Essential Dog Grooming Tips for Year-Round Health and Comfort

This pet health content was written by a veterinarian, Dr. Debora Lichtenberg, VMD, with contributions from Dr. Pippa Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS. This article was reviewed for accuracy by Dr. Elliott and was last updated on July 11, 2024

Importance of Regular Dog Grooming Tips

Grooming is not just about an adorable poodle hairdo or a Persian lion cut in summer.

There are medical—not just aesthetic—reasons for keeping the dog who needs regular trims or the longhaired cat clean and groomed. Some body parts suffer unduly if folks neglect to keep their furry-but-high-maintenance friend fluffy and free of mats.

Here are some essential dog grooming tips to keep your pet clean and comfortable all year long:

• Prevent Matting: Regular grooming helps prevent painful mats that can cause skin irritation and infections.
• Eye Care: Clean around your dog's eyes to prevent discharge buildup that can lead to inflammation.
• Hygiene Maintenance: Keep the area around the anus trimmed to avoid blockages that can cause discomfort or health issues.
• Check for Issues: Regular grooming allows you to check for any signs of health problems, such as skin infections or anal sac issues.

Dog Grooming Tips for the Eye and Face Area

Eyes secrete discharge. Depending on the breed and the individual animal, there can be a lot of “sleepies” or “eye goop” that collects in the corners of the eyes. This is normal. (But always have eye problems checked if you're not sure an ocular discharge is “normal.”)

Breeds requiring grooming—and particularly brachycephalic breeds—need the area around the eyes and in the nasal folds kept clean and trimmed, or else the ocular discharge builds up. After days and weeks of eye goop matting the fur, the facial skin around the eyes can become inflamed and infected. The cure?

• Well before it gets to the point of inflammation, cautiously soak, wipe, and remove the sticky, smelly fur as soon as you notice it.

Grooming Tips for the Other End

Can you imagine so much matted fur covering the anus of a dog that they cannot poop?

I often have poodle types brought in for constipation when that wasn’t the problem at all. These straining pups couldn’t poop because the area was blocked with poop mats. Yuck.

• Carefully, one must tease the mixture of fur and old stool away from the skin and anus and remove the mess. Upon removal, poodle-doodle is so happy, she squats and poops right in front of you. Regular cleaning of that area will help keep your dog comfortable.

And then there are anal sacs. These are a couple of grape-sized pockets—filled with fishy-smelling secretion—that sit at 8:20 on the clock face on either side of the anus.

Understanding Anal Sacs in Dog Grooming

Anal sacs play a role in canine scent communication, leading to the familiar butt-sniffing behavior in dogs. However, dogs can live without them.

A groomer might first notice if your dog is irritated by their rear end, as seen with Sandy, a Cocker Spaniel. In Sandy's case:

• The groomer tried to empty the anal sacs but stopped when Sandy showed unusual agitation.
• The groomer advised seeing a vet, suspecting an infection.
• Testing revealed anal sac carcinoma. Early removal of the lump extended Sandy's life with no recurrence.
• Key Takeaways:
• Groomers' Role: Groomers can spot issues early and recommend vet visits.
• Importance of Vet Checks: Regular checks can prevent severe health issues.

Grooming Tips for Feathers and Pantaloons

For any animal, skin underneath mats that has been ignored is at best inflamed and at worst severely infected. In hot weather, dirty, matted fur—particularly on the back end—is a prime location for maggots to make a home.

Fur behind the ears, in the armpits, and in and around the feet, toes, and pads also need special attention. Feet can become very sore if matted fur remains stuck between toes for a long time.

• Regular Checks: Regularly check these areas for mats and carefully trim or brush them out.
• Prevent Infections: Keeping these areas clean and free of mats helps prevent infections and other health issues.

For more grooming tips, check out how to remove mats from long-haired pets.

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Never Wait to Remove Mats

Even in the most neglected cases, mats can be removed and macerated skin recovers with proper wound care and antibiotics. However, severe skin infections can cause systemic illness, particularly in an older or debilitated animal. These matted animals experience unnecessary suffering and pain until groomed. They may not communicate this discomfort, so it's crucial to remain vigilant for matted fur. Key Tips:

• Immediate Action: Remove mats promptly to prevent severe infections.
• Regular Checks: Regularly inspect your pet's fur for mats, especially in long-haired breeds.

No Excuses for Neglecting Grooming

When I see a pet with medical problems related to poor body care, their caretakers are usually surprised and embarrassed. They meant their pup or their longhaired cat no harm. But folks tend to justify—out of guilt, perhaps—why Toto was not trimmed or why Bobo’s bum bummed me out. Here are a couple of excuses I've heard over the years: “My pet is afraid of the groomer.” “I groom him myself.” “I was waiting till it’s warmer.” Tips for Finding a Groomer:

• Ask friends and your veterinarian for recommendations.
• Look for groomers who are capable and sensitive to your pet's needs.
• Most animals can find a friend in their groomer and feel great after their day at the spa, so don't be afraid to seek that out for your furry buddy.

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Bathing Tips for Dogs

Bathing your dog is an essential part of dog grooming tips to keep your pet healthy and clean. Proper bathing techniques ensure that your dog's skin and coat remain in top condition. Key Tips for Bathing:

• Frequency: Bathe your dog every 4-6 weeks, or as needed, depending on their activity level and coat type.
• Use Dog-Specific Shampoo: Human shampoos can be harsh on a dog's skin. Always use a shampoo specifically formulated for dogs.
• Proper Rinsing: Make sure to rinse thoroughly to remove all shampoo residues, as leftover shampoo can cause skin irritation.
• Ear Protection: Place cotton balls in your dog's ears to prevent water from entering, which can lead to infections.
• Drying: Towel dry your dog and use a pet dryer on a low, cool setting if necessary. Avoid using a human hairdryer as it can get too hot.

Brushing Techniques for Different Coat Types

Brushing is a crucial aspect of dog grooming tips, as it helps maintain your dog's coat, reduce shedding, and prevent matting. Brushing Techniques:

• Short Coats: Use a bristle brush or a rubber curry brush to remove loose fur and stimulate the skin. Brush in the direction of hair growth.
• Medium Coats: Use a slicker brush or a pin brush to detangle and remove loose fur. Pay extra attention to areas prone to matting, like behind the ears and under the legs.
• Long Coats: Use a wide-toothed comb to gently detangle, followed by a slicker brush to remove loose fur and prevent mats. Brush daily to keep the coat in good condition.
• Double Coats: Use an undercoat rake to remove loose fur from the dense undercoat, followed by a slicker brush to smooth the topcoat. Regular brushing helps reduce shedding.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

References

• “Dog Grooming Tips.” ASPCA. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/dog-grooming-tips
• “How to Groom Your Dog at Home.” Humane Society. https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/how-groom-your-dog-home
• “10 Grooming Tips from Dog Show Experts.” AKC. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/10-grooming-tips-dog-show-experts/