Puppies are simply adorable and it's easy to forget that you should groom them regularly. With an adult dog, you wouldn't skip this step. Therefore, it's best to get into the habit when your puppy is still young enough to get used to the routine. Read on for tips on how to get your best friend ready for the beauty pageant from a young age.
When to start
Your puppy can be groomed for the first time at around 10 to 12 weeks of age, but there are also ways to prepare him earlier. Get him used to being touched by gently touching his fur all over his body outside of normal play and training times. Lift his paws and massage his pads and the tips of his toes. If he has a particularly thick coat, pay special attention to the area around his ears. You can also reward him with pea-sized, high-quality treats (e.g. chicken or cheese) during this time. If he associates this attention with tasty rewards, he is more likely to enjoy the procedure when it is time for the actual grooming ritual.
Start with playtime
A tired puppy will be more likely to get used to grooming. Before you start, set aside ten or fifteen minutes for active play. Choose a game that you already know he enjoys and preferably one that burns off a lot of energy. Don't forget to reward her frequently so that she is prepared to listen to your commands during grooming.
Stick to a routine
Dogs are creatures of habit. Therefore, if possible, set aside a special area that is only used for grooming. When you take him to this place, he knows it is grooming time and will respond accordingly. If you combine the procedure with treats and affection, his reaction should be positive, making the procedure more enjoyable for both of you.
You need the right tools
Different breeds of puppies have different needs when it comes to grooming, and to satisfy these, specific tools for different tasks may be required. This is especially true for combs and brushes. For example, a thin coat will require a fine-toothed comb, while for a thick coat you should invest in a wide-toothed variety. Similarly, a curry comb brush is best for short hair, while a pin brush is a better choice for long-haired dogs. If you're not sure which category your pup falls into, opt for a slicker brush - it's a good multi-purpose tool that works well on all coat types. In addition to brushes, keep a basic supply of dog shampoo, toothpaste, a special toothbrush, toenail clippers, towels for drying, electric clippers and cotton wools for cleaning ears.
Dental care
Dogs generally don't like it when you reach into their mouths, but you can get your puppy used to brushing by gently massaging his teeth and gums during quiet moments. Once he has his adult teeth, start a weekly tooth brushing routine with a flavour that suits him. Be sure to buy the right dog toothpaste from a pet store - never use human toothpaste on your pet. Human toothpaste can contain the sweetener xylitol, which can be extremely harmful and potentially fatal to dogs if swallowed.
Bathing
For puppies under three months, resist the urge to use cleaning products. Instead, stroke her coat with a warm cloth so she can get used to the process. Once he is three months old, he can move to a tub of lukewarm water and a special shampoo. Apply gently in the direction of the coat growth and rinse thoroughly. Try to keep the soap away from their eyes, ears and nose. After rinsing, you can apply a conditioner to keep the skin supple, but make sure it is suitable for dogs.
Nail care
Many dog owners shy away from cutting their dog's nails and instead seek help from a vet or professional groomer. However, care must be taken not to cut too close to the quick - the pink area that merges into the nail at the top and is closest to the paw. There are special clippers that can make your job easier. Let your puppy sniff the clippers before you use them. If he shows interest, reward him with a good quality treat. Then ask him to sit or lie down - depending on the position in which you can easily reach his paws. Run the scissors over each nail, cutting only a few millimetres at a time. Be especially careful with brown or black nails, as it is impossible to see the tip of the nail with these dark colours. It is best to keep styptic pencil handy in case you accidentally cut the quick, but as long as you only cut a small piece off each nail, your puppy should be fine.
Trimming the coat
The best time to trim the dog's coat is after bathing, when it is still slightly damp. With very young puppies this step may not be necessary, but as it grows you should have the coat trimmed regularly, it is best to make an appointment with GroomRoom Berlin for this.
