Introduction
Hair of the dog groomers offer a variety of grooming and hygiene services for dogs. The name “hair of the dog” refers to the expression “taking a hair of the dog that bit you”, which means having a small amount of alcohol after drinking heavily to lessen the effects of a hangover. For groomers, it implies giving dogs a bit of grooming to help them feel and look their best.
Dog grooming services likely originated in the 17th century in France, where the poodle became a popular breed among the royal court. The elaborate poodle cut was developed during this time. Grooming services continued evolving over the next few centuries, eventually growing into a professional industry with grooming schools, certifications, shops and mobile groomers.
Grooming Services Offered
Hair of the Dog grooming offers a wide range of grooming services for dogs including:
- Bathing – A thorough bath and shampoo helps keep your dog’s coat clean, shiny, and smelling fresh. Different shampoos can be used for different coat types.
- Haircuts – Professional haircuts keep your dog well-groomed. Styles range from breed standard cuts to creative cuts based on your preferences.
- Nail trimming – Nail trims are essential for your dog’s foot health. The groomers safely trim nails and smooth any rough edges.
- Ear cleaning – Cleaning the ears regularly prevents infections. The groomers use an ear wash solution and cotton balls to gently wipe out ear canals.
- Teeth cleaning – A teeth cleaning removes tartar and plaque buildup. Special dog toothpastes and toothbrushes are used to clean the teeth and freshen breath.
In addition to these standard services, Hair of the Dog also offers specialty services like de-shedding treatments, flea and tick shampoos, de-matting, grooming for senior dogs, and more. Check out reviews on their Facebook page to learn about customers’ experiences.
Bathing Services
One of the most common services dog groomers offer is bathing and cleaning. Bathing helps keep dogs’ coats and skin healthy by removing dirt, debris, and dead hair. Groomers typically offer different types of baths depending on the dog’s specific needs:
Regular Bathing – This is a standard bath and shampoo to clean the coat and refresh the dog’s scent. Regular bathing is good for most healthy dogs every 4-8 weeks.Professional dog grooming bath services often include a regular bath as part of their grooming package.
Medicated Baths – For dogs with skin allergies or sensitivities, groomers can provide baths using specially formulated medicated shampoos. These shampoos contain ingredients to soothe skin and deter parasites like fleas.
De-shedding Baths – Shedding breeds like labs and goldens benefit from occasional de-shedding baths which use shampoos to help loosen dead hair so it can be more easily brushed out. This helps reduce shedding around the home.
When choosing bathing services, pet owners should consider factors like their dog’s breed, coat type, skin sensitivity, and how often the dog gets wet or dirty. Many mobile dog grooming bath services provide packages with regular bathing included at a fixed monthly rate. For most dogs, professional bathing every 4-8 weeks promotes healthy skin and a shiny coat.
Haircuts
When it comes to haircuts, there are many styling options to consider depending on your dog’s breed and coat type. Some popular styles include the puppy cut, teddy bear cut, summer cut, and breed standard cuts. The puppy cut involves trimming the body fur short while leaving some fur on the legs, head, and tail. This is a good low maintenance option for dogs with thick or long fur. The teddy bear cut rounds out the face and feet to look cute and cuddly. Breed standard cuts aim to maintain the traditional look for specific breeds like Poodles and Schnauzers.
For curly haired dogs like Poodles, tight curls can be maintained or the coat can be trimmed into unique shapes and designs. Shorter haircuts help reduce matting and are easier to care for between professional grooming. Long, silky coats on dogs like Yorkies can be trimmed to a floor length show cut or clipped shorter for ease of maintenance. Double coated breeds like Collies and Shepherds need their thick undercoats raked out before cutting the top coat. Regular trimming keeps the fur from getting matted and tangled. Consulting with an experienced groomer is the best way to determine the optimal haircut for your dog based on their specific breed, coat, lifestyle, and your preferences.
Sources:
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Nail Trimming
Regular nail trimming is important for your dog’s health and wellbeing. Overgrown nails can cause pain, pose safety hazards, and lead to other issues if left unchecked. According to veterinarians, trimming a dog’s nails every 2-4 weeks is ideal.
When a dog’s nails get too long, they can start to curl under the paw pads which puts pressure on the toes. This continual pressure is uncomfortable for the dog and can even cause arthritis over time. Overly long nails are also prone to cracking and bleeding, especially the dew claws.
Long nails can get caught on surfaces like carpeting and scratch floors. Dogs use their nails for traction so overgrown nails throw off their natural gait and posture. This leads to joint issues and injuries. Blunt nail tips from regular trimming give dogs better grip.
Proper nail care plays a key role in overall pet wellness. A skilled groomer will clip each nail at the optimal length and angle to avoid hitting the quick. They use specialized clippers and know techniques to make the process as painless as possible. Professional trims reduce the risks of at-home accidents. According to the American Kennel Club, “Clipping your dog’s nails is one of the most dreaded, yet important, parts of grooming a dog.” 1
Ear Cleaning
Keeping your dog’s ears clean and healthy is an important part of their grooming routine. Ear infections are common in dogs and can be quite painful. Excess debris, wax buildup, moisture, allergies, and other irritants in your dog’s ears can all contribute to an infection (Source).
