How to Groom a Low Maintenance Dog

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How to Groom a Low Maintenance Dog

Easy

15 - 30 Minutes

1 Week

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Introduction

Despite the fact Joey is a low maintenance kind of dog, with a nice short coat, this doesn't mean he shouldn't still be groomed once a week. Grooming is more than just you brushing his coat. It is making sure he doesn't have any injuries, skin conditions, or parasites.

In most cases, Joey is going to simply relax and let you groom him. The big thing about grooming a low maintenance dog is to make it relaxing and enjoyable for both of you. This will give both of you something to look forward to each week. It can be a great bonding time.

Dog's Perspective

Joey doesn't care if you groom him once a week or once a month. In fact, chances are good he doesn't care if you ever groom him. But if you want his skin and coat to stay nice and healthy, you still need to give him a good grooming once a week. Take your time and make the whole process fun.

The Fast and Easy Method

Effective

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Slicker Brush

Step

Start on top of Joey's noggin

Your dog may or may not like his head being touched, but when you get near it with a brush he might balk. Approach him very slowly with the brush and gently brush his head. Use a slicker brush as this is the perfect type of brush for a low maintenance coat.

Step

Neck, chest, and shoulders

Using the same brush, work your way down his neck, shoulders, and chest. The idea here is to follow the way his hair grows. This should be easy to see with short hair.

Step

Over the back and to the rear

Continue brushing his back, sides, and rump. Be careful to be extra gentle around his rear end as his skin here is very delicate.

Step

What about his legs?

Most low maintenance dogs with short hair on their legs don’t really need much in the way of grooming. But, give them a quick brush over to help remove dust and any bugs or parasites.

Step

Finish up with his belly

Have him lay on his side, so you can brush his belly and give him a good once over to check for fleas, ticks, and any signs of injury. Give him plenty of praise and a couple of his favorite treats.

The Total Package Method

Effective

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Slicker Brush

Shampoo

Nail Clipper

Clipper

Nail File

Towel

Toothbrush

Step

Bath time first

Start out by using a vet-approved shampoo to give your best bud a nice warm, soothing bath. Scrub every inch of his body to remove dirt, dust, parasites, and anything else that has managed to attach itself to his fur. Use a soft towel to dry him off and then give him a little extra time to air dry.

Step

Brush the top half

Start by using a slicker brush and brushing the top half of your dog, including going over his sides and rump.

Step

Brush the bottom half

Have him lie on his side or back and brush the bottom half being very gentle around his stomach and genitals where his skin is very thin.

Step

Teeth next

Using a doggy toothbrush and a tube of vet-approved toothpaste, it's time to brush his teeth. Take your time, be sure you get his gums and those back molars that are so hard to reach.

Step

Lastly a pedicure

Using either nail clippers or a guillotine cutter, trim the nails, coming up just short of the quick. Then use a file to take off the sharp edges so that he doesn't scratch anyone or tear up the carpet. Now you have one perfectly groomed, low maintenance pooch.

Caution & Considerations

Be very cautious when brushing around the anus and genitals as the skin here is thin. Pulling on the hair in these areas can be extremely painful.
Keep a supply of cornstarch or athletic powder on hand in case you happen to cut into the quick while cutting the nails.
Guillotine-style nail clippers are for small dogs and nails.
A scissor-style cutter is best used for larger dogs with big, thick nails.
Keep the bath water at the same temperature you would use to bathe a baby.
Go slow and steady, making it more enjoyable for your dog.
Use plenty of treats to keep him happy before, during, and after each grooming session.

Conclusion

Remember, just because Joey is a low maintenance breed, this doesn't mean you can ignore him or let him go for too long between grooming sessions. Grooming is just as much about skin and coat health as it is about making him look good. Use this time to bond with him and the two of you will soon be enjoying this personal time together.

How to Groom a Low Maintenance Dog

Introduction

Dog's Perspective

The Fast and Easy Method

The Total Package Method

Caution & Considerations

Conclusion

Success Stories and Grooming Questions

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