10 Dog Grooming Tips To Use At Home

1. Brush Your Dog’s Coat Based on Its Breed

Maintain coat health and reduce shedding.

When you think of dog grooming, you most likely think of brushing their coats. Brushing is integral to keeping a dog’s coat free from issues such as shedding or matting. 

For the wide variety of dog breeds out there, each of our fuzzy companions comes with a different coat type, each needing its own brush routine. For example:

• Short/Smooth coat types (Dobermans, pugs, etc) require brushing at least once a week

• Curly coats (Poodles, terriers, etc) require brushing 2 times a week 

• Long/Coarse coat types (Shih Tzus, Tibetan Terriers, etc) require 3 to 4 times a week

Start by gently removing fur matting with picking motions, avoiding pulling or brushing directly into clumps. Then, brush in the direction of your dog’s fur, section by section, for longer-haired breeds.

2. Bathe Your Dog with Proper Shampoo

Choose products made specifically for dogs.

While it might be tempting to grab your shampoo to make your dog’s coat nice and shiny, avoid it at all costs. Human shampoos are not designed with the proper pH level for dogs' skin and hair, often harming them. 

When bathtime rolls around, have a specialized dog shampoo ready; it is entirely safe for your pup and gives them a nice clean look. If you are unsure what the best shampoo choice is, there are plenty of options, from organic, heavy-duty, antiseptic, and even types to fight off fleas and ticks. 

3. Trim Your Dog’s Nails Regularly

Prevent painful overgrowth and posture issues.

If your dog’s nails are overgrown, standing or walking can be painful. Regular trimming helps keep your dog’s nails at the correct length, allowing them to move and play comfortably without pain.

4. Clean Ears Safely and Gently

Remove wax and prevent infections.

Like humans, dirty ears can lead your dog to nasty infections, making routine cleanings essential for keeping them healthy and safe. The best way to clean out a dog’s ears is by using a specialized ear cleaner. Unlike humans, dogs have a different ear canal structure, which causes wax to get trapped, making tools like Q-tips unusable.

5. Brush Your Dog’s Teeth Weekly

Support oral health and prevent disease.

Just like how you should be brushing daily, your pup’s chompers need frequent care. As with human teeth, poor oral care can result in your dog suffering from issues like periodontal disease, cysts, and tumors. 

While a yearly vet visit can help spot and address these health issues, they are preventable with at-home brushing. Weekly cleaning helps to clear away tartar and harmful bacteria, leaving behind pearly whites that impress the vet on the next visit.

6. Use a De-shedding Tool During Shedding Seasons

Keep excess hair under control.

Some dog breeds shed more than others, but thankfully, fur-covered couches and clothing don’t have to be your future; all it takes is proper de-shedding. 

This may sound like a stressful chore, but de-shedding tools can help minimize the amount of fur shed. These tools safely and smoothly remove the excess overcoat, making your dog feel more comfortable and preventing your home from becoming a giant hairball. 

7. Check for Fleas, Ticks, and Skin Issues

Spot early signs of parasites or irritation.

Playing outside is a wonderful way for your dog to burn off energy, but it can also lead to some unwanted visitors. Fleas and ticks can infect your dog with diseases and can use them as a means to enter your home.

Always inspect your dog for pests or any skin irritation after they play outside. Even if you see nothing, keep a close watch on your pup’s appetite or behavior; sudden changes could be due to being bitten by a tick or flea.

8. Use Positive Reinforcement During Grooming

Keep your dog calm and cooperative.

For some dogs, things like brushing teeth and nail trimming can be scary, making them feel stressed or prone to running away. Here are some common ways to soothe your dog for better grooming cooperation:

• Make grooming sessions short

• Groom regularly

• Have them sit on a cozy, non-slip rug or mat

• Provide praise or treats during the process

• Use comfortable tools, such as softer brushes 

Taking these small steps helps keep your dog comfortable as you groom them.

9. Trim Hair Around Eyes, Ears, and Paws

Help improve comfort and cleanliness.

Overgrown fur can cause problems with hearing, vision, and even walking. Long fur also makes your dog a magnet for debris. 

Dust, dirt, and other contaminants can attach to their fur, which, if left, can lead to infections and skin irritations. Routinely trimming shaggy areas keeps your dog comfortable and clean in their daily lives. 

10. Inspect Your Dog’s Coat and Skin Weekly

Detect lumps, dryness, or skin disorders early.

We’ve discussed it a few times throughout this guide, but your dog’s skincare is not to be ignored. The skin is an organ and can develop problems like lumps, dry patches, or skin disorders. Inspecting your pet weekly can help you catch these problems early before they get worse.

Make Dog Grooming a Breeze with The Absorber

Congratulations on reaching the end of our dog grooming guide! By following these tips, you can implement a regular at-home grooming schedule. Grooming your furry friend benefits their health and appearance and provides the perfect opportunity to strengthen your bond.

The Absorber from Dog Lover’s Towel can make your grooming even easier. Made of super-absorbent material, this towel allows for effective, efficient drying action, removing excess water from your dog’s coat. Machine washable and soft to the touch, The Absorber is the only towel you need for your dog’s grooming routine.