Keeping your dog looking their best isn’t just about appearance—it’s about their health, too. Regular grooming helps keep your pup stay comfortable and clean, and it may even contribute to their overall behavior too.
“A fresh, knot-free coat can have a huge impact on a dog’s health and behavior,” explains Giulia D’Ignazio, groomer, and owner of Brandy’s Canine Grooming. “Imagine carrying a full matted head where there’s not even space between your scalp and hair for a few months, and not having that affect your health and behavior.” Yikes.
So, if you want to learn how to keep your pup looking and feeling their best, we’ve got you covered! Below are all the best professional groomer-backed tips you’ll need to keep your dog’s tail wagging with joy!
Essential Dog Grooming Tools Every Owner Should Have
Regular grooming isn’t just about looking good! It’s important for your dog’s health and comfort. That’s why equipping yourself with the right tools can make the process so much smoother for both you and your pup. Here’s what every dog owner should have in their grooming toolkit.
Brushing Tools
To keep your dog’s coat healthy, make sure to buy the right brush for their coat type. Slicker brushes work wonders for long-haired breeds prone to tangles, while bristle brushes are perfect for short-haired dogs that shed. For curly or wiry coats, a pin brush can help detangle and fluff.
Giulia notes that the best grooming tools for the majority of dog coats tend to be a slicker brush best paired with a detangling spray like Earth Rated’s Dog Refresh Mist.
Nail Clippers and Grinders
Trimming your dog’s nails isn’t just a cosmetic task—it can actually prevent discomfort. “Monthly nail trims keep the dog's paw structure in place, making them more comfortable,” notes Giulia.
Consider your dog’s temperament when choosing between clippers and grinders. Clippers are faster but may startle some dogs, while grinders offer more precision but take longer. Either way, it’s a good idea to keep your dog’s nails nice and short with regular trims.
Dog-Specific Shampoos and Conditioners
Not all shampoos are the same, and using one that is made for humans could harm your dog’s sensitive skin. Instead, use a gentle, pH balanced dog-specific product tailored to your dog’s coat type.
Earth Rated’s grooming products are an effective option for all breeds and a great place to start.
Giulia emphasizes that regular grooming with the right products helps prevent dirt and crust build-up on paws, ears, and eye corners.
Ear Cleaning Supplies
Dog ears can trap dirt and moisture, making them a prime spot for infections. Regular ear cleaning keeps their ears healthy and odor-free. Use a dog-safe ear cleaning solution or pre-moistened wipes like Earth Rated’s ear wipes to gently remove dirt.
Keeping up with ear hygiene is important, especially for floppy-eared breeds prone to infections. With the right supplies, ear cleaning can actually be pretty quick and easy!
Grooming Tips for a Healthy Coat
Your dog’s coat isn’t just for cozy snuggles. It’s also their first line of defence against the elements. Luckily, keeping your dog’s coat healthy isn’t too challenging with the right techniques and tools.
Brushing Techniques
Brushing is key to a shiny, knot-free coat. For short-haired dogs, a bristle brush works wonders to remove loose hair and boost blood circulation. Medium coats do well with a pin brush for fluff and detangling, while long-haired breeds benefit most from a slicker brush.
Giulia emphasizes the importance of brushing to prevent painful mats. Plus, regular brushing keeps your furniture a little less hairy, an added bonus!
Bathing Frequency and Best Practices
How often you bathe your dog largely depends on their coat type. “Medium & long coated dogs should get groomed every four to six weeks,” notes Giulia. “Short-haired dogs can be groomed every three to four months.”
Use lukewarm water and a gentle shampoo that’s suitable for your dog’s coat. Explore Earth Rated’s grooming line to find the right one for your dog.
Giulia notes that dog parents often make the mistake of washing their dogs only once they have knots and mats in their coats. “It’s really important to remove these before bathing them as the water makes them tighter,” she explains.
The truth of the matter is some dogs will simply get dirtier than others depending on their lifestyle and their penchant for scent-rolling! But, as too many baths can strip a dog’s coat of natural oils, you can use dog grooming wipes in-between baths to keep your pup fresh and clean.
Dealing with Shedding and Matting
If you’ve ever found a tumbleweed of fur in your hallway (who hasn’t?!), you already know excessive shedding can be a neverending challenge. So, it’s important to remember that regular brushing minimizes the mess, and tools like deshedding rakes work wonders for double-coated breeds.
For mats, patience is key. Consider starting with a detangling spray and gently working through the knots with your fingers or a wide-toothed comb. Don’t yank, as this can be painful for your dog. Instead, mat removal should be a moment of patient meditation, not a game of tug-of-war!
Essential Nail Care Tips
Our dogs use their paws to walk comfortably, so when their nails are overgrown, this can cause pain and discomfort. Nail trimming often needs to be done more than bathing, but it can be fast and easy with a little training and the right tools.
How to Safely Trim Dog Nails
Trimming your dog’s nails doesn’t have to be overly complicated! Here’s how to cut your dog’s nails:
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Choose your tools: Clippers are quicker, while grinders offer more control and smooth edges. In the end, it depends on what you’re most comfortable with and what your dog handles best.
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Get the right angle: Hold the paw gently but firmly, and trim at a 45-degree angle.
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Mind the “quick”: This tiny blood vessel is the part to avoid! Trim small bits at a time, especially if your dog’s nails are dark. Sometimes, holding a flashlight on the other side of your dog’s nail helps you see the quick and avoid it.
