A River Paws Dog Grooming Waunakee client asked: “What are some of the best products for canine grooming?”

Choosing the right canine grooming tools is important. There are several types of canine grooming brushes, each suited for different coat types that require different brushes for effective grooming. These include rubber brushes for short and medium coats, slicker brushes for medium, long, curly, or wire coats, bristle brushes for short to long smooth coats, pin brushes for medium and long coats with fine hair, shedding blades for short or medium double coats, undercoat rakes for double coats, and de-matting/de-shedding brushes for medium, long, wiry, or curly coats. Each brush type serves a specific purpose, from massaging the skin and removing dirt to detangling and shedding hair removal. For example, heavy coats might need brushes designed to reach different coat levels, while short coats might benefit from a rubber curry type. Quality brushes with smoothly finished teeth are recommended to avoid brush burn, irritation, or infection. One brush we like is Chris Christensen Big G Dog Slicker Brush for Dogs (Goldendoodles, Labradoodles, Poodles). It’s a great de-shedding tool with “Premium comfort glide pins” that won’t scratch your dog.

Bathing is another essential part of canine grooming as it helps to remove any dirt or debris that may be lodged in the coat. It is important to use a shampoo that is specifically designed for dogs, as human shampoo can strip away natural oils and cause irritation. When choosing a shampoo for your dog, consider their skin type (normal, dry, or oily) and any skin conditions or allergies they might have. For dogs with sensitive skin or allergies, hypoallergenic or oatmeal shampoos can be soothing. If your dog has a specific skin condition, medicated shampoos may be necessary. Always consult with your veterinarian to choose the most appropriate product for your dog’s health and well-being. That being said, one of the very many shampoos we like is the Chris Christensen SmartWash 50 Grooming Shampoo.

With canine grooming, drying your dog with non-heated air is important to avoid overheating and dehydrating their skin. Heated air can cause discomfort and potentially burn their sensitive skin. Moreover, it can lead to over-drying, which strips away natural oils that maintain the health and moisture of their coat and skin. Using non-heated air ensures a safer, more comfortable drying process for your dog. One dryer we have liked is the Metro Vac Air Force Master Blaster – Model MB-3.

There are many various tools, brushes, and shampoos that we have on hand to ensure we have the right combination for your dog. If you have specific questions about what you can use at home to keep your dog looking amazing, you can always ask your groomer for advice during your next visit.