Red Nose Pit Bulls Grooming Information

The American Pit Bull Terrier is sometimes known as a "wash-and-wear" dog because it has minimal grooming requirements. Despite this, you should still spend some time grooming your pit bull, as the process can help you bond with your dog and allow you to discover changes in its health. Grooming can prevent infections or can lead to early discovery of potential concerns, such as growths, lumps or sores. Note that "red nose" pit bulls are simply American Pit Bull Terriers with a red-colored nose, and their grooming requirements are no different than those of an average pit bull.

  1. Bathing

    • Bathe your pit bull as needed. The frequency of baths can depend on your pit bull's individual personality. If it is an exceptionally dirty dog that enjoys a roll in the mud or grass or picks up other outdoor smells, be prepared to wash it more often. Pit bulls that spend more time indoors or don't get as dirty outside can be bathed less often. Use a dog formula shampoo and conditioner to keep your pit bull's sensitive skin from drying out and becoming irritated. Use lukewarm to warm water, and remember to wash your pit bull's legs, paws, belly, tail, chest and neck. Rinse all shampoo thoroughly after washing to avoid skin irritation.

    Brushing

    • Pit bulls are moderate shedders so you will need to brush your pit bull regularly to remove excess fur. The short, wiry coat won't tangle, so a soft bristle brush is usually enough to brush a pit bull. Rakes or wire brushes meant for dogs with longer or thicker fur can scratch your pit bull's skin. Brush your pit bull at least once a week to remove dead or loose fur.

    Dental Care

    • Dental hygiene isn't just for humans. Your pit bull's teeth can grow plaque, which can spread harmful bacteria into the dog's system. These bacteria can cause health problems. Poor dental hygiene can also result in broken or rotting teeth, which can cause further illness and foul-smelling "dog breath." Brush your pit bull's teeth at least once a week with a dog toothbrush and toothpaste to remove plaque and keep the teeth clean and healthy. Don't use human toothpaste. It can be harmful to dogs. Providing bones and chews for your pit bull to gnaw on can also help it keep its teeth clean and healthy, as well as allowing it to strengthen and exercise its jaw.

    Nail Care

    • Long nails can curl under and make walking painful or difficult. In extreme cases, long nails may even dig into your pit bull's pads. Pit bulls that spend time walking outdoors can grind their nails down naturally and won't need to have them cut as frequently as a dog that stays indoors. Use nail trimmers meant for a medium or large breed of dog. Trim the nails just below the quick, which is a bundle of nerves that will bleed if it is cut. You can see the quick in dogs with white nails. It is a pink or dark spot inside the nail. Dogs with dark nails are trickier, but you can tell you are getting close to the quick when a circle pattern begins to appear in the nail clippings.