If you are looking to add a pet to your life, a dog is one of the best pets to consider. Not only do they become part of the family, they are devoted and loyal companions. They are always waiting for your return home, by letting you know how much they missed you. Regardless if you are happy or sad, a dog will always stay by your side and give you unconditional love. Keeping your dog healthy and happy is the best way to give back to your dog. Here are a few dog care tips that should always be priority.
1. Always give your dog a healthy diet. This will provide your dog with energy, and help prevent obesity. It will also keep their coats shiny and healthy.
2. Always walk and exercise your dog. A dog needs to get out, move around and get fresh air. This will not just help them physically, but also emotionally. They need to be able to see other people and surroundings, to help prevent boredom.
3. Dogs need to be groomed and bathed. Depending on the breed and length of hair, some dogs require cutting and brushing. Bathing should be done occasionally, a few times a year, because if you over wash your dog, it can make their skin dry and become irritated.
Giving your dog good nutrition, exercise, good hygiene and lots of love, will help to give your dog the best life possible. An online e-book can give you information that will help you in taking care of your dog and give you excellent dog care tips on how to keep them healthy.
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Dog Care - Inflammation of the Brain
Under this general heading can be grouped encephalitis, meningitis, the involvement of the brain during uraemia and advanced kidney diseases, acute toxaemia, and so on.
The symptoms may come suddenly as with a fit, or may appear gradually. Although the animal seems conscious he is, for the most part, more or less oblivious of his surroundings although there may be occasional periods of comparative lucidity.
He does not recognise his owners, although he will react to food and sometimes to loud noises. In mild cases the dog tends to wander about aimlessly and restlessly with a vacant expression; in more serious cases he will walk round in small circles, always in the same direction and, if restrained, will struggle to continue this circling. Violent cases will try to climb the wall and bump into obstacles. Often the dog will cry, whine or howl, and the high-pitched typical meningeal yelp is a very distressing and ominous symptom.
Little can be done by the owner. Pending arrival of the veterinary surgeon, the dog should be given a sedative or Chlorbutol (from three grains upwards) and put in a darkened, empty room or a large kennel where he cannot injure himself. Ice packs or cloths wrung out in very cold water are often useful when applied to the back of the skull during a quiet period.
Except in very mild cases the prognosis of this condition is extremely unfavourable, and where permanent damage to the brain exists recovery is impossible; it is kinder to have the animal put to sleep. The veterinary surgeon should be asked his frank opinion of the dog's chances. He should always be consulted immediately whenever the brain is involved.
If treatment is to be tried, such as general anaesthesia for some hours to rest the brain or powerful sedatives, the sooner it is begun the better. As it can be provided only by a qualified person, one should be consulted without delay.
Bruising
Bruises come from a variety of causes, but doubtless the commonest is an argument between dog and motorcar. Whilst bruising is not likely to produce more than a temporary stiffness in a young dog, in old ones neglected bruising may leave a chronic myositis (a type of rheumatism). In addition, with severe cases of bruising in old dogs, the histamine-like products released from the damaged tissues may produce kidney embarrassment or some degree of shock.
The injured area should first be searched for any minor cuts or grazes. These should be bathed and cleansed with a little warm antiseptic solution. Warm compresses to the bruised area will greatly relieve the local pain. A hot water-bottle, a warmed pad of Ther-mogene wool or a kaolin poultice provide the local heat required.
A little warm water by mouth with glucose added is advisable as a mild stimulant, and if the bruising is extensive, and as a routine with old dogs, it is wise to give a little bicarbonate of soda every two or three hours until about twelve hours after the injury. This by its alkalising action helps to counteract any acidosis or kidney impairment. According to the size of the dog, ½-1 teaspoonful is adequate, and this amount can quite easily be given dissolved in a little warm water or warm milk.
Limited exercise should be given for 5-7 days following the injury, and diet should be light and preferably fluid. Particularly for old dogs, where the bruising may have been extensive, barley water for a week or so is better than ordinary drinking water.
The symptoms may come suddenly as with a fit, or may appear gradually. Although the animal seems conscious he is, for the most part, more or less oblivious of his surroundings although there may be occasional periods of comparative lucidity.
He does not recognise his owners, although he will react to food and sometimes to loud noises. In mild cases the dog tends to wander about aimlessly and restlessly with a vacant expression; in more serious cases he will walk round in small circles, always in the same direction and, if restrained, will struggle to continue this circling. Violent cases will try to climb the wall and bump into obstacles. Often the dog will cry, whine or howl, and the high-pitched typical meningeal yelp is a very distressing and ominous symptom.
