Frequent dog grooming is a good way of bonding with your dog and staying on top of potential health problems. Here's everything you need to know about Dog Grooming.

Getting Started

By grooming your puppy at an early age he will be used to the way you touch and brush him and will be able to enjoy the time spent with you. To get started you will need a brush that's right for the length of your dog's hair, a flea comb and specially made dog shampoo.

How Long and How Often Should I Brush My Dog?

A good rule of thumb is to brush between 5 and 15 minutes. This is usually enough time to get the job done without overdoing it or boring the dog. Short-haired dogs should be groomed 2-3 times per week with a rubber brush and a fine tooth comb. Medium-haired dogs need a pin brush and wide-tooth comb. Dogs with long hair should be brushed with a brush made of natural, soft bristles. Matted hair may require extra attention, such as special lubricant and combs. Matting can be avoided with frequent brushing.

The Basics of Dog Bathing

Unlike people, dogs do not need frequent baths. In fact, too many baths will adjust the oils in your dog's hair and will cause the skin to be too dry. It's important to use a special dog shampoo and to thoroughly rinse the dog. A professional groomer can offer assistance and apply whiteners and other products to let your dog's coat shine.