Hey Canine Readers,
Today we talk about the Basics of Grooming. Please note I am not a groomer and only have basic knowledge on the subject regarding how dog training incorporates into grooming for your dog.
Play with Your Puppy’s Paws
When you bring your dog home make sure you are playing with their paws. Have their dog food (kibble) or small treats available. Gently grab one of their paws and hold it, Mark with “Yes” and give a treat. To emphasize make sure you release the paw and move to the next one. Repeat 3-6 times per paw. This is session one. Next session repeat but add lifting their legs gently. Repeat 3-6 times per paw. Continue this until you are able to touch their paws without needing treats but they are always welcomed. In fact this will make dog nail cuts much easier on you or the groomer. Alot of dogs dislike getting their nails done but it’s a necessity so do your best to make it an enjoyable experience.
Look in Your Puppy’s ears
Within 1-2 weeks of getting your dog practice when they are calm look in their ears by gently holding their head. This is also good for ear cleanings at the groomer or you doing a healthy check on your own dog. Same with the paws, start with one ear, look in it for a few seconds to start and mark with “yes” and treat, Repeat and increase the duration.
Look in Your Puppy’s mouths
Within 1-2 weeks of getting your dog, practice looking into their mouths. Do this when they are calm and not being crazy or playful. Gently pull back their gums, look inside and see if any tartar is there (black or discoloration). Yearly gum checks by your vet are needed as well as daily ones by you. You can buy a toothbrush and toothpaste and brush your dog’s teeth in between vet and dental visits. Greenies are also a great option for dental care.
Want to learn more about your dogs mouth? Click Here to read more.
Feel their bodies daily
Make sure you can feel all parts of your dog’s body enough that if you notice a bump that wasn’t there before you can investigate without your dog being uncomfortable. Practice holding your dog with one hand/arm around their mid back and one under their armpits. Run your hand through their body and look in all places for anything abnormal and take photos and notes to report to your vet, These checks can save your dog’s life.
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Happy Training!