Dog Grooming

Averaging heights over 30″ and weighing up to 170 pounds, Great Danes are among the largest dog breeds. Luckily these gentle giants have amiable dispositions and require little grooming.

Grooming a Great Dane, as with all dog breeds, is best started young. When a puppy get the Dane used to having their feet held and nails clipped. Handle their ears and brush their fur. Start tooth brushing early. Make bath time a game. All of these activities should be considered fun. They should be accompanied by lots of praise and treats! Start the puppy out thinking that grooming is a positive experience. Grooming can, and should, be a bonding activity between owner and dog.

Coat –

Bathing – The thought of wresting a 160 pound unhappy Great Dane into a bathtub can be terrifying! Luckily with their short, single layer, coats Great Danes do not require many baths. Indeed, bathing too frequently may strip your dog’s coat of essential oils. Great Dane’s are prone to dry skin and the oils are necessary to keep their skin moist. If a bath is necessary use a biodegradable shampoo designed specifically for dogs. You may also choose to wipe down your Dane with a washcloth and some of the shampoo. Be careful to use a clean cloth to remove any residual shampoo when done. The frequency of baths is debatable but not more than once a month and often only twice a year seem to suffice.

Brushing – A Great Dane should be brushed at least weekly to remove any dead fur and to distribute the oils. A curry brush is usually recommended. Regular brushing will cut down on the need for baths.

Head –

Slobber – Some Dane’s are droolers and it is a wise idea to keep a drool towel with you to wipe up any excess. This will help keep your dog’s face clean and prevent them for sharing the drool with unsuspecting passersby.

Ears – Ears should be checked, and cleaned, once a week. Use a product designed for cleaning a dog’s ears. You may also make your own solution with apple cider vinegar and water. Squirt the solution into the ear and then rub and massage the ear for a few minutes. This will allow the solution to work its way into the canal. Then with a cotton ball, or damp soft cloth, gently clean the inside of their ears. Be careful not to go far into the canal.

Eyes – Clean around the eyes with a damp cloth if any mucus is present. A small amount of mucus is normal and not anything to worry about. If you notice an excess of mucus or if appears

One may look at myself and find it hard to believe that I am a lover of all animals. To most, I appear to be a typical cat lady. However, I do love and cherish all animals, and believe that certain pets are appropriate for certain people.

If an individual is trying to choose between bringing a dog or a cat into their household, there is much more to this decision than simply deciding which species is more appealing to the eye. Though both cats and dogs make wonderful companions, they both have very different needs, and are able to provide different things to their owners.

Let’s begin with the animals needs. Dogs need much more care and attention than cats do. A dog owner is responsible for feeding, walking, socializing, grooming as well as bathroom breaks. It is important that feeding times and amounts are consistent for the animal’s health and weight. Walking is essential for a dog to maintain health, as well as burn off energy. Failure to walk a dog or provide them with accurate exercise could result in suppressed energy that could be negatively displayed in other ways around the house (i.e. aggression and destructive behaviors). Socializing is another important thing when it comes to our canine friends. Properly socializing a dog will prevent them from becoming overly protective of their owner(s) and being potentially hostile towards strangers. Depending on the breed of dog, grooming can be a quick, or a lengthy chore. Baths are essential, as well as grooming fur. Regular fur trimmings could also be necessary depending on the type of breed. A dog’s owner is also responsibly for taking their dog outside to go to the bathroom. Potty training can be a lengthy and difficult process, and requires a good deal of time and patience.

When it comes to the needs of a cat, the list tends to be a bit shorter. Cats need to be fed, have their litter changed, attention/exercise as well as grooming care. Just as with dogs, regulated feeding times and amounts are important to proper health. Potty-training a cat is relatively easy since cats have a natural tendency to use the litter box on their own. Exercising your cat can be as simple as having another cat companion that your cat enjoys playing with, or having adequate toys available. Cats bathe themselves, so generally the only grooming required involves a good brush.

As far as what each animal can provide to their owners, I believe first and foremost that unconditional love is a given. When treated well, cats and dogs both love their owners. They provide affection, consistency and companionship. Dog’s can be the jogging partner you have always wanted. Cats can be the couch-cuddling companions you adore while reading a favorite book.

