Why Should You Brush Your Dog?

At first, this question may seem like it has a very simple answer. I should brush my dog so the hair doesn't knot. While that is the main reason why brushing your dog is important, there are also other things you may have never thought about.

Behavior

When you bring home your fresh little puppy so full of life and energy the last thing on your mind is brushing their perfect soft fur. Something I have yet to see mentioned in all the puppy training courses is brushing your dog. Just like teaching your dog to use the bathroom outside and to not chew on the furniture, behaving while someone brushes your hair is another skill that needs to be taught. How you train your dog at home will directly effect how they behave while being groomed. Messing with your puppy's feet and regular brushing will prepare your dog and allow them to have a better grooming experience.

Skin

Have you ever had a really stubborn knot form in your hair? After very careful brushing that spot on your head still feels a little sore. Dogs, unlike humans, can get knots all over their body. That sore feeling we may get in one spot on our body is nothing compared to the discomfort dogs must feel when being knotted all over. When knots are left alone for extended amounts of time they can turn into matts. Matts are very tight knots that are often extremely close to the skin. When matts are left unattended you risk the occurrence of a hot spot. A hot spot can be a really serious issue. They can be very painful for your dog and the raw skin leaves them susceptible to infection. If you find a hot spot on your dog be sure to contact your vet so they can help you treat it immediately.

Outcome

When you drop your pup off at the grooming salon one of the first questions you will be asked is what you would like done. You will tell the groomer exactly what length you would like the hair to be on each part of their body. As a groomer we strive to make the vision you have for your dog come true. We love to see your face light up when you come to pick up those precious fur babies. Believe me when I tell you that if you ask for a long haircut and you show up to a shaved dog (we call and inform you before just shaving them) it is not because we just wanted to. A great haircut begins at home. Brushing your dog regularly will help ensure your dog leaves the shop looking exactly the way you want.

Other Options

As a full-time working mom of three I can completely understand that life gets busy. Sometimes brushing your dog can get pushed to the side or just completely forgotten about. If for whatever reason you are not able to brush your dog at home you still have options to keep them from getting knotted.

1. Stay away from extended sweater wearing.

2. Choose a shorter haircut.

3. Make your grooming appointments closer together.

4. Bring your dog in for a brush out as a walk-in.

If you have any questions about your dog and how to properly brush them please ask your groomer.