Choosing Natural Dog Grooming Aids
January 26, 2009 by Paris and John
Filed under Grooming, Tips
You’ll find no shortage of dog grooming products on the market, but how can you identify ones that will pamper and protect your dog? Organic and natural products can give your dog a safe and satisfying grooming experience from ears to paws. Here are some tips on selecting natural dog grooming aids:
- Aromatherapy can help both you and your dog relax and enjoy her spa day. For centuries, people have benefited from using the essential oils in certain herbs because of their ability to calm and soothe through scent alone. Stay away from invigorating scents, or scents that dogs don’t enjoy, like mints, citrus or eucalyptus.
What To Look For: Use shampoos, conditioners and coat sprays with vanilla and lavender, which are known for their healing qualities.
- Ear care is easy to overlook when you’ve got a hectic and busy schedule but clean ears are important for your dog’s health.
What To Look For: Choose natural products that are free from preservatives, artificial colorings and synthetic chemicals. The healthiest ear cleaning products will contain mild ingredients, like aloe vera, natural oils, witch hazel and herbs. They are designed to clean gently, and are most effective when used on a regular basis.
- Paw care is often neglected but it’s especially important during the winter months when your dog’s paws (just like your skin) can be dry and cracked. Most humans take for granted that their dog’s paws are operating just fine, unless he’s obviously limping. After all, aren’t paws built to take a lot of rough abuse? Well, yes and no. They develop protective calluses. But they can become cracked and raw, just like the heels on our feet. The best way to pamper your dog’s paws is with a natural product that moisturizes and soothes them.
What to Look For: Choose products with shea butter for moisturizing and aloe vera for healing dry cracks.
- Skin care is as important for dogs as it is for us humans. You know how uncomfortable dry, itchy, scaly skin can be–it’s just the same for your dog. Be sure to use coat and skin conditioning products that contain natural ingredients.
What to Look For: Look for jojoba oil, aloe vera, nettle, seaweed and other organic herbs, vitamins and minerals that can minimize shedding and detangle your dog’s coat to make brushing painless.
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