A professional groomer will thoroughly clean the inside of your dog’s ears using a veterinarian-approved ear cleaner. Gently massaging the ear canals and wiping away any wax or debris prevents any buildup that can lead to infection. After cleaning, the groomer will thoroughly dry your dog’s ears.
Regular ear cleanings every 4-8 weeks will keep your dog’s ears healthy and comfortable. Always check with your groomer if you notice any bad odors, redness, or discharge in your dog’s ears between appointments. Keeping your dog’s ears clean is an essential part of their grooming routine.
Teeth Cleaning
Keeping your dog’s teeth clean is an important part of their overall health and wellbeing. Proper dental care can prevent plaque buildup, tooth decay and gum disease. There are several options for cleaning your dog’s teeth:
Brushing your dog’s teeth regularly at home is the most effective way to remove plaque and tartar. Using a pet-safe toothpaste and toothbrush allows you to thoroughly clean all surfaces of their teeth. Start brushing as a puppy to get them accustomed to the process. Brush at least 2-3 times per week for maintenance. See this video for tips on brushing your dog’s teeth: Dogs in Australia, dog dental care, grooming tips & more
Dental wipes are a convenient option for cleaning your dog’s teeth at home. Wipes impregnated with enzymatic cleaners can reduce plaque and freshen breath when used daily. TropiClean Fresh Breath Dental Wipes are an easy way to clean your dog’s teeth if they won’t tolerate brushing.
Professional dental cleanings by your groomer or veterinarian are the most thorough way to remove built-up tartar and plaque. A professional vet cleaning may include scaling, polishing, and fluoride treatments. Regular professional cleanings every 6-12 months are recommended based on your dog’s oral health needs.
Specialty Services
A dog groomer can offer a variety of unique specialty services beyond just bathing and haircuts to help dogs look and feel their best. Some popular specialty services include:
Dyeing – Using safe, pet-friendly dyes to color a dog’s fur fun colors like pink, blue, purple. This is a fun way for pet owners to express their dog’s personality. The dyes are semi-permanent and will fade out over time.
Massage – Providing massage services can help relax dogs and relieve muscle tension. Massages use pet-safe oils and focus on areas prone to stiffness like the neck, back, and legs.
Perfumes – Light doggy perfumes and colognes can help dogs smell fresh in between baths. Perfumes come in appealing scents like lavender, citrus, or vanilla.
Offering specialty services like dyeing, massage, and perfumes can attract new customers and provide an enjoyable pampered experience for pets. Consult with pet owners first to ensure specialty services are safe and appropriate for each dog’s coat, skin, and temperament.
Choosing a Groomer
When looking for a groomer, you’ll want to find someone experienced and knowledgeable who can properly care for your dog’s specific breed and coat type. Here are some tips on what to look for and questions to ask when choosing a groomer:
Make sure the facility is clean, organized and has a good reputation. Ask friends, family, your veterinarian or other pet owners for recommendations. Check online reviews as well. Visit the facility in person to get a feel for the vibe and see how the groomers interact with the dogs.
Look for groomers who are patient, gentle and communicate well with both you and your dog. Make sure they have experience with your dog’s specific breed and are familiar with breed standards for trimming and styling. Some facilities specialize in certain breeds.
Ask about their training and credentials. Many states require pet groomers to be licensed. Reputable groomers will have completed training programs and apprenticeships. Look for memberships in professional organizations like National Dog Groomers Association of America.
Make sure they follow safety protocols like non-slip surfaces, restraints if needed, and monitoring dogs closely in tubs or with dryers. Ask how they handle stressed or difficult dogs. Look for the use of high velocity dryers which are safer and more comfortable for dogs.
Discuss your dog’s specific needs like skin or health issues. Ask what products they use and if you can provide your own if needed. Share information about your dog’s temperament. Tour the facility to see kennel and play areas.
Ask about their experience styling your dog’s breed. Show photos of desired cuts and styles. Reputable groomers will provide options but also offer expertise on what works best for your dog’s coat.
Compare pricing options and what is included. Look for groomers who allow you to be present during the process, if that is important to you.
Building a relationship with a trusted, experienced groomer is ideal. But take time to find the right match for you and your dog. Visit this article for more tips on choosing a groomer.
Conclusion
In summary, regular grooming from a professional dog groomer provides many important health and wellness benefits for dogs. Getting your dog groomed on a schedule helps maintain their coat and skin health, keeps their nails trimmed for safer walks, ensures their ears are clean to prevent infections, and allows for early detection of any issues or skin conditions. Professional groomers are trained to properly and safely provide all grooming services needed to keep your dog looking and feeling their best. By investing in professional grooming, dog owners can set their pet up for better overall wellbeing, comfort, and happiness.
Routine grooming visits are key to a dog’s quality of life. Rather than attempting to provide these services at home, trust your furry friend to the care and expertise of a professional dog groomer. Their skills, experience, and tools allow them to thoroughly clean, trim, and pamper your dog while keeping them calm and making the process as stress-free as possible. Do your four-legged friend a favor by scheduling regular appointments with a qualified groomer. Your dog’s health, hygiene, and contentment will surely benefit.