Little can be done by the owner. Pending arrival of the veterinary surgeon, the dog should be given a sedative or Chlorbutol (from three grains upwards) and put in a darkened, empty room or a large kennel where he cannot injure himself. Ice packs or cloths wrung out in very cold water are often useful when applied to the back of the skull during a quiet period.
Except in very mild cases the prognosis of this condition is extremely unfavourable, and where permanent damage to the brain exists recovery is impossible; it is kinder to have the animal put to sleep. The veterinary surgeon should be asked his frank opinion of the dog's chances. He should always be consulted immediately whenever the brain is involved.
If treatment is to be tried, such as general anaesthesia for some hours to rest the brain or powerful sedatives, the sooner it is begun the better. As it can be provided only by a qualified person, one should be consulted without delay.
Bruising
Bruises come from a variety of causes, but doubtless the commonest is an argument between dog and motorcar. Whilst bruising is not likely to produce more than a temporary stiffness in a young dog, in old ones neglected bruising may leave a chronic myositis (a type of rheumatism). In addition, with severe cases of bruising in old dogs, the histamine-like products released from the damaged tissues may produce kidney embarrassment or some degree of shock.
The injured area should first be searched for any minor cuts or grazes. These should be bathed and cleansed with a little warm antiseptic solution. Warm compresses to the bruised area will greatly relieve the local pain. A hot water-bottle, a warmed pad of Ther-mogene wool or a kaolin poultice provide the local heat required.
A little warm water by mouth with glucose added is advisable as a mild stimulant, and if the bruising is extensive, and as a routine with old dogs, it is wise to give a little bicarbonate of soda every two or three hours until about twelve hours after the injury. This by its alkalising action helps to counteract any acidosis or kidney impairment. According to the size of the dog, ½-1 teaspoonful is adequate, and this amount can quite easily be given dissolved in a little warm water or warm milk.
Limited exercise should be given for 5-7 days following the injury, and diet should be light and preferably fluid. Particularly for old dogs, where the bruising may have been extensive, barley water for a week or so is better than ordinary drinking water.
Dog Care - Grooming and Nail Clipping
Brushing and Grooming
If you have a dog that has short hair like a Boxer or Dalmatian, it is still necessary to groom your pet regularly. Start grooming your canine when it's a puppy, this will help you down the road as your dog becomes accustomed to brushing and grooming.
Even if it doesn't want to be brushed, it is important to get your dog used to the process. After a while it won't even care if it is being groomed.
You can put your puppy on a table and start brushing it with a soft tooth brush. Don't leave your pup unattended, it could jump off and injure itself. Grooming professionals advise to run an electric shaver near your dog to get it used to the noise. This will help in case you take your dog to the dog groomers and it won't bite or try to get away.
As your puppy keeps growing, you can increase the length of your grooming time. For dogs that have long or heavy, dense fur, it is important to use a rake brush and a pin type brush. For dogs that have smooth coats, it's recommended to use a grooming mitt. You can find many different types of grooming tools made specifically for your dog's breed.
Clipping Nails
You should clip your dog's nails before giving it a bath. Don't worry if you feel like you are going to hurt your pet. It's actually rather easy once you get the hang of it. Begin with clipping the rear paws. Lift one paw at a time and try to clip just the tip of the nail.
Don't go too far and clip the quick, which is a vein. If you accidentally cut into the quick, your pup will let you know by crying in pain. Use a dab of styptic powder to stop any bleeding. Once you are done with the hind paws, move your way to the front ones.
If Your dog happens to have dark or even black nails, it can be difficult to see where the nail tip and quick are. In this case, use a nail grinder, a helpful veterinarian or groomer can show you how.
Bathing
It's important to bathe your canine around every 6 weeks. Make sure to brush its coat thoroughly before giving it a bath. You should wipe away any dirt from your dog's ears with cotton swabs. Never use shampoo for human hair, your dog's skin can get irritated because it is a different ph Balance.
After bathing your dog, blow dry or use a towel to wipe off the water. Your pet will help you out by doing its little shake. Once they are dry, you should brush their hair one more time. You'll need some help if you have a big dog breed.
If you have a dog that has short hair like a Boxer or Dalmatian, it is still necessary to groom your pet regularly. Start grooming your canine when it's a puppy, this will help you down the road as your dog becomes accustomed to brushing and grooming.
Even if it doesn't want to be brushed, it is important to get your dog used to the process. After a while it won't even care if it is being groomed.
