Tools to Groom a Boxer

Boxers have a short coat and require low-maintenance grooming. As a result, relatively few tools are necessary to keep a boxer̵7;s skin and coat soft and shiny; however, the tools should be in good condition to obtain the best results. Along with brushing, boxers require nail care and other types of grooming. Keeping a few quality grooming tools is more efficient than having an arsenal of weapons that are useless or ineffective.

  1. Brushes and Combs

    • Daily grooming spreads natural oils throughout the coat and disperses across the top layer of the skin. Soft slicker brushes clean skin, hair and hair follicles of boxers, and a flea comb can be used once a week to rid the skin and coat from pest and pest eggs. Rubber shedding gloves are useful with short-hair breeds to catch dead hair and massage the skin and muscles.

    Shampoos and Conditioners

    • Skin-hydrating shampoos and conditioners prevent and treat coat problems such as dry flaky skin, hot spots and shedding due to dryness. Boxers have short coats that leave skin prone to dryness. Bathe boxers not more than once a month and no less than three times a year unless the skin and coat become soiled. Moist towels can be used between baths to remove dust and pollen from the coat.

    Eyes and Ears

    • Cotton balls are used to clean eyes and ears. Mild pet-safe ear cleaners freshen up soiled ears and prevent bacteria from growing. Pet-safe eye cleansers remove dust and pollen that can create redness around the eyes and tearing. Place cotton balls inside the boxer̵7;s ears to prevent water and moisture build-up during bathing.

    Teeth and Nails

    • Good dental care is important so that dogs can consume proper amounts of nutrition. Dental chews or dental-cleaning solutions reduce plaque and gum disease. However, additional dental care in the form of pet-safe toothpaste prevents bacteria from causing heart disorders. Good nail care helps reduce pain associated with crooked nails causing improper gait. Check nails weekly and trim when necessary using pet-safe guillotine nail clippers. Nail files can smooth rough nails and closes off splinter nails.

    Considerations

    • Keep a soft slicker brush near your dog̵7;s play area to clean follicles in between extended grooming sessions. Offer constant praise and food treats to encourage your boxer to enjoy the grooming process. Checks paws daily, and use this as an opportunity to get your boxer used to having his paws handled to make future nail care sessions less stressful.