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Dogs need frequent baths and personal maintenance to keep them looking, smelling and feeling good. But depending on the breed and size of your dog, as well as where you live, a regular visit to the groomer can be an investment.
To help you build an effective at-home grooming routine, we consulted experts about what to consider when bathing, brushing and blow-drying your dog. Experts told us that some grooming needs like hair trimming and shaving (and, in some cases, trimming their nails), should be left to grooming professionals. Below, is what to consider when shopping for at-home grooming supplies:
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Best Overall: Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Pet Shampoo ($17)
Best Organic Shampoo: 4-Legger Organic Dog Shampoo ($17)
Best Overall Brush: Chris Christensen Original Series ($38)
Best Combo Brush: Hartz Groomer’s Dog Brush ($12)
Best Budget Brush: Ruff ‘N Ruffus Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush ($20)
Best Brush for Short Hair: Le Salon Essentials Rubber ($9)
Best for Shedding: FURminator Undercoat deShedding Tool ($39)
Best Detangler: GoPets Dematting Comb ($47)
Best Overall Grooming Kit: oneisall Cordless Dog Grooming ($37)
Price at time of publish: $17 (16 ounces)
Our top choice for most dogs is the Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Shampoo. This fragrance-free formula is crafted with colloidal oatmeal and organic aloe vera, proving especially effective for addressing dry, itchy, and flaky skin issues in pets. In line with Earthbath’s commitment to pet safety, this shampoo is free from parabens, sulfates, phthalates, gluten, and synthetic dyes. It’s also cruelty-free and proudly manufactured in the United States.
Earthbath offers a diverse range of dog shampoos, catering to various needs such as deodorizing, hot spot relief, shed control, and conditioning. Some shampoo variants even feature natural scents like mango, peppermint, vanilla, and lavender. While we recommend starting with the fragrance-free version of the Oatmeal & Aloe Shampoo, the same gentle formula is also available with vanilla and almond fragrance options.
Additionally, Earthbath stands by the satisfaction of its products, providing a guarantee. If you’re not pleased with the results after bath time, you can receive a refund.
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Price at time of publish: $17 (16 ounces)
4-Legger Organic Dog Shampoo stands out as a top choice for pet owners seeking a natural and organic grooming solution. With nine USDA-certified organic options, this shampoo line addresses various canine skin needs. Ingredients such as oatmeal and lavender cater to dry and itchy skin, while peppermint and eucalyptus provide conditioning benefits. For those with sensitive skin, there’s an unscented version enriched with aloe vera.
The standout feature of 4-Legger lies in its commitment to organic standards. All products are USDA certified and free from parabens, sulfates, phthalates, artificial colors, fragrances, and harmful preservatives. Made in the United States, these shampoos come with a money-back guarantee, reflecting the brand’s confidence in their efficacy. Additionally, 4-Legger products are vegan and cruelty-free, aligning with the preferences of conscientious pet owners. Overall, 4-Legger Organic Dog Shampoo delivers a quality organic grooming experience, ensuring the well-being of your canine companion.
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Price at time of publish: $38 for 35mm
A pin-style brush is a must-have tool for most dog owners, and the Chris Christensen Original Series Oval Brush is a reliable choice. Featuring stainless steel pins with polished tips, this brush is designed to gently and effectively navigate through various dog coats. Crafted from lightweight yet durable beechwood, the brush is easy to clean and offers a comfortable grip.
Measuring eight and a half inches, the brush comes with a long handle and provides three pin size options for versatility. The recommended 20mm pin is suitable for short coats, the 27mm option works well for medium to long coats, and the 35mm pin is ideal for long, thick, full coats.
Our Pomeranian test subject, who typically resists grooming but tolerated it in small sessions, remained undisturbed during the use of both the 20mm and 27mm pins. The brush effortlessly glided through her body and arms with the assistance of a detangling spray.
This well-crafted brush is built to last and caters to dogs of various shapes and sizes. While additional tools like a slicker or comb may be needed to address shed strands or tackle fur mats more directly, the Chris Christensen Oval Brush proves effective in handling these issues as well.
