How to Avoid These Common DIY Dog Grooming Mistakes

Some habits are hard to kick. Inefficient DIY dog grooming routines are no exception. We're here to bring you solutions that'll help break the mould.

A bad worker may blame their tools, but having the right pet grooming essentials is vital if you're caring for a beloved dog at home. Brush up on all the dog grooming tools you need as we discuss the most common errors owners make and show you how to avoid them.

Using the Wrong Grooming Tools

We can categorise most dog breeds into basic coat types: smooth, combination, double, heavy, silky, long, curly/wavy and wire. However, within those coat types, there can still be big differences. The brush that works for grooming the long, silky coat of an Afghan hound may not work so well on a wire-haired Pointer.

When you're grooming at home, it helps to have the pet products preferred by professional groomers to hand. For example, blow drying with Plush Puppy's FAST blow dry spray can dramatically reduce drying time for double or long coats. It's also ideal for short coats as it quickly gets rid of dead hair. This is an example of how the right tools can make DIY dog grooming a walk in the park.

We have a range of useful articles in our “Educational Articles” section to help you navigate the grooming hoops with your specific pooch. For instance, you'll find all the top tips you'll need for curly-coated dog care.

Inconsistent Brushing

It takes time and effort to get a dog's coat always looking its best. One of the biggest mistakes is to have no plan on when and how often to brush your dog. Regular brushing will help prevent matting and reduce tangles.

Plush Puppy has a range of brushes for all coat types. Check out our handy guide to the ultimate dog brushes. Effective DIY dog grooming means having the right brush for the job.

Rushing the Grooming Process

If you're working and running a home, trying to fit in time for grooming your dog can be a challenge. However, racing to get it done is a mistake. Set the timer on your smartphone so that you always spend the right amount of time for each grooming session.

Patience and perseverance are essential, and so is ensuring your dog feels relaxed and calm. You can help set the mood by incorporating Plush Puppy's Apprehension Drops into your grooming regime. Their unique formula helps ease anxiety and nervous tension in dogs that are averse to some pampering.

You'll also find a wide range of other Plush Puppy products tailored to your dog's specific needs, from conditioners to shampoos, along with styling essentials and useful accessories.

A Lack of Research on Breed-Specific Grooming

It's really important to spend some time delving into the specifics of your breed of dog. It's a sound investment as it will help you better understand which dog grooming tools will work best.

A good place to start is our quick-fire 4-question quiz so that you'll always go for the most appropriate pet grooming essentials for your dog's coat.

Plush Puppy always goes the extra mile, so if you're still unsure about what will work best for your dog, you can submit any burning questions to us, and we'll do our best to answer them.

Using Inappropriate Products

Many dog owners who are grooming at home make the mistake of using products on their dogs that are the wrong fit for their breed and coat. When this happens, you run the risk of irritating your dog's skin which can make grooming a challenge and lead to an uncomfortable dog. Once you have found the right products for your dog that are high-quality, you can avoid making this common mistake.

Grooming at Home Made Simple

Plush Puppy has a vast range of luxury pet grooming essentials that suit all dogs. With some research, you can make DIY dog grooming easier by choosing exactly what you need. Contact us at Plush Puppy today with any questions!