How often should I groom my dog?

Long-haired breeds e.g. Bearded Collies, Lhasa Apsos, and long-haired Yorkshire Terriers will need brushing daily to keep their coat healthy. Some breeds also need their coats trimmed or undercoats stripped around 4-6 times a year – many people prefer to ask a professional groomer to do this.
 

Medium-haired breeds e.g. Spitz breeds, some Spaniels, and German Shepherds will need brushing a few times a week to remove the dead hairs. Depending on the breed, you may also need to get their coat trimmed or stripped a couple of times a year.

Short-haired breeds e.g. Staffies, Labradors, and English Bull Terriers may only need brushing once a week. They don’t usually need regular haircuts, though certain breeds may still need their undercoat to be stripped away.

Poodle-cross breeds e.g. Cockapoos and Labradoodles may need more grooming than you might think. These crossbreeds do shed less, but their curled coat type makes them more prone to knotting and tangling, especially if they get wet. Brushing them a few times a week should keep on top of things, and some owners may prefer having their coat clipped to a shorter, more manageable length to remove some of their tight curls.

 

What do I need to groom my cat at home?

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Nail clippers. Healthy, young cats shouldn’t need their nails clipping, as they will usually keep them at a healthy length using their scratching post. However, senior cats or those with reduced mobility should have their paws checked weekly to ensure their nails aren’t getting too long, as they may not scratch enough to wear them down. You can buy cat nail clippers (or use small dog ones).

Cat-specific toothbrush and toothpaste. Ideally, cats’ teeth need brushing daily to keep them healthy. Brushing away plaque before it turns into solid tartar is the best way to prevent dental disease.

Treats! Treats are not only beneficial for making a grooming session positive for your cat, but they can also be used to distract them from what you are doing. Use a small puzzle feeder to keep them still and happy whilst you groom.

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