We'll also share some pro tips on how to adapt grooming styles to suit your dog's specific breed – all while you get to know the range of grooming services available at Pet Paradise. So, let's dive in and get to know the best grooming methods for your best friend!

Grooming Tips for Short-Haired Breeds

Short-haired dog breeds, like a French Bulldog, Boston Terrier, or a Beagle might seem like they have low-maintenance coats, but that doesn't mean they don't need grooming or a little extra TLC! Regular brushing keeps their coats shiny and healthy while reducing excess oils & dander. Want to learn how to maintain a clean and healthy coat? Let’s brush through the details!

Brushing helps spread the natural oils in your pup’s coat, which promotes a healthy shine. It also can help remove loose hair, dirt, and other debris to reduce excessive shedding. Rubber curry brushes or a boar’s bristle brush is great for this! Brushing your short-haired dog once every week to keep their coat in tip-top shape.

Keeping your pup’s coat clean and healthy also involves regular bathing with a gentle dog-friendly shampoo. Make sure all the shampoo is thoroughly rinsed to avoid residue that could irritate their skin.

It’s also a good idea to routinely check your dog’s ears for any signs of infection or wax & debris buildup. And don’t forget about their nails! Keeping them trimmed will help prevent discomfort or injury that can create long term joint pain or disfigurement of the tarsal (toe bones).

Grooming Styles and Practices for Long-Haired Breeds

Did someone say elegance? Long-haired breeds have long, fabulous locks that involve some extra care. Knowing the grooming needs of your long-haired dog, having the right tools and products, and following a guided routine can help you maintain a gorgeous, healthy coat for your furry friend.

Breeds like the Shih Tzu, Afghan Hound, or Yorkshire Terrier have hair that never stops growing. These glamorous pups need regular grooming to prevent matting, tangles, and discomfort.

Daily brushing & combing is the secret to keeping your long-haired dog’s coat healthy. Brushing helps to remove loose hair, prevent knots, and distribute natural oils is essential for a healthy shine.

Using the right tools and products is the key to keeping up with your long-haired dog between grooming appointments. A slicker brush has fine, short or wires, and is perfect for removing tangles and mats. If your pet has sensitive skin, a cat slicker brush may be a better fit. If your pet has very fine hair that easily breaks, a wood pin brush may be the best option. Your pup will thank you for the gentle detangling session!
 
A wide-toothed comb can help with detangling and smoothing. Dogs do move around a lot while we are trying to help them, so setting this routine in a calm, relaxed environment (maybe while watching you and your pet’s favorite movie on the couch) is a good time to focus on this task.
 
Using your comb, section the area you will brush through and after each brushing line move the hair away and begin the next section of unbrushed hair. Follow up with a comb before moving to your next section to be sure you found every tangle.

For long-haired breeds, there are a couple of popular grooming styles:

• Pet Version Puppy Cut: This adorable style keeps the medium to longer lengths and even all over the body. Many owners like a round head or a square shaped head with varied length preferences on the ears and tails. It's a medium-maintenance option for breeds like Yorkies, Shih Tzus and doodle varieties. To keep this style mat-free, it’s recommended to groom your pet every 4-6 weeks, and, in some cases, based on your pet’s lifestyle and activities, we may recommend a mini groom or ultimate bath in between sessions to help prevent matting.
• Summer Cut/Kennel Cuts: Similar to a puppy cut, but with the hair kept even shorter for hot weather and low maintenance. It’s the ultimate practical choice for the pet who stays busy in the yard, swims often, or isn’t on a regular grooming schedule of less than 8 weeks. Here’s the best part: our groomers are experts at making every grooming appointment a paws-itive experience. With plenty of praise and rewards along the way, every dog feels like a superstar at Pet Paradise.

Double-Coated Breeds and Their Grooming Needs

Let’s talk about those extra fluffy fur babies! Double-coated breeds, like the Siberian Husky, Golden Retriever, and Alaskan Malamute, have special grooming needs that deserve a little extra attention. Let’s dive into the details!

How to groom double-coated breeds correctly: The key to grooming double-coated breeds is to maintain their natural insulation while protecting their skin. Regular brushing helps remove loose hair and prevent matting. A slicker brush or an undercoat rake works wonders for gently detangling knots. We don’t recommend shaving their coat, as it protects them from heat and the cold by allowing natural body temperature regulation. Their coats also help in allowing for their body’s natural sebaceous glands create oils that create a natural protective barrier and help keep balanced PH at the skin.

