We are pleased to present this guest post from Dogs Trust.
Adoring our dogs means embracing the mud and fluff of their rock and roll-over lifestyle, from mucky park rambles to the lost fur that leaves our carpets in desperate need of a dog-friendly vacuum!
If you have a dog, or are dreaming of sharing your home with one, here are some cleaning tips and tricks from our muckiest rehomed pups, who are out and about and living their best pooch lives.
- Keep your dog clean and comfortable
Depending on the weather, it’s a good idea give your dog a gentle clean up after a walk to make sure they are comfortable. Using a damp cloth, wipe down your dog’s legs, feet, and stomach as the grit from roads or dampness from rain can irritate their skin. After a very muddy walk, it’s advisable to give your dog a rinse using plain water. Save pet shampoo for occasional use, as over-washing can irritate your best friend’s coat and make them uncomfortable.
Gentle and regular brushing helps keep your dog’s coat healthy and can support them to feel more at ease with being handled, as well as giving you the opportunity to check them for any lumps or bumps. Brushing will also gather up excess dog hair before it gathers on your carpets.
- Think practically about your dog’s bed
We want our dogs to be as cosy as possible, with a snuggly and supportive bed that they can really relax in. With so many luxurious options available, it’s easy to get carried away with the aesthetics and not think about the practicality of some of the more extravagant options.
If your dog loves a lie down after a muddy walk or a bath, you might want to consider having a bed that is easier to clean more regularly. There are plenty of hardwearing options that are simple to wipe down, and allow you to change the bedding regularly.
- Have a clean-up kit
Part and parcel of being a dog owner is always being prepared to scoop poop, or clean up the occasional grass-induced surprise on rugs and carpets. We never know what life will throw at us, so it’s best to be prepared with a trusty supply of pet safe clean up items, for any eventuality.
It’s sensible for these occasions to have a fully stocked cabinet of carpet cleaner, stain remover, or special anti-marking cleaning products (especially if you are toilet training a young dog).
- Upgrade your vacuum cleaner
When it comes to the coat-shedding months, many of us are left scratching our heads and wondering if our carpets were always the same colour as our four-legged friends?
Cleaning up pet hair can be a struggle, and it’s true that some vacuums simply aren’t tough enough for the fluff. If you’re having difficulty, it might be time to treat yourself to a specialist brand, such as Shark TruePet vacuum cleaners, that are designed with pet hair in mind.
Many dogs can find the vacuum frightening, so it’s best to introduce them to it carefully and gradually. Try building up their confidence around the vacuum one step at a time, using our guide.
- Pooch-proof your furniture
When it comes to training, it’s best to keep house rules clear and consistent. Dogs will find it hard to understand why some days you are happy for them to cuddle up on the sofa, and why on other (muddier) occasions, you are ushering them away from their favourite spot.
If you decide you’re happy for your dog to relax on your furniture, stock up on a good supply of dog blankets that you can swap in and out whenever necessary. These will allow you to protect your soft furnishings while helping you to keep your training easy for your four-legged friend to follow.
As with all things dog-related, it’s best to plan ahead so that you can relax and have fun with your pooch. Follow these simple steps and help your dog live their happiest life, bog-snorkelling their way through every puddle in the park (and are looking very, very pleased with themselves!) As ever, if they’re happy, we’re happy.
Shark is pleased to partner with Dogs Trust, Registered Charity Numbers: 227523 & SC037843.
