Professional grooming every 4 to 6 weeks keeps your pet looking and feeling their best — but what happens in between? The good news is that a few minutes of simple at-home care can make a big difference in your pet's comfort, appearance, and overall health.
As mobile groomers who've been serving the Conejo Valley since 2006, we've seen firsthand how a little between-visit maintenance can extend the life of a groom and keep your pet happier. Here are seven easy things any pet owner can do at home.
1. Brush Your Dog Regularly
This is the single most impactful thing you can do between grooms. Regular brushing prevents mats and tangles from forming, distributes natural oils through the coat, and removes loose fur before it ends up on your furniture.
For long-coated breeds like Poodles, Doodles, and Shih Tzus, aim to brush every day or every other day. For short-coated breeds, two to three times a week is usually sufficient. Use a slicker brush for curly or wavy coats, and a bristle brush or rubber curry brush for short coats.
Pro tip from our groomers: Pay special attention to behind the ears, under the collar, in the armpits, and around the back legs — these are the areas where mats form first.
2. Check and Clean Ears Weekly
Ear infections are one of the most common health issues in dogs, especially in breeds with floppy ears like Cocker Spaniels, Basset Hounds, and Retrievers. A quick weekly ear check can catch problems early.
Look for redness, swelling, discharge, or an unusual odor. If the ears look clean, a gentle wipe with a pet-safe ear cleaner and a cotton ball is all you need. Never insert anything into the ear canal — just clean what you can see.
3. Keep the Eye Area Clean
Many breeds develop tear stains or crusty buildup around the eyes. Use a damp, soft cloth or a pet-safe eye wipe to gently clean the area daily. This is especially important for breeds like Maltese, Bichon Frise, and Bulldogs.
If you notice excessive tearing, redness, or your dog pawing at their eyes, consult your veterinarian — it could indicate an underlying issue.
4. Wipe Paws After Walks
Your dog's paws pick up dirt, allergens, pesticides, and bacteria on every walk. A quick wipe with a damp towel or pet-safe paw wipe when you come inside can prevent irritation, reduce allergen exposure, and keep your floors cleaner.
This is particularly important here in the Conejo Valley during spring and fall when pollen counts are high and foxtails are prevalent on trails.
5. Monitor Nail Length
If you can hear your dog's nails clicking on hard floors, they're probably too long. Long nails can cause discomfort, affect your dog's gait, and even lead to joint problems over time.
While we trim nails at every grooming appointment, fast-growing nails may need attention in between. If you're comfortable with nail clipping, use a sharp pet nail clipper and take small amounts off at a time. If you're not confident doing it yourself, that's completely fine — just give us a call and we can schedule a quick nail trim between full grooms.
6. Brush Their Teeth
Dental health is often overlooked in pet care, but it's incredibly important. Dental disease affects the majority of dogs over age three and can lead to pain, tooth loss, and even organ damage if bacteria enter the bloodstream.
Brushing your dog's teeth a few times a week with a pet-safe enzymatic toothpaste can significantly reduce plaque buildup. Start slowly, let your dog taste the toothpaste first, and use gentle circular motions. Dental chews and water additives can also help between brushings.
7. Keep Bedding and Collars Clean
Your dog's bed, blankets, and collar can harbor bacteria, allergens, and odors. Wash bedding weekly in hot water, and clean collars and harnesses regularly. This is an easy step that many pet owners overlook, but it makes a noticeable difference in how fresh your pet smells between grooms.
When to Call Your Groomer
If you notice mats that you can't brush out, skin irritation, excessive scratching, or any lumps or bumps during your at-home care routine, don't hesitate to call us. We're always happy to schedule an appointment or answer questions over the phone at (805) 409-7189.
Regular at-home care combined with professional grooming every 4 to 6 weeks is the best recipe for a healthy, happy, great-looking pet. And remember — we come to you, so keeping up with your grooming schedule is as easy as it gets.