Managing shedding and matting in double-coated breeds: These fluffy furballs are known to shed quite a bit. And during certain seasons, they really let it all loose! This is known as "blowing their coat." To help manage shedding during these periods, amp up their brushing routine and consider using an undercoat rake or a de-shedding shampoo & conditioner to help tackle all that loose hair. Some double coats can still develop matting but that’s ok. There are ways to work these out if they are addressed quickly before the coat damage creates pelting in the coat.
 
Using a wide-toothed comb, and a dry shampoo powder, you gently work through them. Groomers will sometimes have additional products that are silicone based to help mats slide out gently but avoiding moisture and addressing matts as soon as possible with produce the best results.

Tips for maintaining a healthy coat and preventing overheating: Coat care is crucial to keep your double-coated buddy comfortable and healthy. Be sure to give them regular baths using a gentle dog shampoo and conditioner tailored to their specific coat type. In the warmer months, dial back on excessive exercise, provide shade, and plenty of fresh water to help prevent them from overheating.

Keep in mind, every double-coated breed has its own special grooming needs, so it's worth chatting with one of our expert groomers for breed-specific tips. With a little extra know-how, you can help your furry friend maintain a healthy and happy coat.

Grooming Styles for Curly-Coated Breeds

Curly-coated cuties, like Poodles, Bichon Frises, and Portuguese Water Dogs, have some special grooming needs that deserve a little extra attention. Here are some styles that'll have them looking their best:

• Pet Version Puppy Cut: This adorable style keeps the medium to longer lengths and even all over the body. Many owners like a round- or square-shaped head with varied length preferences for the ears and tails. It's a medium-maintenance option for breeds like the Poodle, Kerry Blue Terrier, and doodle varieties.  To keep this style mat-free, it is recommended to groom your pet every 4-6 weeks and, in some cases, based on your pet’s lifestyle and activity level, we may recommend a mini-groom or ultimate bath in between sessions to help you prevent matting.
• Summer Cut/Kennel Cuts: Similar to a puppy cut, but with the hair kept even shorter for hot weather and low maintenance. It’s the ultimate practical choice for the pet who stays busy in the yard, swims often, or isn’t on a regular schedule of less than 8 weeks. Here’s the best part: our groomers are experts at making every grooming appointment a paws-itive experience. With plenty of praise and rewards along the way, every dog feels like a superstar at Pet Paradise.
• The Continental Clip: Feeling fancy? This elaborate style originates from hunting trials in Germany, and it gives your dog a royal, elegant look. The trim was specifically to keep a dog’s joints warm while working in the water, but this fancy look will require some extra maintenance on a regular schedule. The efforts are well worth it when you walk your pet down the street; they will be talk of the town!  

To keep your dog’s curls in tip-top shape and prevent matting, brush regularly with a slicker brush and a wide-toothed comb. Start from the roots and gently work your way through those curls section by section, which is called line brushing, paying extra attention to areas that might be prone to tangling.

When it comes to grooming curly-coated breeds, the right products and tools make all the difference! Our grooming team uses only the best detangling sprays and conditioners to make brushing easier and minimize discomfort for your furry friend.

Adapting Grooming Styles to Your Dog's Breed

Understanding what makes your pup's breed unique is the key to giving them the best care possible. Different breeds have their own quirks that influence how they should be groomed. By tailoring your grooming routine to suit your dog's individual needs, you'll keep them healthy and comfortable.

So, where to start? Begin by researching your dog's specific breed. Some breeds have long, thick coats requiring regular brushing and trimming to prevent matting and tangling. Others might sport shorter 'dos that are lower maintenance but still need routine care to keep their coat and skin healthy.

Now, think about your dog's personality and lifestyle! For example, older dogs may have more sensitive skin and require gentler grooming techniques, while active dogs may need more frequent brushing to prevent matting. Whether your pup is a couch potato or an athlete, their age, activity level, and any skin or coat conditions they might have should all play a role in your grooming plan.