You can put your puppy on a table and start brushing it with a soft tooth brush. Don't leave your pup unattended, it could jump off and injure itself. Grooming professionals advise to run an electric shaver near your dog to get it used to the noise. This will help in case you take your dog to the dog groomers and it won't bite or try to get away.
As your puppy keeps growing, you can increase the length of your grooming time. For dogs that have long or heavy, dense fur, it is important to use a rake brush and a pin type brush. For dogs that have smooth coats, it's recommended to use a grooming mitt. You can find many different types of grooming tools made specifically for your dog's breed.
Clipping Nails
You should clip your dog's nails before giving it a bath. Don't worry if you feel like you are going to hurt your pet. It's actually rather easy once you get the hang of it. Begin with clipping the rear paws. Lift one paw at a time and try to clip just the tip of the nail.
Don't go too far and clip the quick, which is a vein. If you accidentally cut into the quick, your pup will let you know by crying in pain. Use a dab of styptic powder to stop any bleeding. Once you are done with the hind paws, move your way to the front ones.
If Your dog happens to have dark or even black nails, it can be difficult to see where the nail tip and quick are. In this case, use a nail grinder, a helpful veterinarian or groomer can show you how.
Bathing
It's important to bathe your canine around every 6 weeks. Make sure to brush its coat thoroughly before giving it a bath. You should wipe away any dirt from your dog's ears with cotton swabs. Never use shampoo for human hair, your dog's skin can get irritated because it is a different ph Balance.
After bathing your dog, blow dry or use a towel to wipe off the water. Your pet will help you out by doing its little shake. Once they are dry, you should brush their hair one more time. You'll need some help if you have a big dog breed.
Puppy Dog Care
It's so exciting when you decide on getting a puppy to add to your family. Everybody wants to hold and cuddle a new puppy but you need to know that your new puppy is not a toy for children. A new puppy will feel scared and frightened with their new surroundings and will be missing his or her mother and siblings. Giving the new puppy a warm comfortable place that is quiet will give the new addition a chance to get use to their surroundings. Soon the puppy will adjust, want to explore and start playing with his new family. Giving the proper puppy dog care will help the puppy adjust in his new home.
When bringing your new puppy home for the first time, its best to be sure that the puppy is not leaving his mother to soon. A puppy should stay with their mother for forty-five to sixty days old. If the puppy is removed from his mother to soon, it can result in a puppy not being able to relate to people and can become hyperactive. This can result in the puppy being shy and much harder to train.
The most important thing to do for your puppy is to love your puppy and take the time to give that special attention to this new little one by giving the best possible puppy dog care. Your new little four-legged friend will become your best friend. By checking the internet you can find information that will help you in raising your new puppy. Getting the best information will result in a puppy that is healthy and happy.
When bringing your new puppy home for the first time, its best to be sure that the puppy is not leaving his mother to soon. A puppy should stay with their mother for forty-five to sixty days old. If the puppy is removed from his mother to soon, it can result in a puppy not being able to relate to people and can become hyperactive. This can result in the puppy being shy and much harder to train.
The most important thing to do for your puppy is to love your puppy and take the time to give that special attention to this new little one by giving the best possible puppy dog care. Your new little four-legged friend will become your best friend. By checking the internet you can find information that will help you in raising your new puppy. Getting the best information will result in a puppy that is healthy and happy.
Dog Grooming Q&A Session
Do you groom your dog personally? If so you might have come across certain grooming problems for which you would like to get an answer for grooming your dog in a proper manner. It is quite likely that you find an answer for your questions in the following.
Question 1: The coat of my Australian Shepherd is full of foxtails and burrs before the summer ends thereby making it necessary for me to clip off all his hairs. Is there a way by which I can avoid him getting the burrs while he runs through the countryside?
Answer 1: The only solution to your problem is to brush him every day in a thorough manner; however this is quite a difficult task. If you have not been doing this so far you might not be interested in doing this. There is no point in making him suffer throughout summer with painful sticker and clip his hair off which is essentially required at the beginning of cold season.
It is advisable to clip his hair short during the late spring season or early summer by which time the weeds would dry up. This will make him happy during summer and some hair would have grown by the start of winter.
Question 2: I regularly brush and bathe my shaggy mixed-breed; however I find that his stools are caught in his long hair and get stuck to his skin. I could solve this problem by cutting the hair in that area but I am afraid that it will look funny. Can you please advice?
Answer 2: One method you could try is to regulate his diet in order to prevent his stools being soft; at the same time it is advisable to trim the hair in that area even though it will look funny. While doing this you should take sufficient care since the dog might move towards scissors once you touch its hair.
