When you have a long-haired breed, such as a Dachshund, Maltese, Birman, or Persian, you may be wondering what kind of pet care will guarantee lustrous locks. Although grooming them may seem intimidating, making the right choices now may simplify the task in the future. Here are three grooming tips for long-haired pets. 

Long-Haired Pet Care Tips

1. Stock Up on the Right Supplies

Before you can take care of all that hair, assemble the right supplies. Wire slicker brushes, which have metal bristles bent at an angle, help remove loose pet hair while detangling coats. Undercoat rakes have a mixture of high and low teeth to straighten undercoats, and a soft-bristled brush aids removal of dead skin cells, preventing sores and mats. You can also purchase mat splitters to help you cut through dense clumps of hair while keeping your animal comfortable. 

2. Adopt a Routine

Brushing an animal’s coat helps to remove mats and distribute oils. It also helps you bond. Focus on falling into a regular pet care routine, brushing your pet two or three times a week or as often as it takes to prevent tangles.

Also, bathe long-haired animals according to recommendations for their breed, and have them professionally groomed regularly to keep their coats healthy. 

3. Know When to Stop

When your animal is not in the mood or too tired to be groomed, set your brush aside. Pay attention to visual cues so you know when to stop. For instance, if your pet seems agitated or angry, wait until they’ve had some rest before brushing them.

When you have pet care questions, turn to the experienced team at Dothan Animal Hospital in southeastern Alabama. Since its inception in 1943, this veterinary clinic has been offering a full slate of services to pet owners in the Tri-State area, from boarding and grooming to cardiology and surgery. To find out more about how they’ll help your animal, visit their website, or give their office a call at (334) 793-9779.