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How do I get my dog used to getting groomed? - Blue Oasis Pet Hospital

Starting early in your dog's life is always best, but if you adopt an older dog, you can still train them to accept grooming and nail trimming by keeping sessions short and using food rewards. Gradually introduce your dog to having their feet lifted, and consider having an assistant help during the process. Over time, this will build trust and make grooming easier.

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What is a sanitary haircut, and why would my dog need it? - Blue Oasis Pet Hospital

A sanitary haircut involves removing excess hair around a dog's bottom (anus) and, for female dogs, around the vulva. This helps keep these areas clean and prevents matting or soiling of the hair.

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How do I brush my dog’s teeth? - Blue Oasis Pet Hospital

Starting when your dog is young is the best approach. Choose a toothbrush designed for dogs or a small children's toothbrush, and use a pet toothpaste without fluoride, as it can be toxic if swallowed. Focus on brushing the outside surfaces of your dog's teeth and be prepared for some licking during the process, which is normal. Begin with short sessions and gradually increase the duration as your dog becomes more comfortable.

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How often should I brush my dog’s teeth? - Blue Oasis Pet Hospital

Ideally, you should brush your dog's teeth once or twice a day, just like you would with your own teeth. Dogs have teeth similar to ours and need regular care to maintain their oral health. Daily tooth brushing is the best way to achieve this.

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How do I get my dog used to being bathed? - Blue Oasis Pet Hospital

Start bathing your dog when they're young to help them become more accepting of baths as they grow. Use food rewards and keep sessions short in the beginning. Gradually, your dog will become more and more accepting of baths over time. If you have any questions about dog grooming or hygiene, contact your veterinarian or a local pet hospital.

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Are there any products that can help my dog with itching? - Blue Oasis Pet Hospital

Yes, there are various products on the market for itching. A good bath can reduce itching by removing allergens, bacteria, and yeast from your dog's skin. Medicated shampoos containing hydrocortisone can help reduce itchiness. There are also spray products with hydrocortisone available over the counter.

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What shampoo should I use to bathe my dog? - Blue Oasis Pet Hospital

Use general dog bathing shampoos and conditioners made specifically for dogs. Avoid using human shampoos or baby shampoos as they are not pH balanced for dogs. You can find a variety of good shampoos and conditioners at pet stores or online.

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What is the best way for me to safely bathe my dog at home? - Blue Oasis Pet Hospital

To bathe your dog at home, put a non-stick or non-skid surface in the bottom of your tub, such as a towel, to make your pet feel secure and prevent slipping. You can use cups of water or a walk-in shower for larger dogs. Some pet owners bathe their dogs in the shower with them. To keep your dog focused and rewarded during the bath, you can put some peanut butter or squeeze cheese along the wall of the shower or bathtub.

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How often should I bathe my dog? - Blue Oasis Pet Hospital

Bathing your dog depends on their lifestyle and how often they get dirty or stinky. Some dogs visit groomers every four to six weeks, while others with more outdoorsy lifestyles may need a bath once a week. Some dogs may only need baths two to four times a year, depending on how dirty they get and their lifestyle.

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Is medication a short or long-term solution for my dog’s behavior problem? - Blue Oasis Pet Hospital

Most of the time, if a veterinarian prescribes medication for a dog's behavior issue, it will be a lifelong medication. However, in some cases, it may be possible to wean your pet off their medication if you work closely with your veterinarian and implement significant behavioral modifications and environmental enrichment. This will vary on an individual case basis.

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