Some people are natural dog groomers. They just love the intimacy and almost Zen monotony of the repetitive brushstrokes and the silky soft feel of a well-brushed coat. Other dog owners are oblivious or even repelled by the blizzard of shed fur, the dander, the time it takes and the cleanup required afterwards; especially if the grooming sessions are infrequent or if the dog is blowing his or her coat.

Along the same lines, some dogs love being brushed while others barely tolerate it. But grooming is a necessary part of dog care. Love it or not, here's the skinny.

All dogs need some grooming, although some breeds need much more than others. Some dogs grow fur that sheds. German Shepherds and their cousins the Malinois are perfect examples. Some dogs shed constantly while other shed seasonally. Some dogs shed very little as they actually grow hair, not fur. These dogs (poodles, bearded collies and some other breeds) need to be clipped or shorn or their hair will grow too long and could clump into mats.

To Get Your Dog Looking His or Her Best

Brushing

First, it's important to use the right type of brush. A shedding blade or rake (or a tool like the FURminator) is best for a dog that is shedding heavily. Use the de-shedder to remove as much dead hair as you can. Focus on the area around the neck and around the rump and back legs, as this is where clumps of shed fur can be removed.

Use a long bristled brush or a rake for longer haired dogs or dogs with mats you are trying to remove. Don't try to cut the matted hair out with scissors; always use either a rake specially designed to remove mats or dog clippers. Scissors can be dangerous given how wiggly dogs can be!

Short-haired dogs (think Boxers, Dalmatians, Dobermans, Great Danes) can be brushed somewhat less often and might enjoy, in addition to brushing with a soft bristled brush, a thorough once over with a grooming glove. These gloves, with their short rubber bristles on one side and velvet texture on the other, smooth short fur and offer a gentle massage. They are also nice to use on a thicker or longer haired dog after you've finished de-tangling and removing dead hair.

Ears

Depending upon the breed or type of dog you have, your dog's ear cleaning needs may vary from nonexistent to fairly frequent and thorough cleanings required. Some dogs just seem to collect more dirt in their ears than others (just like children!). Use a washcloth dampened with warm water and gently wipe away dirt and ear wax. Check for dried blood or large build up of wax or dirt, but don't go reaching into the ear canal with anything. Just like with humans, anything you do in the ear should be extremely gentle, careful and external. No Q-tips, please!

Nails

Most dogs do need their toenails clipped regularly. Dogs who run on pavement may wear them down enough to avoid clipping, but most dogs' nails grow faster than most owners can manage. Use dog nail clippers and have a vet or groomer show you how to use the clippers properly. Unlike humans, dogs' nails have a "quick" or blood vessel and nerves that can be harmed if cut improperly.

Bathing

If your dog needs a bath, the basic guidelines are as follows: use a dog shampoo, rinse and dry thoroughly, and do not bathe the dog more frequently than is required. Allergies and dry skin can result from too much bathing. What is too much bathing? Schools of thought vary from once a month to once every six months. If you have a particularly stinky dog or she likes to roll in the mud, sticky or stinky things, rather than bathe her with shampoo frequently, you can hose her down and then brush her. Dogs have essential oils that if bathed too frequently will dry out their skin and make them susceptible to skin conditions and rashes. On the topic of shampoo, do consider one that is sulfate free. Sulfates - such as those found in baby shampoo and your own shampoo - are no different than detergent like for your clothes and dishes. Yes, 'tis true!

Clipping or Shaving

In hot climates, and for dogs who do not shed, clipping your dog's coat is an important part of grooming. While professional groomers will often offer all-in-one treatment (nails, ears, bath and clipping), motivated dog owners can learn to clip their dogs themselves. Again, think safety first and only proceed if your dog is calm and relaxed around the noises and sensations that clippers produce.

Grooming your dog is an important part of promoting your pet's overall health and well- being. While you groom, you can develop your bond with your pet, practise tricks or commands and deepen your relationship. You also have the opportunity to catch small problems while they are still small (such as noticing evidence of fleas or small cysts or tumours) thus preventing more significant health crises. The earlier you begin, the better. Whether your dog is a puppy or full grown, it's never too late to start. Best of all, you will have a happy, healthy pet that looks fantastic.

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