Every puppy owner wants to ensure that their pet is having the best life possible, and grooming can be a great way to achieve that. Puppies are especially in need of regular grooming for coat health, hygiene, and to prevent potential skin problems. Yet, not all puppy owners understand the importance of proper grooming and the effort it takes. This article is here to provide puppy owners with a few must know grooming tips to follow at the salon.
To begin, understand that puppy fur is different from the fur of an adult dog. As a result, puppy fur needs additional time and more gentle grooming tools to effectively clean them. Many pet owners prefer to take their puppies to professional salons as they have the right equipment and experienced staff to provide the best service to the puppies.
The groomers at the salon will first need to consult with the owners about their pup’s needs. These needs will include the desired hair length, fur trimming, nail trimming, and ear cleaning. During the consultation, it is important to inform the salon staff if the puppy has any medical conditions or behavior issues. If so, these need to be communicated as the staff will need to use certain products to groom the pup safely. Additionally, the puppy owner can inform the groomers about their pup’s favorite treats, amongst other things.
After the above is discussed, the actual grooming process can begin. The staff will first bathe and massage the puppy with special products which will remove dirt and mites, plus provide protein care for the pup’s coat. Next, the groomer will inspect the pup to make sure that their skin and fur is healthy. If the pup has fleas or other skin problems, the groomer will use special products to combat them and prevent them from coming back.
After assessing the fur, the groomer will proceed to trim, clip, and even brush the pup’s fur. As much assumed, trimming and clipping is a necessary part of the grooming process. The groomer will also brush the fur and for puppies, this is the time to gently detangle any knots or mats that the pup might have.
The last parts of the grooming process involve nail and ear trimming. This is something that needs to be done regularly but many pet owners ignore it. Puppy nails should be trimmed at least once a month and the ears should be cleaned once a week. Groomers can help tame any unruly fur and trim the puppy hairline to suit the pup’s face. Furthermore, the groomer can add other special treatments if needed.
Essential Grooming Tools
Now that we’ve discussed the process, let’s focus on the grooming tools which are essential in making your little one presentable. A good quality shampoo, puppy comb, and fur trimming scissor should be your grooming kit essentials. Whenever possible, opt for natural pet-safe products. This is especially important if your puppy is particularly allergic or has sensitive skin and fur.
As mentioned earlier, puppies should have their nails trimmed every month. If you decide to do it yourself at home, buy a clipper made especially for dogs – it’s easier and safer to use compared to human clippers. Alternatively, you can take your pup to the groomers and ask for a nail trim service.
The same applies to nail filing. Nail filing is also something that is done to help keep puppy nails healthy, pain-free, and beautiful. Again, it can be done at home with a nail file but it also a service that the groomers can provide.
Selection Of Quality Grooming Accessories
Despite the essential grooming tools mentioned above, pet owners should also invest in high quality grooming accessories. These can range from natural skin conditioners, soft brushes, warm towels, grooming gloves and waterless shampoo. Most importantly, pet owners should always buy groomers-specific gear, as regular human products may harm the pup.
For those looking for something more luxurious, there exists a range of premium grooming products specifically for puppies. These are made with natural ingredients and are usually tasteless, meaning that they won’t create a sour or bitter taste if, say, your puppy licks its fur in between sessions. Additionally, these products can help conditioned puppies’ coats in between groomings, if used regularly.
Grooming Insurance Benefits
Frequent grooming of puppies is time-consuming and also costly. This is why pet owners should consider investing in pet insurance. A good insurer will cover grooming as part of its policy, allowing you to have your pup professionally groomed and help them stay healthy. Even if your policy does not include grooming, you may be able to add it on as a supplement.
Be aware that different policies have different coverage and limits, as well as defines the types of grooming that are covered. For instance, all policies should cover nail clipping and ear cleaning, but more intensive grooming such as hair dying may not be covered. If you are unsure, do not hesitate to contact your insurer for more information.
At Home Grooming
Though many pet owners choose to have their puppy groomed at a salon, it is also possible for owners to groom their pup at home. This is ideal for puppies which have a short-haired coat or those who are sensitive to being bathed. The grooming process will remain the same, except the owner will be the one responsible for all of the steps mentioned above.
When grooming at home, it is essential to have the right tools. As mentioned above, a quality shampoo, puppy comb, and fur trimming scissor should be your kit essentials. Additionally, buying a few towels and gloves is important so that the pup can stay warm and clean during the process. This is especially important in the colder months.
It is also important for puppy owners to remember to take their time when grooming their pup at home. Grooming is not a race – the puppy needs to be given enough time to prevent them from becoming scared and stressed out. Home grooming is not just about getting your puppy cleaned – it is also a bonding experience.
Overall Well-Being
Ultimately, grooming is important to maintain your puppy’s overall health and well-being. While this article provides an overview of some tips and how to groom your pup, pet owners should always consult a vet or professional groomer if they are having any issues or concerns. With the right care, products, and techniques in place, both you and your pup are sure to look and feel fabulous!