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Price at time of publish: $12
The Hartz Groomer’s Best Combo Dog Brush is a versatile and effective grooming tool suitable for various dog coats. With stainless steel pins on one side to untangle knots and collect loose hair, and soft nylon bristles on the other for fluffing and short coats, it offers versatility for different grooming needs. The rounded tips on the pin heads ensure a gentle experience, making it well-tolerated by most dogs.
In our testing, this brush performed exceptionally well on dogs with long, fine, and matted hair. It was particularly effective on a border collie and even handled thick butt hair impressively. While it may be less effective on short-haired dogs and isn’t designed for undercoat management, it stands out for its overall performance and versatility.
The soft rubber handle adds comfort for users, especially those with larger or long-haired dogs. While cleaning may not be the easiest, considering its affordability and versatility, the Hartz Groomer’s Best Combo Dog Brush proves to be a reliable grooming tool for various coat types.
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Price at time of publish: $20
The Ruff ‘N Ruffus Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush stands out as a top choice for budget-conscious pet owners seeking an effective grooming tool. With its self-cleaning feature, it offers convenience in maintaining cleanliness during and after grooming sessions. The fine, gentle bristles effectively remove loose hair and mats, making it suitable for various coat types.
In our testing, this budget-friendly brush proved to be efficient on both short and long-haired dogs, providing a comfortable grooming experience. The retractable bristle design simplifies the cleaning process, ensuring a hassle-free user experience.
For pet owners looking for an affordable yet reliable slicker brush, the Ruff ‘N Ruffus Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush offers a cost-effective solution without compromising on performance.
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Price at time of publish: $9
It’s advisable to groom your dog’s fur before bathing to prevent existing tangles from worsening, and the Le Salon Essential Rubber Curry Grooming Brush is crafted for use before, during, and after bath time. The robust rubber bristles effectively capture loose hair that your dog has shed but hasn’t yet fallen off, reducing the chances of it sticking to your furniture.
Equipped with a convenient strap on the back, this brush easily fits around your hand, ensuring a secure grip for brushing your dog from nose to tail. It is particularly suitable for dogs with short coats and can be effortlessly cleaned with soap and water.
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Price at time of publish: $39 for medium
Numerous imitators were put to the test, and among them, the FURminator Original deShedding Tool proved to be more effective and durable than other de-shedding tools. Ideal for dogs with dense undercoats, this tool efficiently gathers loose hair and skin flakes before they adhere to your furniture. The stainless steel toothed edge navigates through the dog’s topcoat to extract any loose undercoat hair, and a curved guard shields the blade to prevent it from getting too close to the skin.
During the initial uses, the deshedder consistently removes hair, a feature appreciated by many users. One tester endorsed its value, having tried both the long hair version on her border collie and the short hair model on her pit bull. The tool is relatively easy to clean, thanks to an ejector button that expels hair and dandruff from the blades. Different versions are available based on your dog’s size and hair type.
However, it’s worth noting that some sensitive dogs may become uneasy with this brush, and caution is advised around delicate areas such as the legs. It’s specifically designed for dogs with double coats, as the blade may cause irritation next to the skin. For dogs with undercoats and sensitive skin, using a de-shedding tool is not recommended. Nonetheless, this tool is suitable for most dogs and comes in three sizes, allowing you to choose the one that provides the best control. To remove the collected debris from your dog, a button on the handle triggers the back of the brush to spring forward, expelling all the hair and dander off the teeth.
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Price at time of publish: $47
The GoPets Dematting Comb is a standout choice for tackling stubborn tangles and mats in your dog’s coat. Its sharp yet safe stainless steel blades effectively cut through knots without pulling on your dog’s hair or causing discomfort. The dual-sided comb offers versatility with different teeth spacing to handle various mat sizes.
Designed with the well-being of your furry friend in mind, this dematting comb features rounded tips on the blades to prevent skin irritation or scratching. The non-slip silicone gel handle provides a comfortable grip for easy maneuvering during the detangling process.
Whether your dog has long, medium, or short hair, the GoPets Dematting Comb proves to be a valuable tool in maintaining a smooth, mat-free coat. It’s a reliable choice for pet owners looking to keep their dog’s hair in top condition with minimal stress for their four-legged companion.
