How to Groom the Family Dog

How to Groom Your Labrador Retriever for (Almost) Free

It’s no secret why the Labrador Retriever is America’s number one family pet. Their low maintenance and wonderful temperament make them a perfect family addition. When looking for a family dog, the amount of maintenance (i.e. grooming) is often a big consideration. Labs do not usually require trips to the grooming parlor once a month like many breeds of dogs do. You can take care of your labs grooming needs right at home using your own bathtub and tools, and not have to spend a lot of time doing it either! 

Labs love to be brushed, although brushing doesn’t need to be done everyday. Usually once or twice a week will do. During the shedding season (fall and spring), you may want to brush three or four times a week. This will eliminate having hair everywhere! Brushes with nylon or natural bristles work best. During the shedding season, however, you may want to try a shedding blade, generally used for horses. The small teeth in flea combs also work great for getting all the dead hair out at anytime of year. Even if your lab doesn’t have fleas, you may want to try the flea comb trick for a real good brushing. 

You should also give your lab a bath when he or she really needs it. Usually twice a month will do. Bathing your lab too much will dry out his skin. Most “doggie” shampoos do the trick for bathing. You may or may not want to use a conditioner on your dog. Usually a conditioner is not necessary. If your lab likes to get dirty a lot in between baths, simple water will work to get the dirt off, so not over bathe your dog. When you have finished bathing him; dry him off the best you can with a towel. Special hair dryers that attach to the outside of your dog’s crate can be purchased for the winter months.