Does your dog have a grooming routineopens in a new tab? They should. But don’t worry, it doesn’t have to be as high-maintenance as yours. Regular DIY upkeep helps to keep your pup looking slick from head to toe between professional grooming appointments. And it takes just a few minutes each week to boost their oral hygiene, coat health and more. Don’t know where to start? Experts recommend grabbing a brush.
Ani Corless, owner of New York salon Luxury Groomeropens in a new tab, advises: “Brush and comb your pet regularly – at least once a week and possibly more frequently depending on your dog’s coat type and length, breed and level of shedding.” She also recommends wiping their paws daily to keep them clean from pavement dirt and debris. (If your dog has allergiesopens in a new tab, wiping their face after a walk can help remove allergens, too.)
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From hypoallergenic shampoo to vet-trusted toothpaste, here’s everything you need to get your dog looking (and smelling) their best.
Btw, our editors (and their pets) picked out these products. They’re always in stock at the time we publish, but there’s a chance they’ll sell out. If you do buy through our links, we may earn a commission. (We’ve got a lot of toys to buy over here, you know?)
Ani says the number one item she recommends to dog owners is a really great brush. “A brush can actually help prevent a number of skin issuesopens in a new tab as well as allowing you to inspect your dog closely to catch health issues early,” she says. She uses this rubber one at her salon and calls it “magic”.
Give your pup the spa treatment – even between grooming appointments – with Kiehl’s luxurious canine shampoo. The mild formula removes debris and dirt from fur and leaves your dog with a fresh, clean scent. What more could you ask for?
Ideal for longer-haired dogs, this shampoo-and-conditioner combo cleans and detangles fur simultaneously. Even better, the papaya and coconut scent will leave your pup smelling like they just got back from a tropical getaway.
If you can’t wait until your next vet appointment to trim your dog’s nails, these Gonicc Clippers are some of the most user-friendly around. They come with a nail file – great for polishing sharp corners – and have a safety blade to prevent accidentally cutting nails too short.
Swipe away any tear stains or discharge around the eyes with these ultra-gentle hypoallergenic wipes. They’re safe for all dogs over six weeks old, so you can use them regularly on puppies and senior dogs alike.
When there isn’t time for a head-to-toe bath, these biodegradable wipes will tide you over. Made with coconut water and aloe vera, they’ll clean your dog’s face, paws, feet and body without leaving any residue behind. Pro tip: stash a pack in your car for last-minute outings.
Vets agree that regular brushing helps canine gum health, boosts oral hygiene and can prevent other issues down the line. But the toothpaste you use on your pup matters, and Virbac comes recommended by the pros. This enzymatic toothpaste removes plaque and freshens doggie breath – plus, its poultry flavour is appealing to pups.
This shower attachment allows you to wash and brush your pet at the same time — perfect for scrubbing away post-playtime muck. With two pressure settings, it’s comfortable for large, small, sensitive and extra-muddy dogs alike. It’s attachable to a shower spigot or garden hose, so you’re free to choose the most ideal spot to set up your puppy spa.
Liza Darwin is a writer and brand strategist. She has contributed to NYLON, Refinery29, Vogue, The Guardian, Vice, and Elle, and co-founded the news platform Clover Letter. She lives in Brooklyn with her two dogs, Montie and Hopper, and cat, Tiger.