Dog Hygiene Tips and Tricks

While pets are one of the greatest sources of joy in any animal lover’s life, they come with a lot of responsibility. One of these responsibilities is keeping your pet and house free of the added dirt, fur, and dander that comes along with dog ownership. To ensure that your home and dog are always looking great, follow these simple dog hygiene tips to keep you and your pet happy and healthy.

Wash the Dog Bedding

As a responsible dog owner, you should regularly wash and vacuum your pet’s bedding to prevent a buildup of dirt, fur, ticks, flea eggs, and other skin parasites. Clean bedding will keep you, your animal, and your home free of pests and dirt, while improving your dog’s hygiene at the same time. If you have family members who are allergic or sensitive to pets, this is especially important; try washing your animal’s bedding once every two weeks, and vacuum at least once a week (or more, depending on the amount of hair your animal sheds).

Wash Your Hands

A simple hygiene tip many people miss is to wash your hands before and after you play with your dog. Animals and humans can make each other sick, so make sure you are practicing your own healthy hygiene habits! Make sure to be particularly aware of this rule if a family member is sensitive to pets in the household, as you can transfer pet dander to a family member if you do not wash your hands.

For example, if your dog eats something foul on the ground or out of the garbage and you then touch the animal, bacteria from the environment can be transferred to your hands. This is why it is so important to wash your hands after every play session.

Wash your Dog’s Food and Water Dishes

Your pet’s water and food dishes are dirty. Really dirty. According to NSP International, pet food and water bowls were named the fourth germiest item found in the house. Make sure your pet’s food and water bowls are always clean! Germ experts recommend to wash food bowls at least every day and ideally every day in-between meals. Make sure to wash the water bowl every few days (2-3). A lack of cleanliness can result in mold accumulation, bacterial infection, and subsequent GI issues for your dog.

Vacuum

If you’re not used to vacuuming every few days, dog ownership will certainly change that. Dogs, while they bring a lot of love, also bring a lot of mud, dirt, dander, and fur (especially if they are ‘outside’ dogs). Vacuuming regularly will cut down on the amount of bacteria, fleas, and fur in your home and prevent any health problems that may occur from the aforementioned.

Brush Your Dog’s Teeth

Although kibble brands often advertise their dry food as a way to keep dog mouths clean, they often do not remove plaque buildup on the upper gum. This can lead to bad breath, mouth bacteria, abscessed teeth, and dental infections. Make sure to incorporate a healthy dental routine into your dog’s weekly hygiene regimen.

Dog Groomer New Jersey

If you have any questions about pet hygiene, are interested in pet hygiene products, or want to take your doggie in for pet grooming, look no further than Troy’s Trims & Treats. For dog grooming in Bergen County, Union County, or really anywhere in North Jersey, you can’t beat Troy’s Trims and Treats! We also offer pick-up and delivery. Call us at (201) 871-8484 or book an appointment online today!