In general, when faced with someone that is having a hard time choosing a cat or a dog, I ask them to look at their lifestyle. Someone who is very busy and is rarely home would not make a good dog owner. Remember that dog’s need more care than cats including regular bathroom breaks. Cats are more self-sufficient, therefore, deal better with only a few hours of attention and care a day. Regardless of which animal you feel will suit you best, I guarantee that choosing one of these wonderful life-companions will be a decision you will never regret.

Why Grooming your Dog is Important

Wondered why your neighbor’s spaniel looked so radiant? With a glowing coat and perfect teeth you might think how does he do it? The chances are, that your friend has been grooming his dog by himself but most probably with professional help. Dogs are high on maintenance if you really want the best out of them. Miss out on those regular baths and see the fur become dull. Forget to feed your dog the right diet and see the dog turn sulky, irritable and sickly looking. Do you need to visit the dentist? But of course, and so does your dog. Dogs eat all sorts of meat, bones and well almost anything that you feed them. So, like humans their teeth suffer considerable wear and tear. At times an odd bone may cause damage to their teeth and so a visit to the nearby Vet becomes necessary. The vet will not only look at your dog’s teeth but also conduct a regular check up which would include required inoculation shots. For dogs to remain healthy requires regular exercise. You may not have the time to do it and thus it may well become necessary for you to employ Dog Grooming Services. If you search the internet or your newspapers classified section you will find a number of such companies that offer services to look after your dog. These range from giving your dog a medicinal bath, to providing for a walker’ to clipping nails to providing doggie accoutrements. They even provide you with the right advice as to what sort of food to give your dog, the right sort of vitamins and of course the doggie paraphernalia that you may require from a leash to a kennel. Dog Salons offer even a higher range of services for their well-to-do canine clients. A perfect shampoo and a perfect hair do to go with your dress are some of the common offerings. Grooming your dog is not restricted to just cosmetic makeovers. Well groomed dogs also know their manners. How to trot alongside, sit when ordered, fetch when told to do so and a host of other doggie manners are some of the aspects of a well groomed dog. Teaching these on your own is usually not possible because of the time, patience and professional knowledge required. It is best to employ a dog trainer for this task. Most Dog Grooming Agencies have a trainer also on their payroll or can recommend one to you. So as a proud owner of a prospective well groomed dog, consult the professionals you will never regret the results.

Whether you have just gotten your first dog or you have owned more than one dog, either way, keeping a dog occupied and happy can be a challenge and a joy. Most people do not think beyond the basics when getting a dog. Food, water, and shelter should be enough right? Not so, there are many conciderations when getting a dog, and keeping them happy.

The most important factor in keeping your dog occupied and happy is the dog’s breed. Each breed has certain characteristics that are inherant to that breed. They are happiest when they are able to freely do what comes natural to them. I have a miniture poodle, poodle are smart and require alot of mental stimulation to be happy. She loves to play fetch and have her toys to play with. She also is happiest in a routine. My mom’s jack russell terrier is a different story. Though she is small, she is happiest with lots of room to run and jump. Jack Russells also love to hunt. My mother’s Jack Russell would not be happy in a home with out constant excersice and play.

In my experience, most dogs love having a space to call their own. In my dogs case, she loves her kennal. It is not a place for punishment, and I never make her go into the kennal. She goes on her own, and in fact, during the day that is where you will find her. It’s her place to get away from my 3 year old or just nap. She has learned how to open and close her kennal at will. It is her haven. All dogs should have a place that is just theirs. Sometimes they just want that space to take a nap or be alone.

Good grooming is also a part of keeping a dog happy. Regular baths and brushing make them feel better. My dog loves her baths. Also, it gives you and your dog special one on one time.

Grooming also keeps them neat and clean, and helps minimize possibility of fleas, ticks, or a skin infection. With a poodle, like I have, regular grooming is a necessity.

