How to Groom Your Dog at Home: A Beginner’s Step-by-Step Guide
Grooming your dog at home might sound intimidating, but it’s easier (and more rewarding) than you think. Whether you’re trying to save money, reduce stress for your pup, or just enjoy bonding time, this guide will walk you through every step — no groomer required.
🧼 What You’ll Need
Before you get started, gather your tools:
- A good pair of clippers https://amzn.to/3FTMiwP
- A gentle dog shampoo https://amzn.to/4kPui5M
- A slicker brush https://amzn.to/4l1NDRm
- Nail clippers https://amzn.to/3HXBwWX
- Dog safe ear cleaner https://amzn.to/4kRia4c
- Towels https://amzn.to/4elDV9R
- Small soft treats for cooperation https://amzn.to/3T3QOvA
🐾 Step-by-Step Dog Grooming Routine
1. Brush Your Dog Thoroughly
Start with brushing. This helps remove tangles, mats, and loose fur. Brushing before the bath also makes washing and drying more effective.
💡 Tip: For long-haired dogs, use a slicker brush https://amzn.to/4k5EsOF or dematting comb https://amzn.to/441P2S3 For thick hair dogs who are shedding a great deal use a deshedding rake https://amzn.to/3GcZEUX
2. Trim Nails Safely
Use a nail clipper https://amzn.to/4k6ZlZu or grinder https://amzn.to/44ySdRd to trim your dog’s nails. If you’re unsure how short to cut, it’s better to take small amounts at a time.
💡 Tip: Avoid cutting into the “quick” — the pink part inside the nail. If you do accidently cut too short make sure you have styptic powder on hand https://amzn.to/3ZKEdkH
3. Clean the Ears
Use a cotton ball and ear cleaner to gently wipe out wax and dirt or these all in one wipes make a great alternative https://amzn.to/4kRia4c. Don’t insert anything deep into the ear canal.
4. Bathe Your Dog
Use lukewarm water and a gentle dog shampoo. Wet the coat thoroughly, lather, then rinse really well. Leftover shampoo can cause itchiness!
💡 Recommended: This is a very gentle shampoo to use on every skin and coat type. https://amzn.to/4kPui5M
5. Dry and Brush Again
Towel dry first. If your dog tolerates it, use a pet dryer on low heat. Once mostly dry, brush the coat again to smooth it out.
💰 Recommended Tools (That I Use and Love)
These are great tools to get started with — and they’re affordable!
- Andis Dog Clipper https://amzn.to/3FTMiwP
- Burt’s Bees Oatmeal Dog Shampoo — gentle and natural https://amzn.to/4kPui5M
- Hertzko Slicker Brush — great for all coat types https://amzn.to/4l1NDRm
- Nail clippers — https://amzn.to/4eh5VeK
🐕 Why Home Grooming is Worth It
Grooming at home not only saves money — it builds trust between you and your dog. You’ll notice changes in your dog’s coat, health, and mood when grooming becomes part of your routine.
Plus, many dogs feel safer at home than in a busy grooming salon.
✅ Final Tips
- Go slow — your dog will feed off your energy.
- Give plenty of praise and treats throughout the process.
- Start with short sessions and build up over time.
📌 Coming Soon
Want a full printable Dog Grooming Checklist and product guide? I’m working on one now — subscribe to get it free when it’s ready!
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