Ivan Pavlov is a famous Russian physiologist best known for his work with dogs. As good as he was at training their behavior, he never took a shot at their personal hygiene. Why, oh why, Ivan? It would have been your best work to date! As much as we love our furry pooches, there grooming can leave a bit to be desired at times. From their breath to their coat, they sure can smell! Admitting they smell from time to time is the first step, and now is the moment to move onto number two, three, and four.
These are grooming hacks for dogs that need a little extra TLC in the personal hygiene department:
#1: Brush
Throwing a canine into a bath and rinsing him or her with a shower head is easy because it’s quick and simple. The thing is, that it doesn’t work one-hundred percent due to the volume of fur. As the ladies know, a long mane gets tangled and mangy when wet and needs a good brushing. The same goes for dogs. So, before applying shampoo try and massage out the knots. There may be some resistance, but it’s for their own good!
#2: Doggy Shampoo
Shampoo and conditioner are essential, but the human-made stuff won’t suffice. Men and women have hair, while pooches have fur. There’s a big distinction, and it means regular treatments won’t work. Instead, they need a proper dog shampoo and conditioner combo to get down and dirty in the fur follicles. Before applying, these dogs guides by Nina Lyman recommend trimming or cutting their coat if it is too long. For one thing, it helps to reduce the overall volume. Secondly, it reduces the smell as there is less chance of grime getting stuck. You don’t have to be a hairdresser to do it, either, as long as you’re confident with clippers.
#3: Learn To Love
Hopefully, your pet will take to the bath like a duck to water. However, there are enough horror stories to suggest that it’s a 50-50 chance. Good luck, then! All jokes aside, canines that aren’t water babies may learn to love it in the long-term. This is where you have to channel your inner Pavlov and manipulate their conditioning. For instance, remove the obstacles first and foremost. A non-slip mat is a smart idea so that they aren’t scurrying around, as are cotton balls in their ears. Don’t forget to play and give them words of encouragement, too.
#4: Outsource
Learning to love the process goes for the owner, as well. Anyone who hates the process should think twice beforehand because it affects the animal. They can feel negative energy and will respond accordingly. The good news, is that there are professionals who will do it for an affordable fee. Plus, they will clean the dog’s teeth and clip their nails. Sometimes, outsourcing is the best option for pet owners.
Featured Image By: Pixabay
lifewithlilred 