Keeping your pet clean, healthy, and looking their best doesn’t always mean a trip to the groomer. With the right tools and a little patience, you can handle much of your pet’s grooming at home. Not only will this save you money, but it also strengthens the bond between you and your furry friend.

In this blog, we’ll cover the must-have supplies to make at-home grooming simple and stress-free.

A long-haired white dog lying on a wooden floor being brushed — Photo by Yaroslav Shuraev

Regular grooming isn’t just about looks, it’s about health

Brushing your dogs and cats often will prevent matting and skin issues. It also helps to keep coats shiny and of course clean. Having this regular close contact with your pet will help you spot lumps, bumps, or parasites early. It can also be a great, positive way to connect with your pet, with lots of treats and praise.

A real benefit for the people in your household is that regular brushing will reduce the amount of loose hairs on your furniture, jumpers and around your home.

Here are our essential pet grooming supplies

Brushes & combs

Regular brushing keeps coats healthy and reduces shedding. There are different types of brushes designed for specific needs and different lengths of coat.

Slicker brush: These are great for dogs and cats with medium to long coats. These brushes have a large, wide head, with lots of fine wire bristles, perfect for easing out tangles and removing loose fur to prevent matting.

Bristle brush: These have densely packed soft, flexible bristles that are used to remove loose hair and dirt. Ideal for short-haired pets.

Deshedding/moulting comb or brush: Perfect for heavy shedders like Huskies and German Shepherds.

Nail clippers or grinders

Overgrown nails can cause discomfort and even joint issues.

Clippers are the most popular and are a very quick way to shorten the nails.

Grinders are a gentle filing option for pets sensitive to clipping.

Our tip: trim a little at a time to avoid hitting the quick.

Grooming scissors

Safety scissors are perfect for trimming around the face and paws, especially for pets with long coats. We would always use rounded-tip scissors for worry-free trimming.

Pet-safe shampoo

Human shampoos can irritate a pet’s skin, so always use a formula designed for pets.

Hypoallergenic shampoos are great for sensitive skin, like our favourite Oatmeal shampoo.

Flea & tick shampoos are also a great essential for protection and treatment of those pesky pests.

Treats & calming aids

Never forget the most important thing; praise and rewards!
Use treats or a lick mat to keep your pet calm and make grooming a positive experience.

Ear & eye cleaning supplies

Ear wipes or solutions help prevent infections, especially for floppy-eared dogs.

Tear stain wipes keep your pet’s face fresh and clean.

Our top tips for stress-free grooming

Start slowly with short sessions.

Always praise and reward your pet.

Groom in a calm environment with minimal distractions.

Be patient, practice makes perfect.

A black and white spotty dog being given a treat — Photo by Bethany Ferr

We hope you have enjoyed hearing from Little Legs.
Little Legs specialises in small to medium-sized paws; across Hove, Portslade, Southwick, and Shoreham.

Pet Grooming At Home: Supplies That Make It Easy