Giulia suggests regular trims to prevent overgrowth and discomfort. While it does depend on your dog’s activity level (as more activity will wear down your pup’s nails naturally), most dogs require nail trimming at least monthly.
Keep some styptic powder close by in case you cut too close. This first-aid tool can stop bleeding very quickly. When in doubt, ask a professional! Your groomer or vet can likely show you some nail cutting tips so you can trim with confidence at home.
Signs Your Dog Needs a Nail Trim
Wondering if it’s time to bust out the nail clippers? Here are some telltale signs:
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You can noticeably hear your dog’s nails clicking on the floor as they walk.
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Nails are curling or starting to touch the ground when your pup is standing.
Regular checks can help you catch overgrowth before it causes discomfort or mobility issues.
Overcoming Nail Trimming Anxiety
Nail trims can be nerve-wracking—for both of you! Here are some tips to make it a bit easier:
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Start small: Gradually introduce the tools to your dog before trying to trim. Let them sniff the clippers or grinder first. Use treats and praise to make the experience positive.
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Use positive reinforcement: Again, treats and praise can make a huge difference in a trimming session. With enough positive reinforcement, your dog should slowly accept nail trimmings more easily.
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Start early: While puppies may not need nail trimming very early, getting them used to having their paws and nails touched is a good idea.
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Take breaks: If your dog gets squirmy, trim one paw at a time and give them plenty of breaks. It’s important to keep the experience positive and not force them into anything they aren’t comfortable with.
Remember, consistency is key! Each session is a chance for you and your dog to practice (and bond!). Be patient and remember that it is always better to take a break too early than too late. Consider learning how to calm an anxious dog if your dog’s particularly nervous about nail trimmings.
If you really don’t feel comfortable cutting your dog’s nails, not to worry! Find a professional dog groomer in your local area who provides this service. It’s typically less than $10 but the price will depend on where you’re located.
Ear Cleaning and Dental Care Basics
Keeping your dog’s ears and teeth clean is more about their health than their appearance. Regular care in these areas prevents infections and can help you save on vet care in the long run.
Cleaning Your Dog’s Ears Safely
How often you need to clean your dog’s ears will depend on their ear type and activity.
Dogs with up-right ears like Siberian Huskies may rarely need their ears cleaned.
On the other hand, dogs who usually need regular ear cleaning include:
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Floppy-eared breeds (e.g., Cocker Spaniels and Basset Hounds)
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Dogs with hairy ear canals (e.g., Poodles and Schnauzers)
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Dogs prone to ear infections
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Dogs that swim frequently
When cleaning your dog’s ears, here are some easy steps to follow:
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Check first: Look for redness, swelling, or a bad smell—these might mean an infection, so consult your vet before cleaning.
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Use the right tools: You can use large cotton balls and water to clean your pup’s ears. But, pre-moistened pet ear wipes can also be helpful, especially if your dog is prone to ear infections (and, therefore, you’re cleaning your dog’s ears a lot).
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Stay on the outside: You don’t want to insert anything into your dog’s ear canal. So, only clean the parts you can see.
If in doubt, ask your vet if you should include regular ear cleaning in your grooming routine.
Importance of Regular Dental Care
Periodontal disease is easily one of the most common health issues for dogs. Around 85% of dogs over the age of 3 have some form of dental disease. Luckily, regular brushing can go a long way to prevent these problems. Brushing a few times a week makes a big difference!
Firstly, use dog-safe toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush or a dental wipe to gently clean their teeth and gums. Neglecting dental care can lead to painful issues like gum disease, so it’s worth the effort.
You can also consider adding in some Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) approved dental chews for an added boost.
A trip to the vet may be in order if you notice:
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Foul-smelling breath
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Discolored teeth
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Broken teeth
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Reluctance to chew or eat
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Pawing at the mouth
Grooming Tips for Specific Breeds and Coat Types
Whether your pup is rocking an 80’s perm, long locks, short, or double-layered fur, here are some tips to keep them looking & feeling great.
Long-Haired Breeds
If your dog has a flowing mane, think: Shih Tzus or Afghan Hounds, their grooming routine is probably a bit more high-maintenance. Regular detangling is a non-negotiable—because knots can quickly turn into painful mats. A slicker brush and a quality detangling spray are your best friends here.
Aim for brushing at least every few days, though many dogs need more. Professional grooming every 4-6 weeks or so can also keep your dog feeling their best.
Short-Haired Breeds
Short-haired breeds, like Beagles and Boxers, may have less fur to fuss over, but they still need regular grooming. Weekly brushing can go a long way to keeping your dog clean, removing dust and any loose fur.
To keep your dog's skin and coat healthy, get a short-hair-specific shampoo, like Earth Rated’s Short Coat 3-in-1 Dog Shampoo.
Double-Coated Breeds
Double-coated dogs, like Siberian Huskies and Golden Retrievers, have a thick undercoat that loves to shed, especially during seasonal changes. A de-shedding rake is essential for removing loose undercoat fur and preventing mats.
Be careful not to overbathe these breeds, as this can strip the natural oils from their coat. Stick to bathing every few months unless your pup gets particularly muddy!
Final Grooming Tips for Happy Dogs
Grooming isn’t just about keeping your pup looking dapper—it’s about building trust and strengthening your bond. The more positive and relaxed the experience, the happier your dog will be to hop into their grooming routine.
Start small and go slow. Treats and praise can go a long way toward turning your dog’s grooming session into something they can actually look forward to. Regular grooming is important for both behavior and health, too. Happy grooming!
