Blog For Dog Lovers

Handling your dog’s grooming routine can be overwhelming, especially if you have an unruly or anxious dog. But you can borrow a few tips from professional dog groomers to improve your dog’s relationship with bathing, drying, brushing, nail trimming, and more.

Here are some principles and techniques to follow when grooming your dog at home.

Basic Dog Grooming Principles

Introducing your dog to grooming while they are very young is the best way to be able to manage their grooming routine at home. If you’ve adopted an adult dog, this may not be possible, but you can still get them used to grooming by doing it frequently and regularly.

Secondly, you need to know your dog’s coat type and select the right products. Retrievers, poodles, and shih tzus often require extra care. If you have a long-haired or double-coated dog, you should do your research before starting grooming to save you and your pup unnecessary stress.

Bathing & Drying Techniques

All dogs need to be bathed, but not all dogs should be bathed at the same frequency. Additionally, you need to use shampoo that is tailored to your dog’s skin. Consult your vet if you are unsure about either of these things.

To bathe your dog like a professional, you need to keep them as calm as possible. This means paying special attention to the place where you’ll bathe your dog, so they don’t feel like they’re going to fall, slip, or become submerged underwater. Make sure the water temperature is comfortable, and there aren’t any loud noises or other conditions that can startle your dog.

This also means staying firm and in control but never getting upset with your dog or shouting at them. When you prepare a pleasant space for grooming, the process is likely to be less stressful for both of you.

When it comes to drying, dry your dog’s entire coat at once so it doesn’t curl unevenly. You should both hand dry using a highly absorbent towel and blow dry. Blow dry your dog’s coat from the right distance to avoid tangles. The longer the coat, the farther away the dryer should be.

Brushing & Detangling Techniques

Brush your dog’s coat regularly to prevent mats and tangles. Start by brushing once a day for a few minutes and increase the time as your dog becomes comfortable with it. Brushing helps distribute the natural oils through your dog’s coat, keeping it healthy and shiny, and it can also stop excessive shedding.

Classic bristle brushes work for many dogs, but you may need a slicker brush for long-haired dogs.

Before and during bathing, de-shed and de-mat your dog. This will make drying faster and leave less hair on the floor for you to clean up.

Nail Trimming & Paw Care Techniques

Nail trimming is an essential part of dog hygiene. Unclipped nails can lead to sudden breakage and infection. They can also push into your dog’s paw pads, causing pain and serious issues.

If you can, introduce it to your pup early. You can start with just one nail at a time, offering treats as you do it.

Don’t forget to trim the hair between your dog’s paw pads. Keeping this area hair-free helps keep it clean, prevent irritation, and give your dog traction while walking so they don’t slip.

Eye & Ear Care

All dog’s eyes and ears should be kept clean, but dogs with droopy eyes and ears require special care. 

Make sure your dog’s eyes are always free of discharge. If you notice persistent tearing or red-colored lower lids, consult your vet.

Ears, especially on dogs whose ears touch the ground, should be kept clean. But you want to avoid getting water in them, which can create a breeding ground for infection. Massage your dog’s ears and then wipe away any debris using a cotton ball or piece of gauze. Only use ear-cleaning solutions recommended by your vet, and don’t insert anything into your dog’s ears. 

Don’t use soap for your dog’s eyes or ears.

Haircuts & Styling
If you want to trim your dog’s hair yourself, you should invest in the proper tools, including high-quality scissors, clippers, and shears designed for dog grooming.

For example, trim your dog’s face, paw pads, and sanitary areas using a #10 blade before switching your blade for the rest of their body. You can use thinning shears to shape the fur on your dog’s face.

Bathe before clipping.

Maintaining a Grooming Schedule

You can think of grooming as part of training your dog. Consistently brush, bathe, and trim nails. This will especially help dogs who are anxious about grooming. Instead of dreading grooming and doing it only once in a while, do it often, and take breaks if necessary. 

Groom Your Dog Like a Pro With CleanTools

The keys to successful dog grooming at home are patience, consistency, and the right tools. But you don’t need to break the bank or open up a professional salon in your home to get them. With the Dog Lover’s Towel, you can dry your dog at lightning speed to prevent tangles, mats, and wet dog smells. Whether your dog loves or hates baths, this towel makes it easier to keep your pup happy and healthy.

Trimming your dog’s face, especially their eyes, nose, and ears, is essential to keep them clean and comfortable, but it can be quite a challenge if your dog is not a fan of grooming. However, with patience, consistency, and the right grooming tools, you’ll be able to groom even the most fidgety dog.

Here are seven tips to help keep your dog still during grooming.

Create a Calm Environment

Before you jump into grooming, prepare your grooming area to be as stress-free as possible for you and your dog.

First, invest in a non-slip dog grooming mat. This will keep your dog from slipping and sliding everywhere during bathing and grooming and save you both a lot of frustration. Staying stable on a grooming mat may also help your dog feel more at ease.

