How to Groom a Dog at Home

Key Points on How to Groom a Dog at Home

• Understanding your dog's coat type is the first step to creating an effective at-home grooming routine.
• Basic grooming tasks like nail trimming, ear cleaning, and teeth brushing are essential for every dog's health and comfort.
• Brushing and bathing frequency vary by coat type—curly and plush coats, for example, need more maintenance than short or wire coats.
• Using the right tools-including dog-specific brushes, shampoos, clippers, and dryers, makes grooming safer and more effective.
• Learning to groom at home can save money, deepen your bond with your dog, and help you catch early signs of health issues.

Introduction

Grooming your dog at home can be a rewarding experience that strengthens the bond between you and your furry friend. Not only will you master the skills to keep your dog looking and feeling their best, you'll also be better equipped to monitor your pet's overall health. By keeping up with essential grooming tasks at home, including coat maintenance, ear cleaning and teeth cleaning, you can help prevent health issues and avoid expensive trips to visit the veterinarian. Award-winning dog groomer and Paw Parent Academy instructor, Nadia Bongelli, believes that EVERY pet parent can benefit from learning how to groom a dog at home.

All dogs need regular grooming to stay healthy and comfortable, but their specific needs can vary by coat type. For example, breeds with long-growing coats need regular trims, while dogs with a thick, double coat need frequent deshedding. The first step to building a successful home-grooming routine is understanding your dog's coat type and the care needed to keep your dog looking and feeling their best.

What Coat Type Does My Dog Have?

Your dog's coat will guide your home-grooming routine. Some grooming tasks, like nail trimming, ear cleaning and teeth cleaning, will follow the same schedule for every dog. But when it comes to brushing, bathing and haircuts, your dog's unique coat type will guide how often you perform these essential tasks. Use this quick guide to identify your dog's coat type and start developing an ideal grooming routine. Which one sounds like your pup?

Plush Coats

Dogs with plush coats have soft, fluffy hair that grows continuously and needs frequent grooming. Their soft, cloud-like fur is perfect for shaping into adorable pet styles like teddy bear cuts. Popular plush-coated breeds include:

• Shih Tzus
• Havanese
• Lhasa Apsos
• Coton de Tulear

Plush coats can be straight or wavy and usually have a downy undercoat. While plush coats are usually non-shedding, they can easily become tangled and collect dirt. Regular brushing, bathing, and hair trimming will prevent common issues like matting, dirt, build up, and overgrown hair.

Double Coats

Dogs with dense double coats—like Golden Retrievers, Australian Shepherds, and Huskies—have a soft undercoat that sheds with a protective topcoat. These coats require regular brushing to remove loose fur and prevent matting. Daily brushing helps to keep these dogs comfortable, especially during heavy shedding seasons!

Without proper grooming, double-coated dogs can develop a buildup of dead undercoat that traps moisture and leads to matting, skin irritation and even hotspots. Expert groomer, Nadia Bongelli warns that these issues can make your dog very uncomfortable. Keeping up with your dog's grooming routine not only keeps their coat clean but also helps maintain their overall comfort and well-being.

Curly Coats

Curly-coated breeds like goldendoodles, poodles, and bichon frises have dense, tight curls that need frequent grooming. A thick curly coat picks up dirty and debris, and quickly becomes matted. Brushing every day with a slicker brush keeps tangles at bay. Regular bathes and trims are also essential to maintain the coat's shape and prevent matting.

Curly coats require regular care, but your grooming routine will also depend on your dog's lifestyle and your personal preferences. Nadia's pro tip to extend the time between grooms is go with a short trim: “The shorter the haircut, the longer the timeframe can be between grooms.”

Silky Coats

Breeds like Yorkshire terriers, Maltese, and morkies have fine, silky coats that require delicate care. Daily brushing with a soft slicker brush and regular baths help maintain their shine. You can bathe your silky-coated dog as frequently as once a week or once a month. These coats will grow long and are prone to tangling, so be gentle! Regular trims will help keep a silky-coated dog's coat looking pristine.

