As winter draws closer and living expenses rise, some comforts will need to be removed from the budget. Although it’s great to treat your furry companion to a pamper day, bathing them at home can help you save money on pet bills.
The specialists at Showerstoyou.co.uk have compiled the best grooming tips for your dog this winter. To achieve this, they looked into a range of online tips and tricks, identifying the 10 most important grooming tips to keep pooch happy and healthy through the colder months.
Turn up the heat in your home
Your home’s heating needs to be increased before bathing your pet. The potential of catching hypothermia is the main worry while bathing your dog in the winter, and the warmer your home is, the less probable it is that your dog will become chilled.
Morning baths are the best
It’s recommended to bathe your dog in the morning in winter, so they can dry off in the afternoon when the sun has reached its warmest. This prevents them from having a wet coat in the evening when it’s typically colder.
Pay close attention to your dog’s paws
Examining your dog’s claws frequently is more important because in the winter, as your pet isn’t as active, you may notice that their nails seem to grow longer. Long nails make it difficult for dogs to retain a firm hold in the bath which can lead to them falling over.
Grooming tips: Brushing your dog
Your dog’s fur should be brushed both before and after washing. All dog breeds shed occasionally, so it’s advisable to remove any extra dead hair before shampooing. Before bathing, brushing your pet’s hair will help remove any matting and tangles, making the process simpler and more enjoyable for both you and your dog.
Cotton balls are perfect for dogs ears
Dogs dislike getting water in their ears, therefore they may shake off mid-bath in an effort to get the water out. This can be avoided by inserting a little cotton ball into your pet’s ears during bathing, making the experience more relaxing for your dog.
Make sure the temperature is slightly below 37°C
It’s not recommended to give your dog a cold bath as it’s bad for their health. It’s best to slightly warm the water in winter, this way they will be comfortable, feel relaxed and enjoy their bath. It is crucial to be careful with the water temperature and ensure it is 37°C / 98.6°For slightly lower to avoid burning them, especially with puppies and elderly dogs as water that is excessively hot can strain your pet’s heart.
Avoid getting water in their nose
It’s essential to gently mist your dog’s face, but keep water away from the nostrils. The best technique is to tilt the head up while paying great attention to the nose. If there is too much water inside the nostrils, the risk of choking increases.
A good dog shampoo matters
Although it’s not necessary, it’s important to select the best dog shampoo for your particular breed in order to avoid allergies and skin disorders. To lower the risk of an allergic response, the RSPCA advises trying a small amount of shampoo on your dog first to test if there is any reaction.
Rinse and repeat
Bathing your dog doesn’t have to be a drawn-out process. Rinsing your dog off fast but thoroughly is important to prevent leftover suds which can irritate your dog’s skin. Rinsing quickly also means that your dog spends less time exposed to the chilly air.
Drying your dog
After you have finished bathing your dog, blow-dry them with a hairdryer set to the lowest heat setting. The dog’s coat will be warmed and fluffed, keeping them comfortable as they dry. Holding the dog in place with one hand, move the blow dryer back and forth over the body while keeping the nozzle at least six inches away to avoid burns.
If you found Save on your pet bills by following these 10 grooming steps interesting, you’ll find more expert tips for looking after your pets on our Pets channel.
Survey data collected by ShowersToYou.co.uk. All data was collected on 24/10/22 and is accurate as of then.
About the Author / 50connect editorial
And it’s always a bonus if you’re dog likes water!