The Importance of Brushing Your Dog between Groomer Visits
Even with regular visits to a professional groomer it is important for dog owners to brush their pet’s coat to prevent matting and promote overall good health. Elizabeth Toc, co-owner of The Tailored Tail, said this is also important because if a dog’s hair gets matted, it makes it even harder for the groomer to provide the cut the owner wants.
“Because matted hair must usually be shaved, sometimes we can’t provide the exact cut an owner wants,” she said. “Also, it is much better for the dog’s overall health to not have matted hair between grooming appointments.”
Here are five reasons you should brush your dog’s coat regularly:
Regular brushing removes excess hair from the dog’s coat and helps distribute the natural oils in your dog’s fur and skin.
Regular brushing prevents matting, which can lead to serious skin issues and can hide fleas and other parasites.
Regular brushing keeps your dog cooler.
Regular brushing builds the bond between you and your dog, and helps you identify any health issue.
Brushing helps cut down on your dog’s shedding.
Types of Dog Brushes
There are many types of dog brushes on the market. Here are the most common types of brushes and what they’re used for.
1. Slicker Brushes have angled wire pins that go through the coat and avoid the skin. These are best used on medium-coated, long-coated, wire-coated.
2. Bristle brushes have natural or synthetic bristles that are great for short-coated dogs and are good at removing loose hair and dander.
3. Undercoat rakes have one or two rows of metal pins designed to penetrate through to the undercoat to remove loose fur and dead coat stuck underneath.
4. Rubber brushes have short, flexible rubber bristles. They’re best for short-coated dogs, since the bristles won’t penetrate through long or thick coats.
At The Tailored Tail, the team understands each coat and skin condition is different depending on the breed. They know what type of brush or combination of brushes to use based on your pet's needs.
How to Brush Your Dog’s Hair
Toc suggests owners work from the dog’s back legs, pull the fur up and brush down in small sections making sure the brush reaches down to the skin. When moving on to different parts of the body, always remember to use this same technique to avoid missing tangles. You can prevent matting by paying special attention to your dog’s tail, ears and legs. Always double check your work by using a comb afterwards. If you find a tangle, use your brush to work it out and then run your comb through once again. A detangling spray or leave-in conditioner can help you do this task. Be sure to ask your groomer to recommend one, as they know your pet's coat and skin condition. Stay away from products that leave behind too much residue to avoid a reaction from your pet.
“It may be a challenge to brush your dog, but remember not only is it good for them, but it is good quality time spent by owner and pet,” she said. “By doing this every week your dog will be in better shape for professional grooming, and can ensure your dog stays healthy, comfortable and looking their best.”