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Price at time of publish: $11
Provide your dog with some pampering while effectively removing loose hair using the Mr. Peanut’s Pet Grooming Glove Brush and Deshedding Aid. These grooming gloves feature blue silicon bristles attached to flexible black neoprene, offering an adjustable fit for various adult hand sizes. The gloves include a hook and loop strap around the wrist for a secure and comfortable hold. Sold in pairs, these breathable gloves are suitable for all hair types and can be used on wet fur during baths.
Our canine tester now eagerly anticipates grooming sessions with these gloves. Through regular use, their fur has become softer and shinier, significantly reducing shedding within the shared living space. When it’s time for a thorough cleaning, the gloves can be conveniently machine-washed and air-dried.
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Price at time of publish: $37
The oneisall Cordless Dog Grooming Kit stands out as the best overall grooming kit, offering a top-notch cordless clipper with a durable battery, two-speed settings, and quiet operation. This comprehensive kit includes essential accessories such as a metal grooming comb, scissors, and a cleaning brush, providing everything you need for effective grooming.
With six clipper guards ranging from 3 to 18 millimeters, the kit accommodates various cutting lengths, making it suitable for both experienced groomers and beginners opting for longer lengths. The extended battery life of up to 150 minutes ensures ample time for a thorough grooming session, and the LED indicator lights keep you informed about the remaining battery percentage.
Additionally, the oneisall Cordless Dog Grooming Kit offers a touch of personalization with a choice of five different colors, making it a versatile and reliable choice for pet owners looking to maintain their dog’s grooming needs at home.
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Our top choice is the Christensen Original Series Oval Brush, a pin-style brush suitable for all hair types. Crafted with a lightweight beechwood body, it stands out for its quality construction. For a versatile option that can be utilized pre, during, and post-bath, we suggest the Le Salon Essential Rubber Curry Grooming Brush. This brush not only gathers loose fur effectively but also provides a comforting massage for your dog.
Your dog is your daily companion and roommate. Therefore, he also needs a certain level of care. This includes not only taking a bath from time to time but also grooming the paws and claws, paying attention to the teeth, as well as protecting the ears and eyes.
This depends on both you and your dog. Does your dog often roll in the mud? Does he have sensitive skin or not? There are dogs that quickly and frequently smell like a “wet dog,” and there are dogs that almost always smell neutral. Depending on which category your pet falls into, you may need to wash him more or less frequently. If your pet naturally tends to smell like a “wet dog” quickly, you can wash him a bit more often (once a month) with dog shampoo than you would with another dog.
Unfortunately, there is no golden rule for this. It simply depends on how often it is necessary. More important is to brush your pet’s fur frequently. This helps remove mats and dirt or prevent hair from getting tangled. Many dogs even enjoy this ritual, considering it a little massage. Try introducing brushing daily after the walk – then it becomes a routine, and your dog will appreciate the grooming.
If your dog regularly rolls in mud or worse, only an extensive bath will help – especially if the dog lives in your home. If the mud is dried, it is also possible to brush it out of the fur and simultaneously massage. However, it is safe to wash the dog approximately every 2-3 months. Dogs that do not have a strong odor can be washed a bit less often.
As with almost everything, bathing works best if you have already accustomed your dog to it as a puppy. Of course, this does not mean that it cannot be done later. We have gathered some tips on how to wash your dog as gently as possible:
Tip: If you have to shower your dog in winter, do it only in the evening and after the last walk. This way, your dog has overnight to completely dry his fur before going back out into the cold. After bathing, your dog can also lie by the heater to dry completely.
A controversial topic in dog grooming is shaving. Even in the summer, your dog needs its main coat. It protects him from the sun, dirt, and moisture. But does he need so much fur? One argument against shaving is that the thermal function of the fur can be destroyed by shaving, causing the opposite effect. Also, if your dog gets sunburned after shaving in the summer, it can lead to hair loss and make him feel cold in winter. Sunburn is harmful to your dog (as well as to humans).
Therefore, caution is generally advised! Does your dog swim a lot in lakes, ponds, or nearby waters in the summer? Then his fur also helps prevent him from getting too cold, and you should carefully consider whether to shave him or not.
Whether your dog should be shaved also depends on the breed. For example, Poodles have very fast-growing hair, which is well-suited for a new hairstyle. Yorkshire Terriers also tolerate shaving well because they do not have an undercoat. Therefore, it is best to consult with a veterinarian, at the animal shelter, or with the breeder regarding your dog’s fur and its characteristics, and what is advisable in this case.
