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Grooming Dogs: Necessary Or Just Distressing?

Written by Samantha Geary
Samantha Geary is passionate about all sorts of domesticated pets. They have written dozens of articles across the web.
Published on
Friday 6 November 2015
Last updated on
Tuesday 9 May 2023
is dog grooming unnecessary and distressful?
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Dog lovers everywhere would agree that our furry friends are precious and loyal members of the family so it is no surprise that images of extreme pet grooming can be quite distressing to those who believe it is wrong and excessive. Do it well, it is an amazing healthy experience for your dogs. Do it wrong, it is hell.

A Somewhat Distressing Necessity

Yes, some of the transformations are admittedly impressive but unsettling at the same time. And groomers are know to make a decent living! Creativity is one thing but many devote animal lovers believe that these crazy ‘out there’ looks shouldn’t go beyond the human world. Our pets are our voiceless companions and using dyes, dryers and curling irons on them to create a work of art could be deemed cruel.

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Saying this, grooming is without a doubt necessary for our dogs, just like we need haircuts our pets need grooming to keep tidy and clean. It is not only a matter of their physical appearance but it is important to keep your pet groomed for its own hygiene. When your animal’s hair gets matted and long it is harder to keep it clean and this is the main reason grooming is necessary. Studies show that dogs can improve your mood and health. On an emotional level, grooming your pet has been proven to reduce stress levels for your pooches as well as the owner, it can help build the trust and the bond between you and your best friend.

Yes, there are some dogs out there who don’t even flinch when they are bathed or groomed but on the whole, pets are known to be quite fearful in the tub and on the grooming table. It is unfamiliar territory for our pets so they are bound to be on edge. It is important to reassure your dog if they are uneasy when being groomed. Stroking your dog can help them to understand that grooming is a painless and fuss-free process and remind them that they are not going to be harmed in any way. Each dog reacts differently and this is why it is important to groom your pet correctly and put a lot of care and attention into it.

If you choose to groom your own pooch it is vital that you have the correct equipment necessary to do it safely. If you are worried that you do not have the correct materials or are unsure what kind of tools and utensils are available for your pet then there is a range available, all you have to do is visit your local pet store or search online and you will get expert advice about the essentials you need. If you are worried that the equipment is not suited to your dog then you needn’t worry. You can purchase grooming tools and accessories that are tailored specifically to the breed of dog you have.

If you decide to groom your own pet then you will have to take a range of things into consideration like hair clipping, hair brushing, nail trimming, bathing, ear care, and bathing.

So what are the benefits of grooming your dog?

Besides the health benefits that come with dog grooming, there are a few key reasons you should get your dog groomed regularly.

  • Grooming removes dead hair and distributes the natural oil which keeps your pet’s coat and skin healthy.
  • Improves blood circulation.
  • Gives you a chance to look for any irregularities that may need attention such as lumps and flees.
  • Grooming is a great way to spend quality time with your pet and improves trust between you both.

You can get advice on coat care, grooming and diet for your dog, this is if you choose to get your dog professionally groomed. Some dogs will need to visit a professional groomer depending on their type of coat. Active long-haired dogs will need more grooming than inactive short-haired dogs. If you choose to get your dog professionally groomed then you should try and take them every three months. Professional grooming covers a lot of areas that you may not be comfortable with such as trimming the hair around your dog’s eyes or other parts that require a steady hand.

Dogs love attention and can benefit from grooming. A great piece of advice would be to start with dog grooming early in your pet’s life. This way they can get familiar with being handled while they are still young.

5 comments on “Grooming Dogs: Necessary Or Just Distressing?”

  1. Sarah

    great

  2. Afton Jackson

    I greatly appreciate you mentioning that dog grooming is a great way to look out for things like flees and lumps. Skin problems and pests have always been my number one concern about my dog especially since his coat of fur is so unique and different from everyone else’s dogs. To make sure that I groom him properly, I’ll look for a grooming service in my area and have them show me how it’s done.

  3. Tammie Houston

    I never knew that getting my dog groomed could give him so many health benefits. I found it particularly interesting how it could help spread natural oils towards their fur coat and keep their skin healthy. That sounds like something that my hairy little friend would greatly appreciate as he loves taking pride in his fluffy mane and fur. I’ve never taken him to a dog grooming service yet so it’ll be quite an experience for the both of us. I’m looking forward to how he will look after it’s finished.

  4. Vivian Black

    I thought it was interesting when you said that grooming your dog actually improves circulation and that active dogs need to be groomed more than those who lay around all day. We have a very hyperactive dog who even gets his feet saturated with mud just by taking him for a walk around the neighborhood. He is into everything as he goes, much like a kite on a string. We have only been taking him to a professional groomer every three to six months. We will probably begin to take him much more often because he is a highly active dog.

  5. Amaury

    Sweet Paws makes massaging bath gloves for dogs and cats that are made of silicone to protect your hands. They are durable and very easy to sanitize, plus are double sided so they also work for lefties. My dog has been enjoying bathtime a lot more since I’ve started bathing him with the Sweet Paws gloves. It’s a legit massage!

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