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Not only does grooming help your faithful friend look their best, but it also allows them to stay healthy and happy.

When it comes to grooming your dog, it's crucial that you're familiar with some of the basics before you attempt to groom your pooch yourself.

Check out this list of six dos and don'ts of dog grooming so you can help your pooch look and feel his best for years to come.

1. Do: Groom Your Dog Regularly

Dogs should enjoy regularly grooming sessions to keep fur out of their eyes and to prevent excess fur from becoming matted. When your pal has matted fur, it can cause skin problems, scratching, and irritation.

Not all dogs need grooming as often as others, so it really depends on the breed. Long-haired dogs will need to be groomed a lot more often than short-haired dogs.

Grooming your dog doesn't just involve their fur. It also involves trimming their nails, which is essential to a healthy life. Keep those nails well-manicured and at a reasonable length to ensure your pooch stays comfortable.

2. Do: Use The Right Tools

When grooming your dog, make sure you're using the appropriate tools. Never substitute human clippers for hair and nails and use them on your dog.

Be sure you choose safe grooming tools that will not cause injury and that can handle the toughest grooming tasks. Ask your veterinarian if they endorse any products so you can be sure you're choosing the right tools and accessories for your dog's needs.

3. Do: Be Patient and Take Your Time

Most dogs are not a fan of grooming sessions, but it's important that you remain patient and loving throughout the process. Go slowly and take your time, making sure that you trim and cut everything you need.

Talk to your dog in a calming voice and let them take small breaks if they need to. As time goes on, your dog will become used to grooming and won't be as squirmy (hopefully).

Groomers who rush can end up injuring dogs, which is why it's crucial that you go slowly. Reward your dog with a treat every time you groom them to give them a little positive reinforcement.

4. Do: Choose a Safe Spot for Groom Time

You might be tempted to clip your dog's hair and nails on a slippery table. But a sturdy, slip-free surface is much safer for both you and your best friend.

Pick a dedicated space to groom your dog, and use it every time so they associate it with their grooming sessions. Make sure the area is well-lit so you can easily see their nails. Good lighting will prevent you from accidentally cutting the quick, which can cause extreme bleeding.

You can lay a thick blanket over your dog as you trim his nails to keep him calm. Just make sure wherever you choose to groom, it's secure and safe for you and your pal.

5. Do: Ask For Help When You Need It

If you're having trouble grooming your dog, don't be afraid to ask for some help. A trained groomer may be able to get the job done faster and correctly in some cases.

Never be wary of asking for assistance when it comes to your dog's health. If you just can't seem to get your pooch to stay still or those nails don't seem to want to clip properly, it might be time to have an expert step in.

6. Do: Brush Fur Regularly

Brush your dog's fur often to help get rid of excessive shedding and promote a healthy coat. You should also always brush your dog before you give them a good shampooing.

Brushing on a regular basis promotes trust and helps remove tangling and matting between grooming sessions. A nice brush will keep your dog happy, and their fur will stay smooth and shiny.

Now, let's take a look at a few don'ts when it comes to grooming your dog.

1. Don't: Rush the Process

Remember that grooming is a precise process, so never rush through trimming and cutting nails. Take your time, and slowly clip fur and nails while taking breaks as you go.

2. Don't: Use Scented Shampoos

Shampoo that contains fragrance can be extremely irritating to a dog's eyes and respiratory system. Stay away from scented shampoo and only use products designed for dogs. Once you're done, make sure all the shampoo is completely rinsed clean.

3. Don't: Wait Too Long Between Groomings

Stick to a regular grooming schedule to keep your dog healthy. You don't want to wait until their fur starts to get matted or their nails start to get too long. Write down the date of each grooming to help you stay on track.

4. Don't: Trim the Nails Too Short

Although nails that get too long can be painful, nails that are too short can be uncomfortable, too. When you trim your dog's nails, just cut off a small bit at the top or else you could accidentally cut the "quick" which will cause extreme pain and bleeding. Take your time and just trim a small bit of each nail every time you groom.

5. Don't: Let Your Tools Get Dirty or Dull

Grooming tools that get dirty can cause infection and can become less effective. Clean your tools regularly and make sure that all blades are sharp enough to do the job. You may have to replace them every so often once they become worn down.

6. Don't: Pressure Your Dog

Although grooming is important, it's never good to make your dog feel forced into the process. Coax your dog and see if he's up for a trim, but never pressure him to get a haircut or have his nails trimmed. When you make grooming a pleasant experience, your pooch will be more likely to oblige.

Grooming Made Easy

If you follow these simple tips for grooming your dog, each session will be easy and pleasant for both of you. Regular grooming keeps fur and nails healthy, and it keeps your faithful friend happy.

For all your pet grooming, boarding, and daycare needs, be sure to visit our website and contact us today!