Page 322 - (DK) The Dog Encyclopedia

CARE AND TRAINING | GROOMING CHECKS

Grooming checks

Grooming is a good time to accustom your dog to routine checks in which
you examine each part of his body. It is not just your dog’s coat that needs
attention—his teeth, ears, and nails also need to be attended to regularly.

ROUTINE CHECKS for any obvious changes in body shape Check his eyes to make sure there is no
From early puppyhood, get your dog and stance, then go over him in more excessive tear production or sticky discharge.
accustomed to regular grooming so that detail, searching for cuts, lumps, and A little “sleep” is normal—simply wipe it
you can use this time to carry out health external parasites. Run your hands over away, using a separate damp cotton ball for
checks as well. Noticing the slightest and under his head and body, down each eye. Gently lower the bottom eyelids to
change could allow early diagnosis all four legs, and along the length of check that the lining and the white around
of a health problem, and potentially his tail. Part the fur in places, especially the irises are not inflamed and red.
a better outcome. over his rump; there should be no evidence Look under the tail at the anus for soiling
While grooming and examining each of fleas or flea dirts, little or no debris, and swellings, and in a female check the
part of your dog’s body, talk to him and the coat should feel and smell vulva for swelling and discharges. Examine
to put him at ease and use commands pleasant. Stroking your dog should be the penis of a male dog for injuries and
such as “teeth” and “ears.” Look first a good experience for both of you. excessive discharge or bleeding from the tip.

Eye checks
Always check that your dog’s eyes
are open and bright. Eye problems
require prompt attention from a
vet. Do not ignore signs such as a
discharge or a dog pawing at the
eyes because of irritation.

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