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Why Do Dogs Roll Around After a Bath? Explained!
Inside this Article:
Dogs frequently experience a burst of post-bath hyperactivity. It can be a startling, stressful, and sometimes overwhelming experience to witness. Coined as zoomies or crazies, dogs get amped up after a bath for a variety of reasons, including relaxation, happiness, and an innate need to smell familiar surroundings again. We’ll explore some of the theories behind this strange behavior.
Instinctual Behavior of Dogs Rolling Around
Dogs laying on freshly used, wet towels are perfectly normal and healthy. It allows them to express their instincts and compliment you without doing any harm.
Good Mood
Your dog's behavior of rolling on towels after a bath indicates happiness and a sense of feeling refreshed. They often shake off after a bath, often on bath rugs or towels. This behavior is particularly appealing to them, as it allows them to rub in your scent.
Love Your Scent
Dogs quickly develop an affinity for their family members' odors, often licking, rubbing, and playing with old, wet towels or dirty clothes. This behavior is a sign of the love and cherishment of the special bond they have with you.
Establishing Dominance/Territory
Dogs use the dominance theory to assert their position within their packs. The same applies to your house. They rub on your possessions, including towels, to establish their position and signal to other animals that you and your belongings belong to the dog, which, in theory, also serves as a defense against predators.
4 Possible Explanations for Why Dogs Roll After a Bath
- It Calms Bath Anxiety . Baths are stressful for most dogs, and rolling helps get rid of that built-up anxious energy.
- A Strange New Smell . And after a bath, your dog is now coated in a weird, unfamiliar scent. Their instinct is to rid themselves of the new scent and get their scent back to what they are used to.
- Drying Off . Rolling and zooming around is a way to dry themselves off.
- Bath Zoomies . Most dogs don’t like the act of being bathed, and they often express how happy they are that it’s over with the zoomies.
Good Grooming Practice
Proper grooming will make your dog look and feel their best. Routine bathing and grooming procedures allow you to check your dog's coat and skin for any symptoms or issues. How often you should groom your dog is determined by their size, breed, and coat type.
- Regularly brushing your dog's hair removes dirt, dead hair, and natural oils, making their coat shiny and healthy. It reduces matting and tangling, making the grooming experience easier.
- Goop, or excess tear or discharge, accumulates in dogs' eyes, especially light-colored breeds like bichon frise, cavachon, and boxers. To remove it, loosen it with a warm cloth and a flea comb.
- Remember to only use dog shampoo. Dogs that are mainly inside might not need as much bathing as mainly outside dogs. It is recommended that you wash your dog no more than once a week, as bathing dogs too regularly can cause skin irritations.
- Firmly rub them with a clean towel to dry them off.
Signs It's More Than Just Rolling Around for Fun
Pay attention to how often your dog rolls around, not just after bathtime. The condition of their skin is an indicator of their overall health. Dogs with skin issues may exhibit licking, scratching, gnawing, paw licking, or other behaviors. It can also be a sign of underlying health issues such as allergies, infections, parasites, stress, or metabolic problems. Remember that symptoms can vary, and may require a veterinarian diagnosis and treatment.
Effectively Dry Your Dog
After a bath, there's nothing wrong with your dog having the zoomies. If they are causing issues, such as damp furniture or filthy carpets, you might want to consider corralling them in a safe area, such as behind a pet gate, until they settle down. If not, simply relax and enjoy the show!
The Absorber® is the best dog grooming towel for bathing and drying your dog. It absorbs more water than other products, drying the coat faster and easier, while also helping keep your home clean and dry. Shop the Dog Lover’s Towel sizes, and you’ll both feel the benefits!
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How to Brush Your Dog's Teeth
Many dogs do not like the feeling of something put in their mouths that wasn’t their choice. As a result, figuring out an easy way to brush your dog’s teeth may be difficult. It will take some training to get your dog to accept it, but once they get used to it, the benefits will be immense. Cleaning your dog's teeth is the best way to prevent illness and maintain their health.
Teaching your dog to accept being brushed is best done when they are still a puppy. It can take a little longer if your dog is older. Brushing daily is highly helpful and will help your pet develop a routine, but twice a week is still beneficial if your schedule won’t allow it daily. Here are some steps you can take to brush your dog’s teeth.
Check Their Teeth For Disease
First, examine your dog’s mouth. You want to make sure it’s safe before you start dog tooth brushing. Take note if they are acting sensitive around any area, and look for swollen or bleeding gums or loose teeth. If this is the case, check with your local vet before you continue any brushing.
Get Them Used to You Touching Their Mouth
To introduce this new behavior to your dog, ensure they are calm and relaxed. Gently touch their mouth while rubbing their gums and teeth with your fingers. Teach them that this action is safe, and if they are struggling, use peanut butter as a way to incentivize them. Remember not to hold your dog down during this process.
Introduce Them to Pet Toothpaste
Use a pet-friendly toothpaste that is safe for dogs. Avoid human toothpaste, as it will cause them stomach problems. Apply the toothpaste with your fingertip and let your pet test it. If they don't lick it, try a different flavor until you find one they like. Gently rub the toothpaste across their teeth.
Start Incorporating a Toothbrush
To brush your dog's teeth at home, use a pet-specific toothbrush with soft bristles. There are finger brushes for small dogs and long-handled toothbrushes for larger ones. Avoid using an adult human toothbrush. However, you can use a soft child's toothbrush if necessary. Lift their upper lip and start gently brushing at a 45-degree angle over each tooth's surface.
