Grooming is an important part of being a dog parent. Grooming doesn’t just make your pup look good, it’s an essential part of keeping them healthy. Beyond the physical aspects, grooming also fosters a strong bond between you and your dog. Grooming rituals reduce stress and anxiety while keeping your pup emotionally content. Ultimately, investing time in grooming contributes to a happier canine companion all around.
Why grooming matters
A lack of grooming affects your dog’s whole body. Overgrown nails, impacted anal glands, and bad teeth can cause pain, discomfort, and in some cases, death.
Brushing your dog’s teeth prevents all kinds of unpleasant health problems that have nothing to do with dog breath — like heart, liver, and kidney disease.
Trimming nails allows your dog to move around comfortably. Long, overgrown nails can be very painful to your pup. Plus, trimmed nails are less likely to mark up your floor.
Cutting any hair that falls into the eye can prevent eye irritation. Trimming ear hair can help prevent ear infections. Cutting hair and brushing helps keeps mats and dreadlocks away.
Bathing keeps dirt from being tracked all over your home but also helps control parasites like fleas.
Must-have dog grooming tools
You can find most of these basic dog grooming tools at any pet supply store:
- Brush: Make sure to get the right kind of brush for your dog’s fur. You may need more than one.
- Nail clipper: Don’t get the cheap ones!
- Organic flea control shampoo: Keep chemicals — and pests — off your pup’s delicate skin.
- Dog toothpaste and toothbrush: Never use human toothpaste.
- Towel: You know what wet dogs love to do, right?
Depending on your dog’s coat, you’ll need a specific type of brush or a flea comb. Certain flea prevention products and toothpastes are only available at your veterinarian’s office. If you’re not sure which tools are best for your dog, a talk with your vet can help you get started.
Consult the pros
If grooming your dog proves too difficult, or you just don’t have the time for a DIY grooming session, don’t hesitate to find a professional dog groomer to help you out!
