professional dog grooming

Dealing With a Stinky Dog

We’ve all come across a stinky dog. Sometimes the cause is simple such as dog breath or wet fur, sometimes the problem is caused by an underlying medical issue. Stubborn dog smells can signify allergies, ear infections, skin infections, problems with diet or other issues that require a diagnosis from a veterinarian. While some common dog smells can be treated at home, if the problem persists or is severe, it’s imperative that you schedule an appointment with your vet.

Dealing with Dog Breath

Bad breath is typically a sign of plaque buildup on your dog’s teeth. You can help to keep your dog’s teeth clean by offering chew toys and by having your dog’s teeth brushed every time they visit the groomer. Occasionally the smell is from an infection caused by foreign matter that has become lodged in the gums. If regular teeth brushing does not solve the problem, it is wise to have your dog’s teeth checked by a veterinarian.

Dealing with Smelly Ears

Dogs that have droopy ears often have problems with ear infections and smelly ears. This is because moisture gets trapped and wax builds up, providing the perfect home for bacteria, ear mites and fungus. If there is no infection or open sores you can use diluted vinegar, colloidal silver, mineral oil or hydrogen peroxide to clean the ears. If you suspect that your dog has an ear infection, a veterinarian can prescribe medication.

Dealing with a Stinky Coat

A coat that is naturally oily can trap odor causing debris, but shampooing too often can dry out your pet’s skin and lead to allergies and infection. Regular grooming every four to six weeks is ideal for dealing with a stinky coat. Your groomer should only use soap-free shampoo. Between baths you can rub baby powder, baking soda or diatomaceous earth into your dog’s coat and then brush it to keep it odor free.

Dogs with thick undercoats have a hard time getting completely dry after getting wet. A damp undercoat can smell terrible. These types of dogs should be professionally groomed to ensure they are completely dry after their bath.

Other causes of dog odor include full anal glands and urine soaked fur. Always have your groomer check and express your dog’s anal glands when necessary and trim the fur around their genitals to keep urine and excrement from sticking to them.

Claws N Paws Day Spa can help you keep your dog odor free! Please call 714-962-1005 to schedule a grooming appointment today!

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Basics of Dog Grooming

Grooming is one of your dog’s basic needs. Just like people, dogs must be physically maintained in order to look and feel their best. Luckily, dogs don’t need to bathe as often as humans do. It is up to you to learn just how much grooming your dog actually needs. Typically a dog’s grooming needs depend on its breed and hair type. The following are the basics of dog grooming:

Hair brushing

A dog’s brushing needs depend largely on their hair type. Long-haired dogs typically require daily brushing in order to prevent tangling of the fur. Medium-haired dogs should be brushed weekly or more depending on how prone they are to matting. Short-haired dogs should be brushed every two to three weeks. Regardless of their hair type, dogs can be brushed daily if they enjoy it. Regular brushing not only keeps their coat shiny and healthy, but it will strengthen the bond between you and your dog.

Nail Trimming

Nail trims are usually the least favorite part of grooming for both dogs and their owners. Most dogs don’t like having their paws handled because they know how much it hurts to have their nails cut too short and pet parents are often uncomfortable with the process because they are afraid of hurting their dog. Dogs will develop an aversion to nail trimming once they have experienced pain from it. Ideally, nails should be trimmed by a professional groomer or veterinarian to avoid any injury or undue stress. Most dogs require monthly nail trims although some need less or more depending on their nail’s rate of growth.

Bathing

Most dogs should be bathed monthly, but bathing as often as once a week is not considered harmful. Dogs should be bathed with soap-free shampoo that is specifically made for use on dogs. Depending on the condition of your dog’s skin and coat, special shampoos might be necessary.

Ear care

Your dog’s ears can quickly become home to yeast and bacteria if they are not cleaned properly. Some dogs can go their whole lives without any ear problems, only requiring ear cleaning during their monthly bath. However, many other dogs suffer from chronic ear problems and require multiple ear cleanings each day.

Haircuts

Long haired dogs such as Poodles and Shih-Tzu’s need their hair cut every two to four weeks. This task is best left to a professional groomer who has the right tools and understands how to cut your dog’s hair without causing them injury.

Claws N Paws Day Spa offers dog and cat grooming in Orange County, California. For more information, or to schedule a grooming appointment, please call 714-962-1005.

Receive a free teeth brushing for your pet when you mention our blog!