Your dog’s shaggy hair and nails may seem low maintenance, but regular grooming is essential for their health and happiness. Grooming goes beyond just making your pup look good – it keeps their coat and skin clean, prevents matting, trims overgrown nails, and gives you a chance to spot and monitor any abnormalities. So how often exactly should you be groom your dog? Read on for tips tailored to different breeds and your dog’s individual needs.
Short-Haired Breeds
Many small dogs like Chihuahuas and Jack Russell Terriers have short, low-maintenance coats. But that doesn’t mean you can skip out on brushing them entirely! Give them a weekly once-over with a rubber curry brush to remove dead hair and distribute skin oils that keep their coat healthy. Check their nails and trim if needed so they don’t accidentally scratch anyone. You can also use doggie wipes in between full baths to freshen up dirty paws after a walk.
Medium-Haired Breeds
For medium-length coated breeds like Corgis, Miniature Schnauzers, and Pugs, aim to brush two to three times per week. Make sure to get all the way down to the undercoat. This helps prevent mats from forming close to the skin, which can be painful and trap moisture against your dog’s body. Trim nails as needed, and clean ears once a week with a vet-approved solution to avoid infections. Give these pups a bath every three to four weeks to keep their skin and coat in good condition.
Long-Haired Breeds
High-maintenance hounds like Golden Retrievers, Collies, Siberian Huskies, and the famous Komondor need to be brushed about every other day. Their long hair is prone to tangles and mats, which are much easier to remove when freshly formed. Untended mats pull uncomfortably at your dog’s skin. Over time, they can even restrict blood circulation or cause sores. Make sure to brush all the way down to the skin, and pay special attention to areas around the ears, legs, tail, and belly. Baths for the fluffy dogs should happen once every four to six weeks, along with regular nail trims.
Senior Dogs
As dogs age, their grooming needs change too. Senior pups should be brushed daily to gently remove mats and loose hair. Overgrown hair around paws can cause slipping accidents. Trimming nails weekly makes it easier for arthritic dogs to walk. Clean ears once a week to monitor for age-related infections. Avoid bathing too frequently, as older dogs have dry, sensitive skin. Be extra gentle combing out tangles to avoid pulling skin. Regular grooming promotes blood flow and range of motion as you massage aging muscles and joints.
Signs It’s Time for the Groomer
While you can handle most basic grooming at home, regularly bringing your dog to a professional has major benefits. Signs it’s time for an appointment with a trained pet stylist include:
– Matted fur that’s painful to brush out
– Overgrown nails clicking loudly on the floor
– Strong “doggy” odor even after baths
– Ear hair blocking ventilation and light
– Unsafe at-home attempts to clip hair around eyes or sanitary areas
– Severe shedding signaling temperature regulation issues
The skilled groomers at Pawhootz Pet Resort can safely and humanely handle all these issues and more. We groom dogs of all breeds, ages, and special needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
Pamper Your Pooch at Pawhootz Pet Resort
Regular grooming is essential for your dog’s health and happiness. By brushing, bathing, and trimming nails as needed, you’ll prevent painful mats, keep skin and coat healthy, and spot potential abnormalities early. Pay attention to changes in your dog’s individual needs as they age. And don’t hesitate to book an appointment at Pawhootz Pet Resort if expert styling or treatments are required. From baths and nail trims to cuts, color services, flea treatments, and more, our skilled groomers can keep your pup looking and feeling their very best!
