Dog Grooming Basics

Do you own a new dog and need to learn a few dog grooming basics? Anyone who owns a dog needs to know some dog grooming basics. A pet has to be combed, brushed and bathed on a regular basis. This helps to keep down fleas and ticks as well as keep his fur nice, neat and healthy looking. No one like it when a dog's hair becomes matted and smelly. When this happens, it's a haven for fleas and ticks and this poses a risk to your dog's health and well being. Learning dog grooming basics for your new dog will ensure you give her the care she deserves. After all, the dog is now a part of your family and will be there for a long time to come. So, give him what he needs when it's time. Listed below are some dog grooming basics to consider for your pet.

1. Brush your dog's hair. If your dog has long hair it will need more brushing then a dog with short hair. Be sure to get all tangles out. This helps to keep down the matted hair and lets you find any fleas or ticks your dog might have on him. Dogs think of brushing their hair as bonding time with their human.
2. Trim your dog's toenails. Regular trimming of your dog's toenails is a must.  If you are unsure of how short to trim the dog's toenails, ask your vet to show you how. You don't want to cut the nails too short because it can cause pain and bleeding for your dog, making him scared to have his toenails cut again.
3. Bathe your dog on a regular basis. This keeps him clean and healthy looking. It also allows you the chance to remove any fleas and ticks your dog may have gotten on him. Most dogs can be bathed once a month unless they have gotten into something smelly like a dead animal.
4. Give regular dog haircuts. Regularly have your dog's hair cut every six weeks. This keeps his coat shiny and healthy. It also gets rid of matted hair he may have. Have this done by a professional dog groomer. They know how the dog's hair should look, and they are able to take measures to ensure a safe haircut and that it's done properly.