Health & Style
How to have a healthy, happy dog, inside and out.
Let's be honest here. Your dog, your four-legged best friend, is the most gorgeous, handsome, downright delectable dog in New Zealand. If not the world. (He probably thinks you're pretty good-looking, too.)
To make sure he stays that way, we've put together some expert advice on nutrition and grooming. Have a squizz on the left.
For free petcare advice call 0800 PET VIP (0800 738 847), or e-mail ask.purina@purina.co.nz
Health & Style
The dog nutritionist says:
"Diet plays a major role in maintaining a beautiful healthy coat and clear skin. When you're deciding what to feed your dog, bear in mind that he needs:
For a balanced diet, full of healthy ingredients, quality nutrition and superb taste, check out our products page and discover which Beneful formula is best for your dog.
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Some ideas from our canine beauty therapist
Grooming doesn't just keep your dog's skin and coat in tip top condition - this is also a great way to spend some quality dog/person "us" time. It's a bonding experience, like getting a manicure with the girls, or going surfing with the boys. Grooming is also all about trust, so it gives you both the chance to be really close.
While you can look after your dog's day-to-day grooming, you might want to take him to a professional for some fancy pooch pampering.
Go to Doggie Wonderland and take a look at the Dog Friendly Directory to find a groomer near you.
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Basic "blokey" grooming
To make sure they're presentable in public, even the most casual dog needs basic grooming - just like the most casual bloke! Shampoo, rinse thoroughly, clip nails, check eyebrows and, if necessary, trim ear hair.
Regular brushing will improve your dog's hair, skin and outlook on life. And your dog will relish the pampering.
To find a groomer near you, head to Doggie Wonderland and check out the Dog Friendly Directory.
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High maintenance "girly" grooming
If you're the kind of girl, or metrosexual, who likes to visit the beauty salon regularly, you might discover your dog does too! We're not necessarily suggesting you take him to get his toenails painted - a big trend in America, apparently - but there are lots of ways a professional groomer can help your pal look his best.
Ask friends or your vet to recommend a dog groomer in your area. Most salons offer an impressive range of services, including haircuts, blow dries, massages and even dog spas. There are also mobile dog-washing services, which will come to your home.
To find out what's on offer near you, go to Doggie Wonderland and take a look around.
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Doggie haircuts
When you're thinking about getting a new haircut, your hairdresser will consider the shape of your face and what kind of hair you have. A good groomer will do exactly the same with your dog. They'll also take into account what time of the year it is and what kind of lifestyle your dog leads.
Always make sure your dog's haircut is suitable for his breed. Cairn terriers look best when they're a bit shaggy, while bichons suit the more coiffed look. You might be tempted to shave your collie so he looks like a poodle, but it could be the end of your friendship!
Finish off your dog's new hairstyle with a bow or, if you want something a little more macho, a studded designer leather collar. Go to Doggie Wonderland to find dog grooming services in your area.
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Canine beauty trends
Keep your dog looking his best. Go to Doggie Wonderland to find out whats available in your area.
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Understanding your dog's body condition
Too Thin
1 Ribs, lumbar vertebrae, pelvic bones and all bony prominences evident from a distance. No discernible body fat. Obvious loss of muscle mass.
2 Ribs, lumbar vertebrae and pelvic bones easily visible. No palpable fat. Some evidence of other bony prominence. Minimal loss of muscle mass.
3 Ribs easily palpated and may be visible with no palpable fat. Tops of lumbar vertebrae visible. Pelvic bones becoming prominent. Obvious waist.
Ideal
4 Ribs easily palpable, with minimal fat covering. Waist easily noted, viewed from above. Abdominal tuck evident.
5 Ribs palpable without excess fat covering. Waist observed behind ribs when viewed from above. Abdomen tucked up when viewed.
Too Heavy
6 Ribs palpable with slight excess fat covering. Waist is discernible viewed from above but is not prominent. Abdominal tuck apparent.
7 Ribs palpable with difficulty; heavy fat cover. Noticeable fat deposits over lumbar area and base of tail. Waist absent or barely visible. Abdominal tuck may be present.
8 Ribs not palpable under very heavy fat cover, or palpable only with significant pressure. Heavy fat deposits over lumbar area and base of tail. Waist absent. No abdominal tuck. Obvious abdominal distension may be present.
9 Massive fat deposits over thorax, spine and base of tail. Waist and abdominal tuck absent. Fat deposits on neck and limbs. Obvious abdominal distention.
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Step 1
First, determine how often your dog needs brushing. Shorthaired dogs should be brushed 2-3 times a week. Longhaired dogs need brushing dily. Even 2-3 minutes a day can keep matting under control.
Step 2
Pick the right tool for the job. Longhaired dogs benefit from a tool with serrated edges. A rake comb is a good tool for removing dead undercoat hair. Actually, there is a wide range of brushes and combs because there is such a wide range of coats across the many dog breeds. Ask your veterinarian or a professional groomer for a recommendation for your particular dog. Or check out the many options at a good pet supply store. Having the right brush can make a world of difference.
Step 3
Establish a fixed routine and follow it consistently at each session. It will ensure that you don't miss any spots.
Step 4
To make it easier on both of you, put your dog on a table for grooming. Place a rubber bathmat on the surface to prevent skidding.
Step 5
As long as your dog isn't frightened by it, you may be able to use a hair dryer on the cool setting to help loosen hair at the beginning of your session.
Step 6
Gently work out mats and tangles. Comb out the mats a little at a time starting at the tips of the hair. It's extremely important to eliminate matting and tangling before you bathe your dog. The mats will be even harder to remove after bathing, and your dog won't be truly clean.
Step 7
Once the hair is tangle-free, brush the hair thoroughly. This massaging action helps loosen and remove dead skin cells, and evenly distribute oils. Longhaired breeds should be brushed from the skin outward, then brush with the lay of the hair for the final touch.
Step 8
Brushing "against the grain" can irritate the skin of some dogs, which may make them want to turn and run at grooming time. Straight strokes may be best, especially for longhaired dogs.
Step 9
If your dog is agreeable, you might try picking up stray hairs by giving him a once-over with a vacuum cleaner attachment. Just make sure you can adjust the vacuum to a low suction setting. If your dog is frightened by the vacuum cleaner, bypass this step.
Step 10
As always, be gentle and praise your dog repeatedly for remaining calm.
Step 11
Dogs shed. It's normal, and it's healthy. Follow the steps above to encourage healthy shedding, which not only removes loose hair but also stimulates the skin.
Step 12
When you can't bathe your dog as often as you'd like, a good sprinkling with baking soda can help clear the air. Use your fingers to work it into the dog's fur, then give your dog a good brushing afterwards. Baking soda naturally absorbs odors.
