How to Give Your Dog a Make Over

Whether you’ve just adopted a shaggy shelter dog or want to switch up your pooch’s look, pampering it with a makeover will keep it pretty and make it feel loved. Brush your dog’s fur, trim its nails, and give it a gorgeous new hairdo. Bathe your dog to make its fur as shiny and luscious as can be. If you need help or have limited grooming experience, find a professional to help you give your dog a new look. Give it a nice, soft massage and add finishing touches to its makeover, like pretty bows, a butch bandana, and a fashionable outfit.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Grooming Your Dog

1
Brush out mats and debris.^{[1]XExpert SourceMarie Lin
Licensed Pet GroomerExpert Interview. 31 March 2020.} Use your dog’s favorite brush to comb out its coat. Make sure to clear out any plant matter or other trapped debris. If you come across a thick mat, use a finer-toothed mat pick to remove it.^{[2]XTrustworthy SourceAmerican Kennel ClubThe American Kennel Club (AKC) is a purebred dog pedigree registry in the United States. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show.Go to source}
- Try holding the matted fur from the base with your fingers as you comb it out at the edge. Holding the base of your dog’s hair as you comb mats out will help cut down on pulling, which might hurt your dog.
- Make sure to brush your dog’s coat before giving it a bath. Water will worsen mats and tangles.^{[3]XTrustworthy SourceAmerican Kennel ClubThe American Kennel Club (AKC) is a purebred dog pedigree registry in the United States. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show.Go to source}
2
Trim your dog’s coat. Home trimming is best for those with some experience maintaining a dog’s coat. Use good pair of dog clippers (not human clippers) if your dog is too shaggy, but avoid shaving it down completely. If you have grooming experience, you can also use a pair of scissors to trim the coat, as long as you’re confident you can trim evenly.^{[4]XResearch source}
- If you’re not sure about your scissor skills, use clippers to trim the coat or just hire a professional.
- If you’re trimming your dog’s coat at home and want more information about conforming to breed standards, try searching for a local breed club or directory online. Check your breed club for standards, best grooming techniques, and information about your dog’s coat type.^{[5]XResearch source}
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3
Use scissors for detail trimming. Clippers shouldn’t be used on a dog’s face, feet, and other sensitive areas. Use blunt-edge scissors to clear away excess fur from your shaggy dog’s eyes. Look for fur protruding between its toes and, while the dog is standing upright, cut away the excess fur.^{[6]XResearch source}
- Use scissors to trim down hair around its tail and where it goes to the bathroom to avoid fecal matter getting stuck in shaggy fur.
4
Clip your dog’s nails.^{[7]XExpert SourceMarie Lin
Licensed Pet GroomerExpert Interview. 31 March 2020.} Overgrown nails can interfere with a dog’s natural gait, affecting its joints and back. Use cupped dog nail clippers or a nail grinding tool to trim long nails. Avoid clipping too much off, or you’ll damage the quick, causing pain and bleeding.^{[8]XTrustworthy SourceAmerican Kennel ClubThe American Kennel Club (AKC) is a purebred dog pedigree registry in the United States. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show.Go to source}
- If your dog doesn’t like having its nails trimmed, try clipping just one or two nails per day so you don’t overwhelm it. Be sure to reward it after clipping a nail to develop positive associations.^{[9]XTrustworthy SourceAmerican Kennel ClubThe American Kennel Club (AKC) is a purebred dog pedigree registry in the United States. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show.Go to source}
5
Consider using a professional groomer. Easier home makeover techniques, like brushing, can be a great bonding experience for you and your dog. However, it might be best for a professional to handle things like a super shaggy coat or nail clipping, especially if you have limited grooming experience. A professional can also handle the less than glamorous tasks, like expressing anal glands or dealing with a skunked or muddy pooch.^{[10]XTrustworthy SourceAmerican Kennel ClubThe American Kennel Club (AKC) is a purebred dog pedigree registry in the United States. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show.Go to source}
- If your dog is purebred, ask its breeder or local breed club to recommend a good groomer who’s well-versed in breed standards. Otherwise, ask your dog’s vet or dog-owning family and friends for a referral.
- To find the best groomer, check its website or ask for testimonials or reviews from current customers. Ask them, “Would you mind if I see your facilities in person first?” Look for clean, well-maintained facilities.
- Rates can vary based on your dog’s size, along with the groomer’s location and quality. Typically, expect to pay around 15 US dollars an hour, or about 40 US dollars for a mid-sized dog’s basic grooming needs.
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Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Bathing Your Dog

