How to Groom Your Dog Without Spending a Fortune

May 11, 2015

Dog grooming can get expensive. Most doggie salons charge $30-40 per visit, and large dogs can cost up to $60 for a bath and grooming. A simpler solution is to give your pup a bath at home and save on costs. Dog bathing can seem a little overwhelming at first, especially if you own a big dog, but it's really as easy as 1, 2, 3.

1. Don't use straight human shampoo.

Dog's skin is a bit different from human skin. First of all, dog skin has a higher pH than human skin, meaning that the layer of acidic oil on dogs' skin can be stripped off by human shampoo. This will cause dry, flaky skin that your dog will scratch at.

Instead, you can buy a special dog shampoo that is easier on their skin. Make sure to read the ingredients list and buy a shampoo that is fragrance and dye free, as these can also cause inflammation and dryness that leads to scratching. Natural essential oils are okay, as they will moisturize the skin without causing irritation. Some oils such as eucalyptus can also keep bugs away.

If you can't find a dog shampoo, a natural human baby shampoo is also acceptable, as it is gentler and usually free of artificial dyes and fragrances. If you're really in a pinch and only have normal shampoo around the house, be sure to dilute it first and apply conditioner afterward to keep your pooch's skin moisturized. Make sure to rinse the shampoo very well.

2. Brush out your pup's fur immediately after the bath.

While it seems like all the hair has come out in the tub (and your drain would agree), there is a lot of loose fur that gets tangled and trapped in with the fur that's still attached. Make sure to use a brush with the little balls on the end of each bristle, like this one if they have long hair. More specialized combs like this one are good for short hair.

This will probably be puppy's favorite part of grooming, and you'll probably accumulate enough fur to knit a small sweater, so this process is best done outside. Don't forget to be gentle on sensitive areas like the ears and belly.

3. Don't be afraid to clip their nails.

This part can be intimidating because you can accidentally cut down to the quick and cause bleeding, but it can be very uncomfortable your your dog if you let their nails grow too long. The most important things are to keep your pet calm and use the correct tool. Don't use human nail clippers or scissors, as these can splinter the nail, potentially causing “hang nails”. A good pair of clippers will ensure that you don't hurt your pup and make the process go much faster.

You may want to enlist a friend to keep your pup calm and prevent him from moving around too much. Take the paw in your hand and gently squeeze to push the nail out further. If the dog's nail is white, you will be able to see the pink quick underneath. If your dog's nails are black and you can't see the quick, you may want to consult a professional to prevent from hurting your pet. Be sure to stay away from the quick and snip each nail quickly to prevent splintering. If you have a long-furred friend, you can also trim the long fur between their toes at the same time, which will help keep their paws clean and looking dapper.