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Hair Necessities Salmon Dry Dog Food - All Hounder
£14.89 - £56.69
Today, we're tackling a question that often pops up in our minds: "How often should I wash my dog?" As much as we love our four-legged companions, keeping them clean and groomed can sometimes feel like a daunting task. But fear not, because we're here with some expert tips to make dog grooming at home a breeze!
First things first, let's address the elephant in the room – or should we say, the furball on the couch? Washing your dog too frequently can actually do more harm than good. Over-bathing can strip away the natural oils in your pup's coat, leading to dry skin and irritation. So, how often is too often? As a general rule of paw, aim to bathe your dog once every 4-6 weeks, or whenever they start to emit that oh-so-familiar "Eau de Wet Dog" scent.
Of course, every dog is different, so you'll want to consider factors like breed, coat type, and lifestyle when determining your pup's bathing schedule. For example, a water-loving Labrador might need more frequent baths than a low-maintenance Chihuahua. Pay attention to your dog's individual needs and adjust accordingly.
Now, onto the fun part – grooming tips! Here are some tried-and-true techniques to keep your pup looking and feeling their best:
1. Brush, Brush, Brush: Regular brushing is key to maintaining a healthy coat and reducing shedding. For long-haired breeds, aim for daily brushing sessions to prevent mats and tangles. Short-haired pups can get away with a weekly brush, but don't skip out entirely – it's a great bonding activity for you and your furry friend!
2. Nail Care: Keep those claws trimmed to prevent painful overgrowth and snagging. Invest in a pair of high-quality dog nail clippers and trim your pup's nails every 2-4 weeks, or as needed. If you're unsure how to trim nails safely, don't hesitate to ask your vet or a professional groomer for guidance.
3. Ear Cleaning: Don't forget about those floppy ears! Regular ear cleaning can help prevent infections and keep your pup's ears fresh and healthy. Use a gentle ear cleaning solution and cotton balls to wipe away dirt and debris, being careful not to insert anything into the ear canal.
4. Dental Hygiene: Just like us humans, dogs need regular dental care to keep their pearly whites in tip-top shape. Brush your pup's teeth daily using a dog-friendly toothpaste and toothbrush, or offer dental chews and toys to help reduce plaque buildup.
5. The Barking Heads Difference: When it comes to nutrition, we've got your back with our Hair Necessities dry dog food. Our recipe is packed with zinc and biotin to give your dog's hair the strength of a superhero. No more bad hair days here! And guess what? Our pre-biotics will keep their digestion happy, so they can absorb all the wholesome goodness for a coat that's the envy of the dog park! Plus, it's hypoallergenic, grain-free, and crafted with natural ingredients – perfect for pups with sensitive skin and tummies.
Our Hair Necessities formula isn't just loved by pets; it's also approved by expert vets and specialist pet retailers. With salmon oil rich in omega 3 & 6, your dog's coat will be super glossy in no time!
So there you have it, folks – the ultimate guide to dog grooming, brought to you by Barking Heads. With a little love, patience, and the right products, keeping your pup looking and feeling their best has never been easier.
In this report, we’re looking at what dog food waste really looks like, why it happens, and, most importantly, how you can tackle it at home. To give you the best advice, we’ve teamed up with our two top pet pros, Adem Fehmi and Dr Scott.
Discover expert advice on what to feed your dog from puppyhood to old age. Learn about the best dog food for each life stage, senior diets, and how to meet your dog’s changing nutritional needs.
Why meditate with your dog? Let’s face it - modern life can be ruff sometimes. We know our dogs bring us endless joy, but taking just a few minutes each day to be still with your dog can also do wonders for your mental wellbeing. Studies show that meditating with your dog can lower stress levels, improve focus, and deepen your bond with your pet - all contributing to better mental health. And it's not just the humans who benefit - dogs can pick up on our energy, so a calmer you means a calmer pooch. It’s a great way to bring a little balance to both your lives, and take a little time for yourself. From lowering heart rates to creating stronger connections, shared mindfulness can help both species feel more grounded. Getting started with dog meditation Ready to try it out? Here’s how to get started: 1. Pick a quiet space - a cosy corner, a soft rug, or even your garden. Anywhere that feels safe and still for both of you. 2. Choose a comfy position - you can sit cross-legged with your dog lying beside you, or even on your lap if they choose. You could also: Sit with your back against a wall and your legs stretched out, your dog curled up on your legs or chest. Lie down in Savasana (flat on your back) and let your dog snuggle next to you. Cuddle side-by-side on the sofa with your hand resting gently on their chest or belly. Kneel with your dog in front of you, stroking them gently as you breathe. 3. Breathe slowly and deeply - your calm breath will help soothe your pup. Inhale peace, exhale stress. 4. Try a meditation guide – if you’re struggling to quite your mind, why not try a guided meditation? There are many free guides available online. 5. Keep it short and sweet - start with just 5 minutes and build from there. It’s not a race to enlightenment - it’s about shared stillness. 6. Stay present - don’t worry if your dog fidgets, licks your nose or flops dramatically onto their back. That’s part of the fun. Let them be themselves. We asked dog yoga expert and author, Mahny Djahanguiri, to share a visualisation and breathing technique for meditation with your dog. This practice helps you reconnect with your body while also attuning to your dog’s energy. “Find a place to lie on your back in Shavasana. Palms turned up, feet relaxed, and eyes closed. You can use music to come into this space. Your dog doesn’t need to be next to you, even if he paces around in the room or comes to lick your face - ignore! Now imagine you had a piece of chalk, any colour you wish. Slowly, in your mind's eye draw a line around your outer body. Take as much time as you need but try to really focus on the shape of your body, eg draw along the inner arm, fingers, hair …. Try not to miss out any part…. Of course, relax, as you're doing this. Notice your breath slowing down. Breathing in and out, through your nose or open mouth. Notice your face softens, belly relaxes. Now do the same thing gain the other direction. Find out light your body is becoming or how heavy your body is becoming… notice the sensations in your body. Notice how the lines start to illuminate your body like a beautiful crystal frame… When your done try to do the same thing maybe choosing another colour and do the visualisation exercise keeping the shape of your dog's body in mind. This can be challenging at first, don’t worry if you can hold onto the form of your dog, if you draw the mind back without force.” Enhance the experience with relaxation sounds and music Did you know that dogs actually love chill music? Not only can it calm anxious dogs, but it can also help them settle faster and snooze more soundly. Try pairing your session with dog meditation music or dog relaxation sounds. We’re loving this soothing Spotify playlist tailored just for pups. Think gentle tones, steady rhythms, and serious tail-wag potential. How to build a lasting routine for you and your dog Consistency is key. Whether it’s a few mindful moments after your morning walk or a pre-bedtime cuddle and breathe session, weaving meditation into your daily routine can help it stick. Here are some positive reinforcement tips: Pair meditation with an already established habit (like mealtime or walkies). Use a soft voice cue or signal to start the session. Reward calm behaviour with gentle praise or a tasty treat. Let your dog come and go as they please - no pressure, just presence. And most importantly? Enjoy the journey. Every shared breath, every still moment, is a step towards a happier, healthier life together. Want to explore more ways to support your dog’s mental wellbeing? Take a peek at our Dog Mental Health Guide for expert tips, helpful signs to look out for, and everyday ways to help your best mate feel their best.
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