Regular brushing removes excess hair from your dog’s coat and cuts down significantly on the amount of hair you deal with in your home, vehicle, and every other surface that tends to collect that pesky shed hair. It also helps distribute the natural oils in your dog’s fur and skin, keeping their coats healthy and looking their best. Plus, it keeps your pup looking cute in between grooming appointments.
Brushing is also a great way to check your dog’s health. While you brush, look at the condition of the coat. Is it matted or tangled? Dry or oily? Do you notice any scratches or irritations such as hotspots on the skin? Check for any changes or problems that could indicate the need to visit the vet.
Brushing- What type of coat does your dog have?
Brushing is fairly simple, just about anyone can do it! However, in order to do it the correct way that will benefit your pet’s coat, you have to use the right tools.
Does your dog have long flowing coat? If the answer is yes, then be prepared to brush three to four times a week, once a week minimum. These types of coats require frequent brushing to prevent tangles and keep the coat healthy and shiny.
The best brushes for these types of pets are, pin brushes, slicker brushes, and a greyhound comb.
The long bristles of these brushes grip the undercoat and remove loose hairs without causing pain. It is important to always brush all the way down from the skin, brushing away from the skin.
Dogs with short coats don’t require as frequent brushing as longer coated dogs, it is recommended to brush them every other week to remove loose hair. The best grooming tools to accomplish this are rubber curry brushes, Furminator (this is a brand name, but it used to mean this type of coat brush to most people), or those textured pet gloves. These will remove the loose hairs, get rid of excess dirt, and keep the hair follicles stimulated and healthy.
Always stroke with the direction of the coat, not against! Also, use a light pressure when brushing to avoid brush burn…Ouch!
Poodles, Doodles, and all the other oodles out there, and every other breed with curly hair require frequent brushing, much like long straight coated dogs. Curly hair tends to matt together when not brushed out frequently, three to four times a week, once a week minimum. Frequent brushing will keep the hair tangle free, fluffy, and healthy. The best tools for this are the slicker brush and greyhound comb.
About Megan.
"Howdy, I’ve worked for Barkzone as a groomer for two and a half years. Dogs are my life. I grew up in the show ring; helping my mom groom and show Havanese. At the age of five I was able to do nails, and properly brush out a dog’s coat. I guess you can say I was groomed to be a groomer from an early age! I have two chihuahuas at home, but don’t let their low maintenance fool ya! My favorite breeds to groom are poodles, doodles, poodle mixes, and bichons. I pride myself on quality and compassion. I specialize in the naughtier pups, and those with special needs that require that extra care and patience. I do everything I can to make the experience as close to stress free as possible for your sweet furballs. Come see me anytime over at our Bethany location. I'd love to get to know your pups!"
- Megan
