A dog groomer’s day is full of making furry customers happy and healthy! It might look easy, but grooming requires unique skills and creativity to do it right. Over 66 percent of US households own pets with dogs being the #1 choice. That’s a lot of fur! Many owners feel they don’t have the expertise or time to groom their pups, so they turn to dog groomers as a convenient solution. So what do dog groomers do?
Dog groomers aim to make both the owners and their pooches happy. But how do they make that happen? What do dog groomers do on a daily basis? Stay with us as we break down what it is and the essential duties of a dog groomer.
If you’re looking for a career in dog grooming, read about our Dog Grooming School & Certification Program
What is Dog Grooming?
Dog grooming is the practice of taking care of a dog’s hygiene, cleanliness, and general appearance by brushing, bathing, trimming their fur, and clipping their nails. It also involves cleaning the ears and brushing the teeth to keep your pup healthy and happy.
Grooming goes beyond just keeping a dog clean and hygienic; it also involves providing styling services to make them look good. Professional groomers even offer facials, massages, and coat sculpting, including safe dying to create fanciful styles for attention in dog shows or competitions.
A professional dog groomer should know different coat textures, types, and the right tools to use on them. They must also understand canine behavior to determine how to best handle and groom a dog safely. While some groomers prefer to simply follow a standard set of procedures, others may use their creativity to customize the experience.
Dog Groomer’s Responsibilities and Duties
A typical day in the life of a dog groomer involves various tasks, which can vary widely depending on where they work, their experience, the workload, the type of groom they’re performing, and other factors. Generally speaking, a dog groomer’s duties include the following:
1. Knowing how to deal with different breeds
Every breed is different, and so does the grooming requirements. A groomer must be familiar with different breeds and their particular characteristics to groom them safely. This includes knowledge of the breed’s coat type, skin sensitivity, and how to handle them during the grooming session.
Knowing the right tools, techniques, and products for each breed is also key. When done right, it will make the entire process much smoother and enjoyable for both the pup as well as the groomer. For example, certain breeds may require special hair-cutting techniques or the use of a particular type of shampoo.
2. The importance of brushing the fur
Before bathing, it’s essential to brush the dog’s fur and make sure there are no tangles or matted hair. This will help to loosen dirt and debris, as well as reduce the risk of infection for breeds with longer hair. Brushing removes dead and damaged hair, allowing new and healthy hair to grow. It also helps distribute natural oils throughout your dog’s coat, promoting skin health and a shiny, well-kept appearance.
A groomer must know how to brush the fur correctly, using appropriate tools such as combs, slickers, and brushes. Recognizing the correct tension and pressure when brushing requires practice, as too much force can cause discomfort and damage.
3. Bath time!
Bathing your pup is an essential part of their grooming routine. A groomer must understand the type of shampoo and conditioner that’s suitable for each breed. For instance, some dogs may have sensitive skin or allergies, which require special shampoos and conditioners to prevent irritation.
A professional groomer will also take into consideration the climate and other factors when choosing a shampoo and conditioner. For example, they may opt for an anti-fungal shampoo in areas with high humidity or a hypoallergenic product if the pup has allergies.
After the bath, they will also dry and brush the fur to remove excess water, as well as tidy up any cuts or scratches that may have developed during the grooming session.
4. Trimming and styling
Some cut styles fit certain breeds better than others. Trimming delicate areas such as the eyes, ears, and paw pads must be done with extra caution. A professional groomer will know how to do this safely and accurately using the right tools.
Trimming and styling include cleaning up the fur around the eyes, face, tail, and feet. It also involves scissoring the fur to give it a neat and tidy appearance. For breeds that require more intricate styles, a groomer should have advanced skills in grooming and styling.
5. Brushes teeth and looks for infections
Grooming isn’t just about trimming fur and bathing the pup. It is also important to regularly brush their teeth and check for any signs of infection or skin problems. A groomer should be able to spot potential issues and take appropriate action if necessary.
Brushing a pup’s teeth prevent tartar build-up, which can cause bad breath and other issues. It is also important to check the ears for signs of infection and clean them regularly with a cotton ball. If necessary, a groomer may also recommend other dental products or treatments that can help improve your pup’s oral health.
6. Looks for skin irritation and other things that need attention
Before grooming, a groomer thoroughly examines the pup’s skin for any signs of irritation or infection. Parasites, allergies, or other problems such as fleas and ticks can cause these. In some cases, the groomer may need to recommend a trip to the vet for further treatment. They can also provide tips on preventing skin problems and suggest home remedies if needed.
Overall, a dog groomer is responsible for the overall health and well-being of the pup. They should have an in-depth knowledge of the different breeds, as well as how to groom them effectively and safely. They play an important role in keeping our furry friends happy, healthy, and looking their best!
You found the best dog groomer at Hound Therapy
Hound Therapy is the perfect place to find AND BECOME a professional, reliable dog groomer. Our team of highly-trained professionals will provide your pup with the best grooming service possible. We are not only dedicated to providing your dog with the best care, but we are also passionate about promoting skin health and a shiny, well-kept appearance.
We offer a wide range of services, such as nail trimming, ear cleaning, bathing, and more. Get in touch with us today to book your pup’s grooming session!