If you have a new puppy or even if you want to make sure you’re doing all the right things with your dog who has been in the family for many years. This is the post for you.

Grooming is one of the basics, alongside water, food and a bed. Grooming needs to be performed at home and by a professional groomer. The Dog Box Retreat is here to help. Let’s go through some basic grooming requirements.

If you have ever seen a dog licking their fur or rubbing up against something, there is a good chance that they were grooming themselves. It surprises many new and old dog owners to find out that grooming is actually a highly important part of their well-being. It’s not just to ‘look good’.

Regular grooming provides the opportunity to catch any underlying diseases or health conditions early and now let’s be real, anything sinister caught early is going to have a better outcome.

Many dog owners mistakenly believe that they can fulfil all of their pet’s grooming requirements in their own home. While this is true of some of the most basic aspects of the grooming process, such as brushing but there are fundamental elements that require the skill and precision of an professional groomer.

Essential Grooming

BATHING

A bath is imperative but over bathing is detrimental. When you bring in your furbaby I will assess the skin and coat and we can discuss a bathing routine that will work best. I can also assist in finding the perfect products to support healthy skin and coat for your dog.

BRUSHING

Proper brushing has a tone of benefits. Not only does it remove any matting or knots, but it also removes dirt dandruff, dead hair, and stimulates the production of natural oils. Win! These natural oils protect their skin and coat as well as give that glossy shine. Brushing regularly also gives the opportunity to spot any abnormalities that may go amiss otherwise.

EARS

Ears are very delicate for most dogs. Some dogs are also susceptible to ear-related problems such as infections and parasites. I don’t recommend cleaning your dogs ears at home unless you’ve been instructed/taught by your Vet. However, I have the skills and knowledge to be able to clean a dogs ears safety.

EYES

The hair around the face of your furbaby can grow quite long, and sometimes it can irritate their eyes which can cause problems. Due to the location, it is essential that your pet is completely still for these hairs to be trimmed – something an experienced groomer like myself can manage with relative ease.

NAILS

Dog nails can grow very quickly. If they’re not trimmed on a regular basis they cause your dog, you or other members of your family injury. Again, trimming requires your furbaby to be extremely still, luckily I have the experience needed to make this process as quick and safe as possible for your dog.

TEETH

Proper dental care is just as important for your dog as it is for you. Good oral health can protect your beloved furry family member from a range of unpleasant symptoms and even some general health conditions. I can brush your dogs teeth during a groom and can also give you some tips and tricks to ensure good oral health is maintained.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD I BRING MY DOG TO THE DOG BOX RETREAT?

One of the most common questions, this varies greatly and is all dependant on the length and thickness of their coat. Shorter, finer hair requires much less maintenance than long, thick fur. Most owners of dogs with longer fur opt to take their pet to the groomers once every 4-6 weeks, while shorter-haired dogs may only visit every 8-12 weeks.

So essentially it all varies but I can help create a routined grooming schedule that works for your furbaby and your budget.

Anna