1
Use shampoo marked for dogs. When you bathe your dog, choose only gentle shampoos that are labelled safe for dogs.^{[11]XExpert SourceMarie Lin
Licensed Pet GroomerExpert Interview. 31 March 2020.} Avoid human shampoos and those marked for cats or other pets. Look for shampoos that are beneficial for any coat issues your dog exhibits.^{[12]XTrustworthy SourceAmerican Kennel ClubThe American Kennel Club (AKC) is a purebred dog pedigree registry in the United States. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show.Go to source}
- For example, if your dog has a dry, brittle coat, choose a moisturizing shampoo. If your dog’s coat is dull, choose a shampoo for shiny coats. Ask your dog’s vet if you have any concerns about nutritional or health-related causes for a dry or dull coat.
2
Protect your dog’s ears and eyes from getting wet. Prepare your dog’s ears and eyes before its bath using cotton balls and mineral oil. Dab two cotton balls with a drop of mineral oil and place one in each of its ears to prevent them from getting wet.^{[13]XTrustworthy SourceAmerican Kennel ClubThe American Kennel Club (AKC) is a purebred dog pedigree registry in the United States. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show.Go to source}
- In addition, put a drop of oil on your fingertips and massage around its eyes to protect them.
3
Lather and rinse your dog. Wet your dog, making sure the water is warm but not too hot to your own touch. Place a dime-sized amount of shampoo in your palm, rub your hands together, then lather it through your dog’s fur.^{[14]XTrustworthy SourceAmerican Kennel ClubThe American Kennel Club (AKC) is a purebred dog pedigree registry in the United States. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show.Go to source}
- Rinse the shampoo thoroughly, making sure no suds or residue remains. A detachable showerhead will come in handy when bathing your dog.^{[15]XExpert SourceMarie Lin
  Licensed Pet GroomerExpert Interview. 31 March 2020.}
4
Dry your dog. Squeeze out as much water as possible from your long-haired dog’s coat. Thoroughly towel dry and, if necessary, use a brush so the towel can absorb water from its undercoat. You can also use blow dryer to speed up the process.^{[16]XTrustworthy SourceAmerican Kennel ClubThe American Kennel Club (AKC) is a purebred dog pedigree registry in the United States. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show.Go to source}
- Make sure the blow dryer is labelled for dogs. Use a setting that’s gently enough not to burn its skin, and hold it at least a foot away from your dog.
- Drying off a short-haired breed is much easier, so a towel alone will do just fine.
5
Avoid bathing your dog too frequently. Dog should be bathed regularly, but bathing too frequently will remove oils that help keep its coat and skin in good health. The recommended frequency depends on your dog’s breed and the type of shampoo you use.^{[17]XTrustworthy SourceAmerican Kennel ClubThe American Kennel Club (AKC) is a purebred dog pedigree registry in the United States. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show.Go to source}
- Dogs with oilier coats and skin folds, like Basset Hounds, should be bathed as often as once a week to prevent bacterial infections.
- If you use a gentle, moisturizing shampoo, you can bath your dog every week or two.
- For most dogs, try bathing them at least once a month or whenever they become dirty.
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Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Making Final Touches

