Regular grooming is crucial—not just for aesthetics—but also for your dog’s health. For one thing, it’ll help them maintain a healthy coat.
That’s not all—it’ll also allow you to check for other issues such as fleas or ticks, both of which can trigger other problems.
That’s why it’s so important to familiarize yourself with the grooming process.
Did you recently get a pup? Wondering what some of the most common dog cleaning mistakes are?
If so, you’re on the right page. We’ll be going over what not to do below. Keep reading to learn more!
- Don’t Bathe Your Dog Too Often
Washing your dog’s hair too often can damage their coat; it’ll remove their natural oils and that can make them more prone to mats and dandruff. Not to mention that it can irritate their skin.
How often should you give them a bath? It depends on their breed and coat type but generally speaking, you want to wash them once every 4-8 weeks.
With that said, there are exceptions. For example, you’ll want to give them a bath sooner if they get into dirt, mud, or other messes.
And make sure to use a shampoo for dogs; human shampoos will disrupt the pH balance of their coat, leaving them vulnerable to bacteria, viruses, and parasites.
- Don’t Cut Their Nails Too Short
It’s important to trim your dog’s nails regularly—ideally once a month. The last thing that you want is for them to have overgrown nails. Not only is that painful, but it can also affect their ability to walk.
You don’t want to trim their nails too short either as that can damage the quick—the nail’s blood supply and nerve—and that can cause a great deal of pain and bleeding.
The general recommendation is to cut two to three millimeters away from the quick. Trim small bits off at a time. Hold your dog’s paw up to a light if you have to.
Tip: Don’t forget to sanitize the nail clippers! We recommend using a disinfectant such as alcohol (more about pet sanitizer).
- Don’t Neglect Their Teeth
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is the most common medical problem in dogs. Left untreated, it can lead to pain, tooth loss, and systemic complications (e.g. diseases of the kidney, liver, heart).
The good news is that it’s preventable with proper oral care. That means brushing your dog’s teeth every day using canine toothpaste. There are also tooth wipes that you can use for quick cleanings.
And take advantage of your pup’s love of chewing. Give them dental treats—their chewing action will help keep plaque and tartar away.
Avoiding Dog Cleaning Mistakes
And there you have it—three common dog cleaning mistakes. As you can see, there are several things to consider when it comes to your dog cleaning routine. The last thing that you want is to accidentally harm your pet!
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