By Linda Williams
Having a dog is all fun and games until you’re knee-deep in unusual smells, fur-covered furniture, and potty training mishaps. The bottom line is, dogs are messy, which is why groomers are an absolute necessity, right? Wrong. Self-grooming your pup is possible and more straightforward than you may think. Plus, it could save you a pretty penny.
Going to the groomer is not cheap, with costs upwards of a hundred dollars for basic grooming packages. Aside from steep expenses, taking your pooch to the groomers can fill them with anxiety, which is taxing on dogs. Dog-specific salons are loud and stressful for many overstimulated dogs, causing them to tense up and associate grooming with negative emotions. However, many don’t have the necessary skills to groom a dog from home, which means conditioning will be in order.
Condition your furry friend by massaging their paws, touching their face, and exposing them to at-home bathing tools to minimize stress and anxiety after you drop your pup off. If your best efforts prove unsuccessful, it may be time to give at-home cleanings a go. Instead of forcing them into unknown environments, consider a relaxing, comfortable alternative to help your dog through a stressful grooming situation.
Getting white coats whiter
Dogs with naturally lighter coats are prone to lackluster coats after a few weeks without a thorough spray-down. Before you begin your at-home grooming process, assess your dog’s specific needs, prioritizing labrador coat color in your grooming rituals to keep their fur shiny, spot-free, and smooth.
Regularly brush your dog
Taking the time to brush your dog regularly will minimize your time spent grooming, as it keeps your canine companion’s fur from matting and prolongs periods in between washings. Speaking of brushing, make it a habit to brush your dog’s teeth to encourage healthy enamel and decrease tooth-rot chances. Maintaining your pup’s dental hygiene can save you a lot of money down the road, as you’ll avoid expensive veterinary visits.
Trim your puppy’s nails carefully
Dogs’ nails are typically tricky to cut, which is why routine maintenance is key to avoiding bloody scrapes and upset pups. Ensuring their claws don’t reach an unbearable length will help dog owner’s dodge uncomfortable scraping. However, before you give nail-trimmers a go, research how to properly trim their nails to avoid clipping their quick. If you’re nervous about using sharp clippers, invest in nail grinders that allow for more control and increased comfort for your furry friend.
Don’t be afraid to trim their coat
Although a full-blown fur trim may seem out of your range of experience, thorough research and YouTube tutorials can guide you through a basic cut. Gather supplies like grooming scissors, detangling brushes, and dog shampoo and engage in proper use to ensure accuracy and safety.
Make grooming them fun (for both parties)
With the hustle and bustle of everyday life, people don’t always have adequate time to bond with their dogs. Taking the time to groom your pup can be an exceptional bonding exercise while you de-stink your life-long companion. Make it fun with treats and learn new techniques to keep yourself engaged and interested in the process.
To wrap up
If your dog needs a thorough washing, consider taking on the challenge yourself. That way, you can avoid steep costs, unnecessary anxiety, and bond with your pup one scrub at a time.
–