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DIY Pet Grooming Guide

Learn to groom your pet at home. Save money and strengthen your bond with proper grooming techniques.

8 Articles in This Guide

Regular grooming isn't just about keeping your pet looking good—it's essential for their health. And with the right techniques, you can do most grooming at home.

This guide covers everything from nail trims to dental care, helping you save money while keeping your pet healthy and comfortable.

1Brushing & Coat Care

Regular brushing prevents mats, reduces shedding, and distributes natural oils. The right brush depends on your pet's coat type—slicker brushes for long coats, rubber brushes for short.

2Nail Trimming

Overgrown nails can cause pain and posture problems. Trim when you hear clicking on the floor. Go slow, avoid the quick, and keep styptic powder handy just in case.

3Dental Care

80% of dogs have dental disease by age 3. Daily brushing is ideal; even weekly helps. Use pet-specific toothpaste—human toothpaste is toxic to pets.

4Bathing

Most dogs need bathing every 4-8 weeks; cats rarely need baths. Over-bathing strips natural oils and dries skin. Always use pet-specific shampoo.

Read the Full Guides

How Often Should I Bathe My Cat? The Complete Grooming Guide

Most cats never need baths—their tongues are grooming machines. But when you DO need to bathe your cat, here's how to survive the experience.

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How to Clean Cat Ears: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Cats are self-cleaning except for their ears. Here's how to safely clean waxy cat ears without getting scratched—or making things worse.

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How to Trim Cat Claws Without Getting Scratched

Cat nail trimming doesn't have to end in bloodshed. Here's the complete guide to stress-free claw maintenance using the Burrito Method.

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How to Remove Tear Stains on White Dogs: Complete Guide

Those reddish-brown streaks under your Maltese's eyes are porphyrin stains. Here's what causes them and how to safely remove and prevent them.

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Best Way to Brush Dog Teeth (Without Bites)

An exhaustive, 15-minute guide on Best Way to Brush Dog Teeth (Without Bites). Discover the nuances, medical insights, and expert strategies to handle this topic like a pro.

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How to Cut Black Dog Nails Safely: No More Bleeding

Cutting white nails is easy. Black nails are a game of Russian Roulette. Use the 'Chalky Circle' technique to find the quick before you cut it.

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How to Express Dog Anal Glands at Home

The smell is terrible, but sometimes you have to do it. A vet-approved guide to emptying anal sacs.

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How to Get Skunk Smell Off a Dog: The Science-Backed Solution

Tomato juice is a myth. It just masks the smell. Here is the chemist-approved formula that actually breaks down skunk oil chemically.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I brush my dog's teeth?

Daily is ideal, but even 2-3 times per week provides significant benefits. Start slowly and make it a positive experience with treats.

Can I cut my dog's nails with human clippers?

No, dog nails are harder and thicker. Use dog-specific clippers or a nail grinder. Human clippers will crush and splinter the nail.

How do I remove a mat without cutting it?

Work with a mat splitter or dematting comb, starting at the edges. Hold the base of the mat to avoid pulling skin. Severely matted fur may need to be clipped.

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