Expert insights from Mamppi Deb (IG: getgroomedbydeb), Head of Department at Therpup Salon & Spa

Pet grooming isn’t just about keeping your dog looking good, it’s an essential part of pet health, hygiene, and overall wellbeing.

While professional grooming sessions are important, regular grooming at home helps prevent skin problems, parasites, infections, and coat issues before they become serious.

According to Mamppi, Certified Groomer, Canine Aesthetician, and Head Groomer at Therpup Salon & Spa, simple daily grooming habits can significantly improve your pet’s comfort and health.

With years of hands-on experience in professional grooming, Mamppi works closely with pet parents to educate them on proper pet grooming routines and coat care practices.

Here are five essential dog grooming habits every pet parent should follow at home.

1. Brush Your Dog’s Coat Regularly

One of the most important pet grooming tips is simple: brush your dog regularly.

Brushing your dog’s coat helps:

• Remove loose fur and dirt
• Prevent painful matting
• Distribute natural skin oils
• Improve coat shine and health
• Reduce shedding around the house

For most dogs, brushing 2-3 times a week is ideal. However, long-haired breeds or heavy shedders may require daily brushing.

Regular coat brushing also improves blood circulation and helps pet parents detect early signs of:

• Skin irritation
• Parasites
• Lumps or bumps

According to Mamppi, brushing should also be a bonding experience, not a stressful activity.

“Talk to your dog, keep it calm, and take your time. Grooming should feel like care, not a struggle.”

2. Perform Daily Tick & Flea Checks

Ticks and fleas are among the most common problems affecting pets, especially in warmer climates. A quick daily tick check for dogs can prevent serious infections and health complications.

After walks or outdoor playtime, check areas where ticks typically hide:

• Behind the ears
• Under the collar
• Armpits
• Belly area
• Between the toes
• Around the tail base

Running your hands through your dog’s coat for just five minutes a day can help you catch ticks early.

Early detection reduces the risk of:

• Tick fever
• Skin irritation
• Parasite infestations

This simple grooming habit can also help pet parents avoid costly veterinary treatments later.

3. Clean Your Dog’s Eyes Gently

Eye hygiene is an often overlooked part of pet grooming and hygiene routines.

Pet parents should check their dog’s eyes daily for:

• Tear stains
• Discharge
• Dirt buildup

If needed, gently wipe the area around the eyes using:

• A clean damp cloth
• Pet-safe grooming wipes

Avoid rubbing or applying pressure around the eyes. The skin in this area is sensitive. Keeping the eye area clean helps prevent irritation and ensures your dog remains comfortable.

4. Maintain Your Dog’s Dental Hygiene

Dental health plays a major role in a dog’s overall wellbeing. Many pet parents assume bad breath in dogs is normal, but it can often indicate plaque buildup, gum disease, or oral infections.

Regular dog teeth brushing helps prevent:

• Tartar buildup
• Gum inflammation
• Tooth decay
• Dental infections

Use:

• Soft pet toothbrush/ micro fibre cloth.
• Dog-safe toothpaste/ cold pressed or virgin coconut oil.

Never use human toothpaste, as it can be harmful to pets. Even brushing your dog’s teeth a few times a week can significantly improve oral health and reduce dental problems.

5. Check and Clean Your Dog’s Ears Weekly

Ear hygiene is another essential part of dog grooming and preventive care. Pet parents should inspect their dog’s ears once a week for signs such as:

• Excess wax
• Dirt buildup
• Redness
• Unpleasant odor

If cleaning is required, use:

• A pet-safe ear cleaning solution
• A soft cotton pad

Never insert cotton buds or tools deep into the ear canal. Improper ear cleaning can cause injury or infections. Routine ear care helps prevent painful ear infections, which are common in many dog breeds.

Why Regular Pet Grooming at Home Matters

According to Mamppi, grooming at home is not about perfection, it’s about being attentive to your pet’s health.

Regular grooming helps pet parents notice early warning signs such as:

• Skin infections
• Parasites
• Unusual lumps or bumps
• Coat health changes
• Odors or irritation

Early detection allows problems to be addressed before they become serious.

More importantly, consistent grooming builds trust between pets and their owners, making both home care and professional grooming sessions easier.

“Your pet learns that your touch means comfort and care,” Mamppi Deb.