Brush Your Dog For Various Benefits

There are many reasons why you should brush your dog. It will not only help your dog’s coat to look super shiny, there are also some health benefits as well. Get started today and your dog will thank you.

First of all, it’s important to understand the basic reasons for brushing a dog’s hair.

Why Brush Your Dog

• Eliminate uncomfortable tangles
• Get rid of skin problems
• Prevent parasite infestation
• Prevent smells
• Save money at the vet
• Eliminate loose pet hair around your home

You absolutely must make sure that you brush and check every part of your dog. This includes their ears, eyes, coat, skin, and anal area. You can set regular grooming times to do this.

If you’re new to grooming, the process can seem intimidating. Even so, it is easy to do once you know how. There are some things you need to be aware of before you get started.

First, you need a surface with good traction. Some people like to place a rubber grooming mat down on a firm table.

Then, be sure to train your dog to be still whenever they are in this location. If you have a puppy, or need to train your dog you can do so in short sessions at first.

Be sure to make this experience fun for you and your dog, but not to get too boisterous

Your dog will learn to stay still and obedient throughout the grooming process so long as you repeat yourself, correct mistakes, and praise them when they are correct. Do not hit your dog and maintain a smooth and even tone.

After you’re done grooming you need to be sure to reward your dog. This could be verbal praise or even a physical dog treat.

In order to prevent problems during the grooming session you should take your dog out to the bathroom before and after.

Now, once you have the set up it’s time to learn the rules of grooming. These are different depending on the type of coat your dog has. If you’re unsure you can ask an experienced breeder or dog groomer. A general rule of thumb is to groom your dog at least once per week. Do keep in mind that some will need to be groomed three times per week.

Extra Points To Brush Your Dog

• Do not bathe your dog before you have brushed his hair well. When dog’s hair gets wet the knots are more difficult to get out. It can also prevent thorough rinsing of your shampoo.
• Start brushing along the back and then toward the front. This will help to prevent irritation
• Use a system to make sure you groom every area
• When you brush around limbs, hold them at a natural angle
• Keep in mind that the hair you see on the surface is not the only hair there is. There is also an undercoat to pay attention to.
• You can be firm with your dog, but never hit him. Do remember to praise when your dog is following your orders.

There are some more advanced techniques to learn as well. When your dog has long, dense, or curly hair you should know that brushing on the surface will not get out the knots. Be sure to brush the hair that is closest to the dog’s skin.

You should start at the bottom of the back leg to lift the hair up. Brush each part of the leg, then work your way to the body and belly. Be sure to check your comb to make sure there are no hidden knots.

Be extra careful when you’re near the eyes because you wouldn’t want to damage them. The hock and stomach areas are also extra sensitive.

There are certain tools you will need to do a good job. If you have a smooth haired dog it is best to use a rubber brush to loosen the hairs. A bristle brush is great for getting rid of dead skin and improving circulation. You can even use a chamois cloth to add some shine.

Dogs with shorter coats will need a slicker brush and a bristle brush. Some with longer hair will require a comb to get out stubborn knots. Curly haired dogs will need a pin brush and comb.

There are other reasons why groom your dog as well.