Grooming at Home: Brushing, Baths and Nails Without the Drama

You do not need a salon for the basics. You need the right order, a calm voice and a lot of treats.

1. Brush before the bath

Water tightens mats. Brush first, always.

Do this: short coats weekly, long or curly coats several times a week.

2. Bathe only as often as needed

For most dogs that means every month or two, or when they are dirty or smelly. Your vet may advise differently for skin conditions.

Do this: lukewarm water and a shampoo made for dogs. Rinse longer than you think.

3. Dry properly

Towel well. Dry inside the ear flaps and between the toes.

4. Check the ears

A healthy ear is pale pink with little smell.

Watch out for: redness, dark discharge, a strong odor or head shaking. That is a vet visit, not a cotton swab.

5. Trim nails a little, often

If you hear clicking on the floor, they are due.

Do this: take off small slivers and stop before the pink quick. A grinder is easier for many dogs. Watch out for: dark nails, where the quick is hard to see. Go slowly.

6. Make it a good experience

One paw, one treat. Short sessions. Stop before they struggle.

7. Know when to hire a pro

Heavy matting, clipping a full coat, or a dog who panics. Groomers and vets handle this every day.

Where to check all of this, free

• Your veterinarian or groomer, who can show you nail trimming in person.

• The American Kennel Club's grooming guides at akc.org.

This article is general information, not veterinary advice.