Question 3: My Beagle is given bath once in a month; however I find that he scratches too much. Do you think that giving monthly bath is too much for this dog?
Answer 3: Some dogs might find this frequency of bathing is too much. You must ensure that all the shampoo is completely rinsed out from its body. The best way to get the soap out of the body is to use a spray hose that is normally used in pet grooming shops. You must purchase from a hardware store one such hose that pushes onto the faucet. It is also necessary to ensure that your dog is given a proper balanced diet that keeps its coat and skin healthy; also ensure that the dog does not have fleas.
Question 4: I recently learnt that the Cocker Spaniels can be clipped. I would like to know whether it is necessary or it is a matter of individual's choice.
Answer 4: Any dog looks good and healthy if it is brushed and cleaned regularly. You can clip your furry and loving Cocker Spaniels which will make him gorgeous and elegant blueblood. You should try this at least once to know what you are missing. One benefit you get by regular clipping is that the toenails and ears of the dog will be looked after well; this is necessary because this breed of dog always has trouble with ears and toenails.
Question 1: The coat of my Australian Shepherd is full of foxtails and burrs before the summer ends thereby making it necessary for me to clip off all his hairs. Is there a way by which I can avoid him getting the burrs while he runs through the countryside?
Answer 1: The only solution to your problem is to brush him every day in a thorough manner; however this is quite a difficult task. If you have not been doing this so far you might not be interested in doing this. There is no point in making him suffer throughout summer with painful sticker and clip his hair off which is essentially required at the beginning of cold season.
It is advisable to clip his hair short during the late spring season or early summer by which time the weeds would dry up. This will make him happy during summer and some hair would have grown by the start of winter.
Question 2: I regularly brush and bathe my shaggy mixed-breed; however I find that his stools are caught in his long hair and get stuck to his skin. I could solve this problem by cutting the hair in that area but I am afraid that it will look funny. Can you please advice?
Answer 2: One method you could try is to regulate his diet in order to prevent his stools being soft; at the same time it is advisable to trim the hair in that area even though it will look funny. While doing this you should take sufficient care since the dog might move towards scissors once you touch its hair.
Question 3: My Beagle is given bath once in a month; however I find that he scratches too much. Do you think that giving monthly bath is too much for this dog?
Answer 3: Some dogs might find this frequency of bathing is too much. You must ensure that all the shampoo is completely rinsed out from its body. The best way to get the soap out of the body is to use a spray hose that is normally used in pet grooming shops. You must purchase from a hardware store one such hose that pushes onto the faucet. It is also necessary to ensure that your dog is given a proper balanced diet that keeps its coat and skin healthy; also ensure that the dog does not have fleas.
Question 4: I recently learnt that the Cocker Spaniels can be clipped. I would like to know whether it is necessary or it is a matter of individual's choice.
Answer 4: Any dog looks good and healthy if it is brushed and cleaned regularly. You can clip your furry and loving Cocker Spaniels which will make him gorgeous and elegant blueblood. You should try this at least once to know what you are missing. One benefit you get by regular clipping is that the toenails and ears of the dog will be looked after well; this is necessary because this breed of dog always has trouble with ears and toenails.
Dog Grooming at Home
We are always looking for ways to improve our relationship with our pets. One way we can do that is to start dog grooming at home. Most people think of their beloved pets as a member of the family. We will do anything to make our pet's life more comfortable and stress free.
Dog grooming is an essential part of our pet's life. Proper grooming is essential not only to the appearance of our pet, but also an important contribution to the health of our dog. It is important to know how to takethis link care of your dog's coat and skin--dog's can have skin problems similar to a human and those skin problems must be dealt with. Shedding is a problem if the dog is kept inside the house and must be deal with properly. Dog grooming is also an essential part of keeping your dog's teeth, ears and eyes in a healthy state.
When you groom your dog yourself, you're creating an unbreakable bond between you and your pet. You'll also be contributing to the happiness of your dog. When you take control of your dog's health and well being and give your dog professional quality grooming, you'll see a difference not only in her appearance but also in her happiness.
People all over the world have questions and problems they face when it comes to grooming their dogs. There are expensive dog grooming courses which will teach people how to become a professional dog groomer. However, there are also alternatives for people who do not wish to spend a lot of time or money learning this skill.
Dog grooming is an essential part of our pet's life. Proper grooming is essential not only to the appearance of our pet, but also an important contribution to the health of our dog. It is important to know how to takethis link care of your dog's coat and skin--dog's can have skin problems similar to a human and those skin problems must be dealt with. Shedding is a problem if the dog is kept inside the house and must be deal with properly. Dog grooming is also an essential part of keeping your dog's teeth, ears and eyes in a healthy state.
