3 Dog Grooming Tips for 2022

Staying up to date with the latest dog grooming trends is important, whether your canine is a Crufts competitor or your Shih Tzu needs the odd shave. 

Grooming includes keeping your pup's teeth and nails in check, too, so it's essential for all doggos. Plus, some breeds need the occasional haircut, so their fur doesn't get matted or cover their eyes. From stunning styles to critical care, here are 3 "cutting edge" dog grooming tips for 2022.

With Covid-19 variants still causing partial lockdowns globally, it's important to stay updated on how restrictions could affect dog grooming in 2022. While pet parents and animal advocates would argue that pet groomers are necessary to avoid welfare emergencies, dog groomers aren't considered an essential business in the US.

That said, future rules, if necessary, may allow pet groomers to stay open. When you visit your dog groomer, discuss potential future restrictions and whether they think they'll be able to remain open. Bear in mind that restrictions may vary from state to state and city to city. 

If your groomer reckons they'll have to close during a partial lockdown, consider learning how to trim your dog's nails and fur to tide them over until their next visit to the groomers.

Many of the most popular and fashionable hairdos for dogs in 2021 result from Asian Freestyle techniques. Also known as "Japanese Grooming," these techniques originated from Asian countries like Japan, Korea, and Malaysia. Each country has different styles and techniques. 

For example, Japanese grooming focuses on making your pup look like an anime character or a cuddly toy. Japanese grooming usually involves creatively shaping a dog's fur, like trimming a Poodle's face into a cube. 

Korean Asian freestyle aims to make a dog's fur look long and silky. Korean freestyle often evokes K-pop trends and doesn't shy away from accessories like braids, bandanas, and hair clips. Next time you take your Bichon Frise or Maltese to the groomer, ask about Asian Freestyle grooming to help your fur-baby stand out in 2022.

While there are plenty of new dog grooming trends to try, it's essential not to ignore the basics. There are all sorts of myths about dental care for dogs, which means many pet parents don't brush their dog's teeth adequately. 

As a result, two-thirds of dogs over 3 years old suffer from some form of periodontal disease. And dental care is especially important for small breeds, as they’re prone to overcrowding. Over half of all small dogs have no teeth left by 12 years old. 

If you haven't already, train your dog to let you brush their teeth. Many breeds require weekly cleanings to ensure their chompers stay in top shape. Depending on your vet's recommendations, you should also book your dog in for a professional cleaning at least once a year. 

Concerned about covering the cost of professional dental cleanings and general grooming? Wag! Wellness plans help pay for the cost of routine dental care and grooming so your pup can chow down happily for years to come. Compare Wag! Wellness plans today and get some help with your pup's routine vet expenses.