5 Ways You're Brushing Your Pet Wrong
Struggling with your pet's unmanageable coat? Can't seem to find the right brush to use? Here are the top 5 ways you may be brushing your pet wrong and how to overcome them!
- You're using the wrong brush
When brushing your pet you need to use a brush that's tailored to your pet's individual coat and skin type. Using a brush with too soft bristles won't detangle a thick coat, and using harsh bristles on a soft coat could do damage to the skin. If you're unsure which type of brush is best for your pet ask your pet groomer for advice!
- You're not brushing down to the skin
Brushing only the ends of your pet's coat isn't going to prevent it from getting matted as pet hair generally tangles from the skin outwards. Always make sure you're parting the coat and brushing from the roots outwards as this is the only way to ensure you're detangling the entirety of your pet's coat.
- You're not brushing all of your pet
Some pets are reactive to certain parts of their bodies being touched, and most of the time these are the places that are left unbrushed by owners. Due to inattention these places unfortunately become knotted and painful which in turn makes the pet more reactive to being touched or brushed here. It's a vicious circle and one that is difficult to break.
The best thing you can do if your pet starts to show signs of discomfort in certain areas (after making sure that the change in behaviour isn't due to a medical reason) is to gradually desensitise your pet to being handled and groomed in these areas through gentle encouragement and touch, positive reinforcement and patience. Ignoring the problem and hoping that it'll go away or leaving it to your pet groomer to resolve this behaviour is not a solution.
- You're not brushing your pet before and after it gets wet
If your pet's coat tangles and mats easily you need to make sure you're brushing him or her thoroughly after (and ideally before) any contact with water. This includes when you bath your pet yourself, when you go for a walk in the rain or even after playing in the kids' paddling pool. Like our own hair, your pet's hair will become knotty once wet and unless these knots are removed straight away they will only become tighter and more unmanageable.
Remember to be gentle, as wet hair is easily damaged, and ideally you should also dry your pet as best as possible either with a towel or a hairdryer to keep the coat in its best condition. I know it's a pain, but it's better to carry out this simple task regularly than for your pet to have its coat shaved because it resembles a sheep's fleece!
- You're not rewarding good behaviour
Some pets love being groomed and soak up the undivided attention, but for those who find it a chore it's important to reward and encourage their obedience and patience with positive reinforcement. This can come in the form of praise, treats or even their favourite game upon completion. Finishing on a high note will boost their confidence and change their attitude from disliking being groomed to it being something they enjoy or at worst tolerate.
You can find a more detailed explanation by watching our YouTube video