Slowly Work up To Brushing the Entire Mouth
Start with easy-to-reach canine teeth and gradually increase daily brushing sessions, focusing on the outside and back teeth to remove plaque. Brush gently, and limit each session to a few minutes. Even brushing once a week can significantly improve oral health in dogs.
Stay Positive and Reward Your Dog
During dental care with your dog, show kindness, give them lots of pets, and talk to them to help them stay tranquil. After brushing, reward your pet with playtime, a toy, a pat, praise, or a dental treat. This will make brushing easier for both of you, as they associate it with happy and positive experiences.
Get Safe Tools to Wipe Your Dog’s Mouth
Brushing your dog’s teeth at home can be messy. Give your dog the best comfort when cleaning up their sensitive mouth area with The Dog Lover’s Towel by CleanTools.
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A Step-By-Step Guide To Getting Rid of and Preventing Dog Tear Stains
What Are Tear Stains?
Tear stains are common in dogs and you may have noticed them before. Tear stains look like reddish brown markings under your dogs' eyes that almost resemble colored eye boogers. When you have a young pup, these stains are usually easy to wipe away with a damp wipe. However, over time tear stains can start to permanently dye the hair around the eyes to that red-brown color.
Common Reasons Dogs Get Tear Stains
If your dog has tear stains, it shouldn’t cause you worry; most times, dogs can’t help it. There are a couple of reasons why dogs get tear stains, including:
Allergies
Just like humans, dogs experience allergic reactions too, oftentimes due to food sensitivities. If you notice tear stains in your dog, try changing the ingredients in their food to see which one may be causing the allergic reaction. If changing your dog's food doesn't help, consult a vet and they can help you determine your dog's allergies.
Genetics
Sometimes tear stains are heavily dependent on the breed. Some breeds like Maltese, Pugs, Frenchies, and Shitzu are more prone to tear stains and will require frequent grooming and cleaning.
Blocked Tear Ducts
Dogs with blocked tear ducts are also likely to have tear stains since they’re constantly producing tears, contradictory to its name. When the top of your dog’s face remains wet for a long period of time, they can develop worse staining and possible infections.
Our Step-By-Step Guide to Fabulously Stain-Free Fur
The best way to naturally remove dog tear stains is to follow these five simple steps.
#1: Deep Cleanse
Start with a deep cleanse using a soft, damp towel to make sure your dog’s face and eye area are squeaky clean.
#2: Trim Facial Hair
Get rid of excess hair around your dog's eye and beard to prevent irritation and excessive tearing. Professional groomers can handle this safely.
#3: Develop a Daily Maintenance Routine
Ensures your pup steers clear of tear stains with a daily grooming regimen:
- Use pet-safe saline flush as needed.
- Clean the corners of your dog's eyes daily with a wet cloth or pet-safe wipe.
#4: Isolate and Eliminate Causes of Stains
Determine what is causing your dog's tear stains and address underlying issues like diet and water quality, as they can contribute to tear staining.
#5: If All Else Fails, See a Vet
If you’ve tried all you can and your pup still has eye boogies or tear stains, it may be time to see a vet. They'll be able to help sniff out any underlying issues like infections or eye quirks that need some TLC.
The Best Way To Prevent Tear Stains in Dogs
The best way to prevent tear stains in dogs is to regularly clean your dog's face with a Dog Lover’s Towel and maintain frequent grooming appointments. Since tear stains are commonly caused by food allergies, swap their food and make sure you use stainless steel, porcelain, or glass food bowls to reduce bacteria buildup.
Get Safe Tools To Use Around Your Dogs’ Eyes
Give your dog the best comfort when treating their tear stains and use The Dog Lover’s Towel by CleanTools to ensure optimal comfort and safety around their sensitive eye area. By taking proactive measures and giving your furry friend the care they deserve, you can keep tear stains at bay and ensure a happy, healthy pup.
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Hair Loss in Dogs: What To Do & How To Treat It
Are you noticing your dog losing hair on their back, tail, or around their eyes? Sometimes dogs lose hair for natural reasons that shouldn't be a cause for concern, but other times it could indicate a larger issue. At CleanTools, we LOVE dogs and care about their health, including their skin and coat health—that’s why we offer the world-class Dog Lover’s Towel that benefits your dog no matter what.
Reasons Why Dogs Lose Hair
There are many reasons why dogs could lose their hair, and depending on the cause, a different remedy might be called for. The location of the hair loss can help you or a veterinarian identify the underlying cause of it. The most common places dogs lose hair are on their backs, tails, and around their eyes.
Is Your Dog Losing Hair on Their Back?
If your dog is losing hair on their backside, making it look patchy, they could have some type of infection or condition such as:
- Ringworm
- Bacterial Infections
- Parasites
- Allergies
- Post-Grooming Alopecia
Hair loss on a dog's back could also be due to them licking or itching a certain spot of their body to the point where it becomes bald. They could be itchy due to allergies, fleas, or other parasites, so make sure you check their coat regularly for any abnormalities.
Does Your Dog Have Hair Loss Around Their Eyes?
Most times, when your dog starts to lose hair around their eyes, it’s due to an allergic reaction. Some other possible reasons your dog might be losing hair around their eyes are:
- Pink Eye
- Fleas
- Ringworm
- Cushing’s Disease
Depending on your dog, they may start to lose hair around their eyes and face because of old age. If you have a senior pup, don't be alarmed when their skin and hair aren't as vibrant and lush as it once was.
