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How to Keep Your Newfoundland Dog Clean: A Grooming Guide for Gentle Giants

 

Newfoundland dogs are known for their immense size, fluffy coats, and sweet, loving nature. While their affectionate demeanor makes them an incredible addition to any family, their thick double coat and love for water can make grooming and keeping them clean a bit of a challenge. Don’t worry—here’s a guide to help you keep your Newfie fresh, clean, and healthy.

1. Brush, Brush, Brush! 🧹

Newfoundlands have a dense double coat that sheds year-round, with heavier shedding during spring and fall. Regular brushing helps:

  • Prevent matting.
  • Reduce shedding.
  • Keep their coat looking shiny and healthy.

Frequency: Aim for at least 2–3 times a week, and daily brushing during shedding seasons.
Tools: Use a slicker brush, an undercoat rake, and a wide-tooth comb to tackle their thick fur.

2. Bathe When Needed 🛁

While Newfoundlands don’t require frequent baths, an occasional bath helps keep them smelling fresh and removes dirt buildup. Over-bathing can strip their coat of natural oils, so stick to a schedule of every 6–8 weeks or as needed.

Bathing Tips:

  • Use a dog-friendly shampoo formulated for thick coats.
  • Thoroughly rinse their coat to prevent skin irritation.
  • Dry them completely, as moisture trapped in their coat can lead to skin infections.

3. Pay Attention to Their Ears 👂

Newfoundlands have floppy ears that can trap moisture, making them prone to ear infections. Regular ear cleaning is essential to avoid buildup and bacteria.

Steps for Ear Cleaning:

  1. Use a vet-approved ear cleaner.
  2. Gently wipe the inside of their ears with a soft cloth or cotton ball.
  3. Avoid inserting anything into the ear canal.

Frequency: Check their ears weekly and clean as needed.

4. Tidy Those Paws 🐾

Newfoundlands often pick up dirt, debris, and moisture in their large, webbed paws. Keeping them clean helps prevent infections and keeps your home cleaner too!

Paw Care Tips:

  • Check for dirt, twigs, or stones after walks.
  • Trim the hair between their paw pads to prevent matting.
  • Regularly inspect their nails and trim them as needed to avoid overgrowth.

5. Oral Hygiene is Key 🦷

Good oral hygiene is crucial for your Newfie’s overall health. Dental care helps prevent bad breath, tartar buildup, and gum disease.

How to Brush Your Newfie’s Teeth:

  • Use a dog-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste.
  • Aim for brushing 2–3 times a week (daily if possible).
  • Supplement with dental chews for added cleaning power.

6. Keep the Undercoat Under Control

Newfoundland dogs shed their undercoat heavily during seasonal changes. Regular grooming sessions during this time can prevent your home from becoming a fur-covered disaster.

What to Do During Shedding Season:

  • Use an undercoat rake to remove loose fur.
  • Schedule professional grooming if needed.

7. Monitor Their Skin and Coat

Newfoundlands can be prone to skin issues due to their thick coat. Regularly check for:

  • Hot spots: Red, inflamed areas caused by moisture and irritation.
  • Dry skin or dandruff: May require a moisturizing shampoo or dietary adjustments.
  • Fleas and ticks: Use a flea prevention treatment recommended by your vet.

8. Invest in Grooming Gear and Professional Help

Having the right tools can make grooming your Newfoundland much easier. If grooming at home feels overwhelming, professional groomers familiar with giant breeds can help keep your Newfie looking and feeling great.

Must-Have Grooming Tools:

  • High-velocity dryer to dry their coat thoroughly.
  • Nail clippers or a grinder for safe trimming.
  • A grooming table (or a non-slip mat) for easier handling.

9. Love Their Love for Water

Newfoundlands are natural swimmers, which means they may get wet and muddy often. After water play, be sure to:

  • Rinse them off to remove dirt and chlorine (if swimming in pools).
  • Dry their coat thoroughly to avoid infections.

10. Make Grooming a Positive Experience 🐾❤️

Newfoundlands are gentle giants, but their size can make grooming challenging if they’re not comfortable with the process. Make grooming sessions enjoyable by:

  • Starting routines early in puppyhood.
  • Using treats and praise to create positive associations.
  • Taking breaks if they get restless.

With regular grooming and care, your Newfoundland will not only stay clean but will also feel comfortable and happy. Plus, a clean Newfie means fewer muddy paw prints and less fur taking over your home! Happy grooming! 🐾

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