Part 1: Bathing and Drying

Basic Process

Brush your dog thoroughly before bathing to remove tangles and mats.

Use lukewarm water to wet the dog’s coat, avoiding the eyes, ears, and nose.

Apply a gentle, dog-safe shampoo, starting from the back. Clean paws, underbelly, and tail base thoroughly.

Rinse well to remove all shampoo.

Towel-dry gently, then use a blow dryer on a low heat setting while brushing the coat to prevent tangles.

Breed-Specific Tips

Golden Retrievers: Focus on drying the undercoat completely to prevent skin infections.

Poodles: Their curly hair requires brushing while drying to avoid matting.

French Bulldogs: Short hair is easier to clean, but their sensitive skin needs hypoallergenic shampoo.

Huskies: Heavy shedders—dry thoroughly and brush after bathing to control loose fur.

Part 2: Brushing and Trimming

Basic Steps

Use a breed-appropriate brush (slicker brush, de-shedding tool, comb).

Check for tangles, debris, or parasites.

Trim excess hair around the paw pads, anus, and eyes as needed.

Breed-Specific Tips

Poodles: Regular haircuts are a must; teddy or lamb styles are common.

Labradors: Short-haired, but still benefit from regular brushing to remove loose fur.

Bichon Frises: Their white coat requires frequent brushing and facial trimming.

German Shepherds: Use de-shedding tools during seasonal shedding periods.

Part 3: Nail Clipping

Steps to Follow

Use pet nail clippers to trim the clear part of the nail, avoiding the quick.

Clip small amounts at a time to avoid bleeding.

If bleeding occurs, use styptic powder.

Smooth edges with a nail grinder to prevent scratching.

Frequency Tip
Trim every 2–3 weeks depending on activity level. City dogs often need more frequent trimming than active outdoor dogs.

Part 4: Ear Cleaning

How-To Guide

Apply an alcohol-free dog ear cleaner at the entrance of the ear canal.

Gently massage the base of the ear to loosen debris.

Wipe away dirt with a clean cotton ball.

Do not insert anything deep into the ear.

Breed Watchpoints

Golden Retrievers & Basset Hounds: Floppy ears trap moisture; clean weekly.

Beagles: Prone to ear mites—check often and clean with care.

Border Collies: Upright ears need less cleaning but still benefit from monthly checks.

Part 5: Anal Gland Care

Guidelines

Anal glands can become full and uncomfortable if not expressed naturally.

Signs include scooting, licking the rear, or a foul smell.

Ask a vet or groomer to demonstrate how to express the glands safely.

Check monthly; seek help if fluid is discolored or your dog seems in pain.

At-Risk Breeds

Small breeds like Pomeranians, Dachshunds, and Toy Poodles often experience blocked glands more frequently.

Part 6: Comfort Tips and Safety Reminders

Start with short sessions for beginners.

Use a calm voice and frequent praise.

Reward your dog with treats after each step to build positive associations.

Play calming music in a quiet environment.

Finish the session with a walk or playtime to reinforce good behavior.