What About Hair Loss on Your Dog’s Tail?
Hair loss associated with a dog’s tail is usually a symptom of a condition such as:
- Skin disorders
- Flea Allergy Dermatitis
- Hot spots
- Cushing’s Disease
Hair loss on a dog's tail causes more concern because it’s a sensitive part of the body that can quickly suffer from “happy tail” or other damages.
What To Do if Your Dog Has Hair Loss
Step One: Determine the cause of hair loss.
Step Two: Wash, clean, and dry your dog using top-quality products.
Step Three: Now that the coat is clean, assess the severity and pick the best treatment.
Hair Loss Treatment for Dogs
There are often many approaches to address and remedy your dog’s hair loss once you have identified the cause. These might include:
- Medication
- Flea and tick treatments
- Topical treatments
- Supplements
- A humidifier
- Grooming
If you’re treating your dog's hair loss at home, do your research on these different treatment methods to see which one can best help your pup. For example, you wouldn't want to use topical treatments or ointments if the hair loss is due to post-grooming alopecia, which occurs after a dog's hair has been cut at a groomer's. If at-home treatments are unsuccessful at bringing your dog's hair back, call a vet or visit a high-rated groomer to help.
Get the Best Equipment With CleanTools
When you’re treating your pup's hair loss, give them the best comfort possible. Losing hair is already an uncomfortable experience for dogs, so make the treatment process easy on them with the best tools around. At CleanTools, we supply the softest towels that gently dry and clean your pup while they’re being treated for hair loss.
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7 Professional Dog Grooming Techniques You Can Do at Home
Handling your dog’s grooming routine can be overwhelming, especially if you have an unruly or anxious dog. But you can borrow a few tips from professional dog groomers to improve your dog’s relationship with bathing, drying, brushing, nail trimming, and more.
Here are some principles and techniques to follow when grooming your dog at home.
Basic Dog Grooming Principles
Introducing your dog to grooming while they are very young is the best way to be able to manage their grooming routine at home. If you’ve adopted an adult dog, this may not be possible, but you can still get them used to grooming by doing it frequently and regularly.
Secondly, you need to know your dog’s coat type and select the right products. Retrievers, poodles, and shih tzus often require extra care. If you have a long-haired or double-coated dog, you should do your research before starting grooming to save you and your pup unnecessary stress.
Bathing & Drying Techniques
All dogs need to be bathed, but not all dogs should be bathed at the same frequency. Additionally, you need to use shampoo that is tailored to your dog’s skin. Consult your vet if you are unsure about either of these things.
To bathe your dog like a professional, you need to keep them as calm as possible. This means paying special attention to the place where you’ll bathe your dog, so they don’t feel like they’re going to fall, slip, or become submerged underwater. Make sure the water temperature is comfortable, and there aren’t any loud noises or other conditions that can startle your dog.
This also means staying firm and in control but never getting upset with your dog or shouting at them. When you prepare a pleasant space for grooming, the process is likely to be less stressful for both of you.
When it comes to drying, dry your dog’s entire coat at once so it doesn’t curl unevenly. You should both hand dry using a highly absorbent towel and blow dry. Blow dry your dog’s coat from the right distance to avoid tangles. The longer the coat, the farther away the dryer should be.
Brushing & Detangling Techniques
Brush your dog’s coat regularly to prevent mats and tangles. Start by brushing once a day for a few minutes and increase the time as your dog becomes comfortable with it. Brushing helps distribute the natural oils through your dog’s coat, keeping it healthy and shiny, and it can also stop excessive shedding.
Classic bristle brushes work for many dogs, but you may need a slicker brush for long-haired dogs.
Before and during bathing, de-shed and de-mat your dog. This will make drying faster and leave less hair on the floor for you to clean up.
Nail Trimming & Paw Care Techniques
Nail trimming is an essential part of dog hygiene. Unclipped nails can lead to sudden breakage and infection. They can also push into your dog’s paw pads, causing pain and serious issues.
If you can, introduce it to your pup early. You can start with just one nail at a time, offering treats as you do it.
Don’t forget to trim the hair between your dog’s paw pads. Keeping this area hair-free helps keep it clean, prevent irritation, and give your dog traction while walking so they don’t slip.
Eye & Ear Care
All dog’s eyes and ears should be kept clean, but dogs with droopy eyes and ears require special care.
Make sure your dog’s eyes are always free of discharge. If you notice persistent tearing or red-colored lower lids, consult your vet.
Ears, especially on dogs whose ears touch the ground, should be kept clean. But you want to avoid getting water in them, which can create a breeding ground for infection. Massage your dog’s ears and then wipe away any debris using a cotton ball or piece of gauze. Only use ear-cleaning solutions recommended by your vet, and don’t insert anything into your dog’s ears.
Don’t use soap for your dog’s eyes or ears.
Haircuts & Styling
If you want to trim your dog’s hair yourself, you should invest in the proper tools, including high-quality scissors, clippers, and shears designed for dog grooming.
For example, trim your dog’s face, paw pads, and sanitary areas using a #10 blade before switching your blade for the rest of their body. You can use thinning shears to shape the fur on your dog’s face.
Bathe before clipping.
Maintaining a Grooming Schedule
You can think of grooming as part of training your dog. Consistently brush, bathe, and trim nails. This will especially help dogs who are anxious about grooming. Instead of dreading grooming and doing it only once in a while, do it often, and take breaks if necessary.