If your dog is overly fidgety or anxious, consider using calming aids. Soothing music is one option. You can also use sprays or dog shampoos that contain calming pheromones.

Lastly, if your dog simply cannot stay still or becomes aggressive during grooming, consider purchasing a grooming restraint for dogs. 

Use Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement means rewarding your dog for good behavior that will make grooming easier. Try to train your dog to “stay” or sit still by rewarding them with a treat every time they do so. You’ll need to hold your dog’s face while trimming, so get them used to handling their face, rewarding them as you go. Try to practice holding their muzzle shut, but never force it. If your dog is okay with it, try to hold it shut for a few seconds, and be sure to reward them.

Gradually Introduce Your Dog to Grooming Tools

Introduce your dog to scissors, clippers, grooming restraints, and other tools gradually rather than taking them out all at once.

Create a positive association with clippers, for example, by giving your dog a treat every time you take them out. Bring the clippers near your dog’s face to prepare them for future trims, and reward them. Before you attempt to trim your dog’s face, trim other areas of their body, and keep rewarding.

Do the same with a grooming restraint. When you first put it on, make sure you’re not hurting your dog.

Practice Short and Regular Sessions

It’s better to practice short, consistent grooming sessions than to try to put a restless dog through a long grooming session. Aim to trim one area at a time, even if it’s just your dog’s chin area. 

Short, regular sessions can help make your dog more comfortable with grooming so both of you don’t dread it as much.

Use Gentle Restraint

As previously mentioned, if you’re going to use a grooming restraint, put it on gently and avoid hurting your dog. 

If you’re not going to use restraint equipment, wrap your arm around your dog’s neck. When you do this, you’ll be close to your dog and able to tell if they start growling. Use a soft, soothing tone to talk to your dog, even when you’re frustrated. 

You can also wrap your arm around your dog’s back close to the tummy area. If they try to squirm out of your grip, you can quickly lift them up. No matter how you hold your dog, do not use excessive force, and make sure they are comfortable before you start grooming.

Work quickly and continually check on your dog. When they try to wiggle out of your hold or off the grooming table, calm them verbally, but avoid giving them treats. If you do, they might think they’re being rewarded for trying to escape. Wait until after grooming is finished to reward your dog with treats.

How to Trim Your Dog’s Face

Before you attempt to trim your dog’s face area, take them for a walk or play with them for a while to get rid of some of that restless energy. 

When you’re both ready to start grooming, let your dog sniff the scissors or clippers first. If there is another person who can help you, ask them to hold your dog’s head to stop it from jerking. Otherwise, a grooming restraint can help. Most restraints have an adjustable metal bar over your dog’s head and a leash-like loop to restrain their neck. Other designs have an extra loop on the rear side to stop your dog from jumping off the table. Hammocks and slings can also work as grooming restraints for small dogs.

Be sure to use low-noise clippers. Clip and trim slowly so you don’t startle your dog, and take breaks after each section of the face. 

Provide Distractions

If your dog is not a fan of being brushed or groomed, distract them with toys before you start. First, set up your grooming mat in an area your dog is familiar with. If that’s not possible, let them explore and smell the area from corner to corner.

Next, use one of your dog’s favorite fluffy toys to rub your dog’s back and simulate grooming. You can also rub the toy across their face to prepare them for face trimming.

Let your dog keep the toy while you start grooming to maintain their sense of comfort and familiarity. 

Practice Patience and Understanding 

Now that you’re familiar with dog grooming restraint techniques to keep your dog still while cutting their hair, it all comes down to patience. It’s going to take time to get your dog comfortable with grooming, and after all, it’s important to recognize and reward your dog’s patience, too. Even if you get frustrated, always be gentle and soothe your dog, and the process will go better for both of you.

Groom Your Dog Like a Pro With CleanTools

The keys to successful grooming are patience and the right tools. The faster grooming goes for fidgety dogs, the better. Your dog should be tangle-free before trimming, so you’ll need to bathe and brush them. A calming shampoo, a highly absorbent towel , and a soft-bristled brush will make this process a breeze so you can move on to trimming while your dog is still relaxed. Keep your dog comfortable, dry, and happy with The Dog Lover’s Towel .

Dogs are more than just pets. They’re a part of your family. Like any other family member, your pup deserves to be pampered every now and then. An at-home doggy spa day is a great way to give your pup some much-needed TLC. Plus, who would pass up extra quality time with their furry friend (literally no one)?

If this is your first time planning a spa day for your dog, follow our three-step guide to know what products you need and what to do.

3 Ideas for the Perfect Dog Spa Day

Start by gathering all the tools and materials you’ll need (more on these below). The last thing you want to do is realize you’re out of shampoo when your pup is already in the tub. Have backups on hand in case of an emergency. Once you have everything you need, follow these three steps:

1. Massage

Dogs are man’s best friend, so it only makes sense that they carry stress like we do, particularly in their muscles and joints. A massage can relax these muscles and joints to relieve stress. Start at the top of their head, and work your way down using small circular movements. Give special attention to the areas where your dog carries the most stress: their head, neck, and shoulders.

