Grooming Senior Dogs: How It Can Help Them Prevent Disease

All dogs need to be groomed no matter how old they are, yet some dog owners are so worried about causing pain to their pets that they stop grooming them. Of the 78 million dogs in the United States, one-third of them are senior dogs. 

Older dogs are less active than their younger counterparts, making them less likely to dirty themselves. However, they may suffer from arthritis, pains, and aches that they didn't have in their puppyhood. Nevertheless, we still love them. One of the common concerns of dog owners is should their older dogs be groomed? 

Dog grooming is necessary to prevent and discover conditions they may have. It allows owners to easily and quickly address the physical well-being of the animal. Older dogs may also experience dry skin and skin conditions, and grooming can reveal these. 

Basically, grooming helps get rid of itchy areas they can't reach. A bath keeps them fresh and clean. It also serves as a bonding time between the owner and the dog. Here are some ways to groom older dogs. 

Pick a soft hairbrush and toothbrush

Grooming should be short to avoid tiring out a senior dog. Their joints tend to be stiffer, and they may ache from a long grooming session. Try to schedule multiple short grooming sessions instead of long ones. Always check them out, too, for pains or aches during grooming.

Try to incorporate brushing time with feeding time using a softer brush. Avoid using damaged, bent, or hard brushes. These can damage the coat, and since dogs’ skin loses elasticity as they age, it must be done slowly and delicately. 

Try brushing their hair as they lay on their side. Standing up can lead them to joint paint, so it's best to have them lay on their side and switch when they get uncomfortable. Brushing a dog's hair removes tangles and helps them insulate their body more easily. 

As for a dog's teeth, they must be regularly brushed to avoid gingivitis or cracked teeth. Kidney disease may occur due to the bacteria secreted from not brushing teeth. Keep your dog's teeth and fur clean at all times to prolong their lifespan.  

Regularly trim your dog's nails

A dog's nails can affect its posture, so they need to be regularly trimmed. A healthy nail length is extremely important for dogs with arthritis and joint problems. They can develop spine problems if their nails are not trimmed, which can make it difficult for them to move. 

Once you hear your dog's nails click on the ground, they need to be trimmed immediately. If they also slide on the floor, check if they have fur between their toes or paws. Trimming their nails and fur can help them move better and more stably. 

Conduct wellness checks

Have your dog's eyes checked. Make sure they are working properly by regularly going to the vet for wellness checks. If they have any buildup of gunk in the corner of their eyes, don't pick them out using your finger. Use a clean washcloth soaked with warm water and remove the gunk. 

Final Thoughts

Older dogs must be groomed at all times like younger dogs. Unlike younger dogs, however, they may experience aches and pains, which makes it challenging to groom them, but it shouldn't stop you from giving them the proper care they need. Be gentle with your dog, or hire a professional to clean them. 

Here at Earthwise Pet Supply & Grooming Bentonville, we can help clean and groom your pet in the gentlest way. We are the best dog groomer in town because we use soft brushes and tools to avoid any discomfort. Call us today to give your senior dog the care they deserve!