Doggy Styling’s complete guide to dog grooming

Dogs are not just our pets; they are often considered as part of the family. As responsible pet owners, it is our duty to ensure that our pups are not only happy and healthy but also well-groomed. Grooming is an essential aspect of dog care, as it contributes significantly to their overall health and well-being.

In this article, we will explore why regular grooming is necessary for your dog's health and overall wellbeing, how long a groom typically lasts, and when to book your dog’s grooming appointments. We’ll also look at pre-groom care and preparation, the grooming process, and the tools that Doggy Styling use, post-groom care, and what to do if your dog acts strangely after grooming.

So if you’re looking for dog grooming in Surrey, read on to find out what you need to know before you go.

 

Why getting a groom is necessary for your dog's health

Grooming isn’t just about making sure your dog looks good. It’s also important for your dog's health. Here are some compelling reasons why regular grooming is necessary for good health and wellbeing.

Matting can affect all dogs, especially those with long or thick coats which puts them at risk of more frequent matting. Even mild matting can be painful, but in severe cases, matting can cut off circulation to your dog's skin and cause issues such as hematomas. Regular brushing, with the right brush, can prevent matting, keeping your dog comfortable.

Getting your dog groomed will help with the distribution of natural oils throughout your dog's coat, ensuring it remains healthy and shiny. Additionally, it allows early detection of skin issues, such as rashes or infections.

Grooming helps in identifying and removing ticks, fleas, and other parasites. This is vital for your dog's comfort and can prevent more serious health issues.

Overgrown nails can cause pain and discomfort while walking. Regular grooming includes nail trimming, ensuring your dog's paws are in good condition. Some grooming routines may include teeth cleaning, promoting dental health in your dog. At Doggy Styling, we offer nail clipping and teeth cleaning as optional add-ons as part of our dog grooming service.

As part of a grooming experience, trained groomers will also check and clean your dog's ears and eyes. This can help prevent infections and promote good hygiene.

Some grooming routines may include teeth cleaning, promoting dental health in your dog. At Doggy Styling, we offer dog grooming in Surrey which includes a full service for your pooch.

 

How long does a groom last?

The duration of a grooming session depends on several factors, including the breed, size, and condition of your dog. On average, a grooming session can take anywhere from one to three hours. The exact time taken for each dog will depend on which dog groomers in Surrey you choose. At Doggy Styling, we aim to not rush the process and ensure each dog is properly taken care of.

However, for dogs with specific needs, such as those with heavy matting or skin issues, it can take longer. Smaller dogs are generally quicker to groom than larger breeds. It's essential to discuss the expected duration with your groomer in advance to plan your day accordingly.

 

When should you book your dog grooming appointments?

The frequency of grooming appointments varies among dogs and their specific needs. Here are some general guidelines depending on the breed and dog’s needs.

If you have a long-haired breed, with longer fur, like a Poodle or Shih Tzu, then you should aim to visit the groomers every 4 to 6 weeks.

On the other hand, a short-haired breed such as a Dachshund or a Beagle with shorter fur may require grooming every 8 to 12 weeks.

Breeds like Huskies and Malamutes have double coats and may need grooming less frequently, typically every 12 to 16 weeks.

Older dogs may require more frequent grooming to help maintain their comfort and hygiene. Whereas dogs with specific skin or health issues may need more frequent grooming visits as prescribed by a veterinarian. If you’re unsure, speak with your vet and your dog groomers in Surrey about when next to book your appointment.

 

Pre-groom care and preparation

Before you take your dog to the grooming salon, there are some essential steps you should consider. Try to brush your dog before your visit, as regular brushing helps to remove tangles and matting. If your dog has thick fur, brushing before a grooming appointment can make the process smoother and more comfortable.

A bath before the grooming appointment helps the groomer work on clean fur, and it can save time during the session. Of course, if you are planning on asking your groomers to bathe your dog, there’s no need to do it beforehand.

One of the most important things is to tell your groomers what you want for your dog. Communicate with the groomer about your preferences for your dog's coat length and style.

 

How does it work, and what tools will be used?

The grooming process involves several steps and a variety of tools:

Groomers begin by giving your dog a warm bath using specialised dog shampoos. This not only cleans your dog but is also meant to help them relax, although we understand that not every dog will love the water!

After the bath, dogs are dried using a combination of towels and specialist dryers, which are designed to avoid overheating and discomfort.

Groomers will brush your dog's fur to remove any tangles or mats. This is especially important for dogs with long coats.

Then, based on your preferences and your dog's breed, the groomer will trim and cut the fur as needed. They use scissors, clippers, and other grooming tools to achieve the desired look. Why not read all about why and how we keep our scissors in top shape themselves? As dog groomers in Surrey, we use a local blade sharpener to keep our tools in perfect condition and to the standard we require.

We don’t forget the nails though. Overgrown nails can be uncomfortable for your dog, so groomers will trim them carefully to a safe length. Groomers will clean your dog's ears and eyes, removing dirt and debris, while some grooming sessions may include teeth cleaning to maintain your dog's oral health.

 

Home care post-groom

After the grooming session, it's essential to take care of your dog to ensure they remain comfortable and healthy. Over the following days, you can look out for signs of discomfort, or skin irritation, or any allergies that may show up. Although you have visited dog groomers in Surrey, you’ll still need to pay close attention to your pooch’s coat.

Continue to brush your dog regularly to prevent matting and maintain their coat's health and shine. Keep an eye on your dog's nails and trim them when needed to avoid discomfort and overgrowth. If teeth cleaning was included in the grooming session, continue to maintain your dog's oral hygiene. Look out for redness around the gums and the build-up of tartar on the teeth.

 

What to do if your dog acts weird after grooming

Sometimes, dogs may act differently after grooming. This can be due to the new experience, the grooming process, or the change in their appearance. Here's what you can do if your dog seems strange:

Give your dog time to adjust to their new appearance and the experience. They might feel a bit confused or vulnerable initially.

Spend quality time with your dog, offering love and reassurance. This can help them feel secure and confident.

Keep an eye on your dog for any signs of discomfort, skin irritations, or allergies. If you notice anything unusual, contact your groomer or a veterinarian.

If your dog is not used to grooming, gradually introduce them to the process to make future sessions more comfortable. We aim to ensure our dog grooming salons in Surrey are as cosy and as comfortable as possible.

 

Grooming is a crucial aspect of your dog's wellbeing. It contributes to their health, comfort, and happiness. Regular grooming not only keeps your dog looking and feeling their best but also helps prevent health issues that can arise from neglecting their grooming needs. By understanding the grooming process, booking appointments in a timely manner, and providing post-groom care, you can ensure that your furry friend remains a healthy and happy member of your family.

If you’re looking for dog grooming in Surrey, Doggy Styling offers the ultimate grooming and pampering experience for Surrey’s most stylish pooches. 

If you’d like to book your first, or your next, appointment with Doggy Styling visit us today at our Cobham dog grooming salon, our Weybridge dog grooming salon, or our Surbiton dog grooming salon.