Grooming and handling : Part 1

Grooming and handling

Dogs should be brushed regularly to keep their coats healthy. Grooming will also help you to control your dog or puppy as brushing around your pet's head and shoulders is an important way of establising your authority.

Brushing and combing
Some breeds molt at certain times of the year and should be brushed or combed every day. This is the best time to check your pet for skin infections and fleas. There is a range of grooming tools available. Some multipurpose brushes and hand gloves or wire bristle brushes are suitable for fine or short-hired dogs. Most combs and deep brushes are recommended for long-haired or thick-coated dogs. Brush or comb through your dog's coat following the direction that its hair grows. Groom your pet's hind quarters and underside carefully, so that it learns to trust you.

Keeping your dog clean
Most dogs need a bath sometimes, although puppies just need to be wiped over with a warm, damp cloth. Bathing needs to be done carefully. It is good idea to ask someone in your family to help you to control your dog. Some dogs enjoy a good bath and rubdown while others behave as though their lives are at stake! If you make bathtime a fun family occasion it will help to put your pet at ease.