Groom Your Dog Like a Pro With CleanTools
The keys to successful dog grooming at home are patience, consistency, and the right tools. But you don’t need to break the bank or open up a professional salon in your home to get them. With the Dog Lover’s Towel, you can dry your dog at lightning speed to prevent tangles, mats, and wet dog smells. Whether your dog loves or hates baths, this towel makes it easier to keep your pup happy and healthy.
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7 Tips to Keep Your Dog’s Head Still While Grooming
Table of Contents:
Trimming your dog’s face, especially their eyes, nose, and ears, is essential to keep them clean and comfortable, but it can be quite a challenge if your dog is not a fan of grooming. However, with patience, consistency, and the right grooming tools, you’ll be able to groom even the most fidgety dog.
Here are seven tips to help keep your dog still during grooming.
Create a Calm Environment
Before you jump into grooming, prepare your grooming area to be as stress-free as possible for you and your dog.
First, invest in a non-slip dog grooming mat. This will keep your dog from slipping and sliding everywhere during bathing and grooming and save you both a lot of frustration. Staying stable on a grooming mat may also help your dog feel more at ease.
If your dog is overly fidgety or anxious, consider using calming aids. Soothing music is one option. You can also use sprays or dog shampoos that contain calming pheromones.
Lastly, if your dog simply cannot stay still or becomes aggressive during grooming, consider purchasing a grooming restraint for dogs.
Use Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement means rewarding your dog for good behavior that will make grooming easier. Try to train your dog to “stay” or sit still by rewarding them with a treat every time they do so. You’ll need to hold your dog’s face while trimming, so get them used to handling their face, rewarding them as you go. Try to practice holding their muzzle shut, but never force it. If your dog is okay with it, try to hold it shut for a few seconds, and be sure to reward them.
Gradually Introduce Your Dog to Grooming Tools
Introduce your dog to scissors, clippers, grooming restraints, and other tools gradually rather than taking them out all at once.
Create a positive association with clippers, for example, by giving your dog a treat every time you take them out. Bring the clippers near your dog’s face to prepare them for future trims, and reward them. Before you attempt to trim your dog’s face, trim other areas of their body, and keep rewarding.
Do the same with a grooming restraint. When you first put it on, make sure you’re not hurting your dog.
Practice Short and Regular Sessions
It’s better to practice short, consistent grooming sessions than to try to put a restless dog through a long grooming session. Aim to trim one area at a time, even if it’s just your dog’s chin area.
Short, regular sessions can help make your dog more comfortable with grooming so both of you don’t dread it as much.
Use Gentle Restraint
As previously mentioned, if you’re going to use a grooming restraint, put it on gently and avoid hurting your dog.
If you’re not going to use restraint equipment, wrap your arm around your dog’s neck. When you do this, you’ll be close to your dog and able to tell if they start growling. Use a soft, soothing tone to talk to your dog, even when you’re frustrated.
You can also wrap your arm around your dog’s back close to the tummy area. If they try to squirm out of your grip, you can quickly lift them up. No matter how you hold your dog, do not use excessive force, and make sure they are comfortable before you start grooming.
Work quickly and continually check on your dog. When they try to wiggle out of your hold or off the grooming table, calm them verbally, but avoid giving them treats. If you do, they might think they’re being rewarded for trying to escape. Wait until after grooming is finished to reward your dog with treats.
How to Trim Your Dog’s Face
Before you attempt to trim your dog’s face area, take them for a walk or play with them for a while to get rid of some of that restless energy.
When you’re both ready to start grooming, let your dog sniff the scissors or clippers first. If there is another person who can help you, ask them to hold your dog’s head to stop it from jerking. Otherwise, a grooming restraint can help. Most restraints have an adjustable metal bar over your dog’s head and a leash-like loop to restrain their neck. Other designs have an extra loop on the rear side to stop your dog from jumping off the table. Hammocks and slings can also work as grooming restraints for small dogs.
Be sure to use low-noise clippers. Clip and trim slowly so you don’t startle your dog, and take breaks after each section of the face.
Provide Distractions
If your dog is not a fan of being brushed or groomed, distract them with toys before you start. First, set up your grooming mat in an area your dog is familiar with. If that’s not possible, let them explore and smell the area from corner to corner.
Next, use one of your dog’s favorite fluffy toys to rub your dog’s back and simulate grooming. You can also rub the toy across their face to prepare them for face trimming.
Let your dog keep the toy while you start grooming to maintain their sense of comfort and familiarity.
Practice Patience and Understanding
Now that you’re familiar with dog grooming restraint techniques to keep your dog still while cutting their hair, it all comes down to patience. It’s going to take time to get your dog comfortable with grooming, and after all, it’s important to recognize and reward your dog’s patience, too. Even if you get frustrated, always be gentle and soothe your dog, and the process will go better for both of you.
Groom Your Dog Like a Pro With CleanTools
The keys to successful grooming are patience and the right tools. The faster grooming goes for fidgety dogs, the better. Your dog should be tangle-free before trimming, so you’ll need to bathe and brush them. A calming shampoo, a highly absorbent towel , and a soft-bristled brush will make this process a breeze so you can move on to trimming while your dog is still relaxed. Keep your dog comfortable, dry, and happy with The Dog Lover’s Towel .
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How to Give Your Dog a Spa Day: 3 Great Ideas
Dogs are more than just pets. They’re a part of your family. Like any other family member, your pup deserves to be pampered every now and then. An at-home doggy spa day is a great way to give your pup some much-needed TLC. Plus, who would pass up extra quality time with their furry friend (literally no one)?
