As the weather heats up, your furry best friend might be feeling the heat—literally! Regular grooming isn’t just about keeping your pup looking fabulous… it’s a key part of their health and happiness, especially in the warmer months.
So, let’s dig into why grooming matters, what you can do at home, and when it’s time to call in the pros.
Why dog grooming is more than just a good hair day:
Imagine wearing a thick, furry coat every day of the year – yikes!
That reason alone should be enough. But grooming offers many more benefits for your furry friend.
Regular grooming helps dogs regulate their body temperature, keeps their skin healthy, and prevents pesky problems like matting, skin infections, and overheating.
Plus, it’s a great way to keep an eye out for any sneaky parasites or lumps that may need a vet check.
DIY dog grooming at home
You don’t always need to book a professional Dog Groomer to keep your dog in tip-top shape. For some basic maintenance in between visits to the groomer, here are some simple at-home grooming habits that can make a world of difference:
- Brushing – Say goodbye to loose fur and hello to a shiny, tangle-free coat! Brushing helps distribute natural oils and prevents knots, especially for long-haired or double-coated breeds.
- Nail trimming – Overgrown nails can be uncomfortable and even affect your dog’s walking. Keep them trimmed to avoid any “click-clack” runway walks on your floors.
- Ear cleaning – Floppy-eared pups are especially prone to infections, so regular ear cleaning helps keep nasty build-ups at bay.
- Paw patrol – Check between their paw pads for dirt, debris, or anything that might cause discomfort. Plus, a little paw balm can go a long way in preventing dryness or cracking!
And, don’t forget bath time!
While dogs don’t need daily baths (thank goodness!), regular washes help keep their skin and coat fresh and free from allergens, dirt, and bacteria. Use a dog-friendly shampoo to avoid stripping natural oils, and make sure to rinse thoroughly.
An online pet pharmacy like Pet Chemist will have a wide range of the best products that are made for furry friends…at very competitive prices too!
Breeds that require extra grooming-related TLC
Some breeds are just high-maintenance divas! If you have one of these furballs, regular grooming is non-negotiable:
- Poodles & Doodles – Their curly coats can turn into a tangled mess if not brushed often.
- Shih Tzus & Maltese – Long, silky hair may look adorable, but it mats easily without daily brushing.
- Retrievers & German Shepherds – Double-coated dog breeds shed like it’s their full-time job, so regular brushing helps keep the fluff under control.
- Cocker Spaniels & Basset Hounds – Their adorable floppy ears can trap moisture and dirt, making them prone to infections if not cleaned regularly.
When to call in the professional Dog Groomers:
Sometimes, it’s best to let the experts take over. Professional dog groomers have the skills (and patience) to handle tasks that might be tricky at home, like taming them and the soap suds while attempting to shampoo them in the bath!
There are other more important reasons, however, to enlist the help of a professional Dog Groomer from time to time:
- Breed-specific haircuts – If your pup needs a special cut to stay cool or if you want a stylised cut to highlight their features, dog groomers have mastered the art! Just like these 6 most popular poodle haircuts.
- Mat removal – Mats can be painful and tricky to remove, but a pro can fix them safely.
- Deep cleaning – A good grooming session includes ear cleaning, paw trimming, and even a little doggy spa treatment!
- Parasite prevention/treatments – With the pet owner’s approval, a professional groomer can also administer flea, tick and worm medication at the time of the groom (which can be a very helpful way to keep their treatment topped up, if you book their groom in every 3 months).
- Expressing anal glands – If anal gland problems are causing irritation, a groomer can express the glands to relieve the discomfort. Some dogs might need this done regularly.
If you’re searching the internet for ‘mobile dog grooming near me’, check out the profiles of our Mad Paws Dog Groomers in your area. On each groomer’s profile you can read about their experience, and view before & after photos from previous bookings.
At the end of the day, regular grooming isn’t just about looking cute – it’s a must for your dog’s health, comfort, and happiness. So grab that brush, and take this as a sign to book their next grooming appointment with a professional, and give your pup the pampering they deserve!