Short Coats

Short-haired breeds such as pugs, French bulldogs, boxers, and beagles have short, smooth coats that lay close to the body. Although these dogs are relatively low-maintenance, they do require regular grooming. If you have a short-coated dog, you've probably noticed that these breeds shed more than you might expect. Regular brushing will help control shedding and keep the coat healthy by distributing natural oils. Bathing and drying completed the deshedding process and keeps the coat and skin clean and healthy.

Wire Coats

Wire coats have a coarse, wiry texture that wicks water off the dog's body. Wire coats also often have a naturally oily coating, which protects the coat from the elements. “Most terriers were bred to 'go to ground,' to hunt vermin, to be outside in wet conditions,” Nadia explains. “So this coat is essentially weather-repellant.” Wire-coated breeds should only be bathed when they are extremely dirty, to prevent the coat's natural oils from being lost.

Wire-haired breeds like border terriers and cairn terriers require special care, including hand-stripping to remove dead hair. Regular hand-stripping helps maintain the coat's texture and health.

Do you know your dog's coat type? Discover the unique features of your dog's hair and learn how to care for it with our DIY Grooming courses.

What Grooming Tools Do I Need?

Once you understand your dog's coat type, you can start to think about the different tools you'll need to groom a dog at home. Here's a breakdown of what you'll need at different stages of the groom.

Tools for Health Maintenance

Health maintenance tasks such as nail trimming, ear cleaning and teeth brushing are essential parts of your dog's grooming routine. Keeping up with these tasks at home will s support your dog's health and overall well-being. You only need a few simple tools and supplies to get started.

Nail Trimming

You'll need a pair of dog nail clippers to keep your pet's nails in top shape. Choose a pair that fits comfortably in your hands, and be sure to always use clippers designed especially for use on dogs! Keep KwikStop or another styptic powder on hand in case you cut the quick. You can also use a dremel or nail grinder to smooth the rough edges of your dog's nails after a trim.

Ear Cleaning

Use a vet-recommended ear cleaner that is formulated for dogs to clean your dog's ears. You can use pre-soaked pads, or apply the cleaner using cotton balls.

Teeth Cleaning

Don't forget to brush your dog's teeth! A dog's oral health is just as important as their coat. Use canine toothpaste and a toothbrush designed for dogs to prevent plaque buildup. Canine toothpaste comes in a variety of flavors. To make the brushing process easy, be sure to choose your dog's favorite!

Tools for Brushing

The right brush makes all the difference. Here are the best brushes to use for each coat type:

• Short: Curry, Top Coat
• Silky: Top Coat, Soft Slicker, Finishing Comb
• Plush: Top Coat, Soft Slicker, Finishing Comb
• Curly: Top Coat, Soft Slicker, Long Pin Slicker, Wide-Tooth Comb, Finishing Comb
• Double: Top Coat, Long Pin Slicker, Wide-Tooth Comb, Finishing Comb
• Wire: Top Coat

Tools for Bathing Dogs

Look for dog-specific shampoo and conditioner made especially for your dog's coat and your top grooming concerns. You can find formulas for everything from deshedding to brightening a white coat or soothing sensitive skin. When it comes to washing your dog's face, your pup will appreciate a gentle, tearless shampoo!

To prep your bathing space, make sure to have a spray nozzle to ensure you can thoroughly wet and rinse the coat, plenty of towels, and a non-slip mat to keep your pup safe and comfortable during bath time!

Tools for Drying

After the bath, you'll need a high-velocity (HVAC) dryer to thoroughly dry your dog's coat. The high-velocity dryer is the most efficient and safest way to dry your dog. Plus, if your dog has a dense undercoat, the HVAC will help to blow out any remaining undercoat hair.

When you're finished with the high-velocity dryer, you can also use a hand dryer to fluff up your dog's coat and dry sensitive areas like your dog's face. To speed up the drying process, you can spray a quick-drying aid solution on your dog's coat. Remember to always use products specially formulated for dogs!

Safety first! You and the dog should have ear protection when using an HVAC. Headphones for you and a headwrap for the dog will ensure that your hearing is protected.

