If you’re on a budget, grooming your dog at home can save you money on expensive dog grooming services. Many pet owners are hesitant to groom their pups themselves, but it only requires a little bit of know-how and a few essential purchases. Keep reading to discover the products you’ll need to successfully groom your dog from home. From Organic Pet Shampoo to special nail clippers, these tools will keep your dog looking great all year.
The Right Brushes
These tools are a must to keep your dogs coat soft, shiny and free of pests. The specific brushes you’ll need depend on your dog’s coat type and length. Dogs with short, smooth coats only require weekly touch-ups with a bristle brush. Dogs with dense hair that is prone to tangles may need a slicker brush to break apart clumping and matting, and a bristle brush to remove loose hair. Dogs with long, silken coats typically require daily brushing with both a slicker and bristle brush, as well as hair trims around the feet and face.
High-Quality Dog Shampoo
According to the ASPCA, your dog only needs washed once every 3 months unless he’s unusually dirty or bad-smelling. Dogs can be sensitive to the harsh chemicals that are in many budget commercial shampoos, so it can be worth it to invest in a high-quality or organic shampoo. Many dog owners also use baby shampoo if their dog has sensitive skin or allergic reactions. If fleas are an issue, you may want to choose a brand that is medicated, although these should be used infrequently to prevent adverse reactions.
Nail Clippers
Long, sharp dog nails can be uncomfortable for both you and your dog, so regular nail trims should be a part of your grooming routine. Clippers made for humans are typically too small to safely and effectively trim your dog’s nails, so purchase clippers that are designed with dogs in mind. These clippers are larger and usually look like a miniature guillotine, and they will make the job much easier. There are dremel-style trimming tools that gently grind the nails to the perfect length. After trimming, use a nail file to smooth any rough edges.
If you have the right tools, it’s easy to groom your dog at home. If you have the right brushes, a good shampoo and specially-designed nail clippers, your dog is sure to look great.
