Grooming is one of the most important responsibilities for dog owners. If you have a dog who needs groomed, should you do the task at home or take him to a professional dog groomer? Different dogs have different grooming needs, so you need to consider a few factors about your canine before you decide to groom at home.
Your Dog’s Breed
What breed is your dog? Certain breeds have coats that require consistent upkeep, and can be hard to groom efficiently. These dog breeds include long-haired coated dogs like Cocker Spaniels, Bearded Collies, Puli, Old English Sheepdogs, Yorkshire Terriers and more. If you have one of the more difficult breeds to groom, you may consider trusting a professional dog groomer with your pup to make it easier on both you and your dog. Despite your dog’s breed, if you have a heavily-matted dog, you may want to take it to the professional.
Your Dog’s Demeanor and Health Concerns
Grooming can be stressful to some dogs, and if you have a dog that’s shy, uptight or anxious, you may want to do some grooming tasks at home. Dogs that have a difficult background may be uneasy if you try to force them to stay in one place for grooming, especially if they’re not used to it. A professional dog groomer will know how to keep your dog feel safe, and will also have the handling equipment to put your dog in place so the task can be done quickly. Some dogs may have health issues that may require them to be groomed by a professional. If your dog has a skin issue, your groomer may already be equipped to handle their sensitivities or allergies with appropriate products.
Simple Grooming You Can Do at Home
Regardless if you take your dog to the groomer, there are a few grooming tasks you may do at home, provided you have the right equipment. A pet supplies vendor such at PetSmart or Dr. Fosters and Smith will let you get the basics for at-home grooming, and let you save a few dollars in the process.
Bathing You can bath your dog at home and save money at the groomers. We’ve even put together an article about How to Wash Your Dog.
Brushing Depending on your dog’s coat, you can brush him at home.
Eyes You can wipe away your dog’s eye debris and tears (unless your vet cautions you not to).
Dental You can keep your dog’s dental health at home by brushing his teeth with a vet-approved dog toothpaste.
Going Mobile
If you don’t want to take your dog to the groomers, you may have a mobile option in your area. Mobile pet services such as vets and groomers are growing in popularity, and the benefit of using such a service is they come to you. Your dog is not put through the trauma of having to ride in the car and be taken to a new place with a mobile pet grooming service, instead, you can take them outside into the van and simplify the whole process.