If this is your first time planning a spa day for your dog, follow our three-step guide to know what products you need and what to do.
3 Ideas for the Perfect Dog Spa Day
Start by gathering all the tools and materials you’ll need (more on these below). The last thing you want to do is realize you’re out of shampoo when your pup is already in the tub. Have backups on hand in case of an emergency. Once you have everything you need, follow these three steps:
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Massage
Dogs are man’s best friend, so it only makes sense that they carry stress like we do, particularly in their muscles and joints. A massage can relax these muscles and joints to relieve stress. Start at the top of their head, and work your way down using small circular movements. Give special attention to the areas where your dog carries the most stress: their head, neck, and shoulders.
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Bathe
Every doggy spa day should include a relaxing bath. The soothing nature of baths reduces stress for humans and dogs alike. Once you’re done, your dog will look, smell, and even feel better than ever.
Give your dog a thorough brushing before their bath to remove loose and possibly dirty fur. Next, turn on the bath water, making sure it’s warm but not too hot. Use a soothing shampoo and conditioner to clean, moisturize, and soften your dog’s fur. While you don’t need to buy the most expensive shampoo and conditioner on the market, cheap products could contain harsh ingredients that are more likely to damage your dog’s skin and fur.
Be sure to dry off your dog with a microfiber towel right after their bath, unless you want your furniture to get wet. Not sure which towel to get? Our signature Dog Lover’s Towel works wonders. It’s highly absorbent, quick drying, and super soft. Your dog will love it just as much as you do.
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Groom
Now it’s time for the finishing touches. Give your furry friend a fresh new look by cutting their nails, cleaning their ears, and brushing their coat. You also might need to trim any extra fur, like around their eyes. If you’re going all out, you might even decide to paint their nails. Don’t be afraid to get creative.
Dry Your Dog Faster Than Ever With the Dog Lover’s Towel
Whether your dog got into a muddy mess in the backyard or needs to relieve some stress, you can’t go wrong with a spa day. A simple massage, bath, and grooming session will make them look and feel as good as new.
You can’t bathe your dog without the right drying towel. Try the Dog Lover’s Towel to enjoy 50% more absorbency than the competition. Now you can spend less time drying and more time playing. Browse our different size options to find the perfect towel for your pup.
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Top 7 Grooming Styles to Give Your Dog a New Look
Table of Contents:
Does your dog always get the same haircut when they go to the groomer? Do you want to change it up, but aren’t sure what cut would suit your dog’s breed and coat?
If so, read on for some hairstyles for dogs of every breed.
7 Dog Haircut Styles
Here are some dog grooming ideas for when you want to change up your dog’s style or get them ready for a change in weather. This list includes some of the most popular styles for both short-haired and long-haired dog haircuts.
Teddy Bear Cut
As the name suggests, dogs with this cut look like teddy bears. This cut leaves more hair around your dog’s face than their body, but you don’t have to go too short. The key point of this look is the fluffy, rounded ears that resemble teddy bear ears.
If your dog doesn’t like going to the groomer, this is a good grooming option that can be done quickly.
Poodle Cut
Poodle cuts look like… poodles. This cut is well-suited to furry dogs. It keeps fur short around your dog’s body, with more on the top of the head and around the neck, kind of like a mane.
Lamb Cut
A lamb cut has a shorter style on the body and leaves more fur on the legs. This cut is ideal for curly-haired dogs, and it will keep your dog comfortable in both warm and cold weather.
Kennel Cut
A kennel cut is one length all over your dog’s body. This cut is usually shorter, but you can opt for a longer length. The short-styled fur of a kennel cut is a good choice for busy dog owners, as it requires less grooming time.
This cut will look different on any dog, but it’s a great low-maintenance option for most dogs.
Topknot Cut
A topknot cut creates a furry poof on the top of your dog’s head. The edges should be kept clean and round for a style fit for a show poodle.
Lion Cut
If you’re looking for haircuts for dogs with long hair, the lion cut is a popular choice. It’s often seen on smaller dogs, but it can also work on big dogs like Chow Chows.
In this style, the hair around the jaw and head is kept longer, while the body fur is shaved closer to the skin. Your dog’s tail will have a little hair on the tip and the rest will be clipped short.
This trim is high-maintenance and requires grooming once a week.
Summer Cut
A summer cut removes the bulk of your dog’s heavy coat but leaves the tail and the ears long. You can combine a different head style with this cut, like a lion cut or a teddy bear cut.
Make Dog Grooming Fun With CleanTools
Even if your dog isn’t a fan of grooming, the right hairstyle can leave them feeling fresh and looking their best. But before your dog can step out of the groomer looking neat and clean, they’re going to need a good bath. The Dog Lover’s Towel can speed up this process for dog owners and groomers alike. Now that you’re equipped with the knowledge of the best dog grooming cuts and the tools you need to make your dog’s beauty routine easy-peasy, go ahead and get your dog ready for a walk out on the town.Shop Our Collection of Products
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Senior Dog Grooming: 4 Things to Keep in Mind
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Grooming is just as important for senior dogs as it is for younger dogs and puppies. You may worry about hurting or stressing out your older dog, but issues caused by a lack of grooming can result in more pain and stress for them. Matted hair and skin infections, which senior dogs are more prone to, can be kept at bay with regular grooming.
