Just like people, dogs need physical maintenance to feel and look good. Unfortunately, they can’t take care of themselves. So we need to take care of those needs for our furry best friend.

Grooming is one of your dog’s most basic needs. It is an important part of keeping them healthy and happy. Read on for tips on how to keep your pet looking and feeling his best throughout the years.

Bathing

Unlike humans, there’s no need to bathe your dog every day. Unless your dog has gotten into something dirty or smelly, it is okay to bathe them every 2 to 4 months. Frequent bathing will strip the natural oils from their coat, which will eventually dry out their skin.

Tooth cleaning

Periodontal disease is a huge problem for many pets. A lot of dogs show signs of gum disease because pet owners failed to provide them with proper mouth care. Brushing your dog’s teeth regularly can go a long way toward keeping her mouth healthy.

Brushing

Brushing your dog’s coat regularly will keep most mats at bay. It is also a great way to keep your pet’s hair in good condition. Short-haired dogs can go a few weeks in-between brushing. Long-haired dogs, on the other hand, will need daily brushing to prevent tangling and matting of hair.

There are different types of brushes on the market. The kind of brush you use should depend on the kind of fur your pet has.

Pedicuring

Most dogs should have their nails clipped once a month. If left untrimmed, the nails can curl under the paw pads.

Most dogs dislike having their paws handled, let alone having their nails trimmed. Be very careful when cutting their nails. They may develop trauma if they experience pain from it. Make sure your dog is relaxed before you start.