The 7 Steps of Dog Grooming & The #1 Rule to Follow

Professional dog grooming follows a consistent 7-step process that includes assessment, bathing, drying, clipping, nail trimming, ear cleaning, and finishing touches. However, before any of this begins, every reputable groomer follows one unbreakable rule: “Humanity Over Vanity.”

Understanding this core principle and the steps involved will help you know what to expect from a professional groom and how to best care for your dog between visits.

Rule #1 for Grooming a Dog: Humanity Over Vanity

The golden rule of dog grooming is “Humanity Over Vanity.” This means a dog’s comfort, safety, and well-being always come before its appearance.

This principle is most critical when dealing with severely matted coats. While an owner might want to keep their dog’s long, fluffy hair, a groomer will choose to shave the mats out rather than subject the dog to a painful and dangerous dematting process. A shaved dog that is comfortable and pain-free is always better than a stylish dog that is suffering.

This rule also applies to:

• Stopping a groom if a dog becomes too stressed or anxious.
• Choosing a shorter, more manageable clip for dogs prone to matting.
• Prioritising the removal of painful ingrown nails over a perfect paw trim.

The 7 Steps of Professional Dog Grooming

While the exact order can vary slightly, a full groom follows these seven essential steps. For a detailed breakdown of what’s included, see our Full Groom vs. Wash & Tidy guide.

1. Pre-Groom Assessment and Brush-Out
   The groomer assesses the dog’s coat, skin condition, and temperament. They discuss the desired haircut with you and perform an initial brush-out to remove loose hair and minor tangles before the bath.
2. Bathing
   The dog is washed with a shampoo and conditioner appropriate for its skin and coat type. This may include hypoallergenic, de-shedding, or whitening products. Thorough rinsing is crucial to prevent skin irritation.
3. Drying
   The dog is dried using a combination of towels and professional dryers. Groomers use specific techniques and temperature settings to ensure the dog is dried safely and efficiently, preparing the coat for an even clip.
4. Clipping & Styling
   This is where the haircut happens. Using clippers and scissors, the groomer styles the dog’s coat to the agreed-upon length and design. This can range from a simple all-over clip to a complex, breed-specific pattern.
5. Nail Clipping
   The groomer trims the nails to a safe length, avoiding the sensitive quick. Long nails can cause pain and posture problems, making this a vital step for your dog’s health. Learn more in our guide to nail clipping.
6. Ear and Eye Cleaning
   The ears are gently cleaned to remove wax and debris, which helps prevent infections. The area around the eyes is also cleaned of any tear stains or debris.
7. Finishing Touches
   The groomer performs a final brush-through, trims any stray hairs, and may add a finishing touch like a bandana or a light spritz of dog-friendly cologne before the dog is returned to you.

According to the RSPCA Australia, regular grooming is essential for a dog’s health and welfare. Introducing your pet to these steps from a young age can make the experience positive for life. Learn more in our guide to puppy grooming.