There is nothing quite like having a well-groomed dog. Regardless of whether your dog requires a regular bath or if they must have their hair trimmed and nails cut, it is an ongoing process that sometimes can be inconvenient. That is especially true if you have to take your dog out to a groomer, which is why many dog owners have decided to start grooming their own pet at home.
If you are considering grooming your own dog, you might be surprised to learn that it is not as difficult as what it first appears. Admittedly, there is a learning curve involved and you may end up with a funny looking cut every now and again, but before you know it, you will be grooming them like a professional.
Part of what is necessary to ensure that your dog is groomed properly is to have the right tools at your disposal. Fortunately, there are very few tools that are necessary and most pet owners have one of the basic tools, a bathtub, so they can get started rather quickly. You should also have the following tools at your disposal.
Brushes – One of the most important tools to have when you groom your own dog is a basic brush. The type of brush that you need may vary from one dog to another, but any dog will benefit from a good brushing. This is not only true when they are being groomed, you can also brush them in between grooming sessions to help eliminate shedding and even improve their skin.
Ear cleaning kits – A common problem that many dogs have is that their ears get dirty and have to be cleaned regularly. This is not a task that should be taken lightly. Cleaning a dog’s ears properly will help to keep them healthy and reduce the chances of an ear infection. Cleaning them improperly or using the wrong chemicals could lead to many problems with the dog’s ears.
Nail trimmers – This is also a very basic tool, but one you will use regularly. There are different options available but the best choice is to get a scissor type nail clipper and use them on a frequent basis. You don’t need an oversized set of clippers unless you have one of the largest dog breeds. Along with nail trimmers, be sure that you have a file on hand to get rid of the rough edges.
Clippers/scissors – If you have a dog that needs trimmed frequently, you should have a high quality set of clippers and scissors. They should be cared for regularly as well to ensure that they are in good shape. Do not skimp when purchasing these items. Go for professional grade and you will never regret it.
There are other items that are necessary to properly groom a dog, including shampoo and a toothbrush. When you have all of these items together, you can begin to care for your own dog. It will help you to save money and you would be amazed with how nice of a bonding time it can be with most animals.