I’ll admit it — when I first started living with dogs, I thought grooming was just about keeping them “looking nice.” Oh, how wrong I was. Regular grooming is really about health, comfort, and bonding time. Over the years, I’ve learned that a brush, a bath, or even a nail trim can be just as important as a trip to the vet. And yes, sometimes it takes a little patience (and a pocketful of treats), but the payoff is a happy, healthy pup who feels their best.
Let me walk you through the basics I swear by.
Brush Your Dog Often
Brushing does more than keep your dog looking handsome. It stimulates natural oils in the skin, which keeps the coat shiny and healthy. It also prevents painful mats from forming — especially in long-haired breeds like Maltese (Shila used to turn into a walking knotball if I skipped a few days!).
👉 Pro Tip: Brushing is bonding. It’s your chance to give your dog undivided attention, and most pups love the gentle massage.
- Product Tip: A self-cleaning slicker brush (like the Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush on Amazon) makes grooming faster and less messy.
- FAQ: Why is this useful? The bristles are gentle but effective, and the push-button self-cleaning saves a ton of time.
Keep Nails in Check
Long nails can be more than just clickety-clack on your hardwood floor — they can actually cause pain and even affect how your dog walks. Walking your dog on pavement helps keep them short, but most pups will still need trimming.
- If you’re nervous about clipping, groomers usually charge less than vets and have lots of experience.
- If your dog is especially wiggly or anxious, don’t risk stressing them out — let the vet handle it.
👉 Pro Tip: Use a grinder instead of clippers if you’re worried about cutting too short.
- Product Tip: The Casfuy Dog Nail Grinder on Amazon is quiet, safe, and great for at-home nail care.
- FAQ: Why is this useful? It gently files nails down without the risk of cutting the quick.
Bathing Basics
Bath time doesn’t have to be a circus act (though with Sage, it sure felt like one sometimes!). Use a shampoo made specifically for dogs — human shampoos strip their natural oils. Skip flea and tick shampoos unless directed, since they can dry out the skin.
- Always rinse thoroughly — leftover soap can cause irritation.
- Brush out mats before or right after the bath (water makes them worse).
- Use low heat when drying, since dogs are more sensitive to burns.
👉 Pro Tip: A little cotton in the ears helps prevent infections from trapped water.
- Product Tip:Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Dog Shampoo on Amazon is gentle, soothing, and leaves coats soft without harsh chemicals.
- FAQ: Why is this useful? It’s especially good for dogs with itchy or sensitive skin.
Keep Those Ears Clean
Ear care is often overlooked, but dirty ears can lead to infections, especially in floppy-eared or long-haired dogs. A gentle cleaner or wipe is usually all you need for routine care.
- Use a cotton ball with dog ear cleaner — never push anything deep into the ear canal.
- For breeds that grow hair inside the ear, a groomer or vet can pluck it safely.
👉 Pro Tip: Make ear cleaning a calm, positive experience — treats help!
- Product Tip:Vet’s Best Ear Relief Wash & Dry Kit on Amazon is easy to use and keeps ears clean and comfortable.
- FAQ: Why is this useful? It reduces odor, wax, and the risk of infections.
Basic Dog Grooming Tips
Grooming isn’t just vanity — it’s part of being a responsible, loving dog owner. Whether it’s brushing, trimming, bathing, or ear cleaning, every step helps keep your dog healthy and comfortable. Plus, it’s time well spent together.
What about you? Do you have a favorite grooming tip or product that’s made life easier with your pup? Share it in the comments — I’d love to hear!
Louie Montan is a lifelong dog lover sharing real-life tips and stories to help you and your pup thrive.
