Common Grooming Mistakes
Gather ALL the necessary supplies before you begin – don’t forget towels.
Selecting the wrong shampoo. I’ve used Suave Coconut Shampoo for humans for years without any issues. However, if your dog has skin sensitivities or scratches for no apparent reason using the wrong shampoo could be the problem. Select a dog shampoo with oatmeal and aloe.
Getting water in their nose. Try holding their head down as you wet and rinse, or use a wet wash cloth to wash their face.
Getting soap in their eyes. I always use baby shampoo for their faces. I soap all the other parts using shampoo on a loofa, rinse my hands, and rub a small amount of baby shampoo on their face. Be sure to rinse their face first. If you do get soap in their eyes – rinse like crazy.
Rinse well. I apply the shampoo to a loofa and then scrub because it reduces the amount of shampoo needed and lessens the possibility of leaving some behind. When a dog’s coat isn’t thoroughly rinsed, any residue can cause skin irritation. Their coat should be squeaky clean if all the dirt and shampoo have been rinsed away.
Drying time. I use a blow dryer to make sure tangles are removed and to facilitate the dog being allowed back in the house. Blow dryers make scary loud noises, take it slow. I begin by fluffing with two towels – that second go really gets them much dryer. I then leave the second towel draped over their back and slowly begin blowing cool air on their back legs. If I work from back to front, leaving the towel in place until it’s in the way, they’re generally relaxed enough by the time I get to their neck and face.
Nail Trimming. I have to admit, I hate this part and avoid it when the groomer is in the house. When forced into it by a grumpy husband that complains about nails on the wood floors, I use a nail trimmer with a guard that only allows a certain amount to be removed at once. Typically, I don’t have any problems going too short and causing bleeding. To be safe, I always keep styptic powder on hand.
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