To cool your dog down in the summer, you should regularly brush him to remove loose undercoat hairs. Walk your dog in the morning or evening to prevent heatstroke. Provide enough water and observe if your dog is drinking enough. Let your dog jump into a lake in the summer (if he can swim and you know the body of water). It cools him down and brings him immense joy!
Eye care is also part of the routine of dog grooming. Dog eyes are similar to the human eye, especially regarding drafts and conjunctivitis – so you should definitely avoid drafts or driving with an open window. The most important thing in dog eye care is to remove sleep remnants from his eyes almost daily. In the morning, wipe the sand and adhesions with a soft damp cloth. A microfiber cloth or a specific moist eye wipe without additives is best suited because it does not lint and leaves nothing in the dog’s eye. Wipe it along the lower edge of the eye. The dog cannot do this himself, but he will likely find sleep remnants annoying.
If your dog has long hair, you can do this procedure several times a day. Here, it can happen that the hair around the eyes sticks and gradually pulls the lids down. This enhances tearing. With damp wipes or special eye care products, you can prevent this sagging and examine your dog daily. Trim the hair around the eyes a bit as well. Your dog’s eyes are healthy when they are clear and shiny. Tear fluid and sand after sleep are normal, but if there is mucus or recurring tearing, you should have it examined by a veterinarian. Nutrition also contributes to healthy eyes: If your dog gets enough vitamins, minerals, and trace elements, these contribute to healthy eyes and are therefore very important.
Ear care is also part of dog grooming, especially since the ears are a very sensitive organ of your pet. The formation of earwax in them is as normal as it is in humans. If your dog comes back from a walk with dirty ears, a soft cloth is sufficient to gently remove residues from the ear. Special ear cleaners for dogs, such as cleaning pads or disposable finger pads, are recommended here. The same applies to an overproduction of earwax. You should remove it so that your dog does not develop infections or harbor ear mites. Repeat this process weekly or monthly. While we’re on the subject of ear mites: Here you should do more than just clean the ear with a cloth.
You can recognize ear mites by intense itching – your dog often tries to scratch his ears. The secretion from the ears also changes – dark and crumbly deposits alter the appearance and consistency of “healthy” earwax. In addition, dermatitis may occur in other areas of your dog. Go to the veterinarian. They will prescribe an ear cleaner for the dog that you can use at home. Fortunately, the chances are very good that your pet will soon be back to normal with ear mites. If you are already familiar with the problem, you can also apply an ear flush yourself.
There is a lot to consider in paw care for both you and your dog. Overly long claws can cause pain for your dog while walking – this could potentially lead to a misalignment. If you are unsure how to trim nails, you should go to the veterinarian the first time and have them show you. The claws contain blood vessels, so one should never cut too far, as it can cause pain to the dog. Black claws make it difficult to see where the claw ends and the blood vessels begin, while with white claws, it can be somewhat easier to discern. The part that can be cut is the horn material, which is connected to the blood vessels by nerve pathways. If you trim the claws yourself, you should trim them a little at a time and not too much at once. There are special pliers for paw care that are designed for trimming claws. You should only use such claw scissors for trimming, as human pliers or scissors are unsuitable, as they can squeeze the nails together and cause pain to the dog.
How often should I cut my dog’s nails?
This period depends on your dog’s level of physical activity. With sufficient exercise, the claws are automatically worn down, so you don’t have to trim them as often. As a rough guideline, you should check the claws about every 4-6 weeks and trim them if necessary. This way, you can make sure you never cut too much. In addition to the claws on the “toes” of the dog, you should also check its fifth toe. Does your dog have a dewclaw on its hind legs? If so, the same rule applies: check it. If these get too long, there is a risk of them growing inward.
What can be done against ticks?
Who doesn’t know them, the annoying parasites that seem to lurk everywhere on us and our pets, especially during the mild seasons. They are active primarily between February and October, but to the frustration of dog owners, they are increasingly surviving mild winters as well. The most common methods against ticks are tick collars and spot-on preparations. It is crucial that the dosage, regardless of the active ingredient, is tailored to your pet. The size and weight of your four-legged friend play a crucial role. But what distinguishes the methods? What is suitable for your dog?
