As responsible canine owners, we all know that frequent at-home grooming and brushing can keep our pet’s coat clean and mat-free. It also helps with the overall health of their skin and fur, leaving it smooth and irritation-free.
However, if you are a newbie pet owner planning to groom your pet at home, you must have wondered, is it better to groom a dog wet or dry?
Am I supposed to give my fluffy companion a grooming session while his hair is still wet, or do I need to trim those mats and overgrown fluff before the shower?
This article answers all of your queries regarding damp grooming and other dog grooming-related questions. Keep on reading to find out more!
Is it better to groom a dog wet or dry?
Unlike humans, who get a haircut with damp hair, you should always start the grooming session with a dry and clean pooch. Brushing your dog’s delicate fur while it is still wet is the worst thing to do.
The entire wet-brushing experience can be pretty painful for the fido, leading to more tangles and tighter knots. That is why it is always recommended to brush your canines before bathing and let their fur dry naturally afterward. If you still notice any other knots and mats, use a regular brush and get rid of them.
Just be gentle and don’t pull the hair. If your pup is really matted and you can’t get rid of the tangles, consider seeking help from professional groomers.
Is it okay to shave your dog when his hair is wet?
While brushing a wet dog’s hair isn’t the smartest thing to do, you can shave a dog when his hair is wet.
Many professional groomers follow this technique, and they call it wet shaving. It is believed to work well in the following cases
- For overgrown hair
- For filthy fur
- For pelted dogs
- For dogs that shave only once every 12 months
- For matted dogs.
According to many professional dog groomers, wet shaving should be done while the shampoo is still in the hair. It makes the entire process much faster and smoother for your canine companion.
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How to groom a dog before a bath?
Some pups absolutely love having their coat brushed, and they even love splashing around during the bathing process, while others are not very fond of it. Try understanding your pet’s likes and dislikes and organize this process around them.
For example, if your pet gets very anxious while you detangle his fur, it’s best not to rush the bathing process. Instead, give your furball a break to relax before proceeding to the washing.
Here is how you can groom your pet before bathing:
Prep the coat
If your pooch’s coat is prone to matting and tangling, you should invest in a fur detangling solution to make the process as smooth as possible. Such solutions prepare the hair for combing, making things a lot easier for both of you.
Section the hair
Have a strategy while detangling the hair, and make sure you don’t miss any mats. Part the hairs in smaller sections and work your way out. Make sure you get rid of everything from the coat before bathing.
Don’t be afraid to use your fingers.
In some cases, regular dog brushes don’t help. Don’t hesitate and use your fingers or a detangling tool if you need to.
Finally, your pooch is ready for his bath. Give him a nice rinse, and don’t forget to reward him with a delicious treat.
Is it okay to bathe your dog daily?
It may seem like an excellent idea to give your pooch a quick rinse during the hot summer days, but this isn’t something you should do. Daily bathing removes the natural oils of your dog coat, making the skin dry and irritated.
Bathing your dog once every four weeks is more than enough to keep the little fellow clean. Plus, it helps with the production of natural oils responsible for maintaining the coat healthy and naturally shining.
Can I wash the inside of my dog’s ears?
Absolutely not!
Washing the inside of your dog’s ear is a big no as water in the ears can give rise to bacteria, leading to severe ear infections. Instead, use a damp cloth to clean your pet’s ears, eyes and nose.
Final words
Dog grooming is something that can benefit the overall well-being of your snuggle buddy and strengthen your bond with him.
With a bit of practice and knowledge, you will be able to keep your pooch looking phenomenal between professional grooming sessions.