No matter what breed of dog you have, it is important to keep your pet well groomed. 
Dog grooming not only makes sure your dog looks good but also promotes hygiene. Proper hygiene prevents common diseases and infestation of external parasites like fleas and ticks, making your dog healthier.
For dog owners who are hands on in grooming their dogs at home, here are some tips that will help you in giving the best care.
- Make sure you have ample time grooming your dogs, especially if they are heavy-coated. Dogs with heavy coat require regular brushing and more time washing. Remember that dog grooming at home may take a significant amount of your time; hurried dog grooming should not be done. Each grooming session may take two to four hours. If you are not sure whether you can allot that much time, consider getting a dog that is of low maintenance. Dogs with shorter coats only need a bath and nail trimming to look good.
- Dog grooming should be done in intervals of four to six weeks. Even if your dog is of hairless breed, grooming should still be done at least monthly. Regularly trim nails, check anal glands, brush coat, and clean your dog’s ears.
- Do not use clippers or scissors unless you have received proper training in dog grooming. Your dogs may get injured if you lack skills.
- Train your dog for dog grooming. While still a puppy, your dog should be brought to grooming shops for it to get used to the experience. At home, practice your puppy to hold still by placing it on a towel. Comb the hair continuously.
- Acquire more knowledge on dog grooming at home by watching videos on dog training and grooming. Websites with such videos are easily accessible and can provide you with demos on grooming the specific breed of your dog. Knowledge prevents unnecessary accidents and injuries.
For more specific dog grooming tips, here are ways to care for different breeds of dogs.
- Boston Terrier is breed of little dogs that have a short muzzle, which makes them prone to overheating in hot weather. Bathing them often will cool them off. They also have short coats that need to be brushed only occasionally. The eye should also be cleaned with a damp cloth.
- Smooth-coated Chihuahuas are of low maintenance. You only need to brush them occasionally to reduce shedding. Occasional baths are also needed.
- Pugs are small dogs that moderately shed. Their short coat needs to regular brushing. A damp cloth may be used to clean the wrinkles in the face. This must be done weekly to prevent any skin disease from occurring.
- Italian Greyhounds weigh from eight to fifteen pounds. They are runners and can climb and jump easily. They require more practice in holding still while dog grooming. After bathing, dry them well as they often get colds. They shed minimally, so brushing is not that needed. To keep the coat clean, the coat can just be wiped down.
Just follow these tips and you are on your way to having the best groomed dog!