How to Groom Your Dog at Home: A Step-by-Step Guide

Grooming your dog at home doesn't have to be stressful — for you or your pup! With the right tools and a little patience, you can keep your dog looking and feeling their best between professional grooming appointments. Here's everything you need to know.

What You'll Need

• A quality dog brush or deshedding tool
• Dog-safe shampoo
• A nail grinder or clippers
• Ear cleaning solution
• Grooming scissors or clippers
• Plenty of treats!

Step 1: Brush Before You Bathe

Always brush your dog's coat before bathing to remove tangles and loose fur. This makes the bath more effective and prevents mats from tightening when wet.

Step 2: Bath Time

Use lukewarm water and a dog-safe shampoo. Lather from neck to tail, avoiding the eyes and ears. Rinse thoroughly — leftover shampoo can cause skin irritation.

Step 3: Dry Properly

Towel dry first, then use a pet-safe blow dryer on a low heat setting. Keep the dryer moving to avoid overheating any one spot.

Step 4: Trim Nails

Use a nail grinder for a smooth finish and less risk of cutting the quick. If you're nervous, just take a little off at a time.

Step 5: Clean Ears

Apply a few drops of ear cleaning solution, gently massage the base of the ear, then wipe clean with a cotton ball. Never insert anything deep into the ear canal.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

Trim any overgrown fur around the paws, face, and sanitary areas with grooming scissors. Reward your pup with lots of treats and praise!

Ready to get started? Shop our Pet Grooming collection for all the tools you need.