Your dog doesn’t need a nine-step skincare routine, however, they do need a good grooming routine. So, let’s talk about creating one. Regular grooming will help your furry friend feel great, maintain a healthy coat, and stay matt-free. But grooming doesn’t end there, today we will also be discussing teeth, nails, and ears. 

Before you start your grooming routine, make sure you always have the best natural dog treats on hand to reward them.

Let’s begin!

Brush, brush, brush some more

How often should I brush?

Your dog’s fur needs to be brushed regularly and thoroughly. Think about your own hair. You brush it once to twice a day depending on length and thickness. We should use the same idea here. 

If you have a dog who has a thick coat, and who sheds regularly, brushing every day will help them tremendously. Brushing your pooch’s coat will stimulate their skin to release natural oils, stimulate blood flow and get rid of dandruff. 

If your dog has a thinner coat, brushing every other day will work just as well. Their skin can shed dandruff easier since the coat is not trapping it, and matts are not as likely to form. 

What should I use?

If you have a dog with a short coat, use a bristle brush. A bristle brush is great for short to medium-long coats to get rid of dead skin and hair. 

If you have a dog with a long and shaggy coat, you will want to use a tougher dog brush. They are harder than a bristle brush and will help you get better control. It will help you get rid of any potential matts, but most importantly it will help you deshed your dog.

If you have a dog that has a poodle-like coat, curly and thick, you will need a pin brush. A pin brush will help you get through all the curls and de-matt and detangle your dog’s hair. 

Extra care

When brushing your dog, make sure you are taking the time to check them over. Check for scars, scrapes, bumps, and any other changes. This will be a great bonding exercise for you and your furry friend. Reward them with some delicious beef jerky for dogs.

Bath Time

Bath time is so important for your dog. It is key to make it a positive experience for your pooch. 

Wash your dog regularly, depending on their coat type and length. Make sure to wash them thoroughly and with a good quality dog-specific shampoo. 

Shampoo twice and wash them only in lukewarm water. Make sure to be giving them plenty of kangaroo cubes to keep them happily distracted.

Haircuts

How often do you get your dog’s coat trimmed? 

For dog’s with short fur, they may only need a trim every 3-4 months, preferably over the summer season so they stay cool. In winter, you may choose to avoid getting their coats trimmed so they stay warm. 

If you have a dog with a long shaggy coat, or a curly, poodle-like coat, you will need to get them trimmed regularly. For dog’s such as golden retrievers, huskies, etc. you only need them trimmed a few times per year. These breeds need their coats shortened and thinned out. These breeds are also prone to shedding, but you can help with this by brushing their coats regularly.  

Unless you have professional experience, please be careful with scissors and trimmers around your dog. If you can, leave it to the professionals and brush in between grooms.

Nail it this time

Does your doggo ever leave marks on your skin with their nails? It might be time for a trim!

If you are anxious about trimming your doggo’s nails, you can get that done professionally at your local pet store or vets. They have years of experience and are more than happy to help. 

If you are going to the vets to get their nails trimmed, next time ask to watch. If they have time, they can help train you to do it at home. Make sure to pay attention and ask what tools you can use to do the job. There are some awesome and safe doggo nail trimmers. 

Your dog’s nails should be trimmed every month or every two months. You will know when it is time. Pay attention to the length and curl. The longer and curlier their nails are, the more likely they are to need them trimmed often. 

Small dog breeds such as chihuahua’s tend to need their nails clipped more often, as they grow fast.

Teeth Time

Your doggos teeth need brushing! And often too. 

Using doggo toothbrushes and toothpaste will help make the process easier and quicker. Try to brush their teeth every few days if you can, every day if your doggo is prone to bad breath and plaque build up. 

In between teeth brushing, use doggos treats that are hard, like bully sticks, collagen sticks and kangaroo knuckles. These treats work to scrape off a build up of plaque and tarter from your dog’s teeth. 

Make sure you are taking your doggo to regular teeth check-ups at the vet. Check out this blog on how to keep your dog’s teeth clean to find out more.

Ears

Your doggos ears will need a good clean too. Once a week, using a damp cloth, wipe the inside of your doggos ears to prevent yeast build up. Be careful around the ears and get your vet’s help with that beforehand. Sometimes, you might need to use a specialised dog ear flush, to prevent bacteria overgrowth. 

Get that doggo clean

A good grooming routine will help you bond with your furry friend. Meanwhile you will also be helping them stay clean and healthy. Make sure to use these tips and tricks, as well as the help of your vet, and have fun with it!