Our friendly professional groomers have knowledge and experience and are here to lend a paw! They're experts at sniffing out just what your pup needs and can offer personalized advice on the best grooming techniques, tools, and products to keep your furry friend looking fresh between appointments.

At the end of the day, grooming is all about making your furry friend feel like a million bucks – whether they’re a short-haired breed, a long-haired breed, a double-coated breed, or a curly-coated breed. By getting the scoop on breed-specific grooming requirements, adapting grooming styles to suit your dog's individual needs, and consulting with our professional groomers, you can ensure your furry friend looks and feels their best. Regular grooming not only enhances your dog's appearance, but also promotes their overall well-being. They'll appreciate the extra love and attention – we promise!

To schedule your pet's grooming appointment, please log in to your account via our login page or the Pet Paradise app and book today!

• Choose the Right Brush: Depending on your dog's coat type, you'll need a specific brush. For short-haired dogs, either a boar bristle or rubber curry brush will work well. Long-haired breeds benefit from a slicker brush or a comb to remove tangles and prevent matting.
• Brush Regularly: Aim to brush your dog a few times a week. This helps to remove loose fur, distribute natural oils, and keep the coat shiny and healthy.
• Be Gentle: Always be gentle when brushing to avoid pulling the pet’s hair. Start at the top and work your way down, being extra careful around sensitive areas.
• Check for Tangles and Mats: Pay special attention to areas where tangles and mats are common, such as behind the ears, under the legs, and around the collar. Use a detangling spray if necessary.
• Reward and Comfort: Make brushing a positive experience. Offer treats and praise to keep your dog relaxed and cooperative.

Incorporating these easy steps into your routine will help keep your dog's coat stop in top condition between professional grooming sessions. Not only will your pup look great, but regular brushing also promotes better overall skin health.

Persistent Scratching

If you notice your pet constantly scratching or biting at its skin, it could be a sign of allergies. Excessive scratching can lead to skin irritation and even open wounds, so it's crucial to address the underlying cause promptly.

Excessive Paw and Abdomen Licking

Pets with allergies may exhibit excessive licking, particularly on their paws and abdomen. This behavior can indicate discomfort or irritation, and it's essential to investigate the underlying cause to provide relief for your pet.

Recurrent Ear Infections

Allergies can also manifest as recurrent ear infections in pets. Pay attention to any signs of ear inflammation, discharge, or odor, as these may indicate an allergic reaction that requires veterinary attention.

While common allergens like pollen and dust mites are often the focus of pet allergy discussions, it's essential to recognize that other less conspicuous triggers can also affect our furry companions.

Exploring Lesser-Known Allergens

Cleaning Products

Household cleaning products, including detergents, air fresheners, and carpet cleaners, can contain harsh chemicals that may irritate your pet's skin or respiratory system. Opt for pet-safe alternatives to minimize the risk of allergic reactions.

Environmental Allergens

Pollen, mold, dust mites, and even certain fabrics can trigger allergic reactions in pets. Keep an eye on your pet's behavior and symptoms during different seasons or when exposed to specific environments.

Medications

Some pets may exhibit allergic reactions to certain medications, such as antibiotics or topical treatments. Always consult your veterinarian if you notice any adverse effects after administering medication to your pet.

Fortunately, there are many solutions to alleviate your pet's allergies, ranging from dietary supplements and readily available antihistamines to specialized prescription diets and allergy testing.

Visit your local veterinarian or book an appointment at one of our NewDay clinics to help manage your pet’s allergies! Don’t forget your NewDay appointment can be during your pet’s next day camp visit or boarding stay.

Regular Exercise Routine:

Regular exercise is crucial for maintaining a healthy weight, improving cardiovascular health, and enhancing muscle strength in dogs. Just like humans, dogs need physical activity to thrive both mentally and physically. Aim for at least 30 minutes to an hour of exercise each day, depending on your dog's age, breed, and fitness level. Incorporate a mix of activities such as brisk walks, jogging, hiking, or playing fetch in the backyard. 

Balanced Diet:

Nutrition plays a fundamental role in your dog's fitness journey. Providing a balanced and nutritious diet is essential for supporting their energy levels, maintaining muscle mass, and promoting overall well-being. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate portion sizes and dietary requirements for your dog based on factors like age, weight, and activity level. Avoid overfeeding and limit treats to prevent weight gain and obesity-related health issues. 