2. Bathe

Every doggy spa day should include a relaxing bath. The soothing nature of baths reduces stress for humans and dogs alike. Once you’re done, your dog will look, smell, and even feel better than ever.

Give your dog a thorough brushing before their bath to remove loose and possibly dirty fur. Next, turn on the bath water, making sure it’s warm but not too hot. Use a soothing shampoo and conditioner to clean, moisturize, and soften your dog’s fur. While you don’t need to buy the most expensive shampoo and conditioner on the market, cheap products could contain harsh ingredients that are more likely to damage your dog’s skin and fur.

Be sure to dry off your dog with a microfiber towel right after their bath, unless you want your furniture to get wet. Not sure which towel to get? Our signature Dog Lover’s Towel works wonders. It’s highly absorbent, quick drying, and super soft. Your dog will love it just as much as you do.

3. Groom

Now it’s time for the finishing touches. Give your furry friend a fresh new look by cutting their nails, cleaning their ears, and brushing their coat. You also might need to trim any extra fur, like around their eyes. If you’re going all out, you might even decide to paint their nails. Don’t be afraid to get creative.

Dry Your Dog Faster Than Ever With the Dog Lover’s Towel

Whether your dog got into a muddy mess in the backyard or needs to relieve some stress, you can’t go wrong with a spa day. A simple massage, bath, and grooming session will make them look and feel as good as new.

You can’t bathe your dog without the right drying towel. Try the Dog Lover’s Towel to enjoy 50% more absorbency than the competition. Now you can spend less time drying and more time playing. Browse our different size options to find the perfect towel for your pup.

Pamper My Pup

Does your dog always get the same haircut when they go to the groomer? Do you want to change it up, but aren’t sure what cut would suit your dog’s breed and coat?

If so, read on for some hairstyles for dogs of every breed.

7 Dog Haircut Styles

Here are some dog grooming ideas for when you want to change up your dog’s style or get them ready for a change in weather. This list includes some of the most popular styles for both short-haired and long-haired dog haircuts.

Teddy Bear Cut

As the name suggests, dogs with this cut look like teddy bears. This cut leaves more hair around your dog’s face than their body, but you don’t have to go too short. The key point of this look is the fluffy, rounded ears that resemble teddy bear ears.

If your dog doesn’t like going to the groomer, this is a good grooming option that can be done quickly.

Poodle Cut

Poodle cuts look like… poodles. This cut is well-suited to furry dogs. It keeps fur short around your dog’s body, with more on the top of the head and around the neck, kind of like a mane.

Lamb Cut

A lamb cut has a shorter style on the body and leaves more fur on the legs. This cut is ideal for curly-haired dogs, and it will keep your dog comfortable in both warm and cold weather.

Kennel Cut

A kennel cut is one length all over your dog’s body. This cut is usually shorter, but you can opt for a longer length. The short-styled fur of a kennel cut is a good choice for busy dog owners, as it requires less grooming time.

This cut will look different on any dog, but it’s a great low-maintenance option for most dogs.

Topknot Cut

A topknot cut creates a furry poof on the top of your dog’s head. The edges should be kept clean and round for a style fit for a show poodle.

Lion Cut

If you’re looking for haircuts for dogs with long hair, the lion cut is a popular choice. It’s often seen on smaller dogs, but it can also work on big dogs like Chow Chows. 

In this style, the hair around the jaw and head is kept longer, while the body fur is shaved closer to the skin. Your dog’s tail will have a little hair on the tip and the rest will be clipped short. 

This trim is high-maintenance and requires grooming once a week.

Summer Cut

A summer cut removes the bulk of your dog’s heavy coat but leaves the tail and the ears long. You can combine a different head style with this cut, like a lion cut or a teddy bear cut.

Make Dog Grooming Fun With CleanTools

Grooming is just as important for senior dogs as it is for younger dogs and puppies. You may worry about hurting or stressing out your older dog, but issues caused by a lack of grooming can result in more pain and stress for them. Matted hair and skin infections, which senior dogs are more prone to, can be kept at bay with regular grooming.

Grooming includes bathing, hair brushing, hair cutting, nail trimming, eye and ear cleaning, and teeth brushing. Senior dogs need all these elements of grooming to stay clean, comfortable, and healthy.

Here are some tips for grooming senior dogs :

Be Gentle

Grooming senior dogs is safe, but you need to be gentle. Older dogs are more likely to have physical and mental health conditions, so they are more delicate. You want to avoid injuring or upsetting them.

During grooming, make sure your senior dog has something with a grip to stand on so they don’t slide around. Slipping and sliding can aggravate an older dog’s arthritis or joint issues.