Dogs love regular play, some more than others. Pick toys that are durable, and most of all toys that your pet likes. Stuffed animals that squeak are always a hit. The dogs can play with their toys alone or with you. Throwing a ball for you dog can be a great stress reliever for you both! Be sure to choose the right size toy for your dogs size to minimize risk of choking.

Routine exercise such as playing fetch or walking is also a great way to keep your dog happy, healthy, and in shape. Overweight dogs tend to develop many health problems,some of them painful, such as arthritis and hip problems. A dog in pain is not happy. So keeping your dog on a good diet and exercise plan is very important.

It may seem that caring for a dog, and keeping them happy is alot of work. It does require some time, and we all know the hours seem to be full enough. Having a healthy happy dog is a great way to relieve stress and take your mind off your day. Instead of coming home from work stressed and going right to the television set, head outside for a vigourous game of fetch. It is great exercise and lots of fun! Dogs want their owners to be hapy too!

Working in a kennel and working with a dog groomer has not only given me a greater appreciation for what dogs really need in the way of personal hygiene and “styling”, but also a greater appreciation for what groomers are required to do to keep our dogs healthy AND happy.

A good groomer has to know more than how to give baths, clip nails and trim hair:

1) They should be a dog lover AND something of a dog expert.

2) They must have an ability to work with potentially difficult dogs who are distressed, uncomfortable and unhappy.

3) Unless they are a breed-specific groomer (for example, specializing in Poodles), they need to understand the grooming requirements (nails, coat AND what works best for the particular breed, at the time of year) of a variety of breeds (not all dog fur is alike).

4) They need a basic grasp of dog anatomy, so they don’t accidentally injure a dog while moving them around to trim and clip.

5) They need to have a basic understanding of the skin conditions common to dogs, and the types of shampoos for treating and preventing problems.

6) If you have special requirements, (for example, if you want a puppy-cut for a dog that isn’t going to be shown), they should honor your request.

7) They must have the patience of several saints.

So how do you find the perfect groomer for you and your dog?

As with any other service, get references. Talk to friends, talk to local rescue groups, talk to your vet. Don’t just ask about how they rated cost and the end result, ask about how the dog interacted with the groomer when they were dropped off and picked up.

When you find one or two groomers you think might fit the bill, call and ask to speak to the person who will be actually working with your dog – especially if you have a potentially difficult dog (coat-wise or temperament-wise). If you have any concerns about the skill-set listed above – ask. Ask about their training and or experience – experience is crucial. In particular, ask about their experience with the breed or breed-cross you have. If you like what you hear, ask them for additional references, and call them!

Don’t just consider a grooming salon or the salons in pet super-stores. If you use a kennel regularly, they may have a good groomer. And consider getting your dog groomed when you leave your dog for any length of time – especially if the dog needs a bit of work, the job can be divided over several days, so there is less stress.

When you bring your dog in, don’t be surprised if the groomer recommends more work than you originally intended to have done – often owner’s don’t realize that their dog’s nails and coat needed attention.

Even if you are pleased with the results of your first visit, don’t assume everything went well. When your dog comes home from their first groom, especially if your dog needed an extensive trim or long nails done, give them a thorough examination – there should be no nicks or cuts, and they shouldn’t be suddenly shy of having their paws handled (the nails may have been “quicked”, the equivalent of having your nails trimmed into the “pink).

Having “assisted” in several difficult groomings, I have a new appreciation for what groomers do – I don’t believe that a six-week correspondence course or corporate training is sufficient. Groomers deal with stressed, often uncooperative dogs, and they need to know how to keep those dogs calm and comfortable, as well giving your dog a bath and a trim.

One of the most important things you can do for your dog is maintain a consistent and proper dog grooming routine.In addition to keeping your dog clean and smelling good, for both you and your guest’s sake, there are many health concerns that proper grooming address.Your dog’s coat and skin are very important to your dog and oftentimes are an indicator of other health problems that may be lurking. Grooming your dog properly, following correct dog grooming instructions, helps to keep her healthy while also building an important bond between you and your pet.
Basic Dog Grooming Instructions

Since grooming your dog is such an important part of your responsibility as an owner, you should not only have a sound and regular routine, but you should have the proper knowledge, brushes, shampoos, clippers and other necessary equipment.With correct dog grooming instructions, you can help keep you dog healthy and clean.

