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Home » Dogs » Dog Grooming Products
Dog grooming is an important aspect of caring for your pet. Grooming will keep your dog clean and will help them to look their best, whether you are wishing to show your dog or simply take pride in their appearance. Dog grooming helps to prevent skin problems from developing. The process of regular grooming will ensure that you spot any health problems such as cuts or swelling or fleas and ticks. Regular grooming should also be seen as bonding time between you and your pet.
Some breeds of dogs will need to be groomed more often. Different grooming tools will be used according to the length and type of coat your dog has. When first introducing a young dog to grooming it is best to choose a time when they are less energetic, and keep the sessions very short and positive. It is good practice to let your dog smell the grooming tools before using them, and to reassure your dog and use praise when grooming. Always comb and brush in the direction of hair growth, and be gentle if your dog is sensitive.
Dog grooming brushes can be made from metal, wood or plastic. They are available in a range of different sizes, shapes and colours.
Curry brushes are made from rubber or plastic. They have short teeth and are used to loosen dirt and hair. The massaging action of the curry brush will also encourage the dog’s skin to produce natural oils that help to keep the dog’s coat in good condition.
Slicker brushes are used to loosen dirt and hair. Slickers brushes are typically used before bathing or after using a bristle or pin brush.
Bristle brushes are used to remove dirt and dust, and help the dog’s coat to shine. Bristle brushes are suitable for all different types of dog coat.
Pin brushes help to untangle dog coats, and are therefore used only for dogs with medium to long coats.
Dual brushes which combine the bristle and slicker brushes are available.
The amount of grooming needed will depend on the breed of dog and whether they are shown or worked. There are additional grooming tools available that help to groom your dog and keep their coat looking good.
Combs are available in varying shapes, such as the finishing comb, moulting comb or flea comb.
Stripping combs are used to pull out long hair which helps to maintain a coat that is in good condition. Stripping combs are most often used with show dogs.
Clippers are used to clip and shorten hair. Clippers are often electrical and are rechargeable, and are sold with different attachments. Clipping can be useful for certain sensitive areas or for parts of the coat that have become matted.
Rakes remove the old hair from the undercoat of double coated breeds, such as the huskie.
Grooming gloves are made from rubber and are designed to fit snuggly over your hand. Grooming gloves are used for dogs with short hair.
Nail clippers are an essential item, as dog’s nails need to be clipped regularly.
Scissors for use in dog grooming come in several styles including blunt ended, curved, right or left handed and thinning scissors.
Tick pickers are a small tool specifically designed to remove ticks from dogs.
Dryers for drying the dog’s coat are available. Whilst they are most common in grooming salons, it is worth noting that human hair dryers are not suitable for use on dogs.
Grooming tables are also available for professional dog groomers or people who wish to show their dog and will be grooming often.
Dogs will need to be bathed occasionally. Ensure that you do not bath your dog too often or you will risk losing the naturals oils that keeps their skin healthy. Of course, most dog owners will be familiar with the unplanned baths that result from muddy walks or incidents where your dog has rolled in something unpleasant.
Shampoos for dogs are designed for different purposes. Some shampoos are formulated for sensitive skin, some are deep cleansing and some will help to deter ticks and fleas. It is important to rinse shampoo off thoroughly as any residue will irritate your dog’s skin. The exception to this is dry foam shampoo, which is made for use without water and is ideal for cleaning spots of dirt or mud.
Conditioners are specially designed for providing a good finish to the dog’s coat.
Dog towels are made from very absorbent material, and are great for drying your dog after baths or walks.
Additional products are designed to help your dog stay clean, smell nice and have healthy skin. An important grooming aspect often overlooked is dental hygiene. Regular dental care will allow you to monitor your dog’s teeth and gums. Any dental problems will be treated more easily if quickly noticed.
Grooming wipes are similar to baby wipes, and are very useful for cleaning small areas of dirt without needing to give your dog a bath.
Evening primrose oil spray can be sprayed onto your dog after grooming to help their coat to look good. It is also beneficial for dog’s skin.
Deodorising spray can help to keep your dog smelling good, and is especially useful if your dog has dirtied their coat with something that has an unpleasant smell.
Antibiotic ointment or tea tree skin cream can be used for dogs that have dry, damaged or irritated skin.
Dental care involves the use of tooth brushes and toothpaste, both of which have been specially designed for dogs. Human toothpaste can be harmful to dogs. Dental treats can also be used as part of the dental care.
These recommended stores offer the best ranges of grooming products available online. Browse the ranges by following the links below.
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