A 3-month-old puppy is very delicate. At this stage, their fur is sparse, consisting mainly of puppy fluff, and they haven't completed their vaccinations. Therefore, it's generally not recommended to have them professionally groomed at this time. Scientifically speaking, the earliest you should consider professional grooming is around 1 year of age. However, you can achieve a similar effect by styling your dog yourself at home.
Around the age of 1 year, a dog has typically developed its adult coat. At this point, their fur is thick, and owners can begin to trim it into a suitable and adorable style. This is the ideal time for more significant styling.
In reality, there isn't a strict time limit for when you can start grooming a puppy's fur. Many owners choose to start grooming, including brushing and trimming, when their dogs are 7-8 months old. Depending on the dog's fur growth, owners may need to take them to a groomer every 1-2 months. Of course, if you are an experienced pet owner with a good understanding of puppy grooming and have plenty of practical experience, you can groom your dog yourself at home, avoiding trips to the pet salon and saving money.
How to Style Your Puppy at Home
1. Regular Grooming
First and foremost, ensure your puppy has healthy fur; this is crucial. Therefore, regular grooming of your dog's coat is essential. Regular grooming of puppy fur helps to remove dirt and loose hair, preventing them from tangling with the longer fur. Furthermore, regular grooming of puppy fur can promote blood circulation, relieve fatigue, and enhance the skin's resistance to external factors. This will lay the groundwork for easier styling later.
2. Combing
A dog's fur should be combed at least once a day. When combing, choose a pet-specific comb suitable for your dog's coat type. When combing your puppy, follow the direction of the fur growth gently. Usually, start slowly from the head and end at the tail. If you encounter tangled fur, don’t pull on it; gently untangle it. If the tangles are severe, use scissors to cut them out, but be careful not to hurt your dog's skin.
3. Brushing
Brushing differs from combing, primarily because it uses different tools. Combing uses a stainless-steel pin comb, while brushing uses a brush. Brushing stimulates the puppy's skin, promoting a protective layer that resists external irritants and makes the fur softer and fluffier. This is an important step for health and appearance.
4. Trimming
Appropriately trim areas that are commonly neglected, such as the abdomen, paws, hindquarters, and around the mouth. This prevents matting, tangles, soiling, and slipping, improving their overall comfort and health. Regular trimming also helps maintain a neater look.