You should also opt for soft brushes and gentle grooming tools that won’t pull on your dog’s fur or skin. Older dogs have thinner skin and are more likely to have skin growths that can be cut or hurt by sharp brushes and combs.

It is best to do most senior dog grooming by hand. Shavers and hair dryers can upset older dogs. Even dogs that are accustomed to these devices can become afraid of them as they age. Dogs who develop dementia or sight or hearing loss can become anxious or more easily spooked.

Make It Quick

Senior dogs tire more easily, both physically and mentally. They may not have good balance and cannot stand up for a long grooming session.

You should keep grooming sessions short, and dogs with health conditions do better with shorter, more frequent groomings. Doing two to three short grooming sessions per month is better than having one long one.

Take Their Health Into Consideration

As previously mentioned, senior dogs are likely to have more physical and mental conditions than they used to have. Some common conditions are arthritis, joint issues, skin conditions, vision loss, hearing loss, dementia, and related anxiety.

You need to take into account your dog’s health conditions during grooming. For example, if your dog has urinary issues, you may need to schedule a potty break during the grooming session. If your dog has joint issues, they may need to lie down during grooming.

Many older dogs need medicated shampoos for skin conditions. You also want to pay attention to your dog’s eyes and ears. Use warm water and a soft cloth to gently wipe away any gunk that has collected around your dog’s eyes. Make sure there is no discharge or odor coming from your dog’s ears, as these signs can indicate a viral or yeast infection.

Get an Experienced Groomer

You can do most of your dog’s grooming routine at home, which can help make senior dogs feel comfortable. But your dog can also benefit from professional grooming performed by an experienced groomer. Groomers who are experienced in dealing with elderly dogs and/or dogs with health conditions are the best choice for senior dogs.

Older dogs often get dirty more frequently than younger dogs since they can’t clean themselves as well as they used to. They may be incontinent or have difficulty eating and make a mess. To prevent infection and irritation, senior dogs need to be bathed regularly. They also need to be brushed and have their coats trimmed to avoid matting and overheating.

Additionally, older dogs need their nails trimmed more often. They don’t walk as much as they used to, and overgrown nails can exacerbate arthritis and joint problems. If you hear your dog’s nails clicking when they walk, they’re too long. If you see your dog sliding around on the floor, they may need their paw fur trimmed. This will improve traction and reduce pain.

A trained senior dog groomer can help you manage this routine. During the grooming process, groomers can detect abnormal coat-loss patterns, bumps, lumps, sores, warts, and other conditions that might require a vet visit.

Mobile grooming for senior dogs is a highly convenient option. Mobile groomers will pull up to your home and groom your dog in their van so your dog doesn’t have to travel.

Simplify Senior Dog Grooming With CleanTools

Grooming your senior dog is a huge part of keeping them happy and healthy. With the right tools and help, old dog grooming can be quick and easy. Dog groomers for older dogs can take your dog’s health into consideration to keep them comfortable during grooming and keep an eye on any skin conditions. You can do your part by bathing and brushing them regularly, especially since older dogs get dirty more easily. The process still needs to be quick and gentle, and if your dog is spooked by hair dryers, a soft, absorbent towel can speed up bath time. Gently dry your dog in no time and prevent shivers with The Dog Lover’s Towel .

Trimming overgrown nails can be a stressful process for both you and your dog. Introducing your dog to nail trimming early in their life and doing it often can make it easier, but this isn’t always possible. 

Here are some tips on how to trim dog nails that are overgrown and make nail trimming a simple routine for both of you.

How Often Should You Trim Your Dog’s Nails?

If you keep your dog’s nails trimmed, you won’t have to cut overgrown dog nails as often as you would cut your nails. Additionally, regular walks on pavement are a great way to keep your dog’s nails short between trimmings. 

Some dogs have nails that grow faster than other dogs’ nails, and very active dogs may not need their nails trimmed as often. For most dogs, you should trim their nails once a month or every other month.

How to Identify the Quick of a Dog’s Nail?

Dog nails contain a soft cuticle known as the “quick.” The quick contains blood vessels and nerves, which means it will cause pain, bleeding, and potentially an infection if you cut it. 

Dogs can have light or dark nails or a combination of the two. If you’ve ever wondered why your dog has black nails, it’s simply because of genetics. Nails are made of keratin just like hair, so the color of your dog’s nails is usually the same as the color of their fur. So if your dog is black and white, they may have both black and white nails.

It’s easy to identify the quick in dogs with lighter nails, as you will see the pink part in the center of the nail. For dogs with darker nails, start by looking at the bottom of the nail as you trim. You may see a small oval in the center of the nail bed, and the oval will be larger the closer you get to the quick until it’s nearly as wide as the nail itself. Immediately stop trimming once you get to this point.

