Dog Grooming Tips & Advice
Keep your furry friend looking and feeling their best with our expert grooming guide
Brushing Basics
Regular brushing prevents mats, reduces shedding, and keeps your dog's coat healthy.
- •Brush your dog 2-3 times per week minimum
- •Use the right brush for your dog's coat type
- •Start from the head and work toward the tail
- •Be gentle around sensitive areas like ears and belly
- •Make it a positive experience with treats and praise
Bathing Your Dog
Proper bathing keeps your dog clean without stripping natural oils.
- •Bathe your dog every 4-6 weeks or when dirty
- •Use lukewarm water and dog-specific shampoo
- •Rinse thoroughly to prevent skin irritation
- •Avoid getting water in ears - use cotton balls
- •Dry completely, especially in skin folds
Coat Care by Type
Different coat types need different care routines.
- •Short coats: Weekly brushing, occasional baths
- •Double coats: Daily brushing during shedding season
- •Long coats: Daily brushing to prevent tangles
- •Curly coats: Regular professional grooming every 4-6 weeks
- •Wire coats: Hand-stripping or professional grooming
Nail Care
Keeping nails trimmed is essential for your dog's comfort and health.
- •Trim nails every 2-4 weeks
- •Use proper dog nail clippers or a grinder
- •Avoid cutting the quick (pink area inside nail)
- •Keep styptic powder handy for accidents
- •If unsure, let a professional handle it
Ear & Dental Care
Don't forget these often-overlooked areas of grooming.
- •Check ears weekly for redness, odor, or discharge
- •Clean ears with vet-approved solution
- •Brush teeth 2-3 times per week
- •Use dog-specific toothpaste (never human)
- •Provide dental chews for additional cleaning
When to See a Pro
Some grooming tasks are best left to professionals.
- •Breed-specific haircuts and styling
- •Severely matted coats
- •Anal gland expression
- •Dogs with anxiety or behavioral issues
- •Senior dogs or those with health conditions
Grooming Guide by Breed
| Breed | Grooming Frequency | Special Needs |
|---|---|---|
| Golden Retriever | Every 6-8 weeks | Regular brushing, ear cleaning, feather trimming |
| Poodle | Every 4-6 weeks | Professional grooming, daily brushing, ear hair removal |
| German Shepherd | Every 8-12 weeks | Frequent brushing, deshedding treatments |
| Shih Tzu | Every 4-6 weeks | Daily brushing, face cleaning, professional styling |
| Labrador | Every 8-12 weeks | Regular brushing, occasional baths, nail trims |
| Yorkshire Terrier | Every 4-6 weeks | Daily brushing, topknot maintenance, professional cuts |
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