In this article, we will find out how to groom a dog step by step in India — from brushing to dental care — with India-ready product suggestions, safety tips, and schedules you can actually follow at home.
What Are the 7 Steps of Grooming a Dog?
Over the years, I’ve found a reliable routine that vets also recommend: seven core steps that together cover the dog’s coat, skin, ears, nails, and mouth. Done properly and regularly, these steps help prevent skin infections, matting, ear issues, and painful nails.
The seven steps are: Brushing, Cleaning Ears, Trimming Nails, Bathing, Drying, Hair Trimming, and Brushing Teeth. I teach these to new pet parents in workshops — breaking grooming down into repeatable, calm actions makes dogs more comfortable and owners more confident. Below, I explain each step with the Indian climate context, the tools I use, and a few “what to watch for” checks.
Step 1: Brushing
Brushing is the foundation. I brush my dogs frequently — daily during heavy-shedding seasons (spring & autumn) and at least three times a week otherwise.
- For short coats (Labrador, Beagle), I use a soft rubber curry brush or a de-shedding tool for the undercoat.
- For long/curly coats (Golden, Shih Tzu), I use a slicker brush and a wide-tooth comb to remove tangles.
Brushing does three things: removes loose hair (reducing home shedding), distributes natural oils (glossier coat), and gives me a chance to check for ticks, lumps, or dry patches. In India’s monsoon, brushing also helps spot early fungal or yeast issues — if skin feels greasy or smells, it’s time for a vet check. Make sessions short and reward your dog — that’s how I transformed brushing from “chore” to “treat time.”
Step 2: Cleaning Ears
Ears can be a silent problem, especially with floppy-eared breeds. I clean ears weekly for my floppy-eared friends and every 10–14 days for erect-eared dogs. Use a vet-approved ear cleaner (I use Virbac Epi-Otic or local Himalaya alternatives) and soft cotton or gauze — never cotton buds. Drop the solution, gently massage the base of the ear for 20–30 seconds, then wipe the visible part clean.
Red flags: persistent bad odour, brown/green discharge, head shaking or tenderness — see a vet immediately. In India’s humid regions, ear infections are common, so I make ear checks part of my weekly routine, especially after rainy walks.
Step 3: Trimming Nails
Long nails change how dogs walk and can lead to joint stress. I check nails every 1–2 weeks and usually trim every 3–4 weeks. Tools: a guillotine clipper (Safari/Trixie) or a grinder for nervous dogs. For dark nails, trim small amounts to avoid cutting the quick; if you bleed, use styptic powder or cornstarch.
For puppies, I introduce nail handling early (touching, clipping the very tip) and use treats — this made nail trims stress-free for my Shih-Tzu. If you’re unsure, ask a groomer to demo one session and then try at home.
Step 4: Bathing
Bathing frequency depends on activity, coat type, and climate. For most Indian city dogs, every 4–8 weeks works well — more often if the dog swims or rolls in mud. Use a dog-specific, pH-balanced shampoo (I prefer oatmeal or gentle neem/herbal formulas for Indian climates). Rinse thoroughly — residue causes itching and fungal growth, especially in the monsoon.
Temperatures: lukewarm water is best; avoid cold baths in winter, and a cool rinse in peak summer. After shampooing, condition the coat if it is long to prevent tangles. Always reward after bath time — my dogs now look forward to their “spa” because I follow up with treats and play.
Step 5: Drying
Damp skin = infection risk in humid India. After bathing, I towel-press first, then use a low-heat pet dryer (Andis) or a human hairdryer on cool/low setting, keeping it moving; never hold hot air close to the skin. For long coats, brush while drying to prevent mats. Make sure folds, underarms, and undercarriage are completely dry. In rainy months, I’m extra careful — a quick dry after puddle walks prevents smell and yeast problems.
Step 6: Hair Trimming
I only trim for hygiene and comfort — never shave unless a vet recommends it. Use clippers with appropriate blades (#7 or #10 for short trims) and rounded steel scissors for face, paws, and sanitary areas. Go slow, keep the dog relaxed, and check for skin issues under the fur. For Indian summers,
I keep body hair shorter on long-coated dogs to help with cooling (but not shaved flat). For breeds that require stylistic cuts (Poodles), I recommend professional groomers or a trained home groomer for the first few sessions.
