How to Groom a Dog Faster

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How to Groom a Dog Faster

Easy

30 - 45 Minutes

1 Month

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Introduction

Do you want it done fast, or do you want it done right? Does it have to be a choice?

When it comes to grooming your dog, you want him to look good, but if you don't have a lot of time, is there a solution?

Actually, there are lots of time-saving devices and techniques you can use when bathing, brushing, clipping, and grooming your dog. In order to get the job done quicker, there are two strategies: having the best tools for the job, and having the best methods for the grooming job. If you combine both these strategies you can get the job done even quicker! But, remember doing it right is in itself a time saver. If you skimp on important first steps like cleaning, and dematting, other jobs like clipping and drying will just take longer. Rushing or skipping important jobs does not save time in the long run.

Dog's Perspective

Remember that if you are in a rush and flustered, your dog can pick up on your mood and become uncooperative. If your time crunch is causing your dog anxiety, you might be better off to skip grooming all together, than stress out your dog and create a negative association with grooming. After all, your dog probably does not care that much if he is dirty and scruffy! Also, an anxious or frustrated dog will not be quicker to groom, as you will have to spend time addressing their behavior and calming them down.

Make sure that if you are trying to decrease your grooming time, that you still work with your dog in a calm, relaxed manner, and that saved time can be put to other activities with your dog, like play and exercise, that will benefit your pup.

The Use the Best Tools Method

Effective

0 Votes

Spray

Slicker Brush

Shampoo

Scissors

Pin Brush

Nail Clipper

Deshedder

Dematter

Comb

Clipper

Step

Prepare tools

Have all your tools prepared. Make sure scissors and clippers are sharp and well oiled, including nail cutters. Make sure brushes are clean and hair has been removed. If you have to stop to maintain your tools during grooming, this will slow you down.

Step

Use special tools

If you have a dog with a coat that requires a lot of back brushing, using a tool like a dog grooming vacuum may save you lots of time getting debris out of your dog's coat instead of brushing. Although there is a cost associated with this tool, many pet owners find that such specialized tools pay for themselves in saved time. If you use a dog vacuum you will probably need to invest some time at first getting your dog used to the sound, and feel of a dog vacuum. Most dogs like being vacuumed if their owners take the time and patience to introduce them correctly.

Step

Use the right brush

Slicker brushes, boar brushes, pin brushes, deshedders, and dematters are all specialized tools for different jobs. Make sure you have the right brush or comb for the job you need to do. If you have a dog with a thick undercoat, you may need a dematter. Slicker brushes combined with combing can remove debris and knots. Some combination brushes, for example boar hair brushes, are available with metal and plastic bristles mixed in, that work well on some hair coats to provide a quicker groom that is still thorough.

Step

Use the right product.

Dry shampoos, corn starch, and detanglers can be used to help you loosen hair and debris from your dog's coat when you don't have time for a more thorough brushing or bath and comb out. Learn what products are available and useful for your dog's coat.

Step

Use best aids

Have appropriate restraints, use a grooming table, anti-slip mats and a bathtub where you can leash your dog easily to make grooming quicker ,as your dog will be positioned better for access and feel comfortable and safe. A handheld spray nozzle is the best tool to quickly and efficiently wash and rinse a dog.

The Use the Best Techniques Method

Effective

0 Votes

Slicker Brush

Shampoo

Pin Brush

Nail Clipper

Comb

Clipper

Step

Always brush

Bush first to remove debris, hair and mats. Do not skip this important step to save time. It won't! Removing mats and loose hair and debris prior to bathing will actually save you time.

Step

Bathe before clipping

Bathe before clipping or trimming. Clipping a dirty dog will end up contaminating and clogging up your clippers. You will be able to clip and trim a clean dog faster than a dirty dog, and you will not damage your tools.

Step

Use an assistant

Use an assistant to help you position the dog and hand you tools while grooming to save time. If you have a frightened or anxious dog, using an assistant can help even further as they can provide comfort, and restraint during grooming.

Step

Be organized

Have a plan before you start grooming and tools ready and accessible.

Step

Prevent stress

Do not rush; be calm, gentle, and firm. Project positive energy. If the dog becomes stressed or anxious, you will not have a quicker grooming time, as a stressed, fidgety, uncooperative dog takes longer to groom.

Caution & Considerations

Do not rush scissor or clipping work to avoid injuring the dog.
Make sure clippers and other tools are sharp and oiled to avoid injury.
Regularly check clippers, dryers, and other tools that can heat up to make sure they do not become too hot. This is not a place to skimp on time.
Do not rush removal of mats and tangles, as any pain, or discomfort you cause your dog will result in longer grooming times in the future, if your dog starts to associate discomfort with grooming.
Do not stress your dog out by being in too big a hurry. Be calm and efficient, not rushed.
Investing in the right tools may be more costly, but is cheaper and quicker in the long run.
Lots of short grooming sessions may be quicker than only a few long ones.
Keep your dog groomed regularly to make it quicker and easier and avoid mat build ups.

Conclusion

Grooming your dog quickly without doing an adequate job will not save you time in the long run. However, frequent short brushes, working efficiently and using the right tools for the job, can cut your time down significantly, and keep your dog looking his best. Just remember not to rush and stress your dog, grooming should be a pleasant time for both of you.

How to Groom a Dog Faster

Introduction

Dog's Perspective

The Use the Best Tools Method

The Use the Best Techniques Method

Caution & Considerations

Conclusion

Success Stories and Grooming Questions

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