Basic Grooming Tips for German Shepherd Dogs
- Monday, June 8, 2009, 0:35
- Health Care, Pets Care
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A well groomed German shepherd dog is happy and content. Grooming is extremely important for German Shepherds as it keeps them neat and clean and void of any skin problems. It is also a great way by means of which pet owners can bond with their GSD and earn his love and respect.
Even if you don’t bathe him quite often, it is essential for you to invest at least an hour on a daily basis in grooming your pet. German Shepherd Dogs have a double coat that has the tendency to shed all year. Grooming not only helps alleviate ticks and fleas but also keeps the coat shining, improves blood circulation and keeps your dog in good shape.
Grooming tips for your German shepherd Dog:
The coat of a GSD is dense, therefore you must use a metal rake to smoothen out the mats in his undercoat, particularly around the outer thighs, neck and chest as these areas are covered with maximum hair.
It’s a tough job to get a GSD to bathe. They don’t relish bathing that much but once you have managed to get him to have a bath, you must remember to use a good dog shampoo that is low on harsh chemicals and massage his coat thoroughly. Remember, that most of the skin oils are protected by his coat, thus you must try to get rid of the outer layers of dirt.
Once having bathed your GSD, you need to use a hair dryer for getting rid of excess water. While brushing your dog make sure that you stroke in the direction of hair growth. For a fluffier looking coat, you must first brush in the opposite direction and then in the direction of hair growth. You must brush your German Shepherded at least twice a week to ensure that all the oils are well distributed throughout his coat and all the dead skin cells are discarded.
Make sure that your GSD’s toenails are clipped or you can use a clipper to do the nail job. This prevents any broken, cracked or split nails that tend to become unruly and may cause injury. Next you must ensure that his ears are in good health.
Use a good ear lotion for scooping out any wax and unwanted residue and clean them thoroughly. If you find your GSD scratching or shaking his ears, you must check them instantly. In case of any discharge, foul odor, swelling or redness, you must take him to the vet.
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