How To Train Your Dog For Good Grooming

Good grooming is crucial to your dogs health. For instance, failure to brush your dogs teeth could result in serious dental problems. Untrimmed nails could cause structural problems and shift your dogs posture.

You can always take your dog to a professional groomer, but this could cost you a ton of money. Plus, the damage could start in between visits; thus it is important that, as an owner, you should be able to take care of at least minor grooming issues.

Nails
There are many clipper types and sizes out in the market. You can choose from scissor-like types or guillotine-style clippers. Select one that you can handle without difficulty. An alternative to nail clippers is an electric nail grinder. Nail grinders could cost you a bit of money, but they are safer to use and are less likely to cut the sensitive vein in the nail.

When cutting your dogs nails, trim a bit of nail at a time to avoid cutting the sensitive vein. To know the best way to do it, watch your vet or professional groomer when cutting your dogs nails.

Ears
It is important to clean your dogs ears, especially if he likes to go in the water and/or if your dog has long floppy ears. Long eared breeds need more cleaning than others because air doesnt circulate as easily inside the ears, leading waxy and bacteria-filled dirt to build up in the damp area under the flaps. Clean your dogs ears by gently swabbing each one with a cotton ball dipped in mineral or baby-oil, or an ear-cleaning solution thats been approved by your vet.

Eyes
Eyes can get easily damaged by dirt that gets trapped in your dogs lashes, eyelids and wrinkles or skin folds, such as those on a bulldog. To clean your dogs eyes, use a soft cloth dipped in warm water to gently clean the lids and around the eyes.

Teeth
Dogs, just like humans, are prone to dental problems if proper dental care is not exercised. Plaque and tartar build up can cause dental problems such as periodontal disease which has been linked to serious health risks such as heart and kidney problems. When brushing your dogs teeth, look out for red, bleeding or receding gums, and persistent bad breath. These are warning signs that your dog has serious dental problems.

To clean your dogs teeth, use a soft-bristled brush and toothpaste for dogs.
If your dog appears uncomfortable with a toothbrush in his mouth, get your dog used to having his teeth cleaned by gently rubbing your finger against his gums for a few minutes everyday. You can also try wrapping gauze around your finger or using a small finger brush.

Brushing your dog ever few days twice or thrice a week is enough to prevent tartar and bacteria building up, but a daily brushing is much better. Brushing less than two times a week is not enough since it takes long for plaque to harden.