Mixed-Breed Dog (Small)

The key to a shiny, healthy coat can be found both on the inside and on the outside of a dog. Good health, good nutrition and veterinary-prescribed parasite control will contribute to a healthy, shiny coat. Regular combing, brushing and bathing as needed will keep a healthy coat looking great.

Coat type will determine if your mixed-breed dog might benefit from being clipped. Dogs with coats that mat easily, such as curly coats or long, silky coats, are easier to keep clean and mat-free with clipping every 6 to 8 weeks. Short-haired dogs don’t need more than regular brushing, and long-haired dogs need to be combed down to the skin and brushed regularly. Dogs who don't need an overall clip may benefit from having the fur between their toes clipped short, and mats cut out, such as those that often form behind the ears. For some dogs, a "potty path" trim may keep things neater in the rear, as well.

How often and how much grooming a mixed-breed dog needs depends on the kind of coat – short, long, curly, etc. – and how much shedding you wish to accept. More frequent brushing, combing and bathing reduces shedding by removing loose fur before it falls out naturally. Most dogs do well with weekly combing/brushing and baths as needed for dirt and smell. Don’t forget paws: Nail trims are best kept up weekly to avoid long dagger nails that are painful when cut back, and trimming fur between the pads helps prevent burrs from settling there. Ear cleaning may also be a regular occurrence, especially for dogs with floppy ears. Finally, small dogs, especially, may need their anal glands emptied regularly – which can be done by your veterinary healthcare team or groomer if the very thought grosses you out!