Why Grooming Your Dog Isn't Just Vanity – It's Key To Good Health

Some people think of dog grooming as something that's just for show dogs. But you wouldn't go through your life never showering, brushing your teeth, or combing your hair – why would you expect your dog to do the same? Grooming can have a big impact on a dog's health. If you want your canine companion to stay healthy and happy for as long as possible, it's important to make grooming a regular part of their life.

Brushing to Clean and Distribute Oils

For dogs, brushing is much better than bathing. Baths can dry out your dog's skin and irritate them; brushing, on the other hand, keeps them clean without washing away the natural oils that their skin produces. Brushing also removes dirt far better than bathing for dogs. In addition, a good brushing will help distribute those skin oils all through their coat, keeping it looking healthy and shiny.

Brushing is also a chance to notice other health problems. Fleas and ticks can be caught during routine grooming, hopefully before they have a chance to spread diseases to your dog; swellings, lesions, cuts or other injuries can be more easily noticed as well. Often, finding signs of disease and injury early make a big difference in how effective treatment is.

Tooth Brushing for Proper Nutrition

Keeping a dog free from periodontal disease and tooth decay is important. Older dogs who have painful teeth may avoid eating because of the pain it causes them, which can cause malnourishment and weight loss. Having your dog's teeth brushed regularly is important, as is having their teeth periodically examined and possibly cleaned by a veterinarian.

Nail Trimming for Stance and Skeletal Health

Like your own nails, your dog's nails grow constantly. But unlike your own, your dog has no way to clip them. If you can imagine how difficult it would be to never trim your nails, then you know how important nail trimming is to dogs as well. If your dog clicks their nails when they walk across the floor, then they need a nail trimming.

Nails that have grown too long can break, which is potentially painful. In addition, broken nails are an entry point for bacteria, raising the risk of infection – especially since long nails often harbor dirt and bacteria. And since dogs must walk on their nails, long nails can even cause skeletal problems as a dog tries to change their stance to accommodate untrimmed nails.

For more tips or assistance grooming, contact a company like Keshlyn Kennels.

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