All animals groom themselves. As dogs are social species, they also groom each other as a way of bonding with the pack. In the past, dogs were very good at grooming themselves, however, changes in selective breeding have made dogs more dependent on human assistance.

Dogs usually like grooming. Grooming includes cleaning the face, checking the nails and tending to the coat (brushing, rubbing down, combing, cutting or bathing). When your dog well behaves while being groomed, he should always be awarded for his good behavior.

Basic grooming equipment includes:

• Soft pin brush
• Rubber brush
• Narrow-toothed comb
• Ear forceps
• Cotton wool
• Nail cutters
• Dog toothpaste and dog toothbrush
• Chamois cloth

Different breeds have different coat textures and densities. Smooth, short-haired coats are easiest to maintain. Short-haired breeds with dense undercoats, such as Labrador Retriever, should be groomed regularly in order to remove mats and tangles. Long topcoats with dense undercoats need gentle and frequent grooming.

There are occasions when dogs have to be bathed. Bath your dog in a bathtub or if weather permits, outside. You can find a variety of medicated shampoos for different dog coats and different skin. Use warm rather than hot or cold water.

Teeth and gum care

Check your dog's mouth each day if there is any sign of inflammation, strange odor or debris. Train your dog in early stage how to brush his teeth and gums. Do not use human toothpaste, use special dog toothpaste which you can get at the veterinarian or salted water.


Related Articles:
Grooming Basics on Dogs.About.com
Dog Grooming Suppy on http://www.groomers.com/