Smooth-coated pets like Beagles, Greyhounds, and some Terriers often appear easy to care for. While they do not typically develop mats, their coats still need attention to stay healthy. Regular care at home helps keep their skin in good condition and their coat shiny. It also helps manage shedding and keeps your pet comfortable between professional grooming appointments.
Daily Brushing for Smooth Coats
Even a smooth coat benefits from regular brushing. Brushing helps remove loose hair, dirt, and dander. It also stimulates the skin, which encourages natural oil production for a healthy shine. For smooth-coated breeds, a rubber curry brush, a grooming mitt, or a soft bristle brush works well. Use short, gentle strokes, moving with the direction of your pet’s hair growth. Focus on areas where they might lie down, like their sides and belly. Brushing a few times a week is a good routine. This practice can also be a nice bonding time for you and your pet.
Bathing Your Smooth-Coated Pet
How often your smooth-coated pet needs a bath depends on their lifestyle. If they spend a lot of time outdoors or get dirty often, they might need more frequent baths. For most, a bath every three to four weeks is enough. Use a gentle shampoo that will not strip their skin of its natural oils. We recommend Deluge, an extra gentle shampoo designed for all ages, which cleans without stripping natural oils. Always rinse thoroughly. Any shampoo residue left on the skin can cause irritation or dryness.
Drying Smooth Coats
After a bath, towel dry your pet as much as possible. Smooth coats dry relatively quickly. You can let them air dry in a warm, draft-free room. If you use a pet dryer, set it to a low or cool setting. Make sure your pet is completely dry before they go outside or lie down for an extended period. Damp skin can sometimes lead to skin issues.
Managing Shedding
Smooth-coated breeds do shed, often year-round. Regular brushing is your best tool for managing this. The rubber curry brush or grooming mitt can effectively remove loose hairs before they end up on your furniture. After brushing, you can wipe your pet down with a damp cloth. This helps pick up any remaining loose hairs and can leave their coat looking smoother.
Keeping Skin Healthy
With smooth-coated breeds, their skin is more visible. It is important to keep an eye on it. Check for any signs of dryness, flakiness, redness, or irritation. A healthy diet contributes to healthy skin and coat. If you notice any unusual skin conditions, it is best to consult with your veterinarian. Maintaining good hygiene through regular brushing and appropriate bathing helps support overall skin health.
Quick Clean-Ups Between Baths
Between full baths, there are simple ways to keep your pet fresh. If your pet gets a little dirty, a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth can often do the trick. You can also use a light conditioning spray like Envy. This spray provides lightweight moisture without residue and can help absorb odors. It is a good choice for a quick refresh. Remember to regularly check their ears, paws, and around their eyes for any dirt or debris that might accumulate.