Dealing with your dog's fur is one of your responsibilities as a dog owner. While you can pay to have your dog professionally groomed, some long-haired breeds require more frequent attention. Grooming your long-haired dog at home even has benefits. First, your dog's coat will look healthier and cleaner. Keeping your dog's fur groomed can even improve its health by removing dead hair and skin irritants as well as increasing blood flow through the skin. When you groom your dog, you also give yourself a chance to notice any potential problems such as lumps or sores that need veterinary attention.
Purchase a brush that will be appropriate for your dog's fur. For long fur, a type of brush known as a rake can help you remove tangles and loose undercoat. Other brushes, such as the Furminator brushing tool, can help remove loose hair and reduce shedding.
Brush your dog's fur daily. Dogs with long coats are susceptible to tangles. Dirt and other debris can also get stuck in their hair. Brush your dog every day to keep its coat tangle-free and clean. Your dog should be standing as you brush it. Remember to brush the dog's back, tail, haunches, belly, chest and ears.
Bathe your dog at least once every three months. Some dogs with long fur may get dirt stuck in their hair and need baths more frequently. Use a hypoallergenic shampoo and conditioner formulated for dogs. You can purchase these at your local pet store. Thoroughly shampoo and rinse your dog's fur. Use conditioner to keep your dog's skin from drying out.
Blow dry your dog's fur. Long fur may tangle if you allow it to dry naturally, especially if your dog likes to roll around after a bath. Use a brush to keep tangles away as you dry.
Dry the insides of your dog's ears with a towel. The fur inside the ears can take longer to dry because it is not exposed to the air. Moisture in the ears can cause yeast or other infections.
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