DIY Dog Grooming

Grooming your dog yourself can be a good way to save money and at the same time, bond with your dog. A professional groomer can charge between $50 -$150 depending on what needs to done. In this time poor world, regular trips to the groomer may be inconvenient.

Plenty of pet shops sell good home grooming kits. It can be easier than you think, and the close bonds you can create with your dog by cleaning & grooming him may benefit the relationship and bond you have with your dog. You may be able to spot any potential health issues, like a flea invasion, before they grow serious. Think of it as an insurance policy as you clean your dog.

Is the “do-it-yourself method for you? If you answered “yes”  here is a “how-to” guide to get you started:

Get comfortable – and practice, practice, practice

“Handling your dog, the physical demands, and the environment of the job are all important factors that should be explored. Most people aren’t cut out to be groomers, despite their love for animals, so there is definitely a ‘knack’ for the job. Some people though, are just naturals at grooming their dogs.  It’s definitely a process.

Key tip: Take a grooming class or watch the “how to” video’s online.

Focus on the nails

Your dog’s nails should be trimmed on a regular basis and this applies particularly to dogs more than cats, although your cat’s nails can be trimmed as well.’ One short cut to shorter nails on your dog and healthier nails is to walk your dog regularly on cement, which helps wear down the nails naturally. This is key if the nails are not trimmed regularly, the ‘quick’ or ‘vein’ grows longer within the dead part of the nail, and when the nails are cut, there is a greater chance of bleeding.’

Key tip: Only use sharp nail clippers.

Ears

Cleaning your dog’s ears is very important, especially if he is prone to allergies and it’s easy to do. You can use alcohol or water & vinegar mix on a cotton ball to keep dog’s ears clean. Don’t use a cotton swab or go deep where you can’t see because you could hurt your dog’s  ear drum. The main thing with ear care is to look at the condition of the inside of the ear canal and earflap on a regular basis. If there’s a build up of blackish wax or dirt, use the alcohol swabbing until it’s clean. As many of you  would know, there are also special products on the market for ear cleaning. With my boy “Beau”, my Naturpath Vet recently suggested I could try a Clove oil and water mix (approx 1 teaspoon clove oil to a litre of water). Clove Oil is good deterrent for mould/yeast. She also said if you have a mouldy house, you can be sure you will have a mouldy dog.

Also, be on the look out for red, inflamed or smelly Ears, as there may be an infection. Very important to keep a check on the skin between toes. It’s a nasty cycle that happens when your dog scratches his ears and therefore is transferring the yeast from his toes/toenails into his ear! Sometimes you’ll see him biting at his feet, which again, is a sign to look out for.

Taking a bath

A bath may be the most common, and most necessary, of all your dog’s grooming needs. I recommend at least once or twice a month is fine for most dogs. A good idea, is to schedule it around the same time you are due to put on their flea protectant.

If you have a doggy hydrobath of your own, great! If not, you can put non-slip mats down in the bathtub, and use the shower head instead of the faucet or I like to wash Beau in my bathroom tub.  Also, put cotton balls in the dog’s ears to absorb water.’ For the right doggy shampoo, just ask a specialist at your local pet store. ake sure to read the label on pet shampoo before washing. I love organic products myself. Never, ever use human shampoo on your dog. It has a different pH level, and the chemicals are too harsh for pets’ sensitive skin.

Teeth -Brush up

When it comes to the choppers, some owners don’t pay enough attention to their dog’s dental needs. And that’s a big no-no. “Teeth cleaning is essential for your dog.This is because teeth are one of the most important parts of the body. Dog’s use their teeth and mouth for chewing, eating, playing with toys, licking and even picking up objects to bring to their owners, so it is inevitable that this part of their body will decay or become dirty over time. Ideally, brushing your dog’s teeth once a week if you have the time is great. Be sure to use a special toothpaste and toothbrush. Dental hygiene is a real health benefit for your dog.

Key tip: Use a shorter brush for flexibility.

By grooming your dog yourself, you’re forging a stronger, more natural bond together. Follow the tips above and your dog’s health will benefit.
Leah OMeara (Hound Dog Day care – specialists in Dog Minding Brisbane, Dog Walking Brisbane, Pet Sitting Brisbane & Dog Day care Brisbane).