Problems With Overgrown Nails

• Ingrowns

Overgrown nails in a dog will eventually sag, causing pain. As is the case with humans, extremely overgrown dog nails can become ingrown nails that cause pain and infection. Overgrown nails are also more likely to fracture which can be another cause of pain and infection.

• Discomfort & Mobility Issues

A dog with overgrown nails can get caught on carpets, couches, and bedding, which can cause annoyance for you and stress for your dog. The constant clicking and pressing of your dog’s nails on the floor can also cause irritation and difficulty walking.

• Tips for Trimming Your Dog’s Nails

Both puppies and dogs are usually not fans of nail trimming. The only way dogs will enjoy or tolerate nail trimming is if you make the experience a positive one, especially when they are young.

If you neglect nail trimming and only do it when your dog’s nails are already overgrown, it will become a painful and stressful experience for your dog. 

Here are some tips to make trimming your dog’s nails easier:

Choose the Right Trimming Materials

Dog nails are much different than human nails, so you should never use a nail clipper for humans on your dog. A dog’s nails are thicker and have a cylindrical shape, so they require special nail clippers designed for dogs. There are guillotine clippers, scissor-like clippers for dogs with short nails, and plier-style clippers. Guillotine clippers are best for small to medium dogs, while plier-style clippers work for most dogs and are preferred by vets and groomers for their ease of use and the fact that they stay sharp for a long time. Scissor-like clippers are often used to trim the dew claw, the claw that grows higher up on your dog’s paw.

Make Your Dog’s Pedicures a Habit

As soon as you bring your dog home, try to create positive experiences with having their paws touched and introduce them to nail trimming as soon as possible. A dog that is comfortable having their paws touched is more likely to be comfortable having their nails trimmed. You can also play with your dog's paws first so they associate nail trimming with play.

If your dog responds well to nail trimming, give them a treat to create a positive habit and make nail trimming easier in the future.

Tire Out Your Dog Before Nail Trimming

Play with your dog or take them for a walk to tire them out before you trim their nails. This way, they’re less likely to get agitated or restless during nail trimming.

How to Cut Your Dog’s Nails?

Go through the step-by-step guide below to learn how to fix overgrown dog nails in a way that will keep him calm and content. 

Step-1: Position Your Dog

Position your dog so that they won’t bite you or suddenly twist while you’re trimming their nails. If you have a large dog or a dog that doesn’t like having their nails cut, you might want someone to help you by petting or talking to your dog to calm it.

A technique that is great for large or unruly dogs is to have them lay on their side, drape your arms and upper body over them, and rest your forearm over their neck to keep them from lifting their head while you’re trimming their nails.

Step-2: Place the Clippers at a 45-degree angle

When you’re about to cut your dog’s nail, don’t cut straight up and down, as this makes you more likely to hit the quick. Position the clippers at a 45-degree angle to cut the edge first.

Step-3: Carefully Trim the Nails

Cut your dog’s nails until you see the thin pink fiber of the quick. Take special care not to cut the quick, which can cause bleeding and pain for your dog. The quick is easier to see on dogs with lighter nails. For dogs with darker nails, cut little by little until you see the quick.

If you do accidentally cut too much and see blood, apply styptic powder to the bleeding nail.

Don’t rush the process of trimming your dog’s nails. You need to be careful, and rushing can make your dog scared or upset. Also, a dog’s paws are sensitive, so don’t apply too much pressure when holding their paws to cut their nails. For every nail that you clip successfully and your dog behaves well, give them a treat to create a positive association with nail trimming. 

Pamper Your Dog With CleanTools

Grooming your pet can seem relatively straightforward, but there are still considerations you should make to care for your dog’s specific needs. Like people, dogs have different skin, hair, and health conditions. 

Additionally, if you’re a pet lover, you’ve probably seen some kind of stories of “dog grooming gone wrong” on social media. Dogs shaved down to their skin, uneven, lopsided haircuts, or worse. Your vet or a professional groomer is the best person to ask for advice when it comes to grooming, but here are some things to avoid at home to make grooming an easier process for both you and your dog.

1) Not Clipping Your Dog’s Nails

Your dog's nails should be clipped carefully and regularly, about every three to four weeks. Another way to tell if your dog’s nails need to be clipped is by holding your dog’s paw flat on the palm of your hand. If the nails touch your hand, they might be on the long side. Also, they might need a clipping if you can hear them clicking on hard surfaces as your dog walks.

You should use sharp clippers and replace them as needed. Dull clippers crush the nail instead of cutting it, which can hurt your dog. You also need to learn how to find the quick of your dog’s nails. For dogs with light nails, you’ll see the pink through the nail, but if your dog has dark nails, you have to be extra careful to make sure you don’t clip it. Cutting the quick of the nail will cause your dog to bleed and can cause pain and infections.

2) Not Brushing Your Dog’s Coat Before & After Bathtime

This is especially important if you have a long-haired dog—brush your dog’s coat before you give them a bath. Water makes mats worse and tangles and sets knots. So brush your dog to get rid of dead hair that is tangled in their coat before getting them wet.

