If you cut your dog’s nail too close to the quick, it will bleed. For a dog’s bleeding nail, a dab of styptic powder will get the bleeding to stop. If styptic powder isn’t available, try some corn starch (see below) or apply pressure with a clean cloth or your finger to stop the bleeding. Talk to your dog in a slow, calm voice to calm her – a broken or bleeding nail is painful. Styptic Powder for Dogs Styptic powder (active ingredient ferric subsulfate) clots the blood and stops small bleeds. Simply apply the powder to the tip of a bleeding nail, and the nail will stop bleeding. If you just ni ..read more

Dog grooming at home is not difficult, but you do need the right grooming supplies. Besides dog nail trimming tools and a good dog grooming scissor kit to trim hair on the feet, face, and body as needed, you need a brush that is appropriate for your dog’s coat.  If you truly enjoy dog grooming at home – and are good at it – you may want to consider becoming a professional. The American Academy of Pet Grooming or the National Dog Groomers Association of America can you help you get started. Basic Grooming Supplies for Dog Home Grooming Whole Dog Journal is reader-supported. If you purchase ..read more

Whole Dog Journal is reader-supported. If you purchase through links on our site we may earn a commission. Whole Dog Journal does not accept money for its food and product reviews. Whether you aspire to enter grooming competitions or just want to temporarily deck your dog out in your favorite sports team’s colors, be sure to choose products intended for use on dogs. Human hair and skin are different from dog hair and skin, and using human products on your pup could result in skin irritation, coat damage, or death. Choose a product that is formulated specifically for dogs. Critter Color and OPA ..read more

Whole Dog Journal is reader-supported. If you purchase through links on our site we may earn a commission. Whole Dog Journal does not accept money for its food and product reviews. Whether you aspire to enter grooming competitions or just want to temporarily deck your dog out in your favorite sports team’s colors, be sure to choose products intended for use on dogs. Human hair and skin are different from dog hair and skin, and using human products on your pup could result in skin irritation, coat damage, or death. Choose a product that is formulated specifically for dogs. Critter Color and OPA ..read more

If the beauty of your dog’s face is marred by rusty red streaks caused by dog tear stains, schedule a veterinary examination before using a dog tear stain remover. Many eye diseases and conditions can cause dog tears and resolving the underlying issue is better for your dog’s health and comfort. If your dog suffers from red eyes, eye discharge or any of the following conditions, getting treatment for them may resolve your tear-staining issue:   Conjunctivitis Corneal ulcer or injury Foreign bodies Glaucoma (elevated intraocular pressure) Distichiasis (extra eyelashes that rub on the corn ..read more

If the beauty of your dog’s face is marred by rusty red streaks caused by dog tear stains, schedule a veterinary examination before using a dog tear stain remover. Many eye diseases and conditions can cause dog tears and resolving the underlying issue is better for your dog’s health and comfort. If your dog suffers from red eyes, eye discharge or any of the following conditions, getting treatment for them may resolve your tear-staining issue:   Conjunctivitis Corneal ulcer or injury Foreign bodies Glaucoma (elevated intraocular pressure) Distichiasis (extra eyelashes that rub on the corn ..read more

A study published in a 2015 issue of Behavioural Processes determined that rolling over during play was a “combat maneuver adopted as part of an ongoing play sequence.” The researchers found the frequency of rollovers depended upon how long the play lasted. They considered none of the movements submissive, but instead, decided the dogs were either exhibiting defensive or offensive maneuvers during the play. This study debunks the idea that a dog rolling over, or showing their stomach to you or another dog, is a sign of submission. We suspect there are a lot of reasons why dogs roll and, while ..read more

Most grooming experts advise against shaving dogs, but in some cases, shaving may be the best option for some older dogs’ health and happiness. Shaving is Discouraged Most veterinarians and organizations like the American Kennel Club warn that double-coated dogs (that is, dogs with an insulating undercoat) should never be shaved, stating that shaving can cause overheating, discomfort, sunburn, clipper injuries, skin problems, follicle damage, and a ragged, patchy, unkempt coat that cannot be appropriately groomed. Instead of shaving, grooming experts recommend regular brushing to improve air c ..read more

Most grooming experts advise against shaving dogs, but in some cases, shaving may be the best option for some older dogs’ health and happiness. Shaving is Discouraged Most veterinarians and organizations like the American Kennel Club warn that double-coated dogs (that is, dogs with an insulating undercoat) should never be shaved, stating that shaving can cause overheating, discomfort, sunburn, clipper injuries, skin problems, follicle damage, and a ragged, patchy, unkempt coat that cannot be appropriately groomed. Instead of shaving, grooming experts recommend regular brushing to improve air c ..read more

Your dog’s nails provide traction and digging power even when they are short. The longer they get, the higher the risk that they may cause injuries. Nails clicking on the kitchen floor is a signal that it’s past time for a nail trim. The correct dog nail length is short. Nails shouldn’t touch the ground when your dog is standing still. As your dog runs and flexes her feet on the move, the short nails will still contact the ground to give her a good grip. Long Nails Can Cause Pain Long nails can impact how your dog walks. As the nail grows outward, it will also curve. A tight curve will eventua ..read more