Pet grooming isn’t just about keeping them looking cute, it’s about keeping their skin, coat, and overall health in top shape. But even the most loving pawrents can make mistakes without realizing it.
Here are some common dog grooming DIY pet owners often make and how you can avoid them to keep your furry friend happy and healthy.
Using Human Shampoo on Dogs
It might seem convenient to use your shampoo on your dog, but human shampoo can irritate their skin. Dogs have different pH levels, and harsh chemicals or fragrances can cause dryness, itchiness, or even allergic reactions.
How to Avoid It: Always use dog-safe, pH-balanced shampoos. For sensitive or itchy skin, choose water-based or hypoallergenic formulas like PettoGard Hypoallergenic Foam Shampoo for Dogs & Cats. Read more on the topic here.
Bathing Too Often or Too Rarely
Many Malaysian owners either bathe their dogs too often (stripping natural oils) or too rarely (leading to dirt and odor buildup). So how often do you need to bathe your dog?
How to Avoid It:
- Most dogs do well with a weekly bath using gentle, pet-safe products, depending on their breed and activity.
- Always use lukewarm water and a gentle dog shampoo.
Neglecting Brushing
Skipping regular brushing can lead to tangled coats, mats, and skin irritation, especially for long-haired breeds.
How to Avoid It:
- Short-haired dogs: Brush at least once a week.
- Long-haired dogs: Brush 2–3 times a week.
Brushing also spreads natural oils, keeping the coat shiny and healthy.
Ignoring Ear and Eye Care
Dirty ears and eyes can lead to infections or discomfort, but they’re often overlooked. Study shows that about 20% of dogs experience ear disease, with floppy-eared breeds like Shih Tzus and Cocker Spaniels at higher risk. Eye cleanliness is also important; debris around the eyes can cause irritation or conjunctivitis, and regular wiping with pet-safe solutions helps prevent these problems.
How to Avoid It:
- Use ear-cleaning drops such as PettoGard Gentle Ear Cleaner for Cats & Dogs and a soft cotton pad.
- Gently wipe eyes with a damp cloth to remove tear stains.
- Check once a week to catch problems early.
Forgetting Nail and Paw Care
Cracked paw pads are another commonly overlooked issue. We see many customers whose dogs struggle with dryness or itchy paws; they keep licking the area, which often leads to infection and in more severe cases, swelling. If this happens, it’s important to clean and disinfect the paws using PettoGard Antibacterial Spray, followed by daily treatment to soothe the skin and prevent further irritation.
Dry, damaged, or cracked pads are also more prone to infection, especially in humid climates where dirt and bacteria thrive. Regular inspection, proper nail trimming, and keeping paw pads moisturized and clean can go a long way in preventing these problems
How to Avoid It:
- Trim nails every 3–4 weeks or whenever they click on the floor.
- Check paw pads for dryness or debris. Apply paw balm or moisturizer if needed.
Skipping Grooming Routine
Inconsistent grooming can hide skin problems, shedding, or irritation until they become serious.
How to Avoid It: Create a simple weekly routine:
- Brush and inspect coat
- Wipe ears and eyes
- Check nails and paws
- Bathe as needed
Grooming isn’t just a task, it’s also a part of showing them some love. A good brush, a quick trim, or even a bath (if they’ll let you!) can make a huge difference in how they feel. Skipping the small stuff can lead to itchy skin or messy tangles, especially in our humid weather. But when you do it right, grooming becomes more than a chore. It could be chill bonding time that keeps your pup happy, comfy, and looking their best.