Improved Behavior: 

Dogs that receive regular exercise are less prone to behavioral problems, such as excess barking, chewing or digging. Physical activity releases any excess energy and reduces boredom and stress. 

Now, let's explore three engaging activities you can enjoy with your pet to keep them in shape:

Agility Training:

Agility training is a fun and stimulating activity that challenges your dog both mentally and physically. Set up an agility course in your backyard or visit a local dog park with agility equipment. Guide your dog through obstacles such as tunnels, jumps, weave poles, and ramps while encouraging them with treats and praise. Agility training helps improve your dog's coordination, balance, flexibility, and confidence while strengthening their muscles and burning excess energy.

Swimming:

Swimming is an excellent low-impact exercise for dogs of all ages and fitness levels. If you have access to a safe body of water such as a pool, lake, or beach, take your dog for a refreshing swim session. Swimming engages multiple muscle groups, provides cardiovascular benefits, and helps alleviate joint pain in senior dogs or those with arthritis. Supervise your dog closely, especially if they're new to swimming, and equip them with a life jacket for added safety and buoyancy.

Interactive Playtime:

Interactive playtime is essential for bonding with your dog and keeping them mentally stimulated. Engage in games like tug-of-war, hide-and-seek, or interactive toys that encourage physical activity and problem-solving skills. 

Canine Fitness Month serves as a timely reminder to prioritize your dog's physical health and well-being year-round. By following these top tips and engaging in activities together, you can help your furry companion lead a happy, healthy, and active lifestyle. Book a day of camp at Pet Paradise for your pup to help add to their active lifestyle! 

Early Detection 

A heartworm test can help identify the presence of heartworms in your pet's system at an early stage, enabling timely intervention and treatment.

Preventive Measures

By administering regular heartworm tests, you can take proactive steps to prevent the development of heartworm disease and its harmful consequences. All-in-one prevention protects dogs against heartworm disease, ticks & fleas, roundworms and hookworms.

Promotes Long-Term Health

Preventing heartworm disease supports your pet's long-term health and longevity. By incorporating a regular heartworm prevention regimen into your pet's healthcare routine, you can ensure that they lead a healthy and active life free from the risks associated with heartworms.

If you have any questions or need further information about this offer, please reach out to your local NewDay Veterinary Care Clinic.

Exercise Extraordinaire

• Up the walk game: Ditch the same old route and explore new trails, parks, or even just a different street. Add a frisbee session or chase the ball for an extra burst of excitement.
• Stairway to Fitness: Turn those everyday stairs into a mini adventure. Reward your pup for going up and down, making it a fun challenge (and great calorie burner!)
• Play the DAY away: Take advantage of day camp in Paradise! Running, jumping, and playing burn off excess energy, leaving them happy and content.

Tricky Times

• Brain Games: Keep your pet's mind sharp with new commands or tricks. Start simple with "shake" or "high five" and gradually level up. You'll be amazed at what they can learn!
• Hide and Seek: Reinvent their favorite game. Hide treats or their favorite toy around the house for a fun mental and physical challenge.
• Scent-sational Fun: Play hide-and-seek with a twist! Sprinkle some of their favorite scent (like treats or their own fur) on a hidden object and watch them use their nose to sniff it out.

Bonus tip: Swap store-bought treats for homemade goodies using healthy ingredients like apples, sweet potatoes, carrots or even frozen bananas. 

Remember! Consistency is key! Even small changes, when incorporated into your daily routine, can make a big difference in your pet's happiness and well-being. Visit Pet Paradise to make exercise part of your pups daily routine!

Playfulness

Pets may express love through play. Dogs, in particular, may bring you their favorite toys, show signs that they’re ready to play, or initiate activities that they know you enjoy. Cats often engage in mock hunting behavior by pouncing on toys, objects, or even unsuspecting owners' feet. Interactive play is how both fidos and felines express their affection, so engage in these activities to show them love back!

Cuddling

Seeking physical closeness and curling up next to you is a way for pets (both dogs and cats) to show their affection. Dogs may choose to lay next to your side or on your lap, while cats will opt for a comfy seat on your chest or next to your head in bed.  