Grooming includes bathing, hair brushing, hair cutting, nail trimming, eye and ear cleaning, and teeth brushing. Senior dogs need all these elements of grooming to stay clean, comfortable, and healthy.
Here are some tips for grooming senior dogs :
Be Gentle
Grooming senior dogs is safe, but you need to be gentle. Older dogs are more likely to have physical and mental health conditions, so they are more delicate. You want to avoid injuring or upsetting them.
During grooming, make sure your senior dog has something with a grip to stand on so they don’t slide around. Slipping and sliding can aggravate an older dog’s arthritis or joint issues.
You should also opt for soft brushes and gentle grooming tools that won’t pull on your dog’s fur or skin. Older dogs have thinner skin and are more likely to have skin growths that can be cut or hurt by sharp brushes and combs.
It is best to do most senior dog grooming by hand. Shavers and hair dryers can upset older dogs. Even dogs that are accustomed to these devices can become afraid of them as they age. Dogs who develop dementia or sight or hearing loss can become anxious or more easily spooked.
Make It Quick
Senior dogs tire more easily, both physically and mentally. They may not have good balance and cannot stand up for a long grooming session.
You should keep grooming sessions short, and dogs with health conditions do better with shorter, more frequent groomings. Doing two to three short grooming sessions per month is better than having one long one.
Take Their Health Into Consideration
As previously mentioned, senior dogs are likely to have more physical and mental conditions than they used to have. Some common conditions are arthritis, joint issues, skin conditions, vision loss, hearing loss, dementia, and related anxiety.
You need to take into account your dog’s health conditions during grooming. For example, if your dog has urinary issues, you may need to schedule a potty break during the grooming session. If your dog has joint issues, they may need to lie down during grooming.
Many older dogs need medicated shampoos for skin conditions. You also want to pay attention to your dog’s eyes and ears. Use warm water and a soft cloth to gently wipe away any gunk that has collected around your dog’s eyes. Make sure there is no discharge or odor coming from your dog’s ears, as these signs can indicate a viral or yeast infection.
Get an Experienced Groomer
You can do most of your dog’s grooming routine at home, which can help make senior dogs feel comfortable. But your dog can also benefit from professional grooming performed by an experienced groomer. Groomers who are experienced in dealing with elderly dogs and/or dogs with health conditions are the best choice for senior dogs.
Older dogs often get dirty more frequently than younger dogs since they can’t clean themselves as well as they used to. They may be incontinent or have difficulty eating and make a mess. To prevent infection and irritation, senior dogs need to be bathed regularly. They also need to be brushed and have their coats trimmed to avoid matting and overheating.
Additionally, older dogs need their nails trimmed more often. They don’t walk as much as they used to, and overgrown nails can exacerbate arthritis and joint problems. If you hear your dog’s nails clicking when they walk, they’re too long. If you see your dog sliding around on the floor, they may need their paw fur trimmed. This will improve traction and reduce pain.
A trained senior dog groomer can help you manage this routine. During the grooming process, groomers can detect abnormal coat-loss patterns, bumps, lumps, sores, warts, and other conditions that might require a vet visit.
Mobile grooming for senior dogs is a highly convenient option. Mobile groomers will pull up to your home and groom your dog in their van so your dog doesn’t have to travel.
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Grooming your senior dog is a huge part of keeping them happy and healthy. With the right tools and help, old dog grooming can be quick and easy. Dog groomers for older dogs can take your dog’s health into consideration to keep them comfortable during grooming and keep an eye on any skin conditions. You can do your part by bathing and brushing them regularly, especially since older dogs get dirty more easily. The process still needs to be quick and gentle, and if your dog is spooked by hair dryers, a soft, absorbent towel can speed up bath time. Gently dry your dog in no time and prevent shivers with The Dog Lover’s Towel .
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How to Trim Overgrown Dog Nails?
Trimming overgrown nails can be a stressful process for both you and your dog. Introducing your dog to nail trimming early in their life and doing it often can make it easier, but this isn’t always possible.
Here are some tips on how to trim dog nails that are overgrown and make nail trimming a simple routine for both of you.
How Often Should You Trim Your Dog’s Nails?
If you keep your dog’s nails trimmed, you won’t have to cut overgrown dog nails as often as you would cut your nails. Additionally, regular walks on pavement are a great way to keep your dog’s nails short between trimmings.
Some dogs have nails that grow faster than other dogs’ nails, and very active dogs may not need their nails trimmed as often. For most dogs, you should trim their nails once a month or every other month.
How to Identify the Quick of a Dog’s Nail?
Dog nails contain a soft cuticle known as the “quick.” The quick contains blood vessels and nerves, which means it will cause pain, bleeding, and potentially an infection if you cut it.
Dogs can have light or dark nails or a combination of the two. If you’ve ever wondered why your dog has black nails, it’s simply because of genetics. Nails are made of keratin just like hair, so the color of your dog’s nails is usually the same as the color of their fur. So if your dog is black and white, they may have both black and white nails.
It’s easy to identify the quick in dogs with lighter nails, as you will see the pink part in the center of the nail. For dogs with darker nails, start by looking at the bottom of the nail as you trim. You may see a small oval in the center of the nail bed, and the oval will be larger the closer you get to the quick until it’s nearly as wide as the nail itself. Immediately stop trimming once you get to this point.
Problems With Overgrown Nails
- Ingrowns
Overgrown nails in a dog will eventually sag, causing pain. As is the case with humans, extremely overgrown dog nails can become ingrown nails that cause pain and infection. Overgrown nails are also more likely to fracture which can be another cause of pain and infection.