When you groom your dog yourself, you're creating an unbreakable bond between you and your pet. You'll also be contributing to the happiness of your dog. When you take control of your dog's health and well being and give your dog professional quality grooming, you'll see a difference not only in her appearance but also in her happiness.
People all over the world have questions and problems they face when it comes to grooming their dogs. There are expensive dog grooming courses which will teach people how to become a professional dog groomer. However, there are also alternatives for people who do not wish to spend a lot of time or money learning this skill.
Dog Grooming Supplies to Keep Your Home Cleaner
If you have a dog with a lot of hair, you know how much of a nightmare it can be to clean up after that dog when he sheds. You very well could mop, sweep and vacuum the house one day only to find tufts of hair all over the place the next.
The problem is you are not being preemptive; you are reacting after the fact. Instead you need to learn how use some dog grooming supplies to be a little more proactive to keep that hair from hitting the floor in the first place.
Brushing
One of the first and easiest ways to remove hair from your dog, that loose hair at least is by brushing him regularly. Most dogs, if you start them young, love the process of being brushed. It's attention from you and generally it feels good to have that brush running down their skin. If you get a good brush as part of your dog grooming supplies it will capture that loose hair you can be pulling handfuls of hair off of the brush everyday instead of having to sweep, mop or vacuum them off of the floor.
You may even want to make this a part of your daily ritual. Make your dog know that right before breakfast or right before dinner you are going to have a brushing session and as soon as that is done he will get a treat and his evening or morning meal. He'll be waiting, possibly with brush in mouth, every day.
Bathing
How many baths your dog should have is going to differ by the dog. Some dogs have more sensitive skin that is not really meant to be washed as much as other dogs. But bathing is one way to work a lot of that loose hair out of that dog as well as get rid of some of the dirt and dander that can be attached to that hair which could cause all sorts of issues including allergies in you or those visiting your home.
When you give your dog a bath, take extra time doing this. Don't just put the shampoo on, give a quick scrub and wash your dog off. Instead work the lather through all of your dog's hair from top to bottom, taking the time to really rub it in. This will help you work out any of that hair that is ready to work it's way off of your dog and onto the floor and instead let you wash it out into the tub, sink or yard where it's all in once space and easy to dispose of.
After you wash your dog, make sure to dry him with a towel as well as you can, which will remove more of the hair and then brush him really good which will take some of the last hair that has been sticking to him.
Hair Scrapers
There are a number of devices out there today that are meant for dogs that shed a lot in the dog grooming supplies section of your pet store. These all relatively fit into the category of hair scrapers. Unlike a brush they have a thicker almost tooth-like surface that will literally pull loose hair out of your dog's coat. This is more effective than brushing alone.
The problem is you are not being preemptive; you are reacting after the fact. Instead you need to learn how use some dog grooming supplies to be a little more proactive to keep that hair from hitting the floor in the first place.
Brushing
One of the first and easiest ways to remove hair from your dog, that loose hair at least is by brushing him regularly. Most dogs, if you start them young, love the process of being brushed. It's attention from you and generally it feels good to have that brush running down their skin. If you get a good brush as part of your dog grooming supplies it will capture that loose hair you can be pulling handfuls of hair off of the brush everyday instead of having to sweep, mop or vacuum them off of the floor.
You may even want to make this a part of your daily ritual. Make your dog know that right before breakfast or right before dinner you are going to have a brushing session and as soon as that is done he will get a treat and his evening or morning meal. He'll be waiting, possibly with brush in mouth, every day.
Bathing
How many baths your dog should have is going to differ by the dog. Some dogs have more sensitive skin that is not really meant to be washed as much as other dogs. But bathing is one way to work a lot of that loose hair out of that dog as well as get rid of some of the dirt and dander that can be attached to that hair which could cause all sorts of issues including allergies in you or those visiting your home.
When you give your dog a bath, take extra time doing this. Don't just put the shampoo on, give a quick scrub and wash your dog off. Instead work the lather through all of your dog's hair from top to bottom, taking the time to really rub it in. This will help you work out any of that hair that is ready to work it's way off of your dog and onto the floor and instead let you wash it out into the tub, sink or yard where it's all in once space and easy to dispose of.
After you wash your dog, make sure to dry him with a towel as well as you can, which will remove more of the hair and then brush him really good which will take some of the last hair that has been sticking to him.
