New Year, New Grooming Routine: 5 Dog Grooming Resolutions for a Healthy 2026

The start of a new year is the perfect time to build better habits for you and your furry friend. If dog grooming hasn’t been at the top of your priority list, 2026 is your chance to change that. A consistent pet grooming routine does more than improve your dog’s appearance; it’s essential for their comfort, hygiene, and overall health.

At APEX Academy, we’re passionate about educating pet parents and grooming professionals alike. Our experts at Zoom Zoom Groom bring you five practical dog grooming tips to help make 2026 your dog’s healthiest year yet.

Dog Grooming Resolutions to Start the Year Off Right

1. Brush Regularly for a Healthier Coat

Brushing might seem simple, but it’s one of the most powerful things you can do for your dog’s coat and skin health. Regular brushing removes loose fur, prevents painful mats, and spreads natural oils through the coat, keeping it soft and shiny.

The frequency depends on your dog’s coat type:

• Short hair (e.g., Boxers, Beagles): Once a week
• Medium to long hair (e.g., Golden Retrievers, Border Collies): 2–3 times per week
• Curly or textured coats (e.g., Poodles, Doodles): Daily brushing to prevent tangles

Choosing the right brush also matters. Slicker brushes work well for detangling medium and long coats, while rubber curry brushes are great for short-haired breeds. Ask your groomer or vet what’s best for your dog’s breed and coat condition.

2. Trim Nails Monthly (or As Needed)

Nail trimming is often overlooked, but long nails can cause discomfort, change your dog’s gait, or even lead to joint problems. You’ll know your dog’s nails are too long if you can hear them tapping on the floor or if they start to splay outward.

A good rule of thumb is to check nail length every 3–4 weeks. Some dogs may need trims more often, depending on their activity level and walking surface.

If you’re nervous about trimming them yourself, there’s no shame in asking for help. Professional groomers have the tools and experience to make the process quick and stress-free for your dog.

3. Schedule Regular Baths with the Right Products

Bathing isn’t just about smelling good; it’s essential for removing dirt, allergens, and excess oils that can irritate your dog’s skin. However, over-bathing or using harsh shampoos can dry out their coat, so moderation and product choice are key.

For most dogs, a bath every 4–8 weeks works well. Dogs with oily skin may need more frequent bathing, while others with dry skin or certain breeds (like Huskies) can go longer.

Use a gentle, dog-specific shampoo, ideally one tailored to your dog’s skin and coat type. Human shampoos can disrupt your dog’s pH balance, leading to irritation. Make sure the water is lukewarm, and always rinse thoroughly to avoid residue buildup.

Zoom Zoom Groom uses professional-grade, breed-appropriate products in every grooming session to keep your pet’s coat healthy and irritation-free.

4. Keep Ears, Teeth, and Paws in Check

Grooming goes beyond just fur and nails. Here are a few small-but-important details that can have a big impact on your dog’s well-being:

• Clean ears regularly to prevent infections, especially in floppy-eared breeds
• Brush teeth weekly or use dental chews to fight plaque and bad breath
• Check paws after walks for debris, cracks, or signs of dryness

These simple habits only take a few minutes but can save you from bigger health issues down the road. If you’re unsure how to safely clean your dog’s ears or teeth, your groomer can show you how or include it as part of a full grooming service.

5. Book Routine Professional Grooming

Even with the best at-home care, there’s no substitute for professional dog grooming. Skilled groomers know how to spot skin issues, lumps, or other health concerns that pet parents might miss. They also have the tools and training to perform deep cleaning, de-shedding, coat trims, and breed-specific styling.

Scheduling regular grooming appointments every 4–8 weeks, depending on breed and coat, keeps your dog looking their best and helps maintain a healthy skin and coat balance.

Zoom Zoom Groom offers both mobile grooming (for maximum convenience) and salon services in a calm, pet-friendly setting. Whether your dog needs a basic bath and brush or a full-service grooming package, their expert team has you covered.

Why Grooming Should Be Part of Your Dog’s Wellness Routine

A clean dog is a happy dog, and a well-groomed dog is often a healthier one. Grooming helps prevent skin problems, reduces stress from matted coats or overgrown nails, and makes it easier to detect changes in your pet’s body early on.

Plus, grooming sessions, especially when started early, can help dogs become more comfortable with being handled. This reduces stress during vet visits and helps them feel more confident overall.

Grooming isn’t about perfection. It’s about consistency. You don’t have to do everything at once, but creating a grooming routine and sticking to it goes a long way toward improving your dog’s health, comfort, and quality of life.

Make 2026 Your Dog’s Best-Groomed Year Yet

A few simple resolutions can make a big difference in your dog’s health and happiness. From brushing and bathing to professional dog grooming support, caring for your dog’s coat, nails, and hygiene is an essential part of being a responsible pet parent.

With the help of the expert team at Zoom Zoom Groom, maintaining your dog’s grooming routine has never been easier. Whether you prefer in-home services or salon appointments, they offer flexible, stress-free options that work with your schedule. And if you’re interested in learning the skills behind great grooming, APEX Academy offers professional grooming training to help pet lovers turn passion into a career.

Reach out to Zoom Zoom Groom today at (639) 307-6303 or click here to get in touch online.