Let’s be real—most of us start grooming our dogs just to keep them looking cute. But over time, I’ve realized it’s so much more than that. Grooming is actually a pretty big deal when it comes to your dog’s health, comfort, and, honestly, your bond with them too.
That said, it’s way too easy to mess things up without even realizing it. I’ve done it. You’ve probably done it. So here are a few dog grooming mistakes I’ve personally made (and fixed), and some tips that could save you the same headaches.
1. Thinking Dental Chews = Clean Teeth (Nope.)
Okay, confession time: for years I thought those minty green dental chews were doing all the work. I figured, “Hey, he’s chewing something—his teeth must be fine, right?”
Spoiler alert: they weren’t. The vet showed me just how much plaque had built up, and honestly, I felt a little guilty. Now I brush his teeth a couple of times a week. Still not his favorite thing in the world, but I use a chicken-flavored dog toothpaste and that helps. A lot.
Lesson learned: chews help, but brushing is the real MVP.
2. Using Whatever Shampoo I Had Around (Don’t Do This)
This one makes me cringe now. I once used my own shampoo on my dog because it smelled like lavender and I thought that’d be “calming.” He ended up scratching for two days straight.
Turns out, dogs’ skin is way more sensitive than ours. Their pH is different, and using human shampoo messes it up. Now I use a gentle, unscented dog shampoo—and yeah, bath time has been a lot more drama-free since then.
Also, pro tip? If you're bathing at home, the Catboxy Nova P1 grooming kit is a lifesaver. It vacuums loose fur while you brush or dry, so your bathroom doesn’t look like a fur explosion afterward. Trust me, it makes cleanup a breeze.
3. Ignoring the Click-Clack of Long Nails
You know that sound when your dog walks across the floor and it’s like, click click click? That’s their nails telling you it’s time. I used to ignore it until he snagged one during playtime and ended up limping for two days.
Now I trim them every 2–3 weeks. I started with clippers, but I switched to a grinder because I feel like I get more control. Plus, he’s less squirmy with it—probably because it’s quieter and less sudden.
4. Shaving in Summer? Not Always the Move
So, I used to think, “It’s hot, he must be roasting under all that fur.” Logical, right? But shaving actually made things worse. Some dogs need their coats to stay cool and protect their skin.
Now I just brush more frequently when it’s warm out to help with shedding. The Nova P1 comes in clutch here—it’s got five different attachments (including a slicker brush and a deshedding tool), and the suction catches like 99% of the loose hair before it even hits the floor.
Final Thought: Grooming = Love in Action
At the end of the day, grooming isn’t about winning “cutest dog on the block.” (Though hey, that’s a bonus.) It’s about keeping your pup healthy, comfy, and feeling cared for. It’s one of those things where a little effort goes a long way.
And if grooming at home has felt messy or overwhelming, seriously—get a tool that makes it easier. The Catboxy Nova P1 has been a game-changer for me. It dries, vacuums, brushes, trims—all in one. It’s quiet too, which is perfect if your dog freaks out at loud noise.
Bottom line: grooming is just another way we show our dogs we love them. And hey, isn’t that what it’s all about?
