Understanding Basic Dog Grooming Lessons

Your dog deserves the best treatment that you can provide. You buy the best foods that you can, and you should also know about grooming. You might not have the time or resources for formal dog grooming lessons, but these tips may be very helpful.

. Beginning

As the owner, you must have control over the situation. Many types of canine species are resistant to these procedures and they may get very nervous. Protect yourself using a muzzle to prevent any biting. Your pet may not intentionally bite you, but it may be a reflex action. A muzzle will keep your from injury and it will teach the dog that biting is not acceptable behavior. After a few sessions, you may be able to stop using the muzzle.

Give your pet plenty of time to get used to all kinds of loud equipment. Things like clippers and hair dryers can be very frightening to an animal, as their hearing is much more sensitive than humans. Show them the equipment, so they can see that there is no threat. When you use a hair dryer, start with the lowest blow setting, as it will not be as loud.

. The Importance of Brushing

Brushing is an excellent way to bond with your dog. Most animals love the feel of a brush on their fur, and when you first get a puppy, make sure that they get used to brushing. When you use the brush, talk very softly and let your pet know that all is fine. This is a very good way to start any type of grooming session.

. Trimming Nails

Most dogs will be hesitant about having their toe nails trimmed. It is always best to start then they are puppies, but it is not too late with older dogs. Take the time to relax the animal as much as possible. Praise them after each nail is trimmed and when it is over, give them their favorite treat. Do not forget to have something handy to stop any sudden bleeding.

It does not matter which foot you start with, but be consistent, as this way you will form a routine. It is a good idea to have an assistant for trimming nails. Your assistant can talk softly to the animal and distract him or her from the trimming process.

When cutting nails, longer is better. Cutting nails too short causes them to bleed and it can hurt your pet. Pain will make them afraid of the procedure, in the future. If you can see the vein in the nail, be careful not to cut it. If the nails are dark, err on the side of cation and trim them long.

. Conclusion

If you do not have the time or resources for proper dog grooming lessons, the basics are not hard to learn. Let your dog get used to all of the noisy equipment that you will be using. Do not forget to protect yourself with a muzzle, in the beginning. Start each session with a gentle brushing, as this will relax you both. Have someone help you distract the animal while trimming nails.