Clippers and Scissors

Depending on your dog's coat type and the style you choose for your pet, you'll need a variety of clippers and scissors. For haircuts, invest in high-quality clippers and scissors that are designed specifically for dogs. Clippers work best to shave down large areas, while scissors are ideal for shaping the hair around the dog's face, legs and paws. Common tools you might use include:

• Clipper and comb attachments
• Trimmer
• Straight shear
• Curved shear
• Chunker scissors

How Often Should I Trim My Dog's Nails?

Most dogs should have their nails trimmed once a week. If you frequently walk your dog on sidewalks or other paved surfaces, you may be able to stretch the time between nail trims, since concrete will naturally file those nails down. Less active dogs may need more frequent trims.

The best way to assess whether your dog needs a nail trim is to inspect the nails for yourself:

• Pay attention to their length and sharpness
• Check if the nails touch the ground when the dog is standing
• Listen for the sound of your dog's nails clicking on the floors of your house

If you can hear your dog's nails clicking against the wood or tiles in your house, you'll know he's due for a trim!

Nail trims can be nerve-wracking for some dogs and dog owners! If you are nervous about clipping too much of the nail, or if your dog has black nails or brown nails that make it hard to see the quick, dog's nails are black, go slowly and take smaller portions of the nail. Clip the very tip of the nail and look for a white dot inside the nail. This dot will be your sign that you are close to the quick.

How Often Should I Brush and Bathe My Dog?

The frequency of brushing and bathing depends on your dog's coat type and lifestyle. Here's a general guideline:

• Brushing: Long-haired and curly-coated breeds may need daily brushing, while short-haired dogs can be brushed once a week.
• Bathing: You should base your dog's bathing schedule on his coat type and level of activity. Dogs with short coats and double coats should be bathed every four to six weeks or when they get dirty. Silky-coated dogs, curly-coated dogs and plush-coated dogs, on the other hand, should be bathed and least once a month. Wire-coated breeds should only be bathed when they are excessively dirty or stinky, or after handstripping since over-washing can strip their fur of natural protective oils.

Are you grooming your dog as often as you should? Brushing and bathing are key grooming tasks to keep your pup looking and feeling their best!

What Type of Cut Is Appropriate for Your Dog?

The ideal cut for your dog depends on their breed, activity level, and personal preference. For instance:

• Pet Cuts: Pet owners often go for popular pet cuts like puppy cuts and teddy bear cuts, which are adorable but easy to maintain.
• Functional Cuts: Active dogs may benefit from shorter cuts to reduce maintenance and matting.
• Breed-Specific Cuts: Show dogs often require cuts that align with breed standards, such as the poodle's iconic clip.
• Creative Cuts: Some owners opt for unique styles, but always prioritize your dog's comfort and safety.

For easy maintenance and a super cute look, many dog owners opt for a teddy bear haircut. The teddy bear cut gives a dog's face and paws a soft, neat, and rounded look, but keeps the body short for a low-maintenance finish.

Grooming Your Dog Step by Step

Once you've chosen the best tools and style for your dog's coat type, you're ready to start grooming! Follow this step-by-step guide for a successful grooming session:

1. Trim Nails: Clip your dog's nails carefully, avoiding the quick. If you're new to this, trim small portions at a time, and use a grinder to smooth edges.
2. Brush Your Dog: Start by brushing your dog's coat to remove tangles and loose hair. Use a detangling spray if needed.
3. Clean Ears and Eyes: Use an ear cleaner to gently wipe the outer ear and a damp cloth to clean around the eyes.
4. Bathe Your Dog: Wet your dog thoroughly, apply shampoo, and lather from head to tail. Rinse well and towel-dry.
5. Dry Your Dog: Spray your dog with a drying aid solution. Use an high-velocity dryer and drying aid spray to dry your dog's fur from head to toe. Switch to a hand dryer to dry sensitive areas and finish drying the coat.
6. Trim Fur: Make sure the coat is tangle-free. When you're ready, use clippers to trim the body and scissors for detailed work, such as shaping the tail and ears. Be cautious around sensitive areas like the paws, face, and tail.
7. Final Touches: Brush your dog one last time to finish the look and check for any missed spots.

Your dog's coat is one of a kind—and their grooming routine should be too.

At Paw Parent Academy, our DIY Grooming Courses are tailored to different coat types, so you can learn exactly what your pup needs. Explore our course options and find the perfect fit for you and your furry friend!

