7 Common Dog Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid for New Owners

Dogs are wonderful companions, but they also require regular grooming and cleaning. This is the best way to keep them healthy and happy. Maybe that’s why the pet grooming industry is worth over $11 billion already in 2023.

However, many new dog owners may not be aware of the best practices and techniques for this chore. They may end up making some common dog cleaning mistakes. Unfortunately, this may result in harming their pets or their homes. 

That’s why we’ve compiled the seven key mistakes to avoid when you’re grooming your pet. Keep reading to ensure they’re getting the cleaning routine they need. 

1. Using Human Shampoo

It’s important to keep your furry friend clean and healthy. Still, using the wrong shampoo can be harmful.

Human shampoo can be too harsh for your dog’s skin and coat, causing irritation and discomfort. That’s why you should specifically use shampoo for dogs instead.

These shampoos are formulated to be gentler on your dog’s skin and coat while still effectively cleaning away dirt and grime. They also often contain ingredients that help moisturize and soothe the skin.

So, the next time you give your dog a bath, make sure you have the right shampoo. Your furry friend will thank you for it by having a healthy, shiny coat and comfortable skin.

2. Skipping the Drying Process

Drying your dog after a bath is crucial, too. If your dog’s coat remains wet, it can lead to skin infections. 

You can use a towel to dry your dog by gently rubbing them from head to tail. A blow dryer on the lowest setting can also be used.

Remember, though, to make sure to keep the dryer a safe distance away from your dog’s skin to prevent burning or discomfort. If they seem afraid of or hurt by the dryer, stick to the towel method.

Be patient while drying your dog, as it may take a few minutes to thoroughly dry them. This is especially true if they have a thick coat.

If your dog likes being brushed, you can also use a brush to help remove any tangles or mats while drying them. By taking the time to dry your dog thoroughly, you’ll be helping them stay healthy and comfortable.

3. Forgetting to Clean Their Ears

Dogs’ ears can accumulate wax and debris, which can lead to infections. Avoid this with proper ear cleaning. Cleaning dog ears can be a less appealing task, but it’s worthwhile in the long run. 

It’s crucial to be gentle and careful when cleaning their ears. Inserting anything into the ear canal can cause damage or discomfort. Instead, use a damp cloth or a special ear-cleaning solution to clean the outer ear flap and the ear canal entrance.

Simply dampen the cloth or apply the solution to a cotton ball. Then, gently wipe the inside of the ear flap and the entrance to the ear canal. Don’t go too deep, and if you see any signs of redness, swelling, or discharge, contact your vet.

4. Not Brushing Their Teeth

Just like humans, dogs need to take care of their teeth to prevent dental problems. Dental problems can lead to pain, discomfort, and even health issues. That’s why you should add teeth brushing to your dog bathing routine.

You can even use a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste for your dog’s dental hygiene. These are specially formulated for dogs’ overall oral health.

Toothbrushes for dogs are usually smaller and have softer bristles than human toothbrushes. Dog toothpaste is also flavored to make brushing more pleasant for your furry friend.

When brushing your dog’s teeth, be gentle. Start slowly and gradually increase the amount of time you spend brushing.

Focus on the outside of the teeth and the back molars. These are areas where plaque and tartar buildup is most common. If your dog resists or seems uncomfortable, take a break and try again later.

5. Overlooking Their Paws

You can use a damp cloth to wipe your dog’s paws after walks or playtime. Focus on the bottom of their paws and between their toes, where dirt and debris can accumulate.

If your dog has long hair on their paws, make sure to trim it regularly. This is essential to prevent matting or tangling.

If you notice any redness, swelling, or discharge, contact your vet. They can examine your dog’s paws and recommend treatment if necessary.

6. Using Too Much Flea/Tick Medication

It’s true that flea and tick medication can help protect your dog from pests. Even still, it’s critical to use them correctly.

Follow the instructions carefully when applying the medication. Using too much can be harmful to your dog’s health.

Make sure to apply the medication directly to your dog’s skin and not just to its fur. Also, use the appropriate dosage for your dog’s weight and size.

If you have any questions or concerns about flea and tick medication, consult your vet. They can better tell you which product to use and how to apply it properly.

7. Not Hiring Experts

It may be tempting to groom your dog at home. Take note, though, that hiring pet grooming experts can be an advantage to your dog’s overall health and wellness.

Professional groomers have the right knowledge, tools, and expertise to provide your dog with a high-quality grooming experience. They can spot any potential skin or coat issue, for instance. They can then give you advice on how to address them.

Professional groomers can also trim your dog’s nails properly. This is important for their comfort and mobility. Attempting to trim your dog’s nails at home can be difficult and even dangerous if not done correctly.

Maybe you’re already comfortable enough with cleaning dogs to start your own grooming business. For more specific guidance, learn more about starting a reliable dog grooming franchise. 

Make the Most of These Common Dog Cleaning Mistakes

You care about the health and vitality of your pet. That’s why you’ll take the above common dog cleaning mistakes to heart. 

In addition, continue your research regarding your pet’s health and care. Follow our blog for the latest trends and best practices along those lines. To start, comment below this article about how it inspired your pet’s next cleaning time.