Grooming Your Dog

Grooming your dog can actually be a great bonding experience, if you decide to do it yourself rather than taking your pup to a professional. And unless you've got a show dog on your hands, you don't really need to use a groomer; grooming your dog at home is easy!

There are lots of brushes out there. Which brush you choose depends mostly on what type of dog you have. Dogs with shorter coats may like a rubber-tipped brush, since their skin is a lot closer to the surface. Dogs with longer coats may like a slicker brush, which has a series of pin-like bristles. Double-coated dogs may need a shedding blade to help get that tufty undercoat out during shedding season. A long-toothed metal comb can be helpful for untangling hair in sensitive places like the belly, legs, and tail. It's just as important to pick a brush that your dog likes. If grooming is an unpleasant experience physically, he's not very likely to sit around for it.

Pick a time when both of you are relaxed, maybe after dinner when his belly is full and satisfied. Find a comfy place to sit together and bring out the brush! My dogs always like to sniff it before I start brushing, and I figure that helps them get to know the brush for next time. Brush in the direction the fur grows (usually front to back) and don't press too hard! You can always test the brush on your own head, to see how it feels. If it doesn't hurt you, it won't hurt your pup.

Talk to your dog and praise his good behavior. Tell him how handsome he is! And keep treats handy to reward his patience. If your dog isn't into the whole brushing thing, it is probably better to go with shorter brushing sessions. As he gets used to the process, he may just relax and enjoy it more. On the other hand, you may have a brush-hog like I do. My German Shepherd mix just loves being brushed and will push his sister out of the way so that only he gets brushed. He knows as soon as I get the brush out that it's time for pampering and loving.