it does with humans.
- Always use a shampoo made specifically for dogs. You should never use human shampoos or soaps because ph. levels are totally different and can cause skin problems.
- Make sure to rinse the shampoo and conditioner thoroughly out of their coats.
- Double coated dogs (like Pomeranians and Chow Chows) should be washed twice a month maximum, but especially during shedding season to prevent shedding hair from matting and allow the skin to breathe.
- Single coated breeds (like Poodles and Malteses) should be washed more regularly (maximum once a week) as they do not shed and their coat as often and it can easily become matted.
- To keep your dog calm and happy, there are a few things that can be used. Lots of rewarding, whether it be vocal or treats, really helps. Some dogs need help keeping focus during washing and brushing at home, and more anxious dogs can benefit from the naturally calming effects of licking; items such as a lickimat covered in natural, spreadable treats like peanut butter or Greek yogurt can help.
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