More dead hair will fall out after the bathing process. You should brush your dog again to get rid of the hair and avoid tangles.

If you’re wondering how to groom a short-haired dog, you should follow the same steps—the process will just be quicker.

3) Trimming Your Dog in the Summer

Although you might think trimming your dog’s hair in the summer will help keep them cool, it doesn’t actually work like that. A dog’s coat helps them regulate their body temperature, keeping them cool in the summer and warm in the winter. If you shave them or trim them down too close to the skin, it puts them at risk of sunburn and heatstroke. If your dog swims or runs in sand or dirt a lot in the warmer months, it’s okay to keep their hair short but not shaved down, because it still needs to protect them from the sun and the elements.

If your dog’s face frequently gets dirty, you may be tempted to remove as much hair from the area as possible. But, since we now know that a dog’s coat protects them, shaving your dog’s head isn’t a good idea. Similarly, if your dog’s ears get dirty easily, you should probably leave trimming your dog’s ear hair to a professional groomer.

4) Washing Your Dog’s Inner Ears

You should take care not to get water or soap in your dog’s ears. If water gets in the inner ear canal, it can create the perfect breeding ground for bacteria to grow and lead to ear infections. Placing cotton balls in the ears before bath time is an easy way to keep water out.

If your dog has long ears and/or is prone to ear infections, consult your vet for a safe ear-cleaning solution for dogs and how often you should clean them.

5) Bathing Too Often

A dog’s coat and skin contain natural oils and proteins that protect them. Washing too often can remove these natural oils and cause skin irritation and dryness. If your dog has sensitive skin or a medical condition, follow the washing schedule given by your vet.

6) Letting Your Dog Run Free After a Bath

Dogs often get the zoomies after a bath, so you should keep them somewhere they can’t get dirty. If your dog has access to go outside, you should block it until they are as dry as possible, because all kinds of dirt and debris from outside will stick to their paws and coat

Simplify the Grooming Process With CleanTools

If your dog has just come inside after rolling in the mud, you’ll probably want to give him a bath before he runs all over your carpets and couches. But what shampoo should you use to wash him? There are a lot of options out there, and it can be overwhelming to decide what shampoo is right for your pet. There are a few things you should take into consideration: the breed of your pet, the texture and density of their fur, their specific skin needs, and what ingredients are safe for pets.

Why Do I Need to Shampoo My Pet?

Dogs are notorious for getting into messes and needing to be washed, but other pets may need baths sometimes too. Cats usually don’t because they clean themselves, but if your kitten falls into her food dish, she’ll probably need a bath. However, the needs of dogs and cats are different, and shampoo formulated for dogs is not ideal for cats and may even be toxic to them.

Since dogs don’t groom themselves, they need regular cleaning to remove dead hair and skin cells, reduce shedding, and keep their skin and hair free from dirt and allergens that can cause itching and infections. Since you want to make baths a pleasant experience for your dog, you should select a non-irritating shampoo and only bathe him as often as necessary.

Single-coated dogs like Greyhounds, Dalmatians, and Boxers may not require baths as frequently as other breeds, about every one to three months.

Double-coated dogs like Golden Retrievers, Border Collies, and German Shepherds, have a shorter undercoat and a dense, longer outer coat. They need a shampoo that penetrates to the undercoat and skin, and they should be bathed about every four to six weeks.

3 Tips for Choosing Dog Shampoo

1. Pay Attention to pH Level

Everyone’s skin has a pH level that must be balanced to avoid over-drying and irritation. The lower the pH, the more acidic a substance is, and the higher the pH, the more alkaline the substance is. Humans have an average skin pH of 5.5-6.5, while dogs have a skin pH between 6.2 and 7.4. 

This is why you shouldn’t use human shampoo on dogs. A shampoo with the wrong pH level can disrupt your dog’s acid mantel, which strips natural oils from their skin and leaves it dry, itchy, and flaky. Dogs also have thinner skin than humans, so using a human shampoo that is too acidic for them can cause irritation, itching, sores, and potentially dermatitis and fungal infections. You should use PH-balanced dog shampoo for your pooch.

2. Consider Coat Density

The right shampoo for your dog’s coat will clean their skin and fur properly and make rinsing easier. A quality drying towel like The Dog Lover’s Towel will make drying easier, especially if your dog likes to shake vigorously and gets the zoomies when his fur is wet.

There are three main coat types:

• Low-Density
• Fine or thin
• Single, with no inner layer
• Easy to see the skin through the coat
• No thick undercoat or double coat
• Medium Density
• A “normal” or medium coat
• Need to move the coat slightly to see the skin
• May be some undercoat or double coat
• High-Density
• Dense coats
• Difficult to see the skin through the coat
• Noticeable undercoat or double coat

If you’re looking for the best shampoo for golden retrievers, for example, you should select a shampoo for dogs with double coats. If your dog has silky, fine hair that gets knotty, you may want to opt for shampoo for furry dogs with detangling properties. Special shampoo for white dogs can help keep their fur from turning yellow.

