Grooming is important for the health and well being of your pet and it also helps grow the bond you share with them.
Olly’s first haircut
A little quality time spent with your young dog is important for social development, but it also allows you to check them over for health issues.
Some tips to help you
- Ask your groomer about the pet brush or comb that works best for your puppy’s coat and comfort.
- Always brush in the direction of hair growth as if you brush “against the grain” it may be uncomfortable for your puppy.
- If your puppy is a smooth-coated variety, they may need less coat care, but it is still good to get them used to the process.
- Establish a routine and train your puppy to stand while grooming – this will make it easier for you and for a groomer or vet when required.
- Dog breeds with thick or long coats may need to be groomed every day to prevent painful mats and knots.
- If you have a breed that requires professional grooming, it is best to start early with our mini-groom (a warm bath & gentle brush) to get them used to the experience.
Your puppy and bath time If you decide to bath your puppy at home, choose a special dog shampoo that’s best suited to your puppy’s hair type – we can recommend one for you. Always take care not to get any shampoo or water in puppy’s eyes or ears as this may hurt. You may want to invest in a non-slip rubber mat and place it on the bottom of the bathtub to give your puppy confidence during bath time. It’s scary for a puppy to slide around on a slippery surface and this may increase his anxiety around bath time. Ears A dog’s ears normally do not require cleaning, but check them regularly for any dirt, debris or redness, especially if you’ve noticed your puppy scratching or shaking his head. Contact your veterinarian if you notice these signs or anything unusual. Ear mites and ear infections require treatment by a vet. Teeth Because bad teeth are very common in dogs, now is the time to start paying careful attention to your puppy’s teeth. Check them regularly, at least once a week, and look out for early warning signs which include:
- Bad breath
- Bleeding gums
- Buildup of tartar and plaque on the teeth
Brushing your dog’s teeth every day will go a long way toward preventing dental problems, so it’s a good idea to start when he’s a puppy. Ask your vet to recommend a dog toothpaste and toothbrush. Remember to never use human toothpaste on a dog. Nail care Regular nail trims will blunt the sharp tips of your puppy’s nails and minimize accidental scratches during play. Ask your vet or groomer to show you how to trim your puppy’s nails, as it is important to know how to avoid the nail’s blood vessels and nerves in the pink base close to the toe. If your dog has dark nails, you will not be able to see the pink base, so it will be best to ask your vet or groomer to trim your puppy’s nails for you. A nail trim every four weeks is usually enough. When trimming your puppy’s nails at home, use the following guidelines:
- Use only nail trimmers designed for dogs.
- Introduce nail trims gradually by first gently touching your puppy’s paws as he nods off for a nap.
- Get your pet used to your fingers pressing against the footpads and separating the toes.
- At first, trim a few nails once a week. The more you do it, the more familiar it will become.
- Don’t forget the dewclaws, which are extra toes on the front or back of the feet of some dogs. These can grow into the dog’s pads or skin if not kept well trimmed.
To book your puppy a pamper at Doggy Days, just give us a call!
Words courtesy of Hills Pet Nutrition