Brushing in Dogs: What It Is, When to Do It and Benefits

Welcome to Waggy's blog! In this post, we'll explain everything you need to know about dog brushing, a crucial aspect of keeping your pet's coat and skin in tip-top condition. From essential tools to practical tips for safely and effectively performing this process, we'll guide you step-by-step to ensure your dog has a healthy, mat-free coat. Get ready to discover how proper brushing can improve your furry companion's well-being and keep your home cleaner and more comfortable. Let's get started!

What is de-shedding in dogs?

Brushing is a grooming process in dogs that removes excess, dead, and loose hair from the undercoat of the animal, especially in double-coated breeds such as German Shepherds, Huskies, or Golden Retrievers. This process is essential to keep the dog's skin and coat in good condition, prevent the buildup of dead hair, and reduce excessive shedding in the home.

Why is it important to brush a dog?

Brushing a dog, or removing excess dead hair, is important for several reasons:

• Skin and coat health: Removing dead hair helps the skin breathe and allows new hair to grow in healthier. It also reduces the buildup of grease and dirt that can cause irritation or infection.

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• Preventing Knots and Tangles: In breeds with long or dense coats, excess dead hair can form knots or tangles that are painful for the dog and can lead to skin problems if left untreated.
• Shedding Control: During shedding seasons, brushing significantly reduces the amount of hair your dog sheds at home, keeping the environment cleaner.
• Temperature regulation: Excessive hair can make your dog feel too hot, especially in hot weather. Brushing helps your dog maintain an appropriate body temperature.
• General well-being: The brushing process can be relaxing for the dog and strengthen the bond with its owner, as it is often done during regular brushing sessions.

What breed of dogs need regular brushing?

Some dog breeds that need regular brushing are those with thick coats and dense undercoats, as they tend to accumulate more dead hair and shed more frequently. These include:

• Siberian Husky: This breed has a very dense double coat, designed to protect them from extreme cold in their native habitat. The undercoat sheds in large quantities during seasonal shedding, requiring regular brushing to prevent the buildup of dead hair and to keep the skin and coat healthy. Brushing is crucial, especially in hot climates, to prevent the dog from overheating.
• German Shepherd: Also featuring a double coat, German Shepherds shed year-round, but have intense periods of seasonal shedding. Frequent brushing helps prevent knots and tangles from forming in the undercoat, allowing new hair to grow properly. It also helps keep the skin free of irritation and controls the amount of hair shedding in the home.
• Golden Retriever: With a long, thick coat, this breed also benefits from regular brushing. Golden Retrievers' undercoat can form tangles if dead hair is not removed, which could lead to skin irritations. Additionally, their coat tends to collect dirt, so brushing not only improves appearance but also promotes healthy skin and coat.

These breeds require constant attention to maintain their well-being, and deshedding is a fundamental part of their care.

How to brush a dog? Step by step

• Choose the right time: It is important to brush your dog when he is calm. If possible, do the process after a walk or physical activity that has tired him out a bit, so that he is more relaxed and receptive.
• Prepare your tools: You will need the right tools depending on your dog's coat type.
• Brush gently: Start by brushing gently in the direction of hair growth. This helps remove surface mats as the dog gets used to being brushed. If you find tangles, use a detangler or scissors if necessary, being careful not to damage the skin.
• Use the rake or deshedding tool: Once the coat is free of tangles, use the rake or deshedding tool to get to the undercoat. Go over the deshedding tool in long, gentle strokes, making sure not to apply too much pressure, which could irritate your dog's skin. Focus on areas where the hair tends to be thicker, such as the back, back of the legs, and chest.
• Brush in sections: Divide your dog's body into sections to make sure you don't miss any areas. Start at the head and work your way down to the tail, covering each section thoroughly. Pay special attention to areas where hair tends to accumulate, such as behind the ears and armpits.
• Remove excess hair: As you brush, you'll notice a significant amount of dead hair build up. You can use a vacuum cleaner or a towel to pick up loose hair and prevent it from spreading around your home.
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What do I need to brush my dog?

To brush your dog, you'll need a few basic tools like a deshedding brush or rake, which is ideal for dogs with dense undercoats, a brush for finer coats, and if you prefer a gentler method, rubber gloves for fur. It's also helpful to have a detangler or scissors on hand in case you find any stubborn tangles. Additionally, you'll need a towel or vacuum to pick up loose hair. These items, along with a comfortable place for your dog and patience, are key to effective deshedding.

How often is it advisable to brush a dog?

The recommended frequency of brushing a dog depends on its breed and coat type, but in general, once a week is recommended for breeds with dense undercoats, such as huskies or German shepherds, especially during shedding seasons (spring and fall). For dogs with less hair or shorter coats, brushing every two to four weeks may be sufficient. Maintaining a regular routine not only reduces the buildup of dead hair, but also helps keep the dog's skin healthy and prevents knots or irritation.

Is it safe to brush a dog at home?

Yes, it is safe to brush a dog at home as long as you use the right tools and do it carefully. It is important to use brushes or rakes specifically designed for de-shedding, and to apply them gently so as not to damage the dog's skin. Additionally, you should pay attention to any signs of discomfort or irritation during the process. If done correctly, brushing at home is not only safe, but also beneficial for maintaining the health of your dog's coat and skin. However, in cases of dogs with very complicated coats or skin conditions, it may be advisable to see a professional.

Conclusion

And there you have it, everything you need to know to keep your dog's coat in tip-top condition by brushing. By incorporating this practice into your pet's grooming routine, you'll not only improve their health and comfort, but you'll also contribute to a cleaner, more pleasant home. Remember that regular de-shedding is key to preventing mats, reducing excessive shedding, and keeping your dog's skin free from irritation. Thanks for reading Waggy's blog, we hope these tips help you enjoy happier, healthier times with your furry companion!