How to Groom Your Dog: A Step-by-Step Guide

Grooming your dog can be a bit like trying to wash a toddler who’s eaten too much sugar: messy, chaotic, but ultimately rewarding. So grab your dog some treats, and let’s get this grooming party started!

As a groomer, I recommend the following supplies:

• Dog brush or comb

• Dog shampoo (no, human shampoo won’t do, Fido isn’t a human!)

• Dog conditioner (for that silky smooth finish)

• Towels (lots of them, for you and the dog!!)

• Dog nail clippers (not your kitchen scissors)

• Styptic powder (for those “oops” moments)

• Ear cleaner and cotton balls

• Dog toothbrush and toothpaste (minty fresh isn’t just for humans)

• Clippers or scissors (if you’re feeling brave)

• Rewards such as treats and positive reinforcement 

Step 1: Brushing

1. As a groomer, I recommend getting all the mats out before bathing, as water can tighten the mats and lead to bigger problems. If you have a completely matted dog, please take your pup to a professional groomer and come back to these tips for a fresh start after the dog has been groomed.

Choose the Right Brush and Comb: I recommend this brush and comb: https://amzn.to/3xVj8cz  https://amzn.to/3xTxIkU. They are what I use in my shop and do the trick. Remember, line combing and line brushing help keep mats away. I have attached a video on how to line the brush. If your puppy is new to brushing and combing, please be patient and do not give up. Use lots of rewards.

Step 2: Nail Clipping

1. Choose Clippers or Grinder: I have two recommendations:  

   1. Being the Clippers https://amzn.to/3XXpOl9  and the 

   2. 2nd is a nail grinder.  https://amzn.to/3LfqHxQ

I have attached links on how to use both.  Remember, this is a new experience for your dog; use rewards and patience again.

1. Trim Carefully:  If you hit the quick, styptic powder to the rescue! https://amzn.to/4f0fCOA 

Step 3: Ear Cleaning

1. Use Ear Cleaner: These are two great products. One, you insert a few drops https://amzn.to/3LhOop1  into the ear canal and gently massage the base of the ear to loosen any wax. Please see the Vet for any recommendations about pulling the hair from the ear canal. The other product is wipes that I would use on the inner ear leather for dirt and grime https://amzn.to/3VXkgnW 

Step 4: Teeth Cleaning

1. Dog Toothpaste: I recommend using this toothpaste https://amzn.to/4cYmyu3 .  Lift your dog’s lip and brush in circular motions.  Again, reward your dog, as this is a new experience.

Step 5: Bathing

1. Prepare the Bath: I highly recommend using this dog bathing tether with a suction cup https://amzn.to/3Y1pp0T , as it gives you more control of your dogs and gives them a sense of security. Use lukewarm water. A hand-held shower head is best, but if you don’t have one, put some water in a bucket and use a small plastic container to pour water over your dog gently. Please be careful of the eyes and you might want to put cotton balls in their ears.

2. Wet the Coat: Thoroughly wet your dog’s coat.  Use a gentle shampoo https://amzn.to/3W1hLBa  and lather away!!  Try not to soak yourself in the process. (Good luck with that!)

3. Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse like you’ve never rinsed before. Shampoo residue = itchy dog.

4. Condition (Optional): If your dog’s fur is dry or long, condition it like a pro. Rinse thoroughly.

5. Towel Dry: Use towels to dry your dog. For longer coats, a blow dryer on a low, cool setting can work wonders (if your dog doesn’t mind sounding like a wind tunnel).

Step 6: Final Brushing

1. Brush Again: Give your dog a final brush to remove any loose fur and smooth out the coat. Again, please be mindful of your line brushing to reduce future matting

Step 7: Trimming Fur (If Needed)

1. Use Clippers or Scissors: Depending on your dog’s coat type, use clippers or scissors. I have attached some relatively inexpensive options https://amzn.to/3zAyTWJ  https://amzn.to/3S1LFnr .  If you would like to learn how to groom your pet at home, I have attached a YouTube video that is very informative.

For those dogs that shed, I highly recommend this pet vacuum.  It comes with a de-shedding brush, and the reviews are informative and positive.  https://amzn.to/3WhnFiY 

For those who want to go the extra step, I have attached links to doggie apparel https://amzn.to/4cT1PYv  and bow ties https://amzn.to/3S39VG5 .  It is always fun to show off your fur baby! As well as some doggie deodorant https://amzn.to/3zBOG7P 

Tips for Successful Grooming:

• Stay Calm: Keep the grooming session calm and positive. Speak in a soothing tone like you’re hosting a doggy yoga session.

• Take Breaks: If your dog starts looking at you like you’re a mad scientist, take a break.

• Use Treats: Reward your dog with treats and praise to create a positive association with grooming. Who doesn’t love treats?

Following these steps gives you a clean, happy dog and a stronger bond with your furry friend. Remember, grooming is supposed to be fun, so embrace the chaos and enjoy the process!