Dog Community

Labrador Grooming Question

Posted : 8/24/2006 5:45:41 PM

Up until recently, I "health-handled" Ben every day, touching him, brushing him, brushing his teeth, checking his paws and ears etc. I wanted him to get used to it when he was really young. He puts up well with everything but really seems to enjoy his brushing - lets me move him in to the positions I need him in, sits or lays down quietly, snuggles up in my lap while I brush his tail.

I do a total check over (as above) once every couple of days now, but I have noticed that on the nights I don't, he goes to where his brush is (he can see it but not get it) and stares for a minute, as if waiting for me to brush him. If I get his brush down, he gets all excited until I sit down and call him to me, when he will sit and let me brush him.

I know Labradors aren't a breed that need proper grooming every day, because of the short coat, but will it do him any harm? I don't spend ages on it - just 5-10 minutes going over him with a slicker brush. He really loves it but I want to make sure it's not possible to "over groom" him - I don't want to do any kind of damage to his coat.

Kate

Katie M.

Posted : 8/24/2006 8:03:34 PM

Brushing is healthy - mentally and physically. It stimulates the natural oil production of the skin, which helps keep it healthy. And the bonding that comes with it is something he will benefit from -- and he obviously likes it! [

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Paula Diffenbaugh

Posted : 8/24/2006 8:16:51 PM

I have a yellow lab and he loves being brushed also. The way they shed it helps alot to get the loose hair out. I started vaccuming Jake when he was a little guy and now he follows me around everytime I turn it on. I literally have to stop and vaccum him or he stands in my way until I do. [

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fancypants1

Posted : 8/25/2006 7:37:55 AM

I wish more owners were like you (I'm a groomer). It is so healthy for your dog and its coat for you to do what you're doing. For a little variety you could try different bushes. You could use a soft brush (like they use on horses) which will add a nice shine, or you could use a zoom groom which is a rubber tool which gives a massage as you use it (most dogs love it). Keep up the good work!

the_gopher

Posted : 8/25/2006 1:06:26 PM

Back when I was grooming, you'd be the type of owner I would have hugged! You'll definately not do any damage to his coat!! If anything your helping those pesky hairs get loose (labs are notorious shedders) and stimulating the oil production. Not to mention, your giving your pup a great massage to boot.

Now could you please spread the word to other dog owners out there to follow suite!!!

Benedict

Posted : 8/28/2006 1:41:00 PM

LOL thanks everyone! I was expecting a "yeah that's ok" or a "no, do NOT do that" - not total enthusiasm. I'm glad we can keep on with our routine...I'd hate to take away something that he loves.

I'll definitely keep on doing what I'm doing, and will get some different types of brushes to add a little variety for him. I'm glad it's so good for him, he's at his sweetest when he's being brushed - last night he actually fell asleep during grooming time.

Thanks again!

Kate

the_gopher

Posted : 8/28/2006 5:36:54 PM

Awww how sweet! When I used to groom, there was this newfoundland who would moan and grown in pleasure while being brushed...and once fell asleep on my lap (I would groom him laying on one side because he was old and it was more comfy for him). It was too funny having to wake him up to do the other side!

It's so great that you both enjoy the grooming.