Brush It Out
One of our most important grooming tips if you want to keep your dog’s coat long and fierce for the cooler months, regular brushing is vital for maintaining skin and coat health. This is something that you and your children can do together – all you need is a couple of minutes a day and it is a great way to bond with your pooch. A dog’s winter coat can also hide skin nasties, such as lumps, sores or rashes - which is another reason to brush regularly.There are specific dog brushes available for different coat types. Slicker brushes work best for removing knots and for breeds with medium-long or curly fur, while bristle brushes are ideal for short-haired dogs - chat to your local DOGUE team to find out which brush is best for your dog's coat. Brushing throughout winter and maintaining regular wash and tidies will help avoid the dreaded short shave. No one likes a nude pup however if you must get your pup clipped short don’t forget that there are protective raincoats and natural fiber jumpers available - super stylish ones at that, every owner and their dog will envy your dog’s style! Check out our range of winter apparel.
Rub-A-Dub-Dub Get Your Dog In The Tub
Just like humans, dogs can suffer from the bane of winter - dry skin and hair. Cold weather, wind and heaters within the home all contribute to dryness. The best solution to ensure your dog doesn’t suffer with hair and skin conditions is prevention! Using a moisturising shampoo and conditioner during winter will keep the skin and fur healthy and luscious, and will also make brushing a breeze! For those pooches who need a little extra care with dry skin and hair - we recommend using Natural Animal Solutions range of oils, creams and supplements. Check out our range of Natural Animal Solution products. All of our DOGUE Boutiques offer a specialty shampoo for pooches with sensitive/allergy prone skin. Let our team know to use our Oatmeal Shampoo when booking in your pup's next groom.Bath time can be a fun family affair - ask your kids to collect their dog’s favourite toys & treats or even turn bath time into a game - how many times will your pup shake it out in the tub (and all over yourselves)? Keeping the skin moist balances out oil and prevents the hair and skin from becoming dry, dull, irritated and matted – not fabulous. If you need to bath your dog at home, ensure they are completely dry before letting them outside, because a wet, cold dog outside is not a happy dog!
Clip Those Nails
As the weather gets cooler we tend to go outside less, and our dogs aren’t playing or walking on concrete as much as they usually would. This means that their nails aren’t wearing down naturally and they need to be checked regularly. If you can hear “tap tap tap” on your floors as they walk, then it’s time for a trim. Keep those paws in tip-top shape and tell your kids to listen out for that delightful sound!
All DOGUE Boutiques offer Nail Clipping complimentary with every grooming service and as an additional service for maintenance.
Take Care Of Cracked Paws
Like their skin, dogs’ paws can also become dry when outside in winter. If severe enough, the pads can become cracked and in some cases infected. Using a moisturising balm on the pads will help prevent cracking from occurring. Another quick and easy solution is to simply wipe your dog’s paws with a dry towel after each outing. Keep a towel at the front door and make it a fun routine that your kids can help with – it might also help your kids to remember to wipe their feet after playing in puddles too! We recommend using Natural Animal Solution Dermal Oil or Cream for nourishing dry noses, pads, paws and elbows.We hope you enjoyed reading our top grooming tips! Leave us a comment and tell us how you take care of your dog's coat in winter.