Maintaining great fur for your dog isn’t just about looking good, it also helps to avoid infection or disease caused by dirt or other bacteria.
So, to keep that ‘just stepped out of a salon’ look for your dog there are several things you need to do.
First, brush your dog. And do it well. Poor brushing can lead to matting, which will only worsen if your dog gets wet. And a mat is an ideal place for bacteria to fester, so don’t give it the chance.
There are plenty of grooming tools available to help you with this laborious task, but you need to get the right kit for your type of dog.
Dogs with short hair only need light brushing and a grooming glove could do the trick. However, dogs with medium length hair or longer may require special tools, such as an undercoat rake.
If you’re unsure which tools to use for your type of dog, drop by Rooke’s with your four legged friend and a member of our team will be happy to advise you. But whichever you choose, you must groom effectively, removing all loose hair and distributing oils from the skin through the fur.
Once groomed, it’s time to hit the water!
Dogs look and smell at their best when they are properly groomed, washed and then blow-dried.
Dogs afraid of water
Some dogs are scared of running water and taking baths. If this is the case, get them used to the sound of running water.
Fill a tub with them sat next to it, comforting them if they get scared. And take baby steps, gradually build up to filling the tub with them in it, continually comforting them until they are used to it. They still may not like it, but at least they won’t be terrified.
Rules for bathing
Take off your dog’s collar, when you bathe him. This will prevent any discolouration of the fur, but more importantly it’ll be more comfortable for your dog. Using a collar on a wet dog can cause sores or irritate the fur, so avoid it if you can.
Once the collar’s off, wet your dog entirely. If you have a big dog or a dog with a thick coat, a water pressurizer, which attached to the tap, can really help.
Next, grab the shampoo. Start from the neck and move down the body. Water down the shampoo before you begin it makes washing your dog easier. Diluting the shampoo will also prevent residue being left on the fur. Assuming you have diluted the shampoo, it’s worth giving your dog two washes.
Apply the shampoo to the area of fur you’re working on and work the shampoo into the coat. Using a special brush, such as a curry brush, may help if you have a short haired dog, but avoid them on long haired dogs.
Work your way around your dog, leaving his head until last. Do not apply soap to his face, nose or around his mouth.
Once you’ve finished shampooing, completely rinse his fur and coat. Any amount of debris left in the fur can irritate the skin, so make sure you get it all out.
Dry as a bone
Now your dog is thoroughly rinsed, grab a towel and rub away. Dogs tend to love this bit!
Once towel dried, if your dog is laid back, grab a hairdryer and give him a blow dry. Although make sure you don’t completely dry him, you don’t want to dry out his skin.
If your dog is nervous, leave him to finish drying naturally.