Three Steps to Groom Your Pet with Love

In Partnership with ConairPRO

The grooming process can seem like a daunting task to some, but the key to a successful home grooming is knowing where and how to begin. Conair's specialty, ConairPRO Dog® & Cat™ – Groom With Love line walks you through the necessary steps and grooming tools needed to groom on your own. You can say goodbye to pricey professional grooming sessions and create a bonding moment with your pet by following three simple steps: Prep, Groom, and Finish.

PREP

During this stage, it is important to brush out knots and check for any seasonal fleas and ticks. Try to make a point to brush your pet a few times a week to maintain his coat and make future grooming easier. If your dog tends to shed, now is the time to remove any excess hair. After this initial prep, begin to wash and gently shampoo until your dog is thoroughly cleansed. If your pet does not like the bathing process, feel free to give him a treat afterwards. Once you have finished, begin by towel-drying and then switch over to a blow dryer to finish up (making sure to keep the dryer directly away from his face).

GROOM

At this point, your pet is squeaky clean and ready for grooming. This is when the brushing and trimming comes in. To begin, brush through your pet’s coat, checking for any remaining knots or tangles. Once your pet is knot-free you can begin the clipping and trimming process. During the hotter seasons, your pet may require a shorter coat and the use of an electric. For a simple trimming, an electric trimmer will do the trick. You should make sure to groom your pet once a month, although specific breeds may require more frequent grooming.

The clipping and trimming phase tends to be the most difficult part of the grooming process – but don’t worry pet parents, it’s easier than it looks! Before you begin the grooming process, place your grooming tools in an exposed location to allow your pet to become more familiar them. If you have a pet who tends to be anxious, start by showing him the clipper and then slowly turn it on. Once he’s adjusted to it, begin by clipping a small section of hair to make sure it is the desired length. After you have checked the length, use a steady hand to do the rest of his body, making sure to watch around areas such as the eyes, nose, mouth, paws, and stomach.

FINISH

The final stage is when you can add the finishing touches to keep your pet looking sharp. You can start by giving your pet a final brushing to fluff and detangle. Afterwards, feel free to use shears to do any final trimming or evening of the coat – 5” shears can work well on the face and around the eyes. 

Lastly, it is important to keep your pet’s nails trimmed. While this can be a nerve-wracking task, the trick is to take it slow. Grab your nail clippers or nail grinder and slowly trim his nails, being careful not to cut too close to the quick (the darker portion of the nail).

Once you have completed the final stage of the grooming process your pet will be looking his best! If the grooming process wasn’t as simple as expected, not to worry, with more practice both you and your pet will feel more comfortable. The most important part is to make sure you groom your pet with love!

Find more Conair products and information on the best home grooming tools for your pet on Chewy.com.