Dog grooming is one of your dog's basic needs and an essential part of dog ownership. Dog grooming needs depend upon the breed, hair type, lifestyle, and health of your dog. It is also necessary to check the AKC dog breeds list for grooming requirements. Even if you have a dog with short hair, it's still essential to groom your dog regularly.

Regular dog grooming includes brushing the dog coat and trimming any matted or tangled hairs that can occur from time to time, even in dogs with smooth coats of fur. 

Dog grooming also includes cleaning your dog's ears, clipping his nails, checking for fleas and ticks, removing debris from eyes, applying sunscreen when needed, and more depending on what breed he is and how active he gets outside during the day-time hours. 

Skin & coat

Most dogs enjoy being gently brushed, and it's an excellent opportunity to inspect your dog for any problems or injuries. Brushing helps spread the natural oils from his skin throughout his coat and removes dead hair, dirt, and debris that can cause tangles. It also prevents painful mats caused by tangled fur getting caught on something like carpet fibers or burrs in long-haired dog's coats that can even cause dog skin conditions.

Grooming brushes

Choose the right brush and follow these guidelines:

  • Long-haired dogs, such as Maltese, usually require daily brushing or combing to prevent matting and tangling of hair.
  • Short-haired dogs, such as pug dogs, require daily brushing to stimulate the natural oils in the skin and coat.
  • A dog with a double coat, such as an American Eskimo dog breed, needs brushing every day. . Medium-length dog coats also need brushing a few times per week.
  • Brush your dog outside versus inside because you will have better luck getting rid of dog hair and dirt outside. If you must brush your dog inside, lay some old newspapers on the floor for easy clean-up.

Many dog owners find it helpful to talk their pets through the grooming process to be comfortable with what is going on. Try not to go overboard if your dog starts getting nervous or anxious because this could make him feel worse about being there.

You should also consider making dog grooming a fun time for your pet with some dog treats or his favorite toy.

Bathing your dog

It's just as important to bathe your dog regularly with natural dog shampoos and conditioners. If your dog gets dirty, bath him. Be sure to have dog shampoo and conditioner ready to use. If your dog has a skin, ear, or nail condition, follow your veterinarian's instructions regarding bathing and grooming. It is also essential to use the appropriate grooming tools. Make dog grooming a positive and fun experience for your dog.

Ensure you have the right grooming essentials needed right next to you to get the job done efficiently, including towels, dog shampoo, dog conditioner, dog brushes, combs, dog hair dryers, or even a do-it-yourself home kit if your pet is cooperative.

Allow for a specific dog-friendly place where your pet can get groomed, especially if it is his first time or if you’ve just adopted a new furbaby. If he isn't used to being bathed, this may help calm him down some before being bathed.

Final Thoughts

Grooming your dog is essential to make sure he looks his best and feels good. It’s also important for his wellbeing. Bathing him, trimming his coat and nails are all part of dog grooming basics that every dog owner should know about. 

Don't be afraid to try dog grooming basics. Once you know what needs to be done, it's easier than you think! Just make sure you learn dog grooming basics tips and tricks first, then try them out on your furbaby.