The practice of grooming your dog will guarantee your pooch looks great, but it will assure their health is in good standing as well. The health of your dog and well-being will reflect the amount of care you provide them. Beginning and following a daily schedule to care for your pooch's fur and skin will make the daily routine easier and enjoyable. A perfect to do begin this is after a nice walk. Your canine companion should be relieved and relaxed and should be more open to accepting the added attention.
The first aspect of grooming is coat care. Combing and brushing will help re-distribute essential natural oils throughout the coat and will definitely prevent matting, as well as alert you in any possible skin related issues. Remember and looking for the following signs will guarantee a happy and healthy pup.
Red, blotchy skin can be an indication of contact dermatitis. Sores and blotches may develop if you fail to remove the irritant.
Fleas, these nasty parasites will appear on the fur or skin as tiny black spots. Brushing your dog over white paper or a towel will show these creatures as they fall off and are also easy to spot.
Dull coat or inflamed ears may be indicative of hyperthyroidism.
Scratched skin or skin that has been chews can cause bacterial infections such as staphylococcus
Additional to the above issues, there can be much more serious internal problems that may be show through frequent or daily inspection of your dog's skin and coat. Make sure to visit the vet for a thorough diagnosis if you believe there is a serious problem.
Now, onto to bathing your dog. The frequency of doggy baths can reduce the concern for flaky and itchy skin. If you notice this on your dog, consider increasing the frequency of giving your dog a bath. The majority of breeds should never be bathed more than once every 2-3 months, especially in the winter when humidity is down. Only bathe your dog more frequently if he gets into something that he should not, like a skunk, or when a therapeutic shampoo has been prescribed by your vet for a dermatological condition.
Selecting the correct shampoo among the vast variety can be confusing. There is everything from moisturizing, odor-control, color enhancing, and medicated shampoos. If your dog has skin that appears normal, use a normal dog grooming shampoo.
If your dog's skin seems dry or flakey, try using a moisturizing shampoo. Important to note, unless you plan on taking your dog to a competition, refrain from using any color enhancing shampoos. These products can contain additives and can cause serious skin problems and allergic reactions, although rare, they can happen. If your dog does have allergies, try using a hypoallergenic or soap free shampoo that will be administered if mild scaling on the skin appears.
Of course, special shampoos may be provided through your vet for different skin issues. The common types are:
Sulfur/salicyclic acid - This is perfect for a mildly scaly pooch, it doesn't over dry and has superb anti-bacterial qualities.
Benzoyl peroxide - If you are in need of removing scales, killing micro-organisms, and a thorough cleaning around the hair follicles, and treating bacterial infection, these products are for you.
Ethyl lactate - If you cannot find or prefer something other than benzoyl peroxide shampoos, the less effective ethyl lactate products are available.
Tar based- These types of shampoos do a grand job of reducing flakes and greasiness, while helping to calm itching.
Miconazole - This is used for fungal infections; primarily ringworm.
Chlorhexidine - Great for removing and managing anti-fungal and anti bacteria issues. Also used to treat ringworm, skin staph infections and as a wound cleanser.
Dog grooming can be the easiest way to care for your canine and assist in steering clear of potential health issues. If you have any questions about how to administer the product you purchased for your dog, make sure to find the toll-free phone number on the package, call your vet, or find a great web site.
Isaac Macalister is a frequent contributor for Hartz and has written many articles pertaining to cat and dog needs. Including anything from dog training to summer fun with your dog including tips on Hartz UltraGuard Flea and Tick Treatments.
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