Newfoundland dogs are known for their large size, gentle temperament, and impressive water skills. They are loyal, loving, and devoted companions that can make great family pets. However, owning a Newfoundland also comes with some challenges, especially when it comes to grooming. Newfoundland dogs have thick, double coats that require regular care and attention to keep them healthy and comfortable. In this blog post, we will discuss why grooming is important for Newfoundlands, what are the main grooming tasks you need to perform, and how to make grooming a positive and enjoyable experience for both you and your dog.
Why is grooming important for Newfoundlands?
Grooming is not only about making your dog look good, but also about keeping them healthy and happy. Here are some of the benefits of grooming your Newfoundland regularly:
Prevents matting and tangling: Newfoundland dogs have long, coarse outer coats and soft, dense undercoats that can easily get matted and tangled if not brushed regularly. Mats and tangles can cause skin irritation, pain, and infection, as well as reduce air circulation and trap dirt and moisture. Brushing your dog at least once a week can help prevent these problems and keep their coat smooth and shiny.
Reduces shedding: Newfoundland dogs shed heavily twice a year, in spring and fall, when they blow their undercoats. During this time, you may need to brush your dog daily to remove the loose hair and prevent it from accumulating on your furniture, clothes, and floors. Brushing can also help distribute the natural oils in your dog’s skin and coat, which can improve their appearance and health.
Keeps them clean and odor-free: Newfoundland dogs love water and often get dirty from playing outdoors. Bathing your dog once a month or as needed can help remove the dirt, debris, and bacteria from their coat and skin, as well as eliminate any unpleasant odors. Bathing can also help soothe any skin conditions or allergies your dog may have.
Checks for health issues: Grooming your dog regularly can also help you detect any signs of health problems, such as lumps, bumps, cuts, infections, parasites, or injuries. By inspecting your dog’s coat, skin, ears, eyes, teeth, nails, and paws, you can catch any issues early and seek veterinary attention if needed.
What are the main grooming tasks for Newfoundlands?
To groom your Newfoundland properly, you will need to perform the following tasks:
Brushing: You will need a pin brush, a wide-toothed comb, a dog rake, and a slicker brush to brush your dog’s coat thoroughly. Start from the head and work your way down to the tail and legs. Use gentle strokes in the direction of hair growth and pay attention to the areas behind the ears, around the tail, and around the thighs where mats and tangles are more likely to form. Use a grooming spray to soften the coat and make brushing easier.
Bathing: You will need a mild dog shampoo, a conditioner (optional), a large tub or hose, plenty of towels, and a dog dryer to bathe your dog. Wet your dog’s coat thoroughly with warm water and apply the shampoo. Massage it into the coat and rinse well. Repeat if necessary. Apply the conditioner if you want to add extra moisture and shine to the coat. Rinse well again. Dry your dog with towels and then use a dog dryer to blow-dry the coat completely. Do not use a human hair dryer as it can be too hot for your dog’s skin.
Trimming: You will need scissors or clippers to trim your dog’s coat as needed. You may want to trim around the eyes, ears, mouth, feet, tail, and genitals to keep them clean and neat. You may also want to trim the excess hair on the chest, belly, legs, and backside to reduce shedding and matting. However, do not shave your dog’s coat completely as it can damage their natural insulation and protection from the elements.
Ear cleaning: You will need cotton balls or pads, an ear cleaner solution (preferably alcohol-free), and tweezers to clean your dog’s ears. Gently wipe the outer ear flap with a damp cotton ball or pad. Do not insert anything into the ear canal as it can cause damage or infection. Apply some ear cleaner solution on another cotton ball or pad and gently wipe the inner ear flap. Remove any excess hair from the ear canal with tweezers if necessary.
Nail trimming: You will need nail clippers or a grinder to trim your dog’s nails regularly. Check your dog’s nails every week and trim them if they are too long or sharp. Be careful not to cut too close to the quick (the pink part of the nail) as it can cause bleeding and pain. If you are unsure how to trim your dog’s nails safely, you can ask a professional groomer or vet for advice.
How to make grooming a positive and enjoyable experience for Newfoundlands?
Grooming your Newfoundland can be a challenging task, especially if your dog is not used to it or does not like it. Here are some tips to make grooming a positive and enjoyable experience for both you and your dog:
Start early: The best time to start grooming your dog is when they are a puppy. This way, they can get used to the grooming tools, the process, and the sensations. Make grooming sessions short, gentle, and fun. Praise and reward your dog with treats and toys for being calm and cooperative.
Be patient: Do not force your dog to do something they do not want to do. If your dog is nervous, scared, or aggressive, stop the grooming session and try again later. Do not yell at or punish your dog for being uncooperative. Instead, use positive reinforcement and encouragement to build trust and confidence.
Use a grooming table: A grooming table can make grooming your Newfoundland much easier and safer. It can help you reach all the parts of your dog’s body without bending or kneeling. It can also help you restrain your dog if they are restless or try to escape. Make sure the table is sturdy, stable, and comfortable for your dog.
Choose a suitable place: Choose a place where you can groom your dog without distractions or interruptions. Make sure the place is well-lit, well-ventilated, and spacious enough for you and your dog. You may want to groom your dog outdoors if the weather is nice and if your dog enjoys being outside.
Have fun: Grooming your Newfoundland does not have to be a chore or a burden. It can be a great opportunity to bond with your dog and show them how much you love and care for them. Talk to your dog, pet them, play with them, and make them feel relaxed and happy. Grooming can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience for both you and your dog if you do it right.
Conclusion
Newfoundland dogs are wonderful pets that deserve proper care and attention. Grooming is an essential part of their care that can benefit their health, comfort, and appearance. By following the tips in this blog post, you can groom your Newfoundland like a professional and make them look and feel their best. Remember to groom your dog regularly, have the right tools, be patient and gentle, and have fun with your furry friend. Your Newfoundland will thank you for it! This blog was put together from information I found on the internet and I believe it covers the important aspects of grooming the Newfoundland.