3. Look for Natural Ingredients

While you’re looking for a pH-balanced dog shampoo, you’ll want to consider the ingredients in the shampoo as well.

Many people are beginning to avoid ingredients that can irritate or have harmful effects in their personal care products, and you should do the same for your dog’s bath products.

The main ingredients you should steer clear of include parabens, sulfates, dyes, artificial fragrances, and strong soaps that can strip natural oils and cause irritation.

You should try to find shampoos with mostly plant-based or natural ingredients. For example, oatmeal and jojoba oil are good for dogs with dry skin. Hypoallergenic shampoos are also a good option.

Make Bath Time Fun for Your Dog With CleanTools

Now that you know how to balance your dog’s pH and reduce the risk of itchiness and irritation by choosing the right shampoo, you can have peace of mind when you bathe your dog to avoid those muddy pawprints all over the floor. The right shampoo for your dog’s coat density will also make rinsing easier and bath time faster. The last step to let your dog get back to being a dog is to dry them thoroughly so they don’t use your rug as a towel.  A premium towel like The Absorber® is a great choice to quickly get all the water out of your dog’s coat before they run out the bathroom door.

Taking your puppy to his or her first grooming appointment is exciting—and a little bittersweet. They’re growing up so fast. While many puppies have no problem with their first grooming appointment, yours might not be so keen. In this blog, we’ll show you how to prepare for your puppy’s first trip to the groomer. Know all about how to prepare your puppy for grooming.

​​When Can a Puppy Get Groomed for the First Time?

A puppy can be groomed as early as 12 weeks old. Once they’ve had their first grooming appointment, you should schedule them to come in every four weeks. This helps your puppy get comfortable and familiar with an unfamiliar environment.

How To Prep Your Puppy’s First Grooming?

1) Daily Brushing

Your dog is only a puppy, which means everything he or she experiences is going to be new—and a tad scary. Brush your dog daily and reward them for their good behavior every time you finish up. This will help them stay comfortable during their grooming session at the groomer. The puppy’s first grooming will then definitely be a smooth one.

2) Let Them Get Used To Being Handled

It goes without saying, but your dog will be handled by the groomer as part of the first grooming for puppy. Most dogs don’t want their face and feet touched by a stranger, but groomers need to navigate sharp scissors around these areas. 

If your dog isn’t used to being handled, there are a few ways you can calm their nerves. Start with small daily exercises like holding their face and paws. Remember to reward their good behavior with a treat (or two).

3) Bathing

Your dog will either love baths or hate them—and there’s no in-between. If you can bathe your puppy at home, you should. This will help them get used to baths and reduce the risk of them dreading that four-letter word. Dry them off with a comforting, absorbent towel that dogs just can’t get enough of.

4) Dryers

The sound of a blow dryer can be alarming for a puppy, especially when they’re in a new place. Get them used to the sound by running your hair dryer or vacuum at home. Reward them for not running away by dropping treats on the ground.

5) Separation Anxiety

You are your puppy’s entire world. That being said, many puppies experience separation anxiety. This behavior needs to be nixed early on to avoid future anxiety issues. Try leaving boredom buster toys around your home to keep them occupied, or let them chew on a long-lasting treat while you’re out. 

Puppies should only be left alone for a few hours at a time. This means that if your puppy is three months old, he or she should only be left alone for three hours.

6) Exercise Before Appointment

Finally, a romp in the yard can do wonders for your puppy’s first grooming appointment. Tiring your puppy out with some healthy exercise can help your puppy relax while the groomer works their magic.

Take the Dread Out of Drying With Dog Lover’s Towel

Whether your puppy loves baths or not, you can ensure your pooch feels comforted and happy after every wash. The Absorber® is our world-class towel designed to dry your dog in half the amount of time. Plus, your dog can feel safe and sound as you wrap them up in the Absorber®’s ultra-soft material. 

Keep our best-selling towel in your bathroom, car, or backpack—so you can be prepared for any mess at home or on the go.

Not all dog coats are the same. Some dogs only have a top coat, while others have both a top coat and an undercoat. These types of coats are known as double coats. 

Not sure what type of coat your dog has? Ever wonder why your dog sheds so much ? This blog will help shed light on all these questions you have about your furry friend and double-coat dog breeds.

What Is a Double Coat?

If your dog has a double coat, that means they have an undercoat and a top coat. Each coat serves as a different type of layer for different types of protection. The individual coats grow independently from each other; they’re different lengths, textures, and colors. 

What Is an Undercoat?

An undercoat is a denser, fluffier coat that is closest to your dog’s skin. This coat consists of shorter hairs and is to protect your dog from hot and cold temperatures. Think of an undercoat as insulation. 