1
Massage your dog.^{[18]XExpert SourceMarie Lin
Licensed Pet GroomerExpert Interview. 31 March 2020.} Take ten minutes to pamper your dog with a gentle massage. Open your hands and use your flat palms to slowly rub all over its body.^{[19]XResearch source}
- Apply gentle compressions with your palm around its rear and shoulders to remove muscle stiffness.
- Use your fingertips to softly massage behind its ears and around its neck.
2
Consider using soothing scents sparingly. Studies have shown that the essential oils of lavender and chamomile calm dogs, and that those of peppermint and rosemary help increase energy.^{[20]XResearch source} However, if you choose to use aromatherapy for your pooch, keep in mind that dogs have senses of smell thousands or tens of thousands of times more powerful than that of humans.^{[21]XResearch source}
- Avoid using pure, undiluted essential oils. Try filling a spray bottle with water, and use as little as a drop of oil for the spray bottle. Even if you can’t smell the fragrance, your dog most likely will.
- Spray the air around your dog, but avoid spraying or applying aromatherapeutic oils directly on its skin or fur.
3
Put bows or a bandana on your dog. Accessories can be a fun way to finish up your dog’s makeover. If your dog is a short-haired breed, you can use special bows with a gentle adhesive available at your local pet store.^{[22]XResearch source}
- You can also try using bows with elastics that attach to your dog’s ears.
- If your dog is too macho for bows, a simple bandana loosely tied around its neck adds lots of personality.
- If you want your dog to get used to accessories, try using them as early as you can. A puppy will get used to accessories more easily than a fully grown dog. Try offering a treat when you put the accessory on your dog to create a positive association.
4
Dress up your dog. You can get a cute outfit for your dog, especially one appropriate for a holiday or other festive occasion. Dressing your dog can also have practical purposes, like giving your short-haired dog a jacket or sweater to keep it warm.^{[23]XResearch source}
- Try using outfits or sweaters that don’t restrict your dog’s movement at all. Go for size-appropriate dog clothes that are marked for your dog’s breed. Avoid those that cover any part of your dog’s legs, as these are more likely to bother your dog.
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Expert Q&A

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Question
How do you remove thick mats or tangles in a dog's fur?
Marie Lin
Licensed Pet Groomer
Marie Lin is a Licensed Pet Groomer and the Owner of Marie's Pet Grooming, a grooming salon based in New York City. Marie has over 10 years of pet grooming experience specializing in dogs and cats. She earned her pet grooming certification from the American Academy of Pet Grooming New York in 2009 and is also a member of the National Dog Groomers Association of America. She earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Hawaii Pacific University in 2007.
Marie Lin
Licensed Pet Groomer
Expert Answer
If you have to cut out a thick mat, you can use scissors and cut through in the direction of the hair growth. Be careful when doing so and make sure you can see the pointy end of the scissors so not to cut the dog’s skin. Afterwards the mat should be loose enough to be brushed and combed out.
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Question
What are some mistakes I can avoid when shaving my dog's fur?
Marie Lin
Licensed Pet Groomer
Marie Lin is a Licensed Pet Groomer and the Owner of Marie's Pet Grooming, a grooming salon based in New York City. Marie has over 10 years of pet grooming experience specializing in dogs and cats. She earned her pet grooming certification from the American Academy of Pet Grooming New York in 2009 and is also a member of the National Dog Groomers Association of America. She earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Hawaii Pacific University in 2007.
Marie Lin
Licensed Pet Groomer
Expert Answer
It is not advisable to shave your own dog if you do not have professional grooming experience. It is much much harder than it looks! Leave it to the professionals to provide a clean, smooth groom as well as giving them a more pleasant experience. Dogs tend to give their own owners a hard time. They need to be groomed in the right environment and with the right set of tools, tables, and equipment.
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Question
What kind of shampoo is best for dogs?
Marie Lin
Licensed Pet Groomer
Marie Lin is a Licensed Pet Groomer and the Owner of Marie's Pet Grooming, a grooming salon based in New York City. Marie has over 10 years of pet grooming experience specializing in dogs and cats. She earned her pet grooming certification from the American Academy of Pet Grooming New York in 2009 and is also a member of the National Dog Groomers Association of America. She earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Hawaii Pacific University in 2007.
Marie Lin
Licensed Pet Groomer
Expert Answer
Make sure the shampoo you use on your dog is formulated for dogs. Check the label to be sure.
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