Bathing your dog
Use the existing detailed guide to preparation, washing, rinsing and drying.
Lifetime health & preventative care
Grooming & Body Care
Everyday body care is about comfort, healthy skin and noticing changes. Adapt care to your dog’s coat, health and tolerance; short, positive sessions are often more manageable than forcing a full routine.
Choose a topic
Coat care, brushing & mats
Choose care for the coat and keep handling comfortable.
Itching, sore skin & recurrent skin problems
Recognise changes and arrange assessment without guessing the cause.
Hair loss & changing coat condition
Distinguish shedding from unexplained baldness or coat thinning.
Ear checks, cleaning & warning signs
Healthy ears need observation; sore ears need assessment.
Nail, dew-claw & paw care
Keep feet comfortable and know when to ask for help.
Eye & facial care
Clean gently and act promptly on painful or sudden eye changes.
Choosing a professional dog groomer
Discuss care, handling and health needs before booking.
Evidence and review
General information, not diagnosis or an individual treatment plan. Sources include veterinary professional guidance, veterinary charities and relevant regional parasite organisations. Clinical recommendations need individual veterinary interpretation.
Puppy & Young Dog: practical next steps
About this guidanceReview details and sources
Evidence and review
Reviewed 2 October 2026 · Review sooner if advice, distribution or requirements change.