- Discomfort & Mobility Issues
A dog with overgrown nails can get caught on carpets, couches, and bedding, which can cause annoyance for you and stress for your dog. The constant clicking and pressing of your dog’s nails on the floor can also cause irritation and difficulty walking.
- Tips for Trimming Your Dog’s Nails
Both puppies and dogs are usually not fans of nail trimming. The only way dogs will enjoy or tolerate nail trimming is if you make the experience a positive one, especially when they are young.
If you neglect nail trimming and only do it when your dog’s nails are already overgrown, it will become a painful and stressful experience for your dog.
Here are some tips to make trimming your dog’s nails easier:
Choose the Right Trimming Materials
Dog nails are much different than human nails, so you should never use a nail clipper for humans on your dog. A dog’s nails are thicker and have a cylindrical shape, so they require special nail clippers designed for dogs. There are guillotine clippers, scissor-like clippers for dogs with short nails, and plier-style clippers. Guillotine clippers are best for small to medium dogs, while plier-style clippers work for most dogs and are preferred by vets and groomers for their ease of use and the fact that they stay sharp for a long time. Scissor-like clippers are often used to trim the dew claw, the claw that grows higher up on your dog’s paw.
Make Your Dog’s Pedicures a Habit
As soon as you bring your dog home, try to create positive experiences with having their paws touched and introduce them to nail trimming as soon as possible. A dog that is comfortable having their paws touched is more likely to be comfortable having their nails trimmed. You can also play with your dog's paws first so they associate nail trimming with play.
If your dog responds well to nail trimming, give them a treat to create a positive habit and make nail trimming easier in the future.
Tire Out Your Dog Before Nail Trimming
Play with your dog or take them for a walk to tire them out before you trim their nails. This way, they’re less likely to get agitated or restless during nail trimming.
How to Cut Your Dog’s Nails?
Go through the step-by-step guide below to learn how to fix overgrown dog nails in a way that will keep him calm and content.
Step-1: Position Your Dog
Position your dog so that they won’t bite you or suddenly twist while you’re trimming their nails. If you have a large dog or a dog that doesn’t like having their nails cut, you might want someone to help you by petting or talking to your dog to calm it.
A technique that is great for large or unruly dogs is to have them lay on their side, drape your arms and upper body over them, and rest your forearm over their neck to keep them from lifting their head while you’re trimming their nails.
Step-2: Place the Clippers at a 45-degree angle
When you’re about to cut your dog’s nail, don’t cut straight up and down, as this makes you more likely to hit the quick. Position the clippers at a 45-degree angle to cut the edge first.
Step-3: Carefully Trim the Nails
Cut your dog’s nails until you see the thin pink fiber of the quick. Take special care not to cut the quick, which can cause bleeding and pain for your dog. The quick is easier to see on dogs with lighter nails. For dogs with darker nails, cut little by little until you see the quick.
If you do accidentally cut too much and see blood, apply styptic powder to the bleeding nail.
Don’t rush the process of trimming your dog’s nails. You need to be careful, and rushing can make your dog scared or upset. Also, a dog’s paws are sensitive, so don’t apply too much pressure when holding their paws to cut their nails. For every nail that you clip successfully and your dog behaves well, give them a treat to create a positive association with nail trimming.
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Now that you know how to make nail trimming a stress-free or even pleasant experience for you and your dog, you can confidently add it to your dog’s health and beauty routine. Bathing, grooming, and nail trimming are all important in keeping your dog happy and healthy, and you can give your dog a spa-level experience with the Dog Lover’s Towel. Instead of shivering after a bath, your dog will be comfortable and dry in a flash. While they’re relaxed, you can trim their nails, and then it’s back to playing.Get The Right Cleaning Tools!
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6 Common Dog Grooming Mistakes You Should Avoid
Grooming your pet can seem relatively straightforward, but there are still considerations you should make to care for your dog’s specific needs. Like people, dogs have different skin, hair, and health conditions.
Additionally, if you’re a pet lover, you’ve probably seen some kind of stories of “dog grooming gone wrong” on social media. Dogs shaved down to their skin, uneven, lopsided haircuts, or worse. Your vet or a professional groomer is the best person to ask for advice when it comes to grooming, but here are some things to avoid at home to make grooming an easier process for both you and your dog.
1) Not Clipping Your Dog’s Nails
Your dog's nails should be clipped carefully and regularly, about every three to four weeks. Another way to tell if your dog’s nails need to be clipped is by holding your dog’s paw flat on the palm of your hand. If the nails touch your hand, they might be on the long side. Also, they might need a clipping if you can hear them clicking on hard surfaces as your dog walks.
You should use sharp clippers and replace them as needed. Dull clippers crush the nail instead of cutting it, which can hurt your dog. You also need to learn how to find the quick of your dog’s nails. For dogs with light nails, you’ll see the pink through the nail, but if your dog has dark nails, you have to be extra careful to make sure you don’t clip it. Cutting the quick of the nail will cause your dog to bleed and can cause pain and infections.
2) Not Brushing Your Dog’s Coat Before & After Bathtime
This is especially important if you have a long-haired dog—brush your dog’s coat before you give them a bath. Water makes mats worse and tangles and sets knots. So brush your dog to get rid of dead hair that is tangled in their coat before getting them wet.
More dead hair will fall out after the bathing process. You should brush your dog again to get rid of the hair and avoid tangles.
