It is very important for owners to regularly groom their dogs, it has been noted.
Dr Candy d’Sa, animal behaviour consultant and a regular guest on Radio Solent, explained that while it is not usually necessary for people to bathe mammalian pets – such as pooches, cats and rabbits – grooming is a different story.
The expert observed this activity could help to prevent infection by removing dirt from the animal’s coat, while new hair growth can be stimulated when dead hair is brushed away.
Grooming not only has tangible benefits such as these, Dr d’Sa explained, it can also help to strengthen the bond between an owner and his or her four-legged friend.
People may therefore want to ensure they set aside enough time in order to provide such care as often as required for their particular breed.
Dr d’Sa explained pets with longer hair may need daily grooming, adding the treatment can act as a form of social activity for many animals.
She stated: “Many pet species/breeds have been selectively bred to have long coats purely for aesthetic reasons – these coats are often not practical and grooming is essential.”