How to Look After a Dog

When is the last time you had a look in your dogs ears, mouth or their skin? This is essential everyday petcare that is vital for your dogs health and wellbeing.

Earcare for dogs is very often overlooked completely however this is a highly important area. Routine ear care can stop the build-up of dirt and debris in the ear canal which can lead to inflammation and infection. Ear mites are one parasite which can easily invade your dogs ears. These tiny mites cause a dry, dark brown debris to form within the ear canal. Routine ear care, including cleasing agents specifically made for dogs, help to dry out the ear and help in preventing Otitis. This is a chronic ear infection and inflammation of the external ear canal and can be extremely painful. Ear mite treatment kills only the adult mite and not the nymphs (the pre-adult). In order to treat ear mites effectively you initially give a series of treatments to your dog which kill the adult mites and follow-up 10 to 14 days later which kills the nymphs.

Skincare for dogs is very common and can be associated with allergic reactions, wounds or skin diseases. If you find that your dog needs to be treated for any skin condition you should start off with an anti-itch shampoo which will cleanse and prevent the spread of the disease. Anti-itch shampoo's also help to soothe any irritation. Next, look out for flaking or scabs on your dog which must be removed gently using a medicated cleansing agent. If you have a long-haired dog it is recommended that you cut back the hair from the effected area in order for the cleansing agent to reach the right spot. If you have treated your dog correctly you will very shortly see a pinkish colored skin develop which is new tissue growth. As the skin begins to heal the itching may increase so you might have to use a skin relief spray during this period.

Your dogs teeth need very regular dental care. Dogs, from one to three years old should have their teeth brushed once a week, dogs from three upward should have their teeth brushed three times a week. A buildup of tartar can cause sore, inflamed, swollen gums and to a secondary infection which can lead to serious health problems. A special dog tootbrush is available at any vetinary outlet or pet store and use an enzyme toothpaste especially made for canines. Never use human toothpaste on your dog. You can also treat your dog's teeth with specially treated dental cleansing pads which are simply wiped over the surface of your dogs teeth.