Taking your dog to a professional groomer every few weeks adds up fast. The good news? With the right tools and a little patience, you can handle most grooming tasks at home — and your dog might even enjoy it.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know to groom your dog at home, from brushing and bathing to ear cleaning and nail care.
Why Home Grooming Matters
Regular grooming isn't just about looks. It's an important part of your dog's overall health. Grooming helps you:
- Catch skin issues, lumps, or parasites early
- Prevent painful matting in long-haired breeds
- Reduce shedding around your home
- Keep your dog comfortable and clean
- Strengthen the bond between you and your dog
What You'll Need
Before you start, gather your supplies:
- Grooming brush or deshedding glove — the right tool depends on your dog's coat type
- Dog shampoo — never use human shampoo, which can irritate a dog's skin
- Grooming wipes — for quick cleanups between baths
- Nail clippers — dog-specific clippers only
- Ear cleaning solution — ask your vet for a recommendation
- Towels — lots of them
Step 1: Brushing
Brushing should happen before bathing — it removes loose hair and detangles mats that get worse when wet. How often you brush depends on your dog's coat:
- Short coats (Labs, Beagles): once a week
- Medium coats (Golden Retrievers, Border Collies): 2-3 times a week
- Long or double coats (Huskies, Goldendoodles): daily brushing recommended
A deshedding glove is a game-changer for dogs who hate traditional brushes. Our Dirty Dog Grooming Mitts work on both wet and dry coats and are a favorite for dogs with sensitive skin.
Step 2: Bathing
Most dogs need a bath every 4-6 weeks, though active or outdoor dogs may need more frequent washing.
- Use lukewarm water — not hot
- Wet the coat thoroughly before applying shampoo
- Massage shampoo in the direction of hair growth
- Rinse completely — leftover shampoo causes itching
- Dry with a towel first, then a low-heat blow dryer if your dog tolerates it
Step 3: Cleaning Between Baths
Between baths, grooming wipes are your best friend. Our Pet & Dog Grooming Cleaning Wipes use a dry formula that's gentle on skin and safe for daily use — no rinsing required.
Step 4: Ear Cleaning
Check your dog's ears weekly. Signs of a problem include redness, odor, or your dog shaking their head frequently. Gently wipe the visible part of the ear canal with a vet-approved solution on a cotton ball — never insert anything deep into the ear.
Step 5: Nail Trimming
Long nails are uncomfortable and can affect your dog's gait. Trim nails every 3-4 weeks, or when you hear them clicking on hard floors. Avoid cutting the "quick" — the pink blood vessel inside the nail. Cut small amounts at a time and keep styptic powder on hand in case of accidental cuts.
Building a Grooming Routine
The key to stress-free grooming is consistency. Start grooming your dog young if possible, and always associate grooming with positive experiences — treats, praise, and patience go a long way. Never force a grooming session — end on a positive note even if you only accomplished one task.
Shop Our Grooming Collection
Ready to build your home grooming kit? Browse our full Grooming collection for brushes, wipes, mitts, and everything else you need to keep your dog looking and feeling their best.