Why should you condition your dog’s fur?

Warren Eckstein, nation’s leading pet behavioralist, recommends conditioning your dog after shampooing.   

So why use dog conditioner?

Dog conditioner helps to prevent static, mats and knots.  Dog conditioner also helps to create a healthy and shiny coat. 

Few things to keep in mind…

To insure the skin gains the needed moisture, be sure to work the conditioner into the coat.  Remove all conditioner when rinsing the dog; any leftover conditioner can cause irritation and dryness to your dog’s skin.

Learn more about how and why to use dog condition in this video with Warren Eckstein.

Reduce Your Dog’s Dry, Itchy Skin

With cold weather for many people comes dry skin, the same is true for your dog.  Have you noticed your dog scratching a bit more than usual?  American Kennel Club^TMGOLD offers a few solution to add additional moister to your dog’s coat to help reduce itching.  AKC^TM GOLD grooming sprays are a great way to condition a coat and add moister to the skin, in particular the American Kennel Club^TM GOLD Oatmeal Soothing Spray. The Oatmeal Soothing Spray’s fast acting proteins help to add moisturize deep into the skin, relieving irritated skin and reducing flaking.  The product is non-toxic, biodegradable making it very safe to use on your dog. 

To learn more watch this informational video staring Warren Eckstein, America’s leading pet behaviorist for over 30 years. 

Cold Weather and Itchy Dogs

Are you noticing that your dog is a bit more itchy than usual these days?  With the cold weather and the dry in-door heat, your dog’s skin can become dry and itchy just like humans.

The following tips will bring a great deal of comfort to your dog during these cold months.

1.    Brush your dog frequently to get rid of dead skin cells. Brushing stimulates circulation and the production of oil, which in turn provides moisture. This applies to both long and shorthaired dogs.

2.    Use a dog specific shampoo such as  AKC^TM  GOLD Oatmeal Soothing Shampoo.  The use of natural oatmeal in the shampoo helps to sooth and provides itch relief.  AKC^TM GOLD Oatmeal Soothing Shampoo includes pro-vitamin B-5, the moisturizing ingredient that adds luster and shine to the coat at the same time thickening hair, helping prevent damage. The formula incorporates the use of fruit acid, vitamin A, vitamin E and fast acting proteins to aid in water sheeting off the coat quickly.

3.    Shampoo your dog less frequently during the cold months. Too much bathing can strip the coat of its natural oils. Every few months is normally a good schedule, unless you have a dog that spends more time outdoors.  The use of a daily coat conditioner such as  AKC^TM GOLD Oatmeal Soothing Spray will relieve irritated skin between shampoos and calm irritation.  AKC^TM  GOLD Oatmeal Soothing Spray is a unique blend of fruit acids, vitamin A, vitamin E and fast acting proteins to help moisturize deep into the skin.

4.    Use a room humidifier to moisten the air if your home is too dry from running the heat.

If you have other suggestions feel free to post them to our Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/AKC-Gold/334984482878 

Keeping your dog safe during the holidays

The holidays are a busy and enjoyable time to share with family and friends, including our four-legged friends.  Here are a few things you can do around the house to avoid harm to your pet.

• Ingesting ornaments can cause major problems for your dog.  Be sure to place shiny ornaments, tinsel, bulbs and anything that will catch your dog’s eye high enough to be out of reach.

• Exposed wires can cause electrocution if chewed.  Tape indoor decoration wires to the wall and outdoor wires to the house where your dog can’t reach them. You can also spray AKC GOLD No Chew spray on the exposed wires, preventing your dog from chewing on the wires.

• Dispose of all wrapping paper, bows and ribbons as soon as you are finished opening presents.  If swallowed, these can cause intestinal obstruction that often requires surgery to remove.

• If you have a natural tree make sure your dog doesn't swallow the pine needles or drink the tree water, it can cause stomach irritation. Poinsettias, holly, and mistletoe should be kept out of your dog's reach, as they can be poisonous.

• Keep foods out of reach that may cause indigestion such as popcorn and/or cranberry strands, chocolate, candy, table food.  It is best to maintain your dog’s normal diet through the holidays.

For more safety tips, visit the Canine Good Citizen blog at http://caninegoodcitizen.wordpress.com.