How to Groom Your Dog: Tips for Keeping Your Pup Happy and Healthy

Dogs bring endless joy into our lives, but let’s be honest…they can also bring their fair share of mess. Whether it’s rolling in mysterious-yet-smelly treasures, digging the muddiest hole, or somehow finding the stinkiest thing in the yard, dogs have a talent for getting dirty. But grooming isn’t just about keeping your dog looking good. It’s also about their overall health and well-being.

A Healthy Coat Is a Happy Coat

Dogs love rolling in the dirt (and sometimes worse), but regular coat care helps keep them clean and comfortable. A dog’s fur coat protects their skin, regulates their body temperature, and even serves as a first line of defense against environmental irritants. Regular brushing and bathing keep their coat in tip-top shape and make them feel their best.

Brushing basics

Brushing your dog regularly comes with plenty of benefits. Beyond being a nice way to spend time together, it also helps:

• Remove dirt, debris, and loose fur.
• Spread natural oils for a shiny, healthy coat.
• Reduce shedding and prevents mats.

Regular brushing plays a big role in keeping your dog comfortable. A well-groomed dog is a happy dog—and a happy dog means a happy pet parent.

Fur Care

Brushing is one of the easiest ways to keep your dog’s coat healthy, no matter their breed, but the way you brush your dog—and how often—depends on their coat type. Different types of fur require tailored care to keep your dog comfortable and their coat healthy.

Smooth, Short Coats

If your dog has a smooth, short coat—like a Chihuahua, Boxer, or Basset Hound—you’re in luck. These low-maintenance pups only need brushing once a week. Start with a rubber brush to loosen up dirt and dead skin, then follow with a bristle brush to sweep away loose hair. For the final touch, give them a quick polish with a chamois cloth, and they’ll be looking shiny and fabulous in no time.

Short, Dense Fur

For dogs with short, dense fur, weekly brushing is just right. Start with a slicker brush to gently untangle any knots, then go over their coat with a bristle brush to catch all that dead hair. Don’t forget their tail—it deserves some love, too.

Long, Silky Coats

Dogs with long, silky coats, such as Yorkshire Terriers, need daily brushing to keep their locks looking luxurious. Start with a slicker brush to carefully remove tangles, then use a bristle brush to smooth their coat and distribute natural oils. For breeds with thick, flowing coats, like Collies or Afghan Hounds, add a comb to the routine and trim the hair around their feet for a polished finish.

Long Hair Prone to Matting

For dogs with long hair that mats easily, daily grooming is a must to prevent tangles from turning into bigger problems. Gently work through tangles with a slicker brush, then smooth their fur with a bristle brush. If mats are particularly tough, clippers might be your best bet—just be cautious not to get too close to the skin.

With the right tools and a little extra attention to their coat type, your pup will not only look their best but feel their best, too. Regular brushing keeps their fur healthy, shiny, and oh-so-pettable.

Bathtime tips

For most dogs, a bath every three months is ideal to keep their coat clean and their skin healthy. However, active dogs who love outdoor adventures—or those with specific skin conditions—may need baths more often to stay comfortable. Always choose a shampoo specifically designed for dogs to prevent irritation and maintain their skin’s natural balance. Pairing regular baths with brushing can also help keep their coat looking and feeling its best.

Here’s how to bathe your dog at home:

1. Brush your pet to remove any dead hair and mats.
2. Place them in a tub or sink with about three to four inches of lukewarm water.
3. Use a spray hose, pitcher, or cup to wet their coat, avoiding their ears, eyes, and nose.
4. Gently massage shampoo into their fur, working from head to tail, and rinse thoroughly.
5. Dry them off with a large towel for a clean, happy pet!

Bath time doesn’t have to be a chore. By sticking to a regular bathing routine and using the right techniques, you can help your dog feel more fresh, clean, and comfortable in their own skin. And remember, a freshly bathed dog isn’t just healthier—they’re also a lot more fun to cuddle!

Nail Care: Stop the Click-Clack

If your dog’s nails are tapping on the floor, it’s time for a trim. Regular nail care not only prevents discomfort but also protects your floors and furniture.

1. Clean the paws and nails to remove dirt and debris.
2. Hold the paw firmly and trim the nail from top to bottom in small increments.
3. Avoid cutting the quick, the sensitive inner part of the nail (look for a darker circle inside the nail).
4. If you accidentally nick the quick, use styptic powder or cornstarch to stop the bleeding.

Invest in quality dog nail clippers to make the process smoother. If you’re nervous, a professional groomer or vet can show you how.

Pampered and Protected Paws

The pads on your dog’s paws are like built-in shoes, providing cushioning for their bones and joints, insulation from extreme temperatures, and protection on rough terrain. A quick paw check now and then helps ensure they’re free of cuts, infections, or pesky debris that might cause them trouble. 

To keep your dog’s paws in great shape:

• Check for foxtails, pebbles, small glass shards, or other debris.
• Use tweezers to gently remove any splinters or stuck particles.
• Trim the hair between their toes to be even with the pads to prevent painful matting.

If their pads are dry or cracked, consult your veterinarian for a safe pad moisturizer and apply as directed.

Ear Care: Keep Those Ears Perky

Dog ears are incredible—whether they’re floppy, pointy, or somewhere in between—but they need regular cleaning to stay healthy. Keeping their ears clean helps prevent infections and discomfort.

Here’s how to clean your dog’s ears safely:

1. Gently fold the ear back to expose the inside.
2. Dampen a cotton ball or gauze with a vet-approved liquid ear cleaner.
3. Carefully wipe away any dirt or debris (always be gentle!).
4. Avoid using cotton swabs, as they can push debris deeper into the ear.
5. Avoid cleaning inside the ear canal, as this can cause irritation or infection.

Regular ear care not only helps your dog stay comfortable but also keeps infections and irritation at bay. By making ear cleaning part of your routine, you’re helping your pup stay healthy and ready to perk up at every sound they love.

Eye Care: A Clear View into Health

They say the eyes are the windows to the soul—and for dogs, they’re also a peek into their overall health. Regular eye care helps you catch problems early and keep your pup’s vision clear.  

Follow these steps for a quick at-home eye exam: 

1. Bring your dog to a well-lit area.
2. Look for clear, bright eyes with no redness or discharge.
3. Roll down the lower eyelid to check that the lining is pink, not red or white. 

Cloudiness, excessive tearing, or redness can signal potential eye issues that need attention. If you notice anything unusual, schedule a visit with your veterinarian.

DIY or Professional Grooming?

Many aspects of grooming, like brushing and nail care, are easy to do at home with a little practice. If you’re considering trimming your dog’s hair, it’s important to understand their specific grooming needs. Some breeds, like Poodles, require specialized cuts that are best left to professionals. 

Professional grooming services vary depending on the size of your dog and the complexity of their grooming needs. On average, a grooming session costs between $30 and $90. If you opt to groom your dog yourself, investing in quality tools like dog nail clippers, brushes, and shampoos can save money in the long run.

Final Grooming Touches

Regular grooming isn’t just about keeping your dog looking their best—it’s about their health, too. Routine care can prevent infections, reduce shedding, and even help you catch potential health issues early. And let’s not forget the bonding time! Grooming is a great way to strengthen your relationship with your furry companion.

_{An ASPCA® Pet Health Insurance plan can help you with eligible costs for covered conditions like surgery expenses for accidents and help provide peace of mind that your pet can receive the care they need. Check out our online resources to learn more about your insurance options and get a free quote today. The information presented in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute or substitute for the advice of your veterinarian.}

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