All-Breed Dog Grooming
Do-It-Yourself Dog Grooming
Dog Grooming Classes
Dog Grooming Supplies
Dog Grooming Tips
Home Dog Grooming: Shampoos
Mobile Dog Grooming Service

All-Breed Dog Grooming

All dog grooming isn't created equal. Some breeds just require more grooming than others, as well as different tools and techniques for best results.

In fact, some dogs with short, smooth coats like a dachshund shouldn't be brushed; instead the coat should be rubbed down with damp cloth every week or so.

Breeds with a thick undercoat need to be brushed daily, and special undercoat combs or rakes should be used to help prevent matting. Electric clippers are also handy for dogs with longer coats, and some breeds with specific grooming needs, such as a cocker spaniel, have special combs and brushes designed just for their coats. 

Do-It-Yourself Dog Grooming

Frequent trips to the dog groomer can be inconvenient, so consider do-it-yourself dog grooming. If you have the right tools and techniques, you can make dog grooming enjoyable for you and your dog. Many pet suppliers carry grooming kits for every breed, so you're sure to get the right tools for your dog's coat.

Besides saving money, do-it-yourself dog grooming is a great way to spend time with your dog and bond even more. 

Dog Grooming Classes

Even if your pet isn’t a show dog, consider taking dog grooming classes to learn how to groom like a professional.

Dog grooming classes will teach you how to groom different dog breeds, and if you own several different dogs, this will help you care for their specific needs. In addition, you'll learn what tools you need to groom, how to trim nails, clean ears and what shampoos and conditioners to use on each dog. 

Dog Grooming Supplies

It takes more than brushes and combs to complete your dog's grooming. You'll need several dog grooming supplies to do the job right, including pet shampoo, ear cleaner, nail clippers, scissors and electric trimmers, as well as skin and/or coat conditioners if necessary. Designate an area to groom your dog and an area where you can bathe and then fully dry your dog.

Many groomers are now using all-natural dog grooming supplies, as they don't contain harmful additives and dyes that may irritate your dog. You can find dog grooming supplies at most pet stores or online. If you're just starting to groom your dogs, you might want to talk to your vet about the best dog grooming supplies to use on your particular breed of dog.

Dog Grooming Tips

Dog grooming is more than a way to keep your dog's coat healthy and sleek. Take this time as an opportunity to spend time bonding with your furry best friend. Here are some tips to help you get started:

• Start teaching your dog at an early age to grow accustomed and look forward to grooming. Brush your puppy every day so it gets used to the activity.
• Use a good quality brush and comb when grooming your dog.
• Some breeds with long or curly hair need to be groomed every day, while others with shorter coats can be groomed once or twice a week.
• Full grooming includes bathing, trimming nails, cleaning and trimming hair in ears, and brushing the teeth.
• Brush in the direction the hair grows, never against it, and start brushing at the head and work your way back.
• Dog grooming isn't that difficult to do once you know how.
• Establish a regular grooming schedule for you and your dog, and before you know it your dog will learn to enjoy his grooming routine.  

Home Dog Grooming: Shampoos

There are a variety of shampoos you can use for home dog grooming. Some shampoos enhance color, such as shampoos for white fur, while others are used for medicinal purposes and skin conditioning. Some are created to tackle fleas and ticks. There are also special shampoos for puppies, and even waterless shampoos you can use on short-haired dogs.

A number of pet shampoos are scented, although be weary of scented shampoos because some can irritate a dog's skin. Skin conditions are one of the top three conditions suffered by dogs and cats. Ask your veterinarian about the safety of a particular scented shampoo.

The shampoo you choose depends on your dog’s coat and medical condition. Again, just be sure to check with your vet before making a selection. 

Mobile Dog Grooming Service

The mobile dog grooming service is growing in popularity because it is convenient for pet owners. It is perfect for pet owners who have difficulty leaving home or getting their dogs to travel. These services bring the grooming salon to your home; they carry with them bathing, grooming and trimming areas in a self-contained van or truck.

The mobile dog grooming service is far less stressful on your dog than traditional grooming. Your pet is in comfortable surroundings at all times and doesn't have to travel to the groomer. There are no other animals to distract or threaten your dog.

The mobile dog grooming service is a great alternative for many dog owners. There is likely an array of services available in your area: check the Yellow Pages, go online, or ask your vet or local pet store for advice on how to take advantage of this convenient alternative.



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