Licking

Dogs often show affection by licking their owners. Licking plays an important part of how they bond with others, causing them to release dopamine and endorphins that help make them feel relaxed, calm and happy. Cats may lick their owners as well, but it’s a form of grooming rather than kisses. Feline’s naturally groom other cats in their social group, so they’re showing their comfort and attachment to you in the same way!

Purring

Purring is a way for cats to communicate comfort and satisfaction, and is often a method for them to express you’re part of their social group. Purrs can indicate they want attention from their human friend while eliciting a low-vibration that promotes relaxation and reduces stress — for both themselves and their owner!

Tail Wagging

Tail wagging can mean that a pup is excited, but it’s also a way for them to show their love for you! When a dog wags their tail, its a nonverbal form of communication that signifies they have a strong attachment to you and love being in your presence.

Head-butting

Cats may gently bump their heads against you, a behavior known as head butting or head bunting. Since cats have scent glands located throughout their bodies (including their foreheads), they’re transferring their scent to you and marking you as part of their territory. Feline’s typically head-butt other cats as well to reaffirm bonds within their social group, so they’re extending this same love to you! 

If your four-legged friend displays any of these behaviors, it’s a good sign they love you just as much as you love them. Looking for a way to get a few extra cuddles or head-butts? Visit Pet Paradise for all of your boarding and day camp needs — they’ll be sure to show their appreciation for their time in Paradise!

Here are three tips for pet owners looking to ensure their pet maintains a healthy weight to avoid obesity-related health issues.

1. Prioritize exercise and playtime 

Pets need regular exercise and playtime to help maintain a healthy weight. Exercise not only helps to burn calories, but also improves your pet’s mood and stimulates their brain. The type of exercise your pet should engage in depends on their age and overall health. There are a lot of ways to get your pet moving, such as taking them for a walk, playing fetch, or giving them puzzles to figure out. Pet parents can also consider taking their pets to day camp so they can get exercise and burn off energy while playing. At Pet Paradise, pets are able to play with other animals of similar size and activity levels, all under the supervision of playtime coordinators. Pet Paradise resorts also feature a swimming pool, jungle gyms, and play areas that allow for plenty of energy expenditure.

2. Provide a balanced diet

Overeating or overfeeding your pet can be a main contributor to weight gain. Many pet parents like to give their pets treats as a reward or as a way to entertain them, but there is such a thing as giving your pets too many treats. Try to limit the amount of treats you give your pet throughout the day to just a few, or perhaps look into lower-calories treats. Also, try to avoid feeding your pet any human food or leftovers from meals as they are likely higher in calories.

Portion control is also very important to helping your pet maintain a healthy weight. Be sure to consult your veterinarian on how much you should be feeding your pet given their breed, age, and activity level. It is also important to establish a feeding schedule with your pet and help them learn when it is meal time. Having a regular feeding schedule helps pet parents measure how much their pet is eating.

3. Visit your veterinarian regularly 

Regular vet visits are important to preventing obesity and helping to maintain your pet’s weight and overall health. If your pet is obese or overweight, your vet can offer advice on how to adjust their diet and exercise routine. 

If your pet is rapidly gaining weight, they may have an underlying health condition that your veterinarian can identify and treat. It is important to address any weight issues with your vet early on so you can prevent your pet from becoming obese. 

Through prioritizing exercise, providing a balanced diet, and visiting the vet regularly, you can help reduce the risk of your pet becoming overweight and avoid the health issues that can come along with it. This preventative care ensures their overall health and well-being, and enhances their quality of life. 

Here are four tips first-time pet parents can follow to help ensure their pet has a smooth transition to their new home:

1. Pet Proof Your Living Space

Before you bring your new pet home, make sure that your house is ready. Be sure that there are no electrical cords in reach and that socks, shoes, and other items that a puppy might want to chew on are put away. You will also need to have some basic items before you bring your pet home such as bowls, a leash, a collar/harness, a crate, and toys.

When you bring your pet home for the first time, give them space and time to learn and explore their new environment. Show them where they will sleep, drink, eat, and go to the bathroom. Decide early on if your pet is allowed on the couch and what rooms in the house they can access.

