Just as there are different types of hair for people, there are many types of dog hair as well. Some dog have very short hair that is easy to groom and keep clean. On the other hand, some breeds tend to have long hair that easily becomes matted or difficult to manage. Here is a handy step by step guide to help you better care for your dog's hair.
Step 1 - Proper Brushing
For dogs with medium to long length hair, you should begin the brushing of your dog by using a spray bottle filled with lukewarm water. While you can brush the dog, while the dog hair is dry, doing so may lead to breakage in the hair and excessive hair fall out. You should always use a special dog brush for removing tangles and helping to relieve hair matting. In some cases, excessively matted hair may need to be removed with a pair of scissors. This will result if you do not brush your long haired dog frequently and properly.
Step 2 - Properly Bathe Your Dog
When it is time to bathe your dog, you should make sure that you have all dog washing supplies available and in immediate reach, because if you turn your back, your dog will probably attempt to exit the bathtub. Try to make the bathing experience as a quick and efficient as possible.
When washing your dog, do not use cold water; lukewarm water is much more comfortable for your dog and will help allow the hair to become cleaner when washed.
To properly wash your dog make sure your dog is completely wet and not merely damp. To start washing the dog, begin with the legs and torso area and finish with the head area. You may want to consider pre-mixing your dog shampoo with a bucket of lukewarm water.
Also, you may want to consider using a sponge or large face towel to apply the soap. This will allow you to quickly apply the soap and produce a rich lather. Trying to apply the shampoo directly to the hair usually requires more time than you may have to keep your dog relatively still.
After you have bathed your dog, use a towel to dry most of the water from the dog's coat; additionally, you may want to allow the dog to stay in an area where the dog is free to shake and air dry.
Also, you should keep in mind that most long-haired dogs should be brushed at least two or three times per week and will require even more brushing in times of shedding. If you find that your dog's skin is slightly dry or irritated there are many types of medicated pet shampoo available. Alternatively, you may consider using a herbal human shampoo that is made with oatmeal or other similar grains, as this is effective in relieving minor skin irritations on your dog's skin.