Can You Groom Your Own Dog?

For many of us humans, grooming our hair isn’t just a way to look better it also feels good. In fact, some people even believe that getting their hair done has health benefits.

But what about dogs? We usually think of brushing as an unpleasant chore, but there are some who actually find it relaxing. And for others, it might seem like more than they want to do especially if they’re worried about how much poo their pup has left behind.

However, in reality, cleaning up after your dog doesn’t have to be difficult or time-consuming. If you’re willing to put in the effort, you can brush your pet’s hair without worrying about making a mess or leaving any traces of feces on her coat. Of course, before we get started, let’s take care of one big misconception.

Many people worry that because dogs don’t sweat, they’ll smell bad when they go outside. However, this is not true dogs’ fur acts as its own natural deodorant. So next time you step out into the yard, remember that your dog is probably cleaner than she smells!

How Much Does It Cost?

It costs anywhere from $10 to $100 (or more) per year to keep your dog groomed at a professional salon. Some salons offer discounts for seniors and students, so check around to see which services best suit your budget. Also, make sure to shop around for deals on grooming supplies, too.

For example, instead of paying full price for a new comb every few weeks, why not buy several combs from the same company at a discount? That way, you won’t feel guilty each time you use it to groom your furry friend.

How Long Do You Have To Groove Her?

The length of time needed to properly groom your pet depends largely upon breed. Generally, long-haired breeds will require longer sessions than shorthaired ones. If you’re looking to save money, however, you may want to consider grooming your pet less often. Although it takes about two hours to groom a short-haired pet, a long-haired breed may take three to four times as long.

What Kind Of Clothing Should I Wear?

You should dress accordingly when you plan to groom your dog. Shorter coats may require fewer layers, while larger pets may need more — depending upon temperature.

Do Dogs Like Hairbrushes and Combs?

Dogs definitely enjoy having their fur brushed — but for some reason, they tend to dislike being combed. Instead, try using a wide-tooth comb to remove loose hairs. This method allows you to gently move those tiny hairs back into place without tugging on the skin.

Is There A Right Way or Wrong Way To Brush My Dog?

There are plenty of ways to correctly groom your dog, but here are the most common mistakes to avoid :
– Don’t pull or yank on your pet’s fur.
– Avoid over-brushing by going slow rather than fast.
– Try not to touch your dog’s face.
– When brushing, start at the top and work downward.

Does It Matter What Type of Razor Scissors I Use?

Razor scissors are the preferred choice among professionals. They cut through both hair and skin quickly and easily, without causing damage. If you choose to use regular scissors, though, you must be careful not to cut your dog’s skin. Try wearing gloves when cutting your pet’s hair if you’re concerned about doing so.

Will She Be Happy With Short Hair Or Longer Hair?

While some dogs prefer shorter hair, others love having their tresses lengthened. Obviously, you shouldn’t force either option on your pet if she prefers longer hair. Just follow these tips when deciding between shaving your dog’s pelt:
Short-coated dogs such as collies, cockapoos, shih tzus, chihuahuas and bichon frises grow faster than other types of pets. Because of this, you can shave off their entire undercoat once a month.

Long-coated dogs such as German shepherds, boxers, golden retrievers and Labrador retrievers need to stay warm during winter months. During this season, you should clip away only what’s necessary to keep your pet’s coat healthy and well-groomed.

Wearing a hat or headband helps protect your dog’s ears when you trim his hair. To minimize discomfort and pain, use a gentle shampoo formulated specifically for dogs. Your vet can help determine which type of haircut works best for your particular animal.
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Most dogs respond well to brushing; however, some animals become nervous whenever they enter a new environment. Before taking your dog to the groomer, give him or her a chance to adjust to a new home and surroundings by letting your pet explore the house for a couple days. Then, gradually expose your pet to various situations until he or she becomes accustomed to different environments.

A word to the wise: Never attempt to cut your dog’s hair yourself. Even if you’ve had previous experience styling human hair, it’s never a good idea to try to cut your pet’s hair. Not only does it hurt your pet, but you run the risk of inadvertently cutting too close. Remember, the process involves removing hair from its follicles. Cutting too deep can cause scarring and bald spots.

With a little practice, it’s easy to groom your pet without worrying about making a huge mess. Now that you know how to handle your pet’s hair, you can focus on spending more time with your canine companion. As a rule of thumb, dogs should be brushed at least twice a week. Once a week is recommended for short-haired dogs; longer coated breeds should be groomed every 10 to 14 days.