Hair Scrapers
There are a number of devices out there today that are meant for dogs that shed a lot in the dog grooming supplies section of your pet store. These all relatively fit into the category of hair scrapers. Unlike a brush they have a thicker almost tooth-like surface that will literally pull loose hair out of your dog's coat. This is more effective than brushing alone.
Basic Brushing and Combing For Dog Grooming
To prepare for a successful grooming, brushing and combing are essential tasks that are needed to be done properly. Most dogs do not actually need baths frequently but they must be brushed and combed more often to get rid of dirt, tangles and loose hair. Depending on bread and coat, brush and comb at least twice a week would be the minimum. If you have time, brushing and combing more often is a good idea as it will also train your dog to get familiar with bathing and grooming procedures when they are needed.
One of the important factors you need to remember when brushing and combing your dog is sticking to the same routine. Some people refer to brush and comb from head to tail or some refer from tail to head. It does not matter which method you refer, always stick to the same routine. This will help you as well to not forget anything and helps your dog to be happier because there are not any surprises.
The best moment to brush and comb your dog is after a walk or a play session as she will be tired and will be calmer. Take your time to relax your dog, help them to be calm by massaging and giving them treats. Making your dog calm in these sessions will help grooming session tremendously as they are already be trained and experienced pleasant. They will be more likely to enjoy the session.
A clean and calm dog is a fundamental requirement for a successful grooming session. Keep your dog clean and train your dog to be calm and relax with proper brushing and combing will help grooming become a pleasant for them.
One of the important factors you need to remember when brushing and combing your dog is sticking to the same routine. Some people refer to brush and comb from head to tail or some refer from tail to head. It does not matter which method you refer, always stick to the same routine. This will help you as well to not forget anything and helps your dog to be happier because there are not any surprises.
The best moment to brush and comb your dog is after a walk or a play session as she will be tired and will be calmer. Take your time to relax your dog, help them to be calm by massaging and giving them treats. Making your dog calm in these sessions will help grooming session tremendously as they are already be trained and experienced pleasant. They will be more likely to enjoy the session.
A clean and calm dog is a fundamental requirement for a successful grooming session. Keep your dog clean and train your dog to be calm and relax with proper brushing and combing will help grooming become a pleasant for them.
Dog Grooming Techniques and Their Benefits
If you're a seasoned dog owner and have had dogs in your family for many years, then chances are you know how important it is too groom your dogs on a consistent basis. Doing so promotes good health, hygiene, and happiness you're your dog and also yourself. Grooming your dog regularly is just a good way to give your dog the care the he or she deserves. Here are some grooming activities that will help your dog look and feel his best.
Bathing
Bathing is one of the most important activities with regard to grooming for a number of reasons. Regular bathing helps to promote clean and healthy skin which in turn helps prevent and fight off common skin problems that occur with dogs. Bathing also helps to keep the coats shiny and healthy, not damaged and dull. Your dog's coat type, skin sensitivity, and coat thickness are just a few factors that will help you pick the right shampoo. It's generally a good idea to bath your dog at least once a week in order to maintain healthy skin and coat.
Hair Trimming
Trimming up those areas that require it is also a good task to stay on top of. Most dogs require that the hair on the bottom of their feet be trimmed regularly. This allows them to get better traction on slippery surfaces because the pads on their feet make direct contact with the surface they are walking on instead of having hair between their pads and that surface. If you have wood floors or any other surface that can be slippery, you'll notice when the hair has gotten too long on your dog's feet because the will slip when the try to move forward. This can be dangerous if your dog falls awkwardly or unexpectedly. If your dog has long hair around the eyes and ears, it is also a good idea to trim these areas as well. Allowing the hair in these areas to get too long can cause problems. For example, if the hair around the eyes grows too long, then that hair may get into the eyes and cause irritation. The same is true with regard to the ears.
Nail Trimming
Your dog's nails must also be trimmed if they become too long. If this is not done, then the dog may see a reduction in traction while walking or running. But even worse, if the nails are left to grow too long, they could be come painful and irritated your dog's feet. Nail trimming can be done pretty easily with a nail trimmer. When trimming your dog's nails, be sure to only cut the portion of the nails that does not contain the pink fleshy color. Cutting into this area will be painful for your dog and may cause bleeding.
Teeth Cleaning
We all know how important it is to brush our teeth on a regular basis. Well the same holds true with dogs. Regular brushing helps get rid of tarter and plaque buildup on your dogs teeth and also helps promote healthy gums and helps prevent other major issues with the teeth and gums. Your dog's teeth should be cleaned, preferable with an extra soft toothbrush, on a regular basis.
