While dogs do have some sense of basic hygiene, they definitely do not possess the high standards of hygiene of their feline counterparts. All dogs would need some help in keeping themselves looking presentable, and as owners, it is our responsibility to keep them well-groomed. Though grooming requirements differ from breed to breed, there are some basic guidelines that all owners should follow.
How often: Depending on your dog’s lifestyle, breed and fur type, it may need a bath as much as once a week or as little as once every three months. Dogs with normal, healthy skin can probably make do with a bath every month, unless they are prone to smelling quickly.
Proper Practices:
Read more: 5 tips to make bath time less stressful
Grooming
How often: Nails should be trimmed at least once a month. Brushing varies from breed to breed, but should at least be done once to twice a week. Read more on the factors to consider when deciding how often to groom your dog here. Proper practices:
Steel Brush: To remove tangles
Bristle Brush: To remove dead hairs and remaining dirt
Fine Comb: To give a silky finish (this is optional for dogs with shorter coats)
Read more: Where to Find Your Dog Groomer in Singapore
General Hygiene (Eyes, Ears, Teeth)
How often: The eyes and muzzle area can be cleaned after bath time, or as and when you see gunk forming.
Proper practices: You may remove mucus/debris from around the eyes with a moistened cotton wool or towel. If using cotton wool, make sure to change to a new piece for the second eye. The eyes should be bright, clear and free from any discharge or inflammation. If your pup has unnaturally watery eyes or blinks excessively, you should pay a visit to the vet at once.
How often: Ears should be cleaned once a week to prevent infections.
Proper practices:
How often: Brushing your dog’s teeth once or twice a week is a good practice to reduce the risk of painful and expensive dental problems.
Proper practices:
1.If you have a long-coated dog, always brush it before bathing to prevent matting.
2. If your dog’s hair is matted, apply cornstarch to the matted area and brush. Cornstarch is harmless to dogs.
3. If your dog’s hair is all over your fabric furniture, it can easily be removed with tools such as the 3M Scotch Fur Fighter Pet Hair Remover for Upholstery.
Note: A big thank you to our reader, Lynette Yee who has shared some of these useful tips with us!