Safe Grooming

Safety should always come first when grooming your dog. Here are some tips:

• Create a Calm Environment: Groom in a quiet, well-lit area to reduce stress for both you and your dog.
• Use Appropriate Tools: Ensure all grooming tools are clean, sharp, and suitable for your dog's size and coat type.
• Watch for Signs of Discomfort: If your dog seems stressed or in pain, stop immediately and reassess.
• Consult a Pro: When in doubt, consult a professional groomer or veterinarian for guidance.

By following these steps, you'll build the confidence you need to groom your dog like a pro—all from the comfort of home! Not only will your dog look great, but they'll also feel healthier, more comfortable and happier. Grooming is more than just a beauty routine—it's an act of love!

FAQs About How to Groom a Dog at Home

Q: How often should I groom my dog at home?

A: The frequency depends on your dog's coat type and activity level. In general:

• Brushing: Daily for curly and long-haired breeds, weekly for short-haired dogs.
• Bathing: Every 4 to 6 weeks for most dogs, more frequently for curly or silky coats.
• Nail Trimming: About once a week, or whenever you hear nails clicking on the floor.

Q: What tools do I need to groom a dog at home?

A: To groom your dog at home, you'll need:

• Brushing tools based on coat type (slicker brushes, combs, curry brushes)
• Nail clippers or grinders
• Dog-specific shampoo and conditioner
• Ear cleaning solution
• Toothbrush and toothpaste for dogs
• Clippers and scissors for trimming
• High-velocity dryer for drying thick or long coats

Q: Can I use human shampoo or grooming tools on my dog?

A: No, always use products and tools made specifically for dogs. Human shampoos can irritate your dog's skin and upset their pH balance, and tools not made for dogs may be ineffective or even unsafe.

Q: How do I know what kind of coat my dog has?

A: Your dog's breed is often the best indicator. Common coat types include:

• Plush
• Double
• Curly
• Silky
• Short
• Wire

Q: What's the best haircut for my dog at home?

A: It depends on your dog's lifestyle and coat type. Popular low-maintenance styles include:

• Teddy bear cut (ideal for plush or curly coats)
• Puppy cut
• Functional short trims for active dogs. For show dogs or breed standards, consult a professional groomer or follow breed-specific guidelines.

Q: Is it safe to trim my dog's nails at home?

A: Yes, with care and the right tools. Trim a small amount at a time and look for a white dot inside the nail to avoid cutting the quick. Keep styptic powder nearby just in case.

Q: How can I keep my dog calm during grooming?

A: Create a quiet, calm environment. Use treats and praise to reinforce positive behavior. If your dog is very nervous, try shorter grooming sessions or consult your vet for calming techniques.

Q: What if I make a mistake while grooming?

A: Don't worry—mistakes happen! If you accidentally nick the skin, clean the area and apply an antiseptic. If your dog's haircut doesn't turn out as planned, the fur will grow back. Practice and patience go a long way!

Q: When should I see a professional groomer instead of grooming at home?

A: Call in a pro if:

• Your dog is severely matted
• You're unsure how to hand-strip a wire coat
• Your dog is aggressive or fearful during grooming
• You want a breed-standard or show cut. Professional groomers also offer helpful tips to improve your home routine.

Q: Where can I learn more about how to groom a dog at home?

A: If you're interested in learning how to groom your dog at home, Paw Parent Academy offers comprehensive online courses tailored for pet parents. These step-by-step classes are designed to help you confidently groom your dog, regardless of breed or coat type.

Key Features of Paw Parent Academy:

• Breed-Specific Courses: Whether you have a goldendoodle, yorkie, terrier, a pug, or anything in-between—there are courses tailored to your dog's specific grooming needs!
• Expert Instruction: Learn from award-winning groomer, Nadia Bongelli, who provides professional techniques and tips to ensure your dog looks and feels their best.
• Flexible Learning: With lifetime access to the courses, you can learn at your own pace and revisit lessons whenever needed.
• Comprehensive Resources: Courses include guidance on setting up your grooming space, selecting the right tools, and using positive reinforcement to make grooming a stress-free experience for both you and your dog!