These few tasks can be done on a regular basis to keep your dog healthy and happy and it simply takes a little time and devotion on your part. If you are unable to provide this time for your dog, there are always plenty of groomers willing to do it for you.
Bathing
Bathing is one of the most important activities with regard to grooming for a number of reasons. Regular bathing helps to promote clean and healthy skin which in turn helps prevent and fight off common skin problems that occur with dogs. Bathing also helps to keep the coats shiny and healthy, not damaged and dull. Your dog's coat type, skin sensitivity, and coat thickness are just a few factors that will help you pick the right shampoo. It's generally a good idea to bath your dog at least once a week in order to maintain healthy skin and coat.
Hair Trimming
Trimming up those areas that require it is also a good task to stay on top of. Most dogs require that the hair on the bottom of their feet be trimmed regularly. This allows them to get better traction on slippery surfaces because the pads on their feet make direct contact with the surface they are walking on instead of having hair between their pads and that surface. If you have wood floors or any other surface that can be slippery, you'll notice when the hair has gotten too long on your dog's feet because the will slip when the try to move forward. This can be dangerous if your dog falls awkwardly or unexpectedly. If your dog has long hair around the eyes and ears, it is also a good idea to trim these areas as well. Allowing the hair in these areas to get too long can cause problems. For example, if the hair around the eyes grows too long, then that hair may get into the eyes and cause irritation. The same is true with regard to the ears.
Nail Trimming
Your dog's nails must also be trimmed if they become too long. If this is not done, then the dog may see a reduction in traction while walking or running. But even worse, if the nails are left to grow too long, they could be come painful and irritated your dog's feet. Nail trimming can be done pretty easily with a nail trimmer. When trimming your dog's nails, be sure to only cut the portion of the nails that does not contain the pink fleshy color. Cutting into this area will be painful for your dog and may cause bleeding.
Teeth Cleaning
We all know how important it is to brush our teeth on a regular basis. Well the same holds true with dogs. Regular brushing helps get rid of tarter and plaque buildup on your dogs teeth and also helps promote healthy gums and helps prevent other major issues with the teeth and gums. Your dog's teeth should be cleaned, preferable with an extra soft toothbrush, on a regular basis.
These few tasks can be done on a regular basis to keep your dog healthy and happy and it simply takes a little time and devotion on your part. If you are unable to provide this time for your dog, there are always plenty of groomers willing to do it for you.
Dog Grooming - No Longer a Bucket & Soap
Dog grooming is about more than just grabbing a bucket and some soap and scrubbing down your pooch. Today's dogs and owners have an entire selection of grooming options available to them that go way beyond a simple bath.
Even once you get past the basics of bathing and a hair cut there is oh so much more available to pamper your pet. These days our dog's have become individualized members of our families, not just an animal that hangs out in the backyard their whole lives.
We have brought them into our homes and now we give them gourmet foods, homemade dog treats, orthopedic pet beds and of course, let's not forget the designer clothes. There are even massage parlors, pet hotels, pet spas and entire stores designed around pets now. Imagine, what our ancestors would think if they could see us now?
So beyond a simple shampoo and trim but not so far as the super star treatment, what should you add to your dog grooming routine? First and foremost, if you don't know what you are doing, then get some information before you begin. Some places offer grooming classes and you can always get dog grooming tips from your local veterinarian. The important thing is that you never attempt any dog treatment without prior knowledge and information on how to perform it correctly and with the correct products.
Once you have a little training under your belt, choose an area to start and remember that you don't have to groom everything in one day. Start slow and do a little at a time. When you become more comfortable with the grooming routine, you can attempt additional grooming projects at the same time.
Tear Stains
For example, you could start with the red "tear stains" under your dog's eyes. Many people assume that it is always a red yeast bacteria infection. However, this condition can have many causes and needs to be properly diagnosed to be treated correctly.
Nail Trimming
Once you have tackled cleaning out your dog's eyes, you can move on to trimming your dog's nails. For many people this chore seems like one that is more for aesthetics but it's actually quite important that you keep your dog's nails maintained at a healthy length to prevent painful side effects.
For example, it is not uncommon for a dog that spends a lot of time in the house to catch an overgrown nail on the carpet and tear the nail. This is quite painful and can lead to infections. When a dog is kept inside most of the time, they do not wear their nails down and will require trimming.
There are multiple nail trimming and grooming tools available for you to choose from when maintaining your dog's nails. Once again though, I must caution you to make sure you know how to properly trim them before beginning. If you trim in too far, you will cut the quick and cause your dog pain.
