Dog Grooming Secret Revealed

Have you ever bathed your short-haired dog, only to find that they start to smell like a dog again just days later? This is a common frustration among dog owners, but luckily, there’s a reason why this happens, and you can prevent it!

The Secret Behind Grooming Success: CONDITIONERS

When you take your dog to a professional groomer, it often comes back smelling wonderful and staying clean for longer periods. While it might seem like magic, it actually comes down to the groomer’s expertise and their use of professional products.

However, there’s a secret that many dog owners overlook: the importance of conditioners.

Understanding Your Dog’s Skin & Hair

Most people are familiar with the concept of using conditioner for long hair, but the real secret lies in its use for the skin. Hair is merely a byproduct of the skin, and to maintain a healthy and odor-free coat, the conditioner needs to be massaged into the skin, not just the hair’s ends. Surprisingly, short-haired dogs need more conditioner than their long-haired counterparts!

“Crazy, I know, but true,” says Jennie Smith, Nationally Certified Master Groomer and owner of Dogs Own Grooming. “Let me explain. All animals produce oils in their skin, just like humans do. This oil acts as a barrier and protects the dogs. When you use a conditioner, you put back some of these lost oils during the cleaning process,” mentions Jennie.

Why Short-Haired Dogs Need More Conditioner

Smooth-coated dogs, such as Pugs, Pitbulls, and Labradors, lack the long hair that provides additional protection against the elements. They rely heavily on the oils in their skin for this protection. When you wash these dogs and fail to use conditioner, their skin is left vulnerable, prompting the sebaceous glands to produce more oil rapidly.

“Smooth-coated dogs do not have the length of hair to protect them from the elements, heat, cold, bugs, etc. They only really have the oils in their skin. So when you wash your pug, Pittie, or lab at home, make sure to add conditioner to your routine,” Smith advises. “You will notice your dog will not smell like a dog for longer, and their skin and coat will become healthier and reduce shedding.”

Expert Tips for Home Grooming

If you don’t want to go to the groomer every time, that’s fine! Just be sure you utilize these tips to ensure you don’t make your dog more stinky by washing them incorrectly:

Use a Quality Conditioner: Invest in a high-quality dog conditioner specifically designed for your dog’s coat type.
Massage the Conditioner: When applying conditioner, make sure to massage it into your dog’s skin thoroughly. Don’t just focus on the hair.
Rinse Thoroughly: Make sure to rinse out all the conditioner. Leaving any residue can irritate the skin and attract dirt.
Regular Grooming Through Brushing: Regular brushing helps distribute natural oils throughout your dog’s coat and can help keep them cleaner between baths.
Monitor Skin Health: Keep an eye on your dog’s skin for any signs of irritation or dryness, and consult your vet if you notice any issues.

By following these tips, you will help ensure your short-haired dog stays fresh and clean longer after grooming, its skin stays healthy, and it continues to protect itself.”

Information is courtesy of: dogsowngrooming.com