An important part of dog grooming, even before you begin thinking about baths, is simply brushing your dog’s coat on a regular, preferably daily, basis.Brushing helps remove dirt and pests, untangles knots and spreads the natural oils evenly through the coat.Each dog is different and you should consult your vet or a grooming expert on the proper type of brush to use based on your dog’s breed.You should brush thoroughly, including her stomach, behind her legs and her ears.

In addition to regular brushing, you should also make sure you keep your dog’s nails trimmed–an often overlooked aspect of dog grooming.You will probably want to do this monthly although it will depend on your dog’s habits and activities.Make sure you have proper trimmers made for dogs and do not cut them too short.You’ll want to stop trimming just before you reach the quick and don’t forget to get your dog’s dewclaw.Following these routine dog grooming instructions will help maintain your dogs coat and nails but should also be supplemented with a bath.
Dog Grooming – The Bath

An important part of dog grooming is the bath.Although it is okay to brush your dog daily, you should not bath your dog too often.Overbathing will reduce the vital oils that help keep your dog’s coat healthy and lead to irritation and itching of the skin.Four times a year is a good rule of thumb, but this will vary depending on the breed of your dog and the types of activities you and your pet regularly do.You should consult your vet or a professional groomer if you are unclear of the proper frequency for your dog.

Before you just throw your dog in the bath and start lathering up you should be adequately prepared.Get your shampoo (made for your dog not human shampoo), some brushes or combs, a washcloth, some cottonballs, a towel or two, and any other equipment or products you might need.You might want to use a detachable spray hose for your bath and a rubber mat makes a good idea to prevent slipping and sliding.Large breed dogs will most likely have to use the bathtub with the rubber mat on the bottom, but smaller breeds can use a plastic basin or rubber storage bin.

For the full article on dog grooming, please visit us at http://largedogbreedz.com/your-large-dogs-health/large-dog-grooming-techniques/large-dog-grooming-and-supply.html .

Do you like the smell of dirty dog? Do you like seeing your pet infested with fleas or ticks? There is a high chance that you do not. The answer to this problem is to make sure your pet undergoes regular dog grooming.

It is not always easy to do, especially if your pet is not used to taking baths or having its hair cut but it is essential to maintaining a healthy coat and body.

Dog books and experts agree that dog grooming is an excellent way to foster a bond between pet owner and pet. It allows consistent contact and it helps assure the pet that its needs are being met in a safe way.

It keeps the pet’s appearance healthy and make sure that allergies in the home are kept to a minimum. The grooming starts with the basics. You do not have to have expensive equipment nor do you have to always turn to be an animal wiz.

Basic dog beauty treatments begin in much the same way that you, yourself, spruce up. Start with an adequate bathtub with a hose attachment to the shower. Pets Mart sells a variety of shampoos and conditioning agents to help the grooming along.

Make sure the bathtub area is cleared of all clutter. If this is your puppy’s first bath then it might not be quite as calm as you would want.

Start the shower, making sure the water temperature is tepid to warm, and make sure that your supplies are very close. The best idea is to have a dog training collar attached to a short leash and have the leash held by someone else while you do the dirty, or rather clean, work.

Dog grooming starts with the bath. After the bathing is done and the pet is dried off then the entertainment begins.

Many dogs, after a bath, will run through the house rubbing on the carpet and will give a free show of their exuberance. After they have gotten over the rush, calm them down by gently brushing out their coat.

It will remove any loose hair or dander still remaining. You can then clip their nails if you are feeling comfortable enough to do this.

If you own a breed of pet that requires a special hair cut or is exceedingly large, consider taking them into a local dog groomer who has the facilities to take care of your pet.

Dog grooming is a lot of work at times but it is worth it to see your pet healthy and have a beautiful coat. You will not have to worry about matted hair or the smell of a dog that has rolled around in something that it should not have.

