How to Groom Short Haired Dogs

Keeping your dog clean is important for your home and family. Dogs who are free of dirt and parasites make for a more pleasant experience and will keep your home safe from outside critters that may invade your pet. Grooming your short haired dog can be easy if you know how. You can groom him just like a professional, if you have the right equipment. The following steps will show you how to groom like the pros.

Things You'll Need

  • Soft bristled brush
  • Steel comb
  • Ear wash
  • Cotton balls
  • Nail trimmer
  • Styptic powder
  • Dog shampoo
  • Sturdy table top
  • Wash tub
  • Water source
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place your dog on a sturdy table top and starting with the ears, check for any foul smelling odors. This could be a sign of an infection or ear mites. If you suspect either, medication from the vet may be needed.

    • 2

      With the cotton and ear wash, clean the outer ear. Next, clean just the very upper part of the inner ear, intermittently changing to a clean cotton ball as you clean. Be very careful not to penetrate the ear too far down or you may damage the ear drum.

    • 3

      Starting with the head, comb your dog. This is also a good time to check for fleas, ticks, or other parasites that may be living in the fur and skin. If any of these are present, you will need to use a shampoo especially made to kill these creepy crawlers. Also check for dry skin or flaking, in which case a medicated shampoo is in order.

    • 4

      Follow the combing with your brush. The brush should be a soft bristled brush, or you can use the rubber mitt type, which works just as well to brush your dogs short hair. Pay close attention to your dog's feet and tail. Things usually get caught in the fur in these areas during their outside time.

    • 5

      Washing your dog should always be saved for after the brushing, since this is when dead hair and debris are removed. Be sure to rinse all shampoo from your dog's fur. Any leftover soap reside can cause irritation to the skin afterwards. Remove any excess water with an absorbent towel.

    • 6

      Finally, after your dog is sleek and shiny from his bath you can move onto the finishing touch. It is important to keep the nails an essential part of the grooming regiment. While cutting, pay close attention to the vein in the nail, being sure not to cut too closely. Have a styptic powder on hand in case of emergency. When the trimming is done, you can spray your dog with a little bit of doggie cologne. He will look and smell great. Just like he just came home from the groomer.