Step 7: Brushing Teeth
Oral health is easy to overlook but hugely important. I brush my dogs’ teeth 2–3×/week with enzymatic toothpaste (Virbac C.E.T. is my go-to). Start with finger rubs, introduce the toothpaste flavour (poultry or chicken), then move to a dog toothbrush. Dental chews and water additives help, but brushing is the gold standard. Poor dental health leads to bad breath, pain, and systemic illness — regular brushing has saved me from unnecessary dental cleanings at the vet.
What Is the Theory of 5 Dog Grooming?
I like the Theory of 5 because it simplifies grooming for busy people: focus on coat, ears, nails, teeth, and skin. If you consistently manage these five areas, you’ll prevent over 80% of common grooming-related problems. The idea is pragmatic: even if life is busy, you can allocate a small time slot weekly to each area — for example, brush daily, ears and paws weekly, teeth weekly, and a full check monthly. This method is perfect for Indian pet parents balancing work and city life: it keeps the dog healthy without needing salon visits every month.
How Long Is a 7 Blade Dog Grooming?
A #7 blade cuts to roughly 3.2mm — a common choice for summer trims because it keeps the coat short but still protective. In my experience, a full body pass with a #7 on a medium-sized dog takes 20–40 minutes, depending on the dog’s temperament and coat. For first-time home groomers, expect a bit longer.
In India, I recommend using reliable blades (Wahl, Andis) and keeping spare blades so you can finish without overheating the clipper motor. #7 is ideal for Labradors and other short double coats when you want hygiene + cooling without removing the protective undercoat completely.
How to Cut Your Dog’s Hair Step by Step?
Cutting hair safely is a mix of preparation and calm technique. My step sequence:
- Brush thoroughly to remove tangles and undercoat.
- Decide length — use clips with #7/#10 blades for body; scissors for face/feet.
- Start with the belly and sides, move with the coat grain; take shallow passes.
- Trim feet and sanitary zones with rounded scissors — these are sensitive.
- Blend edges for a natural finish and check symmetry.
- Clean and oil blades after.
Practical notes from my experience: keep sessions short, use treats, and pause when the dog fidgets. If you’re nervous, book a pro for the first cut and observe — you’ll learn posture, hand movement, and blade pressure.
How to Groom a Dog by Yourself?
Grooming at home improves your relationship and saves money. I started with brushing and bathing, then progressively added nail trims and clippers. Below, I explain the beginner questions and give a practical plan.
Can I Groom My Dog Myself?
Yes — most owners can. Simple tasks (brushing, baths, nails) are easy with the right tools and patience. I built a compact kit: slicker brush, de-sheds tool, guillotine clipper, dog shampoo, ear cleaner, towel, and treats. The cost of the kit in India is usually between ₹2,000–₹6,000, which pays back quickly versus salon visits.
Can You Learn to Groom Your Dog Yourself?
Absolutely. I learned via short online courses, watching groomers, and practicing on my own pets. Start with reading and videos for step-by-step visuals. Take small steps — master brushing, then nails, then clippers. A local groomer may let you shadow one session — I recommend that.
How to Properly Groom a Dog Yourself?
Practical routine I follow:
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Create a calm space (quiet room, non-slippery mat).
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Gather tools within reach.
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Use short sessions and positive reinforcement (treats, praise).
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Follow the 7 steps in order: brush → ears → nails → bath → dry → trim → teeth.
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Keep first-aid items ready (styptic powder) and stop if your dog is stressed.
With patience, practice, and small rewards, both you and your dog will become confident.
Should a dog’s hair be cut dry or wet?
For accuracy, I prefer dry cutting — wet hair lies differently and can fool you into over-cutting. Clippers perform better on dry fur. However, wet trimming with scissors is useful for small corrections (face, paws) or if the coat is very tangled — dampening hair slightly helps comb through. In humid monsoon climates, drying first is mandatory because damp cuts hide skin issues and promote fungus. So my rule: dry for clippers, slightly damp for delicate scissor work.
