Dog grooming is something that isn’t often considered when a family finds a stray or picks out the happy dog at the dog shelter. Still, in many cases it’s a very important thing for your dog. Whether you’re grooming for a style, to show your dog, or just to make your dog comfortable and happy, grooming should be a major consideration in your plans for dog ownership. A clean, healthy dog is a happy dog, and a happy dog makes a much better companion than a dirty, mopey dog.
It’s a mistake to believe that a dog should be as clean as possible at all times. Dogs reuire a certain amount of grooming for their personal comfort, and they definitely shouldn’t be left to stink or be covered in dirt. That doesn’t mean it’s a good idea to give your dog a bath daily, though. Washing a dog too often will wash away the natural oils in its fur, causing it to dry out and get rough and frail. Not only will your dog look worse, but it could actually affect its natural ability to fight off diseases. It could even lead to excessive or early shedding if you’re not careful. If you must wash a dog more frequently than normal, try a dry shampoo.
Dogs with especially long hair should be groomed more often. Dogs like Pekingese and Lhasa Apsos may need more regular grooming because their long hair can actually cause them problems if not handled properly. Pekingese also need their faces cleaned frequently, as they are prone to colds and respiratory problems. Of course, we’re all accustomed to seeing dogs like poodles and Lhasas with special show groomed fur, and if htat’s the way you expect your dog to look, you should expect to factor in grooming expenses into your dog care budget.
