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Puppy Care Guide

Week 28 – Hygienic Grooming

Puppy hygiene grooming

Your puppy is now 28 weeks old — entering the stage where regular hygiene care becomes essential. At around seven months, grooming is more than just looking good — it’s about maintaining health, comfort, and trust during handling.

🧴 What Is Hygienic Grooming?

Hygienic grooming focuses on cleaning and trimming areas prone to moisture or dirt buildup — like ears, paws, paw pads, and the tail area. It can be done at home or at a professional salon.

💰 At salons, hygiene grooming usually costs about $45 to $110+ for a basic bath and brush, $50 to $130+ for a bath and tidy, and $80 to $200+ for a full groom, depending on region and service scope.

Visiting a groomer once or twice helps you observe safe techniques before confidently handling these tasks at home.

PetGo Shop | Grooming & Paw Care Essentials

Keep your dog clean, healthy, and comfortable from head to paw. These vet-approved essentials make at-home grooming easier, safer, and more enjoyable for both you and your pup.

Vetnique Oticbliss Dog Ear Cleaner

Vetnique Oticbliss Ear Cleaner (8 oz)

Seller: Vetnique

Soothing aloe-infused ear cleaner that removes wax and odor while keeping ears fresh and calm — perfect for weekly use.

Musher's Secret Dog Paw Wax

Musher’s Secret Paw Protection Wax (2.1 oz)

Seller: Musher's Secret

All-season, all-natural wax that shields paws from heat, snow, and salt — loved by dog owners for outdoor adventures.

gonicc Dog Nail Clippers and Trimmers

gonicc Dog Nail Clippers & Trimmer

Seller: gonicc

Professional-grade stainless steel blades with a safety guard — ensures clean cuts and prevents over-trimming.

oneisall Cordless Pet Grooming Clippers

oneisall Cordless Pet Grooming Clippers

Seller: oneisall

Quiet, low-vibration trimmer with double blades — perfect for trimming around paws, eyes, and ears with zero stress.

✨ Hygiene Grooming Checklist

🦻 Ears

A dog’s ears are delicate — avoid rubbing or inserting cotton swabs. Use soft gauze or pet-safe wipes to gently clean the outer ear area.

  • Check ears weekly for odor, redness, or wax.
  • Use a pet ear cleaner for maintenance.
  • For hairy ears, trim visible hairs gently — or let groomers handle deeper areas.
  • ⚠️ Floppy-eared breeds (like Spaniels or Retrievers) need extra attention to prevent infection.

🧡 Talk softly during cleaning — it builds comfort and trust.

🐾 Paw Pads

The paw pads are highly sensitive and collect debris easily. Trim hair between the pads to prevent moisture buildup and slipping.

  • Keep pads dry and clean after walks.
  • Apply natural paw balm (shea butter or coconut oil) if dry or cracked.
  • Trim hair around “jelly pads” every few weeks to avoid fungal irritation.
🐕 Paw Claws (Nails)

Indoor dogs need regular nail trimming to prevent pain or posture issues.

  • Trim only the transparent tip — avoid the quick.
  • For dark nails, trim gradually and inspect carefully.
  • Use pet nail clippers and keep styptic powder ready for bleeding.
  • ⚠️ Overcutting causes pain — always trim calmly and confidently.
🦶 Foot Tops (Paw Tops)

For small indoor breeds, trim the fur on top of the paws to prevent slipping and matting. Follow fur growth direction and cut evenly.

✂️ Trim conservatively if unsure — avoid deep cuts that may injure or irritate.

🩹 Between the Toes

After walks, gently clean between the toes with a towel to remove dirt or small pebbles. Regular cleaning prevents cysts and irritation.

🐕‍🦺 Tail & Anal Area

Trimming hair near the anus prevents fecal buildup and discomfort. Avoid shaving too short — it may irritate the skin or anal glands.

  • Use gentle clippers or scissors at a safe distance.
  • Apply mild pet-safe soothing cream if redness occurs.
  • Wipe gently with fragrance-free wet wipes and dry fully.

🐩 Additional Hygiene Care Notes

  • Brush daily to remove dust, loose fur, and prevent tangles.
  • Bathe every 2–3 weeks using mild, pH-balanced puppy shampoo.
  • Always dry completely after baths, especially in ears and paw pads.
  • Reward your puppy after each grooming session for positive association.

🐾 PetGo Professional Insight

Hygienic grooming supports comfort, confidence, and long-term health. It helps detect early issues like ticks, ear infections, or allergies before they worsen.

  • Clean ears weekly.
  • Trim paws and paw pads every 2–3 weeks.
  • Check nails every 10–14 days.
  • Clean anal area monthly or as needed.

🧠 Healthy grooming habits form the foundation of a calm, confident companion.

Continue with PetGo’s Puppy Care Guide

PetGo helps you create positive grooming experiences — building comfort, trust, and joy in every routine.

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