2. Visit the Vet

It is important that first-time pet owners do research on veterinarians in their area. Finding a vet that both you and your pet trust will make vet trips much easier. As soon as pet parents bring home their furry friend, they should reach out to a veterinarian to schedule an appointment. The vet will be able to discuss vaccinations and provide information on the pet’s overall health. Your vet will also likely discuss things like microchipping and if you are planning to spay or neuter your pet.

Many pet parents opt to take their pet to NewDay Veterinary Care at Pet Paradise because of the comprehensive pet health care that is provided. Along with low-stress veterinary care, Pet Paradise offers grooming, day camp, overnight boarding, and dog training - all things your pet may need under one roof.

3. Research Your Pet’s Needs

Do research and discuss with your veterinarian things such as how much exercise you should be giving your pet, what food and treats they should eat, and how much to feed them. You will also need to learn how often you should be giving your pet a bath and having them groomed.

It is also important to conduct research on your apartment or neighborhood. Some areas have restrictions on certain breeds, and many apartments and rentals have an additional fee for having a pet in the home.

When you bring home your pet, it’s important to get them on a schedule as soon as possible. Do some background research on your breed to help learn their potential habits and preferences. Consistency and predictability are helpful in the first few days you bring home a new pet because they know what to expect.

4. Start Training your Pet

Training your pet is a big part of being a responsible pet owner. Your pet’s age, breed, and background will all play a factor into how long it will take to potty train, house train, and socialize them. Remember to reward good/correct behavior with a treat and praise, and to correct incorrect behaviors as you see them happen.

Consider looking into pet training courses and classes, such as the training programs that Pet Paradise offers. Especially if you are busy, signing up for a pet training course is a great way to get your dog trained.

Remember to be patient with your new pet, and that it will take some time for them to adjust to new people and new places. If you take the proper steps as a new pet owner, in time, your pet will begin to relax and become accustomed to their new home and family. 

Benefits of socialization

Many pets are social beings and enjoy interacting and playing with other animals. Giving your pet exposure to other animals when they are young can help them become more confident and less likely to experience fear or anxiety when encountering other pets. Socialization also exposes your pet to new places, smells and sounds in the outside world.  

Pets can learn cues and mannerisms from other pets they interact with, which can help them develop positive behaviors. Playing with other pets also helps your pet make developmental strides.

A pet that is socialized can also be taken to more places such as pet-friendly restaurants, dog-parks and will likely enjoy going to day camp or being boarded. Socializing through day camp or boarding also teaches them to become more comfortable being away from their owners, and for pet parents, their pet comes home tired and happy.

Socializing your pet is also a great way to keep them active and moving. Especially with dogs, playtime can be a rigorous exercise that is mentally and physically stimulating. At Pet Paradise, many pet parents send their pups to our day camp to give them the opportunity to play in a safe environment. Our playgroups are organized by the size and activity of your dog, so if you have a playful and energetic pup, they will be placed with similar dogs. All of the playtime is supervised by playtime coordinators to ensure all pets remain healthy and happy.

Benefits of physical activity

Like humans, pets need regular exercise to stay healthy, prevent obesity and aid pets in maintaining their muscle mass, keeping their joints healthy, as well as improving their cardiovascular health. Obesity in pets can lead to many other health related issues including diabetes and joint pain, making it extremely important your pet maintains a healthy weight.

Exercise can also reduce pet anxiety, stress and improve their mental health. Pets that lead active lives tend to be happier and more content.  Younger pets especially have a lot of energy that they need to expend, and giving them a healthy outlet to release that energy will improve their mood and help them sleep better.

Pet owners often have busy schedules, which makes the option to send your pet to day camp a great way for pets to both socialize with other animals, people and get a lot of exercise. Along with having playtime, pets can enjoy Pet Paradise’s signature bone-shaped swimming pool, splash pads, misting stations, jungle gyms, toys, and outdoor and indoor play areas. Pets are able to get plenty of exercise and have fun.

Another benefit from exercising your pet is that it helps to create a bond and spend time together. Going for walks with your pet is great for both of you, and helps to strengthen your bond. Be sure to meet with your vet to learn how much exercise you should be giving your pet, as the amount of time can be dependent on their age, breed and health.

Pets who get regular exercise and given opportunities to socialize lead healthier and happier lives. Sending your pet to day camp or boarding at Pet Paradise is a great way to expose them to new people and animals, and allow them to be active and playful in a safe and monitored environment.