Regular grooming, including brushing, combing, nail trimming and ear & teeth cleaning, will keep your dog clean, attractive and healthy.
Not to mention smelling much better than he or she might otherwise.
If you learn to groom your dog yourself, you can also save hundreds of dollars a year while you build a lasting bond between you and your pet.
In addition, you are more likely to spot any signs of illness, sore areas or cuts and abrasions if you regularly groom your dog.
Illnesses are easier to treat if they are caught early.
Getting Starting Grooming Your Dog Anyone who has tried to bathe an older dog that isn't accustomed to it will know how difficult it can be.
The sooner you start, and the younger the dog, the sooner he or she will become comfortable with the handling and touching involved.
And the easier it will be to do the grooming.
You'll want to keep those early sessions short -- under 5 minutes.
Don't worry if you don't get everything done.
Just let your dog grow accustomed to the grooming.
Many dogs grow to love the attention and start looking forward to their groomings.
Reassure Your Dog as You Groom While you work be sure to speak softly and reassuringly to your dog.
Them him or her what a good dog they are and how much you love them.
If he or she is nervous, start out with just brushing.
This feels good to most dogs and will train them that grooming is a good thing.
Work on making the brushing longer and longer each time until you are up to the full time necessary to give all the coat a good going over.
Stay away from the head, eyes and ears at first so as not to frighten him or her.
Brush the teeth for only a few seconds at first and work up to the full treatment.
Begin bathing your puppy at about 14 weeks old -- or sooner if he or she gets especially dirty.
Offer treats during and after all grooming and frequently hugs throughout.
Grooming your dog at home is easy -- and can save you many dollars -- if you do it right and work up to it.