How to Wash a Dog like a Groomer

Have you ever wondered what the differences are between how you give your dog a bath at home and how the professional dog groomers do it? The basic premise is very similar, whether you are doing it yourself or paying a groomer to take care of Fifi. After all, what's in a bath? You soak Fifi down, shampoo her, and rinse her off, right? If that is all there is to it, why is it that she always looks and smells better when you bring her home from the groomer? The simple fact is they have access to professional shampoos and conditioners and years of training and experience. But it's not impossible to up your grooming game to the professional level. With enough practice and making the right selection when it comes to tools, your grooming prowess can be just as formidable. 

If Fifi is like most dogs, she probably doesn’t care who gives her a bath or if she even gets one at all. But keeping her clean is a very important part of her overall health. The good news is that you can buy professional quality shampoos, conditioners, and care products online and from your vet. These can all help to up the quality of your grooming routine and ensure that Fifi is the talk of the town once she's gone through a professional-quality groom. 

• Never use any products on your dog that are intended for human use. They often contain ingredients that can be harmful to Fifi. Dog-safe shampoos and conditioners come in a variety of scents for you to explore instead.
  
• Keep the water tepid for bathing. This is about the same temperature you would use to bathe a baby. It should be not too hot and not too cold.
  
• Have styptic powder or cornstarch on hand if you are going to trim her nails, just in case you cut into the quick of the nail. Some people prefer to use dremels to slowly whittle down the nail instead of cutting it entirely. 
  
• Make sure you rinse the shampoo completely out of Fifi's hair as the residue can cause skin irritation. It may take a few rinses just to be sure that all of the shampoo is removed.
  
• Keep the blow dryer temperature set on low or cold. It should never be set on hot, as this can quickly burn Fifi's skin and cause injury or burns that must be treated by a veterinarian.
  

There really aren't many differences in how professional groomers bathe dogs and how most of us do it at home. The big thing to keep in mind is that they use professional grade products, are very thorough and clean everywhere including ears, teeth, privates, and anywhere else that tend to cause odors. Oh, and don't forget that spritz of Fifi's favorite perfume! This can really put the final touch on a good quality groom.