Grooming Tips - Dogs
" My husband and I are either going to buy a dog or have a child. We can't decide whether to ruin our carpets or ruin our lives. " - Rita Rudner
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Nail Trims are often detested by dogs and owners alike. Owners are often uncomfortable with the process for fear of hurting their dogs. If your dog has clear nails, start with those. You should be able to see through enough to identify the quick. Otherwise, to start, clip only the tip of the nail. Once you are comfortable with this, you can continue and take bit more off, ensuring you do not get to close to the quick. An alternative is to use of a rotary tool to file down nails.
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It is important to realize all dogs have a quick. The quick is a blood supply which contains nerve endings which are painful if clipped. If this should happen apply some styptic powder to stop the bleeding. Cornstarch is also a good alternative.
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Brushing your dog will help establish a bond between you both and improve his sense of well being. Brushing will also distribute the natural oils throughout the coat and keeps your dog free from tangles.
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Before you give your dog a bath you will want to comb or brush through their coat ensuring all tangles and mats are removed.
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Most dogs should be bathed monthly, but bathing as often as once a week is not considered harmful. Always use a shampoo that is intended for dogs because the ph of dogs is different than humans. Lather the dog then rinse thoroughly. Make sure you donʼt leave any traces of shampoo on your dog. Dry your dog thoroughly with a hair dryer or towels to ensure no wet areas are left that can cause infection or sores.
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Dental care. It is very important to establish a dental hygiene routine for your dog to avoid dental problems and other health issues that can develop for lack of dental hygiene. Only use special enzymatic toothpaste developed for use on dogs as human toothpaste can make dogs very sick.
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Skunk odor Antidote: apply any brand of human toothpaste on the area that has been skunk and call your favorite professional groomer.
" The average dog is a nicer person than the average person. " - Andrew A. Rooney