31 Helpful know-hows when grooming your dog at home

If you want your dog as clean and fluffy as a cloud every time you cuddle with your pet then you have to know how to groom your dog. It might create a mess at first and it will take time for your dogs to get used to it but they will be accustomed to it in no time!

Dr. Neil Marrinan of Old Lyme Veterinary Hospital in Old Lyme, CT said “Your dog trusts you completely with all the big decisions in her life. But, on the little things, she sure can have opinions, and those need to be addressed,” so when it comes to grooming, your dog will surely show you what is okay and what is not for them.

Taking a trip to your local dog groomer can be quite a hassle, especially at a time like this. There is nothing really wrong doing it yourself, so here are pointers that can help you how to groom your dog at home:

Prepare the right tools for your dog (Nail clippers, towel, shampoo, comb, brush etc.)
Also, prepare yourself financially, dog grooming tools and products can cost quite a bit. Specially when it comes to good quality products, keep that in mind!
Make sure to know what procedures you need to remember when grooming, you can watch youtube videos about it or ask your pet’s Veterinarian to be sure
Find a plentiful room where you can clean your dog that is safe for both you and your pet
When it comes to grooming, don’t get all tensed up, your dog might sense you are
Brushing:
A rubber brush can be used for short haired dogs and a longer, slicker brush can be used for dogs with thick coats
Comb or brush your dog before you bathe them to remove those clumped up dirt and other stuff caught up in their fur
A metal comb is used to untangle difficult knots, starting from the top to the back near the skin
When stubborn dirt and other complications on the fur that combs or brushes can’t remove is present, you can always use electric clippers to remove it
Clipping nails should be done every few weeks for dogs that constantly needs trimming but there will be dogs that doesn’t need it at all so be mindful of what works for your dog
Styptic powder:
Hold your dog’s foot when clipping their nail and make sure you (and your pet’s paw) are positioned steadily to avoid accidents
Nervous about clipping your dog’s nail? You can always use grinders or nail files
Getting a good quality dog shampoo that is perfect for your dog (you can get a recommendation from your veterinarian)
It is said that dog shampoos that contain Aloe Vera or Oatmeal can be used for dogs with sensitive skin
Dilute the dog shampoo in water so that it will be easier to rinse off. Wash the remaining shampoo off thoroughly
Bath brushes:
Be careful around the dog’s eyes when shampooing and rinsing
Towels are very necessary in a dog bath, so have the right amount of towels ready, a few extra won’t be bad either
You may dry your dog with just a towel or with a dryer specific to your dog or human hair dryer (set it to cool or no heat)
You don’t have to clean your dog’s ears regularly. If their ears smell bad or are red because of itchiness and irritation, that’s the time you clean their ears. Consult your pet’s veterinarian if you notice some
Otic solution is used to clean your dog’s ears, instructions on how to use it will vary for some products but most are just instructed to apply it on the ear and wipe off the excess solution using wipes or gauze pad
Never use water and wipes to clean your dog’s ears, this might lead up to yeast or ear infections (read more about Yeast Infections in dogs here: Yeast Infection in Dogs)
If you see any built-up dirt on your pet’s eyes, you can remove it using a cotton ball. Gently wipe it off in a downward direction.
Get a Veterinarian recommended dog toothbrush and toothpaste
Let your dog lick toothpaste so they will be familiar with it the next time you brush their teeth
Flip your dog’s lips up and gently brush their teeth and gums for a few seconds
If your dog’s coat needs clipping, get them a good quality electric clipper and blades
Clipping isn’t always a need for some type of dogs, research about your dog’s breed first or consult your pet’s vet to be sure
Always consider your dog’s temperature before and after the grooming procedure

Grooming may be hard but it is a vital part to your dog’s overall health and wellness, so take your time and learn as you go, allow yourself to make tiny mistakes on the way to it. Eventually you will get the hang of it. At the end of the day, you know what is better for your dog and what will make your dog happy.