How to Groom a Short Haired Dog

Think your short-haired pup does not need grooming because he has short hair? Wrong! 

There is some good news and some bad news when it comes to grooming short haired dogs. The good news: no mats or knots, usually! The bad news: yes, they do need grooming to remove dead hair and skin and to distribute body oils. So, you are not out of the woods when it comes to grooming your short-haired canine companion. More good news though, regular grooming of your short-haired dog will help reduce the amount of shed hair that accumulates in your house, on your furniture, and all over your clothes!

The good news for your short haired dog is that he probably enjoys a gentle brushing to distribute oils and remove dead hair. Because he is not long-haired, he does not have to experience pulling and tugging on his coat like his long-haired companions. For a short-haired dog, brushing can feel a lot like being petted, and most dogs are pretty happy about that. Also, removing dead hair and skin from your dog's coat will help him to regulate his body temperature better and reduce itching, as natural oils are distributed. As an added benefit, you will be more likely to discover parasites and skin conditions in a timely manner if you groom your short-haired dog regularly.

• Be cautious using blow dryers or heat sources on short-haired dogs, as their hair offers limited protection from such sources to protect their skin.

• Look for skin conditions and parasites at grooming time to catch issues early when they are easier to treat.

• Make sure that short-haired dogs' skin is moisturized if required.

• Remove dead hair and skin and distribute oils to keep short haired dog's skin and coat healthy and functioning as an insulator to keep your dog cool in hot weather and warm in cold weather.

Short-haired dogs do need grooming, but it should be easier than grooming their long-haired counterparts; no mats and tangles, just a lot of loose hair. Sometimes after grooming a short-haired dog, it can look like you have removed enough loose hair to make another dog! Because grooming is less of a chore for short haired dogs and their owners, it can be looked forward to as a pleasant bonding time. Your dog thinks he got a massage and you have a dog that is less likely to give you a dog hair sweater the next time you pick her up for a cuddle!