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Are you the owner of a dog or two? Then, you need to be aware of the necessity of grooming your dog on a regular basis.
One of the most important and easiest activities in dog grooming is actually brushing your dog. There are many tools, brushes, combs, deschedders and such available in most retail pet stores or at your local groomers to make this job easier for you. The tools I find to be the most useful are a simple slicker brush, a stainless steel comb (also known as a grayhound comb), a mat rake or splitter, and a furminator.
Every day I hear a dog owner say, "But, I brush him / her every day." A quick feel through the coat often reveals an extra amount of matting close to the skin. The top of the coat may very well "look" brushed out and neat, but it's what lurks benefit the seemingly pleasant exterior coat that will wreck havoc on your dog grooming attempts.
So, why is there a problem? Simple … the dog's coat is not being brushed down to the skin, and the mats or tangles are not being removed early upon finding them. The next common mistake is to give the dog a bath before the tangles are removed. Guess what happens? Yes, you're right. The tangles then turn to mats and as they dry, tighten up closer and closer to the skin. Think of wool when it gets wet or lands in the washing machine by mistake. It turns to felt. A dog's coat will do pretty much the same thing.
Let's talk only about long-coated dogs for this acticle. Long-coated dogs would include Shih Tzu, Lhasa Apso, Cocker Spaniel, Briard, Afghan Hound, and Golden Retrievers, to name just a few. The best way to deal with properly brushing out the coat of one of these breeds is to have the dog lie down on his / her side. This will allow you the best access and comfort in brushing.
Next, start just above the feet and brush a section of coat at a time. I usually try to work through half an inch at a time. You can start with a comb or the slicker brush to work each piece. As and if you find tangles, you are able to then use your mat splitter or the comb to break apart the tangle and smooth it out. You then proceed to brush and comb all the way up each leg, then from the bottom of the ribs up to the back, and then once you've completed the legs and sides, you can work from the back of the head down the spine to the tail.
Dog grooming needs to have a regular activity that you engage in with your pet. You will find a stronger bond with your dog and a healthier pet for your efforts.
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