How Often Should You Groom Your Dog?

Grooming your dog is an important part of their upkeep and care. Not only does regular grooming keep your dog looking (and smelling) nice, but it can also prevent issues like matted fur and flea infestation. While grooming your dog yourself may not be for everyone, it must be done frequently and regularly. The process is also something that can improve your bond with your pet and help you keep closer tabs on your dog's health.

In this article, we’re talking about the importance of grooming your dog and how often it should really be done. Then, we’ll be discussing the average price of dog grooming and the easiest ways for you to get involved in your dog’s care. 

What Is Dog Grooming?

Dog grooming is the process of cleaning, styling and caring for a dog's coat. It's important to groom your dog because it helps keep them healthy, comfortable and looking good.

When you groom your dog on a regular basis, you're also able to check for any potential problems that may be developing or causing discomfort in your dog.

For example, if there is an area where their skin has become irritated or inflamed then it can be treated during the grooming session rather than waiting until things get worse and more noticeable. It’s recommended that regular grooming sessions take place at least weekly, with regular brushing taking place 2-3 times throughout the week. 

Why Should You Groom Your Dog?

Grooming your dog is a great way to bond with them, it keeps them healthy and clean, and can even prevent health complications. There are so many reasons to be grooming your dog on a regular basis!

Grooming helps keep your dog healthy by removing dead hair and keeping the skin soft. It’s also the best way to remove excess dirt from between their toes, which can cause foot infections or other issues if left alone for too long. Grooming also promotes blood flow throughout their body by stimulating all of those little nerve endings in the skin. The process also pays special attention to the nails, an often forgotten location for dogs. 
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How Much Does a Professional Dog Groomer Cost?

Professional dog grooming is so much more affordable than you might initially believe. Depending on the size of your dog, and the length of their coat, you should expect to pay somewhere between $40-$75 per grooming session for your pooch.

This includes services, like teeth brushing, ear cleaning, and nail trimming.  

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Can You Groom Your Dog at Home?

There’s no reason to have your dog visit a professional groomer every single week. Instead, you can maintain the bulk of their upkeep at home. This helps you bond with your pup, while also saving so much money. 

Start by purchasing a dog grooming kit to ensure you have all the tools that you need, and you’re ready to get started. 

4 Steps for Grooming Your Dog at Home

Bathing‍

Bathing your dog is one of the most important aspects of grooming. It can seem like a chore, but it’s actually very therapeutic for both you and your pet. Not only does it clean them up and make them smell fresh, but bathing also helps with shedding and provides your dog with some necessary affection and stimulation.

If your dog struggles with anxiety around the water, don’t panic – this is completely normal!! You just need to show them that this bath thing isn’t so scary after all! Here are some tips:

• Keep calm when bathing your dog so they don't pick up on any tension or anxiety from you. 
• Stay patient during the process and introduce your dog to the water gradually.
• Use a spray nozzle instead of immersing your dog in the water
  

Brushing and Combing

Brushing and combing are incredibly important components of the grooming process. In fact, your dog should be brushed more frequently than any other aspect of grooming. Some breeds will need to be brushed daily. 

Brushing helps remove dead hair, which can cause skin allergies, while combing removes tangles and helps distribute oil from the sebaceous glands over the skin, keeping it healthy. Brushing and combing are also important for dogs with heavier coats to help prevent mats. 

Nail Trimming

Long nails can cause injury, pain, and discomfort for your dog, so it's important to keep them trimmed. Trimming the nails is also an excellent way to bond with your pooch! 

How do you know when a nail needs trimming? A good rule of thumb is to trim your dog’s nails once every two weeks or when they are “just about to touch the ground.” It’s important to be mindful when trimming a dog’s nails though, as you don’t want to accidentally trim them too short. 

Ear Care and Teeth Brushing

Ear care and teeth brushing are often overlooked aspects of grooming. It's important to pay attention to these tasks as they can directly influence the health of your dog.

Here are some tips for cleaning your dog's ears:

• Gently wipe the inside of the ear with a cotton ball or pad dipped in warm water (never insert anything into your dog’s ear canal). You can also use a special canine ear-cleaning solution if you prefer, but these can sometimes be drying or irritating. 
• Restrain your dog while cleaning their ears to prevent them from moving too much and avoid accidental injuries. 
  

Grooming Your Dog is an Important Part of Pet Care

It’s important to remember that grooming is not a one-time thing. Your dog’s grooming should be done regularly, even if it’s just brushing their fur once or twice a week. Not only will this help improve your pet’s appearance and overall health, but it will also get them used to the idea of being cared for.

And, don’t forget, if it ever becomes too overwhelming, there are professional groomers out there waiting to lend a helping hand. They’re so much more affordable then you think!