How Important is Proper Dog Grooming?

Grooming your dog is a pleasant bonding experience that goes beyond making he or she look good - it is essential to good health.�Your dog cannot tell you when things don�t feel right or beginning to go wrong.�Grooming is a preventative medicine technique that will pay off with a healthy and happy pet.�The essentials are regular brushing, bathing, dental and ear care, and toenail clipping.

What makes Brushing Essential?�

Your dog has an eventful life full of poking into bushes, digging up things, hopefully not the roses, and rolling in whatever!�Brushing with a soft brush distributes lanolin through the fur and pinpoints any problem areas of matting.�These mats need to be cut off with a clipper, then your pet should be rebrushed with a wire brush.�This will remove ticks and any loose fur.�A dog regulates body heat by perspiring just like a human an excess fur gets in the way of this necessary process.

Why is weekly bathing good?�

Aside from the obvious, a smelly dog, redolent of the compost heap he has just rolled in, bathing removes build up perspiration, loose hair and excess skin oils, all of which keep your pup�s coat healthy and prevent mange, an ugly and costly doggie affliction.

Why is dental care more than just chewing bones?�

Dogs can get cavities just like humans and are also subject to Gingivitis.�They need yearly professional dental assessments and teeth cleaning.�In-between, you should brush the teeth with a canine dentifrice and give bones, and chlorophyll chews to promote healthy gums and better breath.

Is it a good idea to clip a dog�s nails?

In a word, yes. It is essential.�Regular clipping protects your floors as well as the pet�s feet and prevents nail splitting.�Long toenails can actually get in the way when a dog walks and distort its balance.�And while you are clipping with a quality clipper, check out the footpads and look for any cracking.�If you find this, apply Vaseline and a sock to help keep the treatment on the foot, not your couch.

Is Pantene good for dogs?�

NO, NO.�Your favorite shampoo is probably far too drying for a dogs skin.�Please find a good dog shampoo formulated for the correct breed and use it weekly.�Supplements such as olive oil, fish oil and brewers yeast added to the dog food will also help make the coat shiny and fresh.

Is it necessary to clean a dog�s ears?�

Most definitely, yes.�Many breeds are susceptible to ear infections and can have hair grow into their ear canals.�Gently pull any hair growing in the ear to the outside and clip away, if necessary.�Clean your dog�s ears with a cotton swab and alcohol several times a month.�Be on the lookout for an odor from the ear or excessive head shaking.�If you notice either, head straight for the veterinarian.

Establishing a regular grooming routine will ward off many health problems and can become a fun time for you and your pet.

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