If you’re wondering how to groom a short-haired dog, you should follow the same steps—the process will just be quicker.
3) Trimming Your Dog in the Summer
Although you might think trimming your dog’s hair in the summer will help keep them cool, it doesn’t actually work like that. A dog’s coat helps them regulate their body temperature, keeping them cool in the summer and warm in the winter. If you shave them or trim them down too close to the skin, it puts them at risk of sunburn and heatstroke. If your dog swims or runs in sand or dirt a lot in the warmer months, it’s okay to keep their hair short but not shaved down, because it still needs to protect them from the sun and the elements.
If your dog’s face frequently gets dirty, you may be tempted to remove as much hair from the area as possible. But, since we now know that a dog’s coat protects them, shaving your dog’s head isn’t a good idea. Similarly, if your dog’s ears get dirty easily, you should probably leave trimming your dog’s ear hair to a professional groomer.
4) Washing Your Dog’s Inner Ears
You should take care not to get water or soap in your dog’s ears. If water gets in the inner ear canal, it can create the perfect breeding ground for bacteria to grow and lead to ear infections. Placing cotton balls in the ears before bath time is an easy way to keep water out.
If your dog has long ears and/or is prone to ear infections, consult your vet for a safe ear-cleaning solution for dogs and how often you should clean them.
5) Bathing Too Often
A dog’s coat and skin contain natural oils and proteins that protect them. Washing too often can remove these natural oils and cause skin irritation and dryness. If your dog has sensitive skin or a medical condition, follow the washing schedule given by your vet.
6) Letting Your Dog Run Free After a Bath
Dogs often get the zoomies after a bath, so you should keep them somewhere they can’t get dirty. If your dog has access to go outside, you should block it until they are as dry as possible, because all kinds of dirt and debris from outside will stick to their paws and coat
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What Shampoo Should I Use For My Pets?
If your dog has just come inside after rolling in the mud, you’ll probably want to give him a bath before he runs all over your carpets and couches. But what shampoo should you use to wash him? There are a lot of options out there, and it can be overwhelming to decide what shampoo is right for your pet. There are a few things you should take into consideration: the breed of your pet, the texture and density of their fur, their specific skin needs, and what ingredients are safe for pets.
Why Do I Need to Shampoo My Pet?
Dogs are notorious for getting into messes and needing to be washed, but other pets may need baths sometimes too. Cats usually don’t because they clean themselves, but if your kitten falls into her food dish, she’ll probably need a bath. However, the needs of dogs and cats are different, and shampoo formulated for dogs is not ideal for cats and may even be toxic to them.
Since dogs don’t groom themselves, they need regular cleaning to remove dead hair and skin cells, reduce shedding, and keep their skin and hair free from dirt and allergens that can cause itching and infections. Since you want to make baths a pleasant experience for your dog, you should select a non-irritating shampoo and only bathe him as often as necessary.
Single-coated dogs like Greyhounds, Dalmatians, and Boxers may not require baths as frequently as other breeds, about every one to three months.
Double-coated dogs like Golden Retrievers, Border Collies, and German Shepherds, have a shorter undercoat and a dense, longer outer coat. They need a shampoo that penetrates to the undercoat and skin, and they should be bathed about every four to six weeks.
3 Tips for Choosing Dog Shampoo
1. Pay Attention to pH Level
Everyone’s skin has a pH level that must be balanced to avoid over-drying and irritation. The lower the pH, the more acidic a substance is, and the higher the pH, the more alkaline the substance is. Humans have an average skin pH of 5.5-6.5, while dogs have a skin pH between 6.2 and 7.4.
This is why you shouldn’t use human shampoo on dogs. A shampoo with the wrong pH level can disrupt your dog’s acid mantel, which strips natural oils from their skin and leaves it dry, itchy, and flaky. Dogs also have thinner skin than humans, so using a human shampoo that is too acidic for them can cause irritation, itching, sores, and potentially dermatitis and fungal infections. You should use PH-balanced dog shampoo for your pooch.
2. Consider Coat Density
The right shampoo for your dog’s coat will clean their skin and fur properly and make rinsing easier. A quality drying towel like The Dog Lover’s Towel will make drying easier, especially if your dog likes to shake vigorously and gets the zoomies when his fur is wet.
There are three main coat types:
- Low-Density
- Fine or thin
- Single, with no inner layer
- Easy to see the skin through the coat
- No thick undercoat or double coat
- Medium Density
- A “normal” or medium coat
- Need to move the coat slightly to see the skin
- May be some undercoat or double coat
- High-Density
- Dense coats
- Difficult to see the skin through the coat
- Noticeable undercoat or double coat
If you’re looking for the best shampoo for golden retrievers, for example, you should select a shampoo for dogs with double coats. If your dog has silky, fine hair that gets knotty, you may want to opt for shampoo for furry dogs with detangling properties. Special shampoo for white dogs can help keep their fur from turning yellow.
3. Look for Natural Ingredients
While you’re looking for a pH-balanced dog shampoo, you’ll want to consider the ingredients in the shampoo as well.
Many people are beginning to avoid ingredients that can irritate or have harmful effects in their personal care products, and you should do the same for your dog’s bath products.
The main ingredients you should steer clear of include parabens, sulfates, dyes, artificial fragrances, and strong soaps that can strip natural oils and cause irritation.
You should try to find shampoos with mostly plant-based or natural ingredients. For example, oatmeal and jojoba oil are good for dogs with dry skin. Hypoallergenic shampoos are also a good option.