How to Tell If Your Dog Needs a Professional Groom or a Simple Home Wash
TLDR; If your dog has matted fur, a strong odor, skin issues, or is difficult to bathe, it likely needs professional grooming. For light dirt, mild odor, or short coats, a home wash may be enough. Understanding the Difference: Professional Dog Grooming vs Home Wash Figuring out whether your dog needs a full grooming session […]
Common Grooming Mistakes Dog Owners Make at Home (and How to Fix Them)
TLDR; The most common grooming mistakes dog owners make at home are using the wrong products, over-bathing, poor brushing, neglecting ears, nails, and teeth, and shaving coats too short. Fixing these involves using proper dog-specific products, brushing correctly, maintaining a regular schedule, and paying attention to coat type, skin health, odor, and stress. With the […]
Are You Overbathing Your Dog? Signs You’re Washing Too Often
TLDR; Yes, you can overbathe your dog — and doing so can strip away essential natural oils, leading to dry, itchy skin, infections, and coat damage. Knowing your dog’s breed, coat type, and lifestyle is key to creating a healthy grooming routine. Understanding Your Dog’s Natural Skin and Coat Needs Dogs are not meant to […]
The Dangers of Neglecting Your Dog’s Oral Hygiene
TLDR; Neglecting your dog’s oral hygiene leads to painful conditions like gum disease, tooth loss, and bad breath. More seriously, untreated dental problems spread bacteria through the bloodstream, harming the heart, kidneys, and liver, which shortens your dog’s lifespan. Why Dog Oral Hygiene Matters The dangers of neglecting your dog’s oral hygiene start with something […]
Your First Dog Grooming Kit: What You Really Need (and What to Skip)
TLDR; To build your first dog grooming kit, focus on essentials like a brush suited to your dog’s coat, nail clippers, dog-specific shampoo, and basic grooming tools. Skip non-essentials like styling products, grooming tables, or expensive equipment unless you plan to groom professionally. Understanding the Basics of Home Grooming for Beginners Starting with the right […]
When and How to Check Your Dog’s Paw Pads for Damage
TLDR; Check your dog’s paw pads daily or after each walk to spot cuts, cracks, burns, or lodged debris early. Look for limping, licking, swelling, or redness, and consult a vet if there are deep wounds, signs of infection, or ongoing pain. Dog paw pads are essential for movement, balance, and protection. They cushion impact, […]
What Groomers Wish Every Dog Owner Knew Before Their Appointment
TLDR; Groomers want dog owners to prioritise their pet’s comfort over appearance, maintain regular home grooming, and clearly communicate health or behavioral issues before the appointment. Preparation at home and honest discussion with your groomer ensures a safer, less stressful grooming experience for both the dog and the professional. Why Dog Groomer Preparation Matters More […]
Are Grooming Services Covered by Pet Insurance in Australia?
TLDR; No, standard pet insurance policies in Australia do not cover grooming services. Grooming is generally considered a routine or preventative care service, which falls outside the scope of typical accident or illness coverage. However, some insurers offer optional wellness or routine care plans that may include grooming as an add-on benefit. Pet Insurance Grooming […]
How to Get a Nervous Dog Used to Grooming: A Step-by-Step Approach
TLDR; To get a nervous dog used to grooming, start slow with gentle touch, introduce grooming tools gradually, and use positive reinforcement consistently. A structured step-by-step approach builds trust, reduces anxiety, and helps your dog feel safe during grooming sessions. Dog Grooming Anxiety: Why It Happens and What to Look For Some dogs fear grooming […]
How Often Should I Clean My Dog’s Ears at Home?
TLDR; You should clean your dog’s ears once every 1–2 weeks, depending on their breed, ear type, activity level, and overall ear health. Dogs with floppy ears, allergies, or who swim frequently may need more frequent cleanings. Why Cleaning Your Dog’s Ears Is Crucial for Their Health Just like brushing teeth or clipping nails, ear […]
