Dog Care: Looked After from Nails to Coat with the Right Grooming

Dog Care: Looked After from Head to Paw

Regular grooming keeps your dog healthy and gives you the chance to spot small changes early. While brushing, trimming nails or checking ears, you quickly notice whether a spot is itchy, red or sore. With the right dog care products and a little bit of routine, grooming becomes a calm moment for both of you that builds trust between you and your dog.

Coat, Nails and Paws

How often your dog needs brushing depends on its coat. Long haired dogs need a brush almost every day, while short haired dogs are fine with one session a week. If you want to trim the coat yourself, you'll find clippers, trimmers and scissors here, for example from Wahl and Aesculap. Just as important are the nails: nails that are too long change the way your dog walks. And after road salt, mud or hot tarmac, paws appreciate a thorough clean and a little care.

Ears, Teeth and First Aid

Check your dog's ears regularly. You can gently remove a little dirt from the outer ear, but if the ear smells or your dog shakes its head a lot, it's time to see the vet. When brushing teeth, a finger toothbrush helps to prevent tartar. Get your dog used to it slowly. For minor injuries, ticks or insects on the go, a well stocked first aid kit with bandages and a tick remover is worth having.

Frequently asked questions

How often should I bath my dog?
Most dogs only need a bath now and then, for example after rolling in something smelly. Bathing too often can upset the natural protective layer of the skin. Always use a mild dog shampoo and never a shampoo made for people.

How do I get my dog used to grooming?
Start with short sessions, touch paws, ears and muzzle casually and reward calm behaviour with a treat. Increase the time slowly and stop before your dog gets restless. That way it links brushes, nail clippers and the like with something pleasant.

When should my dog go to a groomer?
Dogs with constantly growing coats, such as poodles or many terriers, need a cut every few weeks. With some practice and the right clippers, you can do a lot yourself at home. For matted coats or very anxious dogs, a professional groomer is often the better choice.