Tick collar for dogs:
This must be worn permanently by your dog. Only then is protection guaranteed for both you and your dog. The anti-tick collar on your dog’s neck releases an active ingredient against ticks. In many cases, it also ensures that the parasites are deterred and do not attempt to climb up your dog.
Tip: Most hunting dogs do not wear tick collars, as they could easily get caught in the bushes. Therefore, this method is only good if you can keep an eye on your dog most of the time.
Spot-on preparations:
If you opt for a spot-on preparation, the application site is important. You should apply the preparation to your dog in a place where your dog cannot reach or lick it off. Many dog owners therefore apply the preparations to the neck. Then you should be careful not to stroke the dog at this point in the days after application. You should apply the preparation directly to the skin and shield the fur around it with your fingers. Avoid bathing and using dog shampoo in the next few weeks, as the preparation needs to be completely absorbed.
There is another way to protect your dog from ticks. However, this is not preventive; that is, it only works after your dog has been bitten. This method is recommended more in areas where tick infestation is not very high. The antiparasitics kill the ticks when they are already on the dog. You can buy these as sprays or tablets.
Alternative methods:
Many dog owners also swear by an amber collar. This is supposed to protect the dog from ticks after prolonged wear. Amber is said to get an electric charge through friction on the fur, which is supposed to discharge in the fur of living beings. The dog is not supposed to feel this, but small creatures should. They are then supposed to receive a kind of electric shock and fall off the animal. Alternatively, you can also try black cumin oil or coconut oil for your dog as a natural tick repellent. However, it is also important for a dog owner to know how to use a tick tweezer – and to have one within easy reach at home.
How to use a tick tweezer:
Insert the open tweezers from above directly onto the head of the tick at the puncture site. Close the tweezers as close to the skin as possible and pull the tick out gently and evenly. Be careful not to crush the tick, as this could cause it to empty its stomach contents into the bite site, increasing the risk of infection. Afterward, you should disinfect the site with a suitable agent (not oil!) and observe it.
Is it better to brush your dog before or after a bath?
It’s recommended to brush your dog before a bath. Brushing beforehand helps prevent mats and tangles, as water can make it more challenging to remove any knots in the fur. Even if your dog’s hair isn’t tangled, pre-bathing brushing is beneficial to eliminate loose hair and debris like leaves and twigs that may have accumulated on your furry friend. After the bath, once your dog’s coat is dry, it’s also a good idea to brush through it again to ensure it’s untangled and to collect any shed hair.
Do dogs enjoy being brushed?
Many dogs find brushing enjoyable, especially when introduced early in puppyhood. It can be a pleasurable bonding activity. However, if your dog doesn’t like being brushed, you can create positive associations by offering tasty treats and praise during brushing sessions. Regular brushing is essential to avoid discomfort or pain caused by mats and tangles. Seek assistance from a professional groomer if your dog’s coat is too matted to brush.
How do you clean a dog brush?
To remove dog hair from the brush, you can use your fingers or a straight metal comb. Insert the comb at the base of the brush, beneath the hair, and lift off the accumulated hair in one large clump.
Can I use human shampoo on my dog?
It’s not recommended to use human shampoo on dogs. Dog skin is more sensitive and has a different pH balance compared to human skin. Human shampoo, being more acidic, can irritate the protective layer of a dog’s skin, making it more susceptible to bacteria and viruses and disrupting its natural moisturization. It’s best to use dog shampoo, specially formulated for the sensitive skin of dogs. In emergencies where dog-specific shampoo is unavailable, opt for baby shampoo as a gentler alternative.
In the quest for top-notch dog grooming products, a variety of items were put to the test on our beloved pets. To ensure a comprehensive guide, insights were gathered from experienced groomers regarding key considerations when shopping. Additionally, interviews with dog owners were conducted to discover their preferred products.
The comprehensive research and composition of this article were undertaken by Emily Davis, a seasoned writer with a passion for animals. Emily has been actively involved in fostering over 50 dogs and puppies, gaining substantial experience in bath time routines. Her ongoing commitment to finding the best and most beneficial products for her furry companions is evident in her work.
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