Dog’s Day Out Grooming FAQs
It can be extremely confusing navigating the world of pup parenting, especially if it’s your first time around. Figuring out everything that’s best for your dog can be difficult, especially when it comes to grooming. Because every dog is different, what’s best for them might be different than what’s best for others. This can make going to the groomer an unnecessarily stressful experience for pups and parents alike. Dog’s Day Out is here to help. Here are some helpful answers to frequently asked grooming 101 questions.
How often should my dog be groomed?
Frequency of grooming depends on your dog’s coat type, desired style, and the amount of maintenance you are able to provide at home. If a shorter cut is your preference, an eight week schedule might work. For longer cuts, or, if brushing and combing frequently isn’t an option, four to six weeks between appointments may be a better choice. Your dog’s activity level can affect grooming frequency too, since wrestling with other dogs or playing in water or snow tends to increase matting. It’s always best to have a discussion with your groomer regarding your dog’s specific needs.
Why does my dog sometimes have to get a shorter haircut?
Sometimes a shorter haircut might be in your dog’s best interest. For example, if your dog doesn’t like being brushed at home, or it is hard to find time to brush them, a shorter length may be easier for you to maintain, keeping your pet healthy and happy. Another reason for a shorter cut is if your dog’s coat becomes tangled and matted to the point that brushing it completely could be painful or even injure their skin. In this case, it’s always best to start over with a shorter cut and develop a brushing routine if a longer style is desired.
Why does the cost of dog grooming vary?
The cost of professional dog grooming services depends on many factors including breed, size, coat condition, and behavior. For example, a St. Bernard may take three or four times longer to groom than a Shih Tzu. The type of style, grooming techniques (e.g., hand stripping or extra scissoring), and tools it requires also affects the cost of a groom.
My dog is shedding a lot, is there anything that will help?
There are specially formulated deshedding shampoos and conditioners. Brushing and combing between shampoos and grooming visits is important. Groomers can help shedding dogs by giving a deshedding treatment and by using the proper brushes and technique. Specialty grooming dryers also help remove hair and dander.
How often should I get my dog’s nails trimmed?
Dogs’ nails should be maintained every four to six weeks. If a dog’s nails have grown out too much, several appointments closer together may be needed to help safely reduce the length of the nail’s quick (nerve inside of the nail). Also, a Dremel tool is always recommended to reduce the risk of damaging the quick.
How can I prevent matting between grooms?
There are a lot of ways to prevent matting between grooming. Using a long-pinned slicker brush and metal comb is the best way to prevent matting. Brushing should be done right after your dog is freshly bathed and fully dried. Using a high quality brushing spray to prevent damage is important since damaged hair will always mat faster than an undamaged coat. If your dog is prone to matting, be sure to plan ahead and adopt a grooming schedule with appointments close enough together to help avoid large mats that are painful to remove or require shaving.
Do I really need to brush my dog’s teeth?
Dental hygiene is a very important part of your dog’s overall health. Dental problems can cause (or be caused by) other health complications. Daily brushing is ideal, but not always possible. Brushing several times a week can be effective. Be sure to have your dog’s teeth examined annually by your vet.
Does my dog need their anal glands expressed?
Most dogs go their whole life without any concerns with their anal glands. Normally, when dogs poop, it expresses their glands naturally. However, if your dog shows signs of needing their glands expressed (scooting, excessive licking, strong smell) your groomer can help you with a manual expression. It is always best for your dog to express naturally if they are able.
The experienced team at Dog’s Day Out is always happy to field your bathing and grooming questions. Feel free to reach out via email info@dogsdaympls.com or by phone 612-255-3425, or stop in Thursday-Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.