Debunking Common Dog Grooming Myths
You’ve certainly received a lot of advice about proper pet grooming from family, friends, and the occasional stranger at the dog park, but how much of it is accurate? Here are some dog grooming myths to be aware of when it comes to keeping your four-legged buddy in top shape!
1. Only Some Breeds Require Grooming
Grooming is required for all dogs! Grooming may appear to be mainly about haircuts, but regular grooming sessions are beneficial to dogs of all coat types. A normal grooming session includes a bath, blow-dry, brushing, ear cleaning, and anal gland expression, as well as a lot of love and attention for your pet. Ear cleaning should be done regularly to avoid infection, especially in active dogs or those with long ears that tend to retain moisture. Anal gland expression is also necessary for your dog’s comfort and to avoid impacted glands.
2. The Nails Of A Dog Never Need To Be Clipped
Dogs’ nails, like human fingernails, are constantly growing. Some dogs’ nails grow faster than others, but they all grow continually. When dogs walk on concrete or other hard surfaces, their nails might wear down, but this can also cause splits and cracks in their hair, which can be painful for them.
Clipping and filing the nails remove any sharp edges and protect your dog from the pain and discomfort that comes with walking on nails that are too long.
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3. Not All Dogs Shed
This is another common dog grooming myth. Although some dogs shed less than others, there is no such thing as a dog that does not shed. To keep shedding under control, every dog should be groomed regularly, especially during the summer when shedding is at its peak.
4. You Can Share Your Shampoo with Your Dog
It doesn’t guarantee your shampoo is safe for your dog just because it says it’s mild and natural. This is a dog grooming myth. When it comes to bathing and cleaning, humans and dogs have different needs, specifically in terms of pH balance. The pH of human skin is roughly 5.5 to 5.6, but the pH of a dog’s skin is more neutral between 6.2 and 7.4. So, this indicates that a dog’s skin is sensitive and can easily get irritated by human shampoo because it is too acidic.
However, there is a wide range of dog-specific shampoo products on the market, so make sure to fill your cabinets with shampoo based on your dog’s breed and requirements which will benefit your pet’s health and well-being!
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5. Bathing Dogs Too Frequently Is Harmful
Most pet parents are unsure how often they should wash their dogs. Some people wash their dogs every other day, while others do it every two or three months. However, your dog does require a weekly bath. It keeps them clean and prevents skin infections and bad odours.
When it comes to your pet grooming sessions, separate reality from myth. Your dogs will be healthier as a result, and you will be able to make more informed decisions. When it’s time to groom your pet, keep these suggestions in mind. Happy grooming!