There are tools that will actually cut or trim the nail like a pair of nail clipper only for dogs and there are also scissor type tools. My personal favorite is the new dremel type grinding tools that are available. They allow you to take a little off of the nail at a time and do not crush or pinch the nail like some clippers can.
Cleaning Ears
Cleaning your dog's ears is something you may find yourself doing more often that other grooming tasks, especially if your dog spends time outdoors or is a working dog. Ear mites are a common problem that will require you to keep there ears clean and a few drops of ear treatment. I also find that my dogs will itch there ears just because they are dirty. So every time Rodeo comes home from a cow roundup, I clean his ears, because I know if I don't he will be scratching like crazy.
Breath Bone Anyone?
You love your dog but you just can't handle those "doggie breath" kisses anymore. I completely understand and I have been around dogs where I have thought, what have you been eating????? lol There are those who are seriously dedicated and brush their dog's teeth everyday. I try to find more natural solutions such as pressed bones or dental bones which will help clean the plaque and tarter off of their teeth.
However, if you are sold on the toothbrush idea, you need to know that they make a specific dog toothpaste and you should never use human toothpaste on your dog!
The point is, that if you see something that is an obvious grooming issue for your dog, take care of it. It doesn't matter if it's on the list or not. You know your dog and what they need so don't be afraid to use your own common sense judgment. It's all in the details...
Even once you get past the basics of bathing and a hair cut there is oh so much more available to pamper your pet. These days our dog's have become individualized members of our families, not just an animal that hangs out in the backyard their whole lives.
We have brought them into our homes and now we give them gourmet foods, homemade dog treats, orthopedic pet beds and of course, let's not forget the designer clothes. There are even massage parlors, pet hotels, pet spas and entire stores designed around pets now. Imagine, what our ancestors would think if they could see us now?
So beyond a simple shampoo and trim but not so far as the super star treatment, what should you add to your dog grooming routine? First and foremost, if you don't know what you are doing, then get some information before you begin. Some places offer grooming classes and you can always get dog grooming tips from your local veterinarian. The important thing is that you never attempt any dog treatment without prior knowledge and information on how to perform it correctly and with the correct products.
Once you have a little training under your belt, choose an area to start and remember that you don't have to groom everything in one day. Start slow and do a little at a time. When you become more comfortable with the grooming routine, you can attempt additional grooming projects at the same time.
Tear Stains
For example, you could start with the red "tear stains" under your dog's eyes. Many people assume that it is always a red yeast bacteria infection. However, this condition can have many causes and needs to be properly diagnosed to be treated correctly.
Nail Trimming
Once you have tackled cleaning out your dog's eyes, you can move on to trimming your dog's nails. For many people this chore seems like one that is more for aesthetics but it's actually quite important that you keep your dog's nails maintained at a healthy length to prevent painful side effects.
For example, it is not uncommon for a dog that spends a lot of time in the house to catch an overgrown nail on the carpet and tear the nail. This is quite painful and can lead to infections. When a dog is kept inside most of the time, they do not wear their nails down and will require trimming.
There are multiple nail trimming and grooming tools available for you to choose from when maintaining your dog's nails. Once again though, I must caution you to make sure you know how to properly trim them before beginning. If you trim in too far, you will cut the quick and cause your dog pain.
There are tools that will actually cut or trim the nail like a pair of nail clipper only for dogs and there are also scissor type tools. My personal favorite is the new dremel type grinding tools that are available. They allow you to take a little off of the nail at a time and do not crush or pinch the nail like some clippers can.
Cleaning Ears
Cleaning your dog's ears is something you may find yourself doing more often that other grooming tasks, especially if your dog spends time outdoors or is a working dog. Ear mites are a common problem that will require you to keep there ears clean and a few drops of ear treatment. I also find that my dogs will itch there ears just because they are dirty. So every time Rodeo comes home from a cow roundup, I clean his ears, because I know if I don't he will be scratching like crazy.
Breath Bone Anyone?
You love your dog but you just can't handle those "doggie breath" kisses anymore. I completely understand and I have been around dogs where I have thought, what have you been eating????? lol There are those who are seriously dedicated and brush their dog's teeth everyday. I try to find more natural solutions such as pressed bones or dental bones which will help clean the plaque and tarter off of their teeth.
However, if you are sold on the toothbrush idea, you need to know that they make a specific dog toothpaste and you should never use human toothpaste on your dog!
The point is, that if you see something that is an obvious grooming issue for your dog, take care of it. It doesn't matter if it's on the list or not. You know your dog and what they need so don't be afraid to use your own common sense judgment. It's all in the details...
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