What Is a Top Coat?

A dog’s topcoat repels moisture and dirt thanks to the wiry nature of the hair. This coat lays atop the fluffy undercoat and acts like a shield. This double-coated fur offers extra protection to your flurry companion.

How To Tell If Your Dog Has a Double Coat

If your dog is super fluffy, chances are he has a double coat. Also, smaller, terrier-type breeds may have a double coat. However, their top coat is probably wirier than those fluffier dogs. Simply considering how much your dog sheds does not alone indicate if he has a double coat. Here are a couple of methods that can help you see your pooch’s coat type:

1. Feel the Coat. With your hands, stroke your dog upwards against the direction of hair growth. Notice a coarse coat, but a softer, poofy-looking coat below? Your furry friend has a double coat. 
2. Look at What Your Dog Sheds . While cleaning up after your pooch (all that hair!), look closely at the fur you’re picking up. If you notice two different types of hair, that’s thanks to your dog’s double coat.
3. Determine Breed Type. If you know your dog’s breed, you’ll know the coat type. Typically, breeds that do well in cold weather (like Huskies) have double coats. 

Types of Double-Coated Dog Breeds

If your dog is one of the following—or is a mix that contains one of these breeds—he probably has a double coat.

• Chow chows
• Border collies
• Great Pyrenees
• Newfoundlands
• German shepherds
• Australian shepherds
• Golden retrievers
• Labradors
• Siberian Huskies
• Alaskan huskies
• Pomeranians
• Shiba Inus
• Bernese mountain dogs
• Mini schnauzers
• Shetland sheepdogs

The Absorber®: a Man’s Best Friend for Grooming Double-Coated Dogs

Petting a dog is a win-win for both you and your pooch. In fact, studies show that petting and interacting with an animal decreases your stress levels and boosts your mood. The shedding, on the other hand? Not so stress-relieving. If your furniture gets covered in dog fur on a daily basis, then this blog is for you.

What Is Seasonal Shedding?

First of all, let's comb through one of the most typical reasons why your dog is shedding so much: seasonal changes. Many dog breeds will shed their fur in response to the changes in seasons. This mainly occurs in the spring when the weather starts to warm up and the days get longer. Warmer weather and longer days provoke a dog’s fur follicles to shed. Think of it as your dog shedding their winter coat in response to the warmer weather and longer days of spring. 

Still, most dogs will shed all year long.

How to Manage Constant Shedding 

It is important to stop the dog constantly shedding. Grooming is an important key to reducing your dog’s shedding. For dogs with shorter coats, you should use a natural bristle brush or glove. 

For dogs with longer coats, you should use a slicker brush or shedding tool that can rake through those long, beautiful fur. Ensure that you are using a safe shedding shampoo during your dog’s bathtime—and don’t forget to give them a good dry with the Absorber®.

Causes of Excessive Fur Loss

How much shedding is too much? Let’s get one thing straight—excessive dog shedding and fur loss are not the same things. If your dog is experiencing fur loss, then there could be an underlying issue going on. Below are five common reasons why dogs go through fur loss.

1. Skin Conditions
   
   Fur loss can happen as a result of sunburn, contact with abrasive material, or because your dog is licking too much. If you notice that your dog is licking excessively, contact your veterinarian to get to the root of the cause.

2. Stress
   
   Like humans, dogs can lose fur as a result of stress. You might recognize fur loss after stressful changes or situations such as a big move or a trip to the veterinarian. If your dog is timid or easily gets stressed, consider wrapping them up in a soft, comfortable towel.

3. Diet
   
   The number one cause of fur loss in dogs is poor nutrition. That bag of cheap kibble at the grocery store isn’t going to benefit your dog’s diet. Instead, you should make sure that your dog is getting enough animal protein and minerals through various high-quality foods. Talk to your veterinarian about implementing a personalized diet for your pooch.

4. Hormones
   
   Hormonal imbalances in dogs can cause fur loss. These issues include an underactive thyroid and over or under-production of testosterone, progesterone, and estrogen. Dogs experiencing hormonal fur loss often display signs of dry, brittle hair. Your veterinarian can prescribe medication to resolve hormonal-related fur loss.

5. Allergies
   
   Finally, allergies can result in dog shedding hair in clumps. Yes, allergies can contribute to fur loss. Many different situations, such as changes in weather or exposure to new environments, can cause your dog to have an allergic reaction.

Get Less Shedding & More Tail Wagging With Dog Lover’s Towel

If dogs could talk, they’d say their favorite after-bath activity is a snuggle with the Absorber®. Bathing your dog regularly is an ideal way to combat excessive shedding. 

The Absorber® is an easy and absorbent towel that does a whole lot more than dry your dog after bath time. Use this towel to keep your dog comfortable, cool, and happy whether you’re at home or on the go. Give your dog what they want and shop the Absorber® now.