Grooming: from Head to Tail

Ahh, a day at the spa. As you may know, some breeds don't require a lot of grooming. Others, especially long-haired dogs (like Pomeranians), require a good bit, especially around the hindquarters. Choosing your groomer is important! Not only should your groomer be friendly with you and with your dog, he or she should also be professional and use safe practices when handling your dog.

If you choose to groom your dog on your own, you will need several things. First, a good shampoo, and I also recommend a moisturizing/detangling conditioner if your dog is long-haired. I use Perfect Coat Moisturizing Conditioning Rinse in Pink Lilac, and it did a great job of removing mats from Percy's hair. It also has a great smell.
	Winner of the DatelineCanine Beauty Award! Pearls au Lait Milk Bath is an incredible shampoo. It's an all-in-one salon treatment enriched with milk. It has a sweet smell and will give nourishment and volume to your dog's coat.

The groomers at PetSmart recommend a comb rather than a brush for long-haired breeds. It's easier to get mats out with a comb. However, if you have a short-haired dog, a brush will work just fine. You will also need nail clippers. They make different sizes for different sized dogs, so check the label before buying. Lastly, don't forget to periodically clean the inside of your dog's ears. But be careful if you use a q-tip! I recommend using cotton balls instead.