Long-haired dogs are beautiful but also very demanding. Just like with your hair, the care of your dog’s coat must include a lot of attention and specific products. Luckily, we are here and we will tell you everything you need to know about how to treat the long-haired dog to make him beautiful, healthy and happy.
First of all, it is important to understand what type of coat your dog has.
There are essentially two types of fur: double-layered and smooth-haired
Double-layered fur
In this case, the dog does not have just one layer of fur but also an undercoat, which makes the coat thicker. It consists of small and thin hairs, which are attached to the skin. The undercoat mainly serves to protect them from the cold and therefore during shedding it is completely lost. The following breeds fall into this category:
- Akita
- Alaskan Husky
- Shiba Inu
- Siberian Husky
- Australian Shepherd
- Shetland Sheepdog
- Bernese Mountain Dog
- Great Pyrenees
- Newfoundland
- Golden Retriever
- Labrador Retriever
- Miniature Schnauzer
- Havanese
- Pomeranian
It must be remembered that dogs with undercoat should never be shaved and therefore, the care of their coat is particularly recommended.
Not all double-coated dogs have long fur and, even if the latter are easier to manage, you must still make sure to brush the undercoat well in addition to the top coat. To do this, you must always make sure to proceed in the direction of the fur to avoid causing pain to the animal.
When brushing double-coated dogs, it is not rare to come across tangles and knots. Of course, you can try to brush them away, but it is likely that your dog will not be happy about it, especially if you have to subject him to tugs and pulls.
But do not worry! Our Glossing and Detangling Spray comes to the rescue. It is a leave-in product, ideal for long coats, neglected coats and coats affected by knots and mats. It adapts to every breed and texture. Its detangling, polishing and film-forming action reduces drying times. Its special detangling effect can help you easily remove those annoying knots while you brush your animal. Yes, you can also use it on a dry dog, so bathing is not necessary!
Smooth fur
Dogs with long, smooth fur require great commitment. In addition to shampoo, during which brushing should be avoided so as not to damage the skin, it is advisable to use a conditioner such as our Detangling Conditioner, which will allow greater combability and will give shine and softness to the lengths.
However, you must not use the conditioner as you usually do with your hair! Dogs must not be brushed with wet fur, otherwise you could damage their skin. You must use the conditioner as a treatment and, if your dog’s coat is a little weakened or stressed by continuous brushing, you could think of using a hydrating and conditioning product such as our Restructuring and Strengthening Conditioner.
How much, how and why to brush the dog
Whatever product you end up buying, make sure to look at the ingredients of the products you use. Avoid sulfates and parabens, which tend to dry the skin just like in us humans.
Focus above all on daily brushing, especially in critical points: behind the ears, where they have the collar or harness and under the armpits. It is precisely in those points that knots and tangles usually form, which occlude the skin, causing irritation and discomfort.
Keeping your dog’s fur detangled will not only make him more beautiful, but will also allow him to be healthier and more serene. By taking care of his fur, you can avoid the formation of dandruff and, with the use of an appropriate brush, promote the elimination of dead cells. You will also prevent dirty fur from causing annoying itching, forcing him to scratch and giving rise to skin infections.
Finally, brushing the dog regularly is a way to strengthen the relationship of mutual trust and show him affection.
Your dog’s hygiene is your hygiene
Whether you have a double-coated dog or a long, smooth-haired dog, you will have to take care of his fur consistently. Once you have found the right products, it will become easier and easier between one wash and another to improve maintenance. And as an extra bonus, by cleaning your dog, you will also reduce fur shedding and the hygiene of the environment in which you both live.
This way you will be able to keep your good resolutions for the new year, just as we were saying here: both you and your dog will be happier, healthier and more beautiful together.