Whether your pet has a short, sleek coat or long, thick fur, grooming will be a part of your normal dog care routine. Since this is a ritual that you will be performing every day or week, dog grooming training will make the process more comfortable and enjoyable for both you and your furry friend. There are a number of steps to keeping your dog looking and feeling his best, from teeth brushing, to toenail clipping, to regular baths and brushings. All of these tasks will go much more smoothly if you and your pet have completed a few dog grooming training sessions together. The main tools that you will require (besides a few basic grooming tools), are patience and rewards, and plenty of them. Are you ready to get your pet looking his best? Read on to find out how to make grooming sessions a positive part of your pet care routine.

Take it Slow

Dog grooming training will incorporate activities like brushing your pets teeth, keeping his nails clipped, and maintaining his shiny, healthy coat. All of these activities will require that you touch your pet in areas that might be sensitive or guarded, making it extremely important for you to take the process slow and pepper it with many rewards. Begin with brushing his teeth, since healthy teeth and gums will lead to the better overall health of your dog. Since many dogs are not comfortable with their owners handling their muzzles, begin with some gentle strokes to the nose that will eventually lead to pulling up the lip and getting the toothbrush where it needs to go. Praise your pet every step of the way and reward him with kind words and an occasional treat as often as necessary. Before you know it, your dog will allow you to brush all of his teeth on a regular basis.

The same process can be used when clipping your dogs nails. Begin by touching his paws, and lightly pressing to expose the nails. With a bit of time and encouragement, your dog will sit calmly as you clip his nails, and you will be able to accomplish this task quickly and frequently. Brushing your dogs coat may not be as traumatic for your pet as clipping and teeth brushing tend to be until you begin to touch sensitive areas like his back end or tail. Wait until the end of your session to begin your dog grooming training in this area. Start by petting the area, praising your dog when he allows you to do so. As your pet gets used to you handling his tail and back side, he will eventually relax as you work a brush through the area. This will keep this very important part of your pet clean and free of mattes.

Dog grooming training takes some time and patience to complete, but it is not difficult and the rewards are far reaching. When your pet allows you to complete the cleaning process, you will both find these sessions to be pleasant and easy.

Whether your dog has a short coat (Boxer, Basset Hound, Labrador Retriever), long coat (Lhasa Apso, German Long-haired Pointer, Samoyed) or one that falls somewhere in between, hell need to be groomed on a regularly.

All dogs need to get used to being groomed, and starting as early in its life as possible. Good pet grooming habits will prevent future grooming problems from happening later on in their adult lives.

One Size Does Not Fit All When It Comes To Dogs

There are a variety of coats require different grooming steps, but basic grooming care such as bathing, brushing, ear and teeth cleaning, and nail trimming is needed for all pets. If you own a long-haired dog, grooming will have to be practiced more often and may be a little more challenging. So, it is imperative to introduce your dog to grooming early on in her life. Life will be more pleasant for both you and your dog if she learns to enjoy this experience while hes still young.

Good Grooming Habits: Groom Your Dog Everyday

To ensure that your dog creates a positive experience with grooming, you must introduce her to the process slowly and often. Get your dog familiar with each piece of equipment by introducing it to her one at a time. Show your dog the brush, let her sniff it for a few seconds and then give her a small treat.

The next step is to gently touch her with the brush and the treat. Once your dog has fully accepted the object, gently brush one stroke and follow with a treat. Do this process about three more times until your dog realizes that being brushed is a great feeling. Break down this method into small steps as this will give your dog the chance to create a positive experience within each step of the way.

Take your dog to the grooming station and let her get to know the area before you begin the grooming process. A few days prior giving your dog a bath, put her in the bathtub while its dry and let her play with a toy and throw in a favorite treat. Repeat this technique the next day, adding some water and a sponge. See, its not as difficult as you probable thought it would be.

Warning: Dont allow your dog to simply jump into a tub filled with water out of the blue, allow your dog get used to the water before filling the tub. Dogs are just like children, they have to be handled with care as well. So, before your dog gets in, you may want to dip your elbow into the tub to make sure that it isnt to cold or hot.

Lastly, repeat this same procedure goes for the nail clipper, toothbrush, and other grooming tools. Take your time when introducing them to your dog and she will enjoy grooming for the rest of your pets life.