How to Start a Good Grooming Routine for Your Dog
Grooming isn’t just about making your dog look cute—it’s a really important part of keeping them healthy and happy. When you brush, wash, and take care of your dog’s body regularly, you can help stop skin problems, find health issues early, and make your dog more comfortable. But in Nigeria, some dog owners find grooming hard because they’re busy, don’t have the right tools, or can’t find nearby grooming services. Whether your dog is short-haired, long-haired, or even a double-coated working breed, you can still create a grooming routine that works for both of you.
Why Grooming Matters
Grooming has a lot of benefits. Brushing your dog helps remove dirt, loose hair, and spreads natural oils across their coat. It can also help you spot fleas, ticks, or skin problems early. Bathing keeps them clean and reduces shedding, so there’s less fur in your house. Trimming your dog’s nails stops them from getting too long and causing pain. Plus, grooming time can make your bond with your dog even stronger. Simply put, a clean dog is a healthier, happier dog.
Different Dogs Need Different Grooming
Each dog is different, and their grooming needs depend on their fur type, how active they are, and where they live. For example, short-haired dogs like Rottweilers or Basenjis don’t need brushing every day—once or twice a week is fine. Dogs with double coats, like German Shepherds, need to be brushed more often, especially when they’re shedding. Long-haired dogs, such as Maltese or Afghan Hounds, need daily brushing to stop their fur from tangling. Poodles and Bichons, with curly coats, need brushing and professional trims every few weeks. Some dogs, like the Chinese Crested, don’t have much hair but need regular baths and protection from the sun. If your dog plays outside a lot, you might need to groom them more often.
Steps to Groom Your Dog at Home
a. Start with brushing. Brushing your dog removes dirt and tangles, and helps spread natural oils in their fur. Long-haired dogs need brushing every day, while short-haired ones may only need it once or twice a week. Use the right brush for your dog’s coat type. It’s a good idea to brush your dog before giving them a bath so you can remove loose fur first.
b. When bathing your dog, use lukewarm water and a shampoo made just for dogs. Human shampoo can dry out their skin. First, brush your dog. Then, wet their fur, add shampoo, and lather gently. Rinse well and dry with a towel or low-heat dryer. If your dog doesn’t like baths, give them treats and talk to them calmly to help them feel safe.
c. Nail trimming is also important. If a dog’s nails get too long, it can hurt them when they walk. You should trim your dog’s nails every 3–4 weeks or when you hear them clicking on the floor. Use proper dog nail clippers or a nail grinder. If you cut too far and there’s bleeding, you can use cornstarch or a special powder to stop it.
d. Cleaning your dog’s ears helps stop infections. Check their ears every week and clean them every 2–3 weeks using a dog-safe cleaner and cotton balls. Don’t use Q-tips. If you notice a bad smell or your dog keeps scratching their ears, it could be an infection—ask a vet for help.
e. Taking care of your dog’s teeth is also key. Try brushing their teeth every day, but even 3–4 times a week is helpful. Always use dog toothpaste (never human toothpaste). If brushing is hard, use dental treats or special water additives instead.
Some Dogs Need Extra Care
Some dogs need more care when grooming. Older dogs may be slower or have joint pain, so go gently and make sure they’re comfortable. Dogs with allergies need special shampoos. Outdoor dogs may need more frequent grooming to stay clean and free from ticks. Rescue dogs might be scared of grooming, so go slowly and be patient. Use short sessions and reward them with treats.
Fixing Common Grooming Problems
If your dog doesn’t like baths, use calm words, treats, and warm water. If their fur gets tangled a lot, use a spray to help and a wide-tooth comb before brushing. Scared of nail trims? Just trim one nail a day and give treats. If your dog sheds too much, brush more often and feed them food rich in Omega-3s. For ear problems, dry their ears after swimming or bathing.
When to Get Help from a Professional Groomer
Sometimes, it’s better to take your dog to a groomer. Go to a pro if your dog has really tangled fur, if you’re afraid to trim their nails, or if your dog is too scared or aggressive during grooming. Also, some breeds need special haircuts that a groomer can do better.
Final Thoughts
Grooming your dog helps them stay clean, healthy, and comfortable. It’s not just about looks—it’s about love and care. With the right tools, a little patience, and regular routines, you can make grooming fun and easy for you and your dog.
If you ever need professional grooming help, Dr. Hulk Veterinary Hospital has expert groomers ready to care for your pet.
📞 Call us today to learn more or book a grooming session or Click here