All dogs require some kind of grooming, there is no question about that. Even smooth chihuahuas should be wiped with a damp chamois leather to get rid of loose skin and dust. However, one of the main purposes for grooming your dog frequently is so that you can check him for skin problems like allergic reactions to flea or tick bites. Another reason is bonding. In a pack situation, dogs groom other dogs and are themselves groomed every day and dogs like it.

Therefore, you ought to groom or brush your dog at least every week and take him to a dog parlour every three, four or six months depending on how fast his hair or fur grows and whether you can afford it or not. Having said that, you will find grooming simpler if your dog’s hair is the right length, because it will not mat so readily.

You ought to wash your dog every month or so and groom him at least every week. This will ensure that your dog becomes used to being bathed and handled. If this is done from the puppy age, most dogs will not only accept it, but they will come to enjoy it, although there will always be those dogs that run for it as soon as they see a hose and a bowl. They get to know what to look out for. If you talk to him constantly, comforting him and sometimes giving a doggie treat, he should soon come to accept the unavoidable – that he is going to be bathed and groomed.

Actually, most dogs enjoy the grooming, although many only endure the bathing. Anyway, bathing and grooming regularly will keep the job as simple as it can be. Once your dog is no longer a puppy, say after six months or so, you might take him to a professional groomer in a so-called ‘Poodle Parlour’. By that time, he should be getting used to the routine and he will accept the treatment from strangers more readily too.

You could look for professional groomers in adverts in the pet store or the vet’s or just ask your friends and neighbours for suggestions. Locating a groomer should not be problem, but you might have to try a couple before you uncover one whose style of cutting you like or who is flexible enough to suit your lifestyle.

When you drop your dog off at the Poodle Parlour, ask when it will be ready to be collected up. Turn up fifteen minutes early and you might be lucky enough to witness first hand how your dog is being treated and how your dog is getting on with the groomer. This is invaluable information, because it will help you make up your mind whether the groomer is getting on with your dog or not.

If the groomer is doing a good job, but your dog is anxious, you can help put him at ease. If the groomer is being a bit too rough, then you will know whether to change Poodle Parlours or just have that groomer banned from taking care of your dog.

Owen Jones, the author of this piece writes on many topics, but is at present involved with indoor mosquito repellent. If you would like to know more or check out some great offers, please go to our website at Mosquito Repellent For Dogs.

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