Regular grooming keeps skin and coat healthy and gives you a chance to spot anything new. Go slowly and pair each step with treats and praise.
Brushing
How often depends on the coat: short coats may need a weekly brush, long or double coats several times a week to prevent mats. Mats close to the skin are best handled by a groomer.
Nails
In dogs, nails clicking on hard floors usually means they're too long. Cats' claws retract, so you won't hear them: check them every couple of weeks instead, because older cats' claws can grow long enough to curl into the paw pad. Trim a little at a time, and avoid the quick (the pink part with blood vessels). If you're unsure, ask your vet or groomer to show you.
Ears
Check ears weekly. Clean only the part you can see, using a cleaner made for pets — never push anything deep into the ear. Redness, swelling, odor or a lot of scratching means a vet visit.
Teeth
Daily brushing with a pet toothpaste is the gold standard. Never use human toothpaste: some contain ingredients that are harmful to pets. Start by just touching the lips and teeth, and build up slowly.
Baths
Most dogs only need an occasional bath, and most cats rarely need one at all because they groom themselves. When a bath is needed, use a shampoo made for that species (some dog products are toxic to cats), rinse thoroughly, and dry well.
Keep sessions short and stop before your pet gets stressed. A little often beats a lot at once.