Do Dogs Naturally Groom Themselves?
Dogs self-groom (licking, paw cleaning), but this is far from a complete solution. Licking won’t remove mats, treat ear wax, trim nails, or remove tartar. I see many owners assume their dog “keeps clean” — in India, the dust, humidity, and parasites mean manual grooming is essential. Think of natural grooming as helpful, but not sufficient: your human role completes the care circle.
How to Be a Dog Groomer for Beginners?
If you love grooming and want to go pro, it’s a rewarding path. I began by helping friends and taking short courses before offering grooming as a side service.
Can I Teach Myself to Be a Dog Groomer?
Yes, many top groomers started with online courses, books, and lots of practice. Hands-on practice is the fastest teacher: start with family pets, volunteer at salons, and collect feedback.
What Skills Are Required to Work as a Dog Groomer?
Formal qualifications vary by region. Practical value comes from certification (where available), first-aid knowledge, and animal handling skills. Grooming certifications (NDGAA, IPG) add credibility; short courses in India range widely in duration and price. Combine certificates with practical experience.
How to Start Grooming Dogs for Beginners?
- Learn the basics online and through books.
- Invest in reliable tools (clippers, brushes, scissors).
- Practice on low-maintenance breeds.
- Volunteer at a salon for exposure to a variety of breeds.
- Build a portfolio (photos, before/after) and collect client testimonials.
How Long Is a Dog Grooming Course?
Short certification courses: 4–12 weeks; deeper diplomas: 6–12 months. Many groomers also learn incrementally — short workshops + long practice is common and effective.
What Is the Process of Dog Grooming?
This is the practical order and purpose behind what we do.
What Is the Dog Grooming Process?
Grooming follows a logical sequence for safety and cleanliness: brush → ears → nails → bath → dry → trim → teeth. Each step prepares the dog for the next — for example, brushing removes loose fur before a bath, and drying prevents fungal problems.
Is Dog Grooming Painful?
No — when done properly. Pain arises from rushing, poor tools, or cutting the quick. Gentle handling, proper equipment, and positive reinforcement ensure grooming is comfortable or even enjoyable for most dogs.
What Is Included in a Full Grooming for a Dog?
A full groom in my book includes all seven steps, plus sanitary trimming and ear hair removal as needed. For complex coat breeds, it may include breed-specific styling and extra de-matting. Expect 1–2 hours for a full session at home or salon.
What Does FFF Mean in Dog Grooming?
FFF stands for Face, Feet, Fanny — quick touch-ups in sensitive zones. I use FFF trims between full grooms to keep your dog comfortable and clean (especially bathroom areas).
What Is Rule #1 for Grooming a Dog?
Rule #1 is safety + comfort: always prioritize the dog’s comfort over speed or aesthetics. Use rounded scissors, reward freely, and stop if the dog is stressed — you’ll get better results over time by building trust.
Top 10 Pet Grooming Products in 2025
This is my tried-and-trusted shortlist I use or recommend for Indian pet parents. Prices are indicative, and Indian availability is common via Amazon India, Heads Up For Tails, and local pet stores.
- Furminator Deshedding Tool — best for minimizing undercoat shedding (₹1,000–1,800).
- Wahl Professional Animal Clipper Kit — reliable home clippers with multiple blades (₹2,500–4,000).
- Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleaner — vet-grade ear care (₹400–800).
- Burt’s Bees Oatmeal Dog Shampoo — gentle, good for sensitive skin (₹600–900).
- Safari Guillotine Nail Clipper — affordable and safe (₹300–600).
- Andis Pet Dryer — low-heat drying, quieter than consumer dryers (₹1,500–3,000).
- Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Toothpaste — enzymatic, dog-safe oral care (₹450–700).
- Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush — works great for tangles (₹800–1,200).
- Gimars Rounded-Tip Grooming Scissors — precise, safe trimming (₹700–1,200).
- Zuke’s Mini Naturals Training Treats — small, palatable treats for reinforcement (₹500–900).
