Grooming Tips For Senior Dogs
As our canine companions enter their golden years, their grooming needs often change. Senior dogs may have more sensitive skin, decreased mobility, or other health issues that require special attention during grooming sessions.
Here are some tips to help you keep your senior dog comfortable and well-groomed:
Gently brush their coat regularly to remove loose fur and prevent mats. Senior dogs may not be able to groom themselves as effectively as they once did.
If needed, use a soft brush to avoid irritating sensitive skin.
Pay close attention to areas prone to matting, such as the areas behind the ears, under the legs, and around the tail. Make sure to focus on these areas when brushing at home.
Trim their nails carefully, as overgrown nails can cause discomfort or difficulty walking. If you are unsure or uncomfortable about trimming nails, consult a professional groomer or veterinarian.
Check their ears regularly for signs of infection or buildup. Clean gently with a vet-approved ear cleaning solution if necessary.
Bathe them only when needed, as frequent baths can dry out their skin. Use a mild, moisturizing shampoo formulated for dogs with aging or sensitive skin.
Be mindful of their comfort levels during grooming sessions. Ask your groomer to take breaks if your dog seems tired or stressed.
If your dog has trouble standing for long periods of time, make sure your groomer has a plan for helping to support your dog physically during the grooming session, such as by using a support strap harness.
Provide non-slip surfaces to prevent falls during bathing and grooming.
If you’re getting your larger dog professionally groomed, check that the groomer has a table that lowers down for your senior dog to get onto the grooming table without having to strain themselves.
Consider professional grooming services if your senior dog has complex grooming needs or is difficult to handle.
Check for any lumps, bumps, or skin abnormalities while grooming at home, and consult a veterinarian if you notice anything unusual. Your professional groomer should also be checking for these during grooming.
Be patient and gentle, and make grooming a positive experience with treats, praise and lots of love!
Senior dogs indeed deserve ample care and attention, as they enter a stage of life that requires special considerations to ensure their comfort and well-being. We hope that these tips will help to upgrade your pup’s at home and professional grooming experience. Make sure to share any tried and true senior dog grooming tips below!