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Pandemic-related closings, social distancing constraints, an influx of pet adoptions, and professional groomers that are busier than ever mean some dogs are going longer between grooming appointments. As a result, many pet parents are now tackling the simpler grooming tasks at home and in-between appointments.
One such task, keeping your dog’s bum clean and trimmed, can easily be done at home using the right tools and techniques.
In the video below, Andis Grooming Ambassador Brian Taylor, nicknamed the “Dogfather of Harlem”, and a couple of colorful Pomeranian sidekicks demonstrate how to trim shape your dog’s hairy hiney at home to keep potty messes to a minimum while still having a perfectly peachy bum.
To take on this simple trim at home, you’ll need:
Slicker Brush
Stainless Steel Comb
Clippers: We recommend the Andis Pulse Li5 Cordless Clippers
Curved Grooming Shears
Thinning Shears
Before beginning, your dog should be clean, dried, and thoroughly brushed. You’ll also want to make sure he or she is comfortable with the sights, sounds, and sensations of being groomed. If you’re brand new to grooming at home, start by following the tips in this article, 7 Steps to Raising a Dog That Enjoys Being Groomed.
All of the clippers, shears, and accessories Brian used above can be found at Andis.com.
Tips to Remember
• Always place your dog on a sturdy, secure, non-slip surface for grooming. If necessary, ask a friend or family member to assist with holding and rewarding your dog for good behavior while being groomed.
• Keep it simple. Never take on a task you aren’t completely comfortable with, but don’t be afraid to talk to your groomer about what you can do between appointments to keep your dog looking and feeling their very best—and to keep messes to a minimum.
• Use the right tools. Although you’re grooming at home, you still want professional quality results. Don’t reach into your junk drawer for an old pair of scissors and don’t try to clip your dog’s hiney with Dad’s beard trimmer. Instead, opt for the same Andis Grooming tools that pro groomers use for great results every time.
• Remember to clean and disinfect all of your grooming tools after each use, particularly after grooming the bum. We recommend Andis Cool Care Plus, a 5-in-1 cleaner and disinfectant spray that helps to maintain and prolong the life of your grooming tools.
Head to Andis.com for all your dog grooming tools and accessories, and be sure to visit Andis Grooming College for answers to commonly asked questions, how-to videos, and step-by-step guides to grooming your pets at home.