Grooming Schedule for Dogs Worldwide
Below is a practical schedule I recommend — easy to adopt and adjust by breed and climate.
| Task | Frequency (Typical) | My Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Brushing | Daily (long coats) / 3× week (short) | Daily in the shedding season |
| Ear Cleaning | Weekly | More often in humid climates |
| Nail Trimming | Every 3–4 weeks | Check weekly for quick visibility |
| Bathing | Every 4–8 weeks | More often if muddy/water dog |
| Hair Trimming | Every 6–12 weeks | Shorter in summer |
| Teeth Brushing | 2–3× weekly | Daily is ideal if possible |
This table is what I follow personally and tweak by season and lifestyle (city vs countryside, indoor vs outdoor).
Key Benefits of Dog Grooming
Skin Health
Dead hair, dirt are shed off by regular grooming — oils are redistributed, stopping dermatitis and fungal infections, endemic in the hot, muggy Indian climate.
Heat regulation
Properly trimmed animals remain cool during summer and warm in winter; do not shave a double-coated animal completely, as it upsets natural insulation.
Parasite Control
Frequent brushing and checks identify fleas and ticks early — I’ve saved on vet bills by catching infestations early with grooming.
Mental Health
Grooming is calming. My dogs show lower anxiety during vet visits because they’re used to gentle handling and rewards at home.
Early Detection
Regular grooming lets you feel for lumps, rashes, or hotspots early — early detection means lower vet cost and better outcomes.
Grooming Tips for Dogs
Climate Adaptation
In humid monsoon months, dry thoroughly. In hot zones (Delhi/Chennai), shorter trims help; in cooler hill stations, keep coat length longer for warmth.
Tools
Buy durable tools — cheap clippers, blunt fast. A good clipper, a pair of rounded scissors, a slicker brush, and a de-shedder are the essentials.
Hygiene
Sanitize tools after use — I have alcohol wipes and clean blades with clipper oil to avoid rust and bacterial transfer.
Positive Reinforcement
Treats, praise, and short sessions are marvelous. I use small treats and a soothing voice; my dogs now come willingly to the grooming mat.
Professional Help
For breed cuts (poodle scissoring), severe matting, or first lessons, go to a professional groomer. I learned by observing pros first.
Frequency
Adjust frequency by coat type, activity (muddy vs indoor), and season. Employ the Theory of 5 as a checklist to ensure consistency.
FAQ
How do you groom a dog step by step?
Follow the 7 steps: brushing, ear cleaning, nail trimming, bathing, drying, hair trimming, and teeth brushing. Do short daily/weekly checks and quarterly full attention.
Can I groom my dog myself?
Yes — with patience, practice, and a basic kit. Start slow and reward your dog; a first demo at a salon helps.
How do I start grooming dogs as a beginner?
Start with brushing and baths. Watch trusted tutorials, attend a short workshop, and practice on calm dogs. Build a kit and progress to nails and clippers.
Is dog grooming painful?
No, not if done properly. Pain happens from rushing, incorrect tools, or cutting the quickly. Be patient and gentle.
What is included in full dog grooming?
A full groom includes all seven steps plus sanitary trimming and any breed-specific finishing touches. Typically 1–2 hours, depending on coat and behavior.
Final thoughts
Grooming changed the relationship I have with my dogs — it made them healthier, calmer, and easier to live with in Indian climates. Start small, be consistent, and treat grooming as a caring ritual rather than a chore. Over time, it becomes quick, enjoyable, and deeply rewarding.
Author – Navdeep Kr., a passionate dog lover and proud pet parent who has completely changed my life. Over the years, I’ve learned so much about the ups and downs of caring for dogs — from their first bath to their silliest grooming moments.
I’m not a professional groomer, just a pet parent who believes every dog deserves love, patience, and proper care. Through my blogs, I share my real-life experiences, what’s worked for me, and even the little mistakes that helped me learn along the way.
When I’m not writing or working, you’ll probably find me exploring pet-friendly cafés, playing fetch at the park, or simply cuddling with my furry buddy after a long day. My goal is simple — to help other dog parents feel more confident and connected with their pets every single day.