Hey there, Barkers!🐾

Let’s be honest our pups don’t wake up looking runway-ready (no matter how majestic they think they are). Behind every glossy coat and happy tail is a little bit of elbow grease, a brush, and a treat or two. Grooming isn’t just about keeping your dog Instagram-pretty it’s a full-on wellness ritual. Done right, it strengthens your bond and keeps your furry friend feeling as fresh as a post-bath zoomie.

According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), regular grooming helps detect early signs of skin issues, lumps, or parasites before they become major problems. Think of grooming as your pup’s spa day and your chance to play health detective.

Q: Why did the dog sit in front of the mirror with a brush?

A: Because he wanted to be paws-itively handsome!

Let’s turn “Oh no, the brush again!” into “Ooh, spa time!”

Start small and stay positive. Introduce the brush or clippers gradually let your dog sniff, lick, and explore them before using. Pair every stroke with calm praise and a high-value treat (try freeze-dried chicken or peanut butter lick mats). Short, fun sessions are better than marathon grooming battles.

📌Pack Tip: End on a win! Even a quick paw brush or gentle wipe earns a “good dog” and a cuddle. That way, your pup will wag, not wiggle away, when they see the grooming tools come out.

Grooming is more than fur-deep, friends. Brushing removes dirt and dead hair while stimulating natural oils that protect skin health.

Regular grooming also keeps nails from overgrowing (which can cause joint pain), ears from harboring infections, and eyes free of tear stains or debris. For breeds prone to matting like doodles or spaniels, consistent brushing can literally prevent painful skin infections.

Quick check:

Nails: Shouldn’t click loudly on the floor.

Ears: Clean, no foul smell.

Eyes: Clear and bright, no discharge.

Skin: Smooth, no flakes or hot spots.

📌 Bark Tip: Healthy dog, happy you.🦴

If you’re building your home spa setup, here’s what every Pack Leader should have on deck:

1. Slicker Brush: Detangles and removes loose fur (try the Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush).

2. Nail Clippers or Grinder: For safe trims—Dremel PawControl is pup-approved.

3. Ear Cleaner: Gentle formulas like Zymox help keep infections away.

4. Dog Shampoo: Go sulfate-free; Burt’s Bees for Dogs Oatmeal Shampoo is a great pick.

5. Microfiber Towel or Pet Dryer: Cuts drying time in half and keeps the shake-offs minimal.

📌Bark Tip: Clean tools = clean pup. Wash and sanitize brushes regularly.

Do you have a product or service that a dog lover would adore? Our readers are passionate pet parents who value trusted recommendations.

Hey, Barkers!

Alright, Good Fur Day Gang we want to see your handiwork! Send in before-and-after grooming pics

Share your stories, photos, or training wins with us for a chance to be featured in next week’s issue! [email protected]. 📸🐶

Until next time, keep those tails wagging and those coats gleaming.

You bring the love, we’ll bring the words. 🐾💙🧡

A Worthy Bark.

Where every bark has meaning and every reader's part of the pack.