Tips about your dog

Buying a hypoallergenic dog may be a great solution for reducing your allergic reactions to doghair and dander, but you should know that these dogs have special grooming needs. Mosthypoallergenic dogs have short fur that is more like human hair that dog fur. This means thatthey shed as much and need as many haircuts as their human companions.Grooming is a very important part of caring for a hypoallergenic dog, and if you don't have timeto do it yourself, plan on regular visits to the professional groomer. You should plan on dailybrushings and monthly baths. If you don't have the time and can't afford to pay for this service,you may want to consider getting another breed.Some of the more popular hypoallergenic dog breeds include terrier, basenji, bichon frise,poodle, Chinese crested, greyhound, havanese, Irish water spaniel, and shih Tzu. Most of theseare smaller dogs, and many of them are quite temperamental. Until your dog has grownaccustomed to the grooming routine, he may growl and snip at you.If you can't cope with these temper tantrums, you may want to use the professional groomer totrim and bathe your hypoallergenic dog. Chain pet stores normally have a grooming department,and you'll be able to find many groomers in the yellow pages. Some groomers will even come toyou in their mobile grooming vans. But while finding a groomer may be easy, finding one youcan depend on may be more of a challenge.The first time you trim your hypoallergenic dog's air, you'll decide how long you want to leavethe remaining coat. You may choose the show-dog cut, but you are not limited to that look. Afterthe trim is done (whether by a groomer or you), inspect the job to be sure the cut is even andthat the dog's skin is cut-, scrape-, and scratch-free. You may need to apply a small amount ofantibiotic to any breaks in the skin as a precaution.It's a good idea to have your hypoallergenic dog's face hair and nails trimmed at the same timeas the regular cut. Most dogs do not like the pedicure but, with practice patience, you can wintheir cooperation. It's important to regularly clip your dog's nails, as they can become a healthHow To Take Care Of Your Dog’s Health© Wings Of Success Page 29 of 79hazard if they grow too long. Clip up to about 2 millimeters (1/16 inch) from the cuticle, andexpect at least a little bleeding. Keep styptic powder handy just in case.Most hypoallergenic dogs will enjoy the daily brushing, and it's important to maintain this habit toprevent shedding, matting, and "alien" debris from collecting in your dog's coat. If your long-hairhypoallergenic dog has persistent knots in his fur, you may want to brush it more often ormaintain a closer trim.Aside from the benefits of good hygiene and proper grooming, caring for your hypoallergenicdog this way gives you time to share physical affection and devoted attention to yourhypoallergenic dog. Many people who are not comfortable with normal dogs will enjoy thecompany of a hypoallergenic dog, so you should maintain a beautiful healthy coat at all times.Your special hypoallergenic dog may be a bit of a prima dona, and the attention they receivefrom both friends and strangers will only confirm their valuable opinions of themselves.Hypoallergenic breeds tend to be small, cute, and cuddly - if a bit nervous or temperamental.But if you have allergies or are sensitive to dog fur and dander, you may find a hypoallergenicdog to be the best friend you ever had. Show him how much you appreciate him by providing,regular thorough grooming and bathing. You'll be glad you did.