Old Dog Products

Quality of life & the last chapter

Grooming Senior Dogs: Gentle Tips for Grooming an Older Dog

By The Old Dog Products team · Published

Not veterinary advice. This article is general information to help you care for your dog at home. It isn’t veterinary advice and can’t replace an exam. If you’re worried about your dog, call your vet.

An older dog who used to stand happily for a brush may now fidget, sit down halfway through, or flinch when you reach a back leg. Grooming a senior dog still matters, but it usually needs to be slower and gentler than it was a few years ago.

If you only have a minute

  • Keep grooming sessions short, and stop before your dog gets tired or sore.
  • Brush often so mats don’t build up.
  • Keep nails trimmed; long nails change how a dog stands and walks.
  • Use grooming time to look for lumps, sore spots or skin changes, and show anything new to your vet.

Why grooming matters more for older dogs

VCA’s senior care guide recommends brushing often, because mats can contribute to skin infections and can hide skin growths. It also says long toenails make dogs stand and walk abnormally, cause discomfort and reduce traction (VCA). For a dog who is already a bit unsteady, that last point is a big one. See our guide to stopping an old dog slipping on floors for more on grip.

Grooming is also the time you’re most likely to notice something new: a lump, a scab, a smell, a tender spot. You don’t need to work out what it is. Just note where it is, roughly how big, and when you first saw it, and tell your vet.

Grooming senior dogs at home: a gentler routine

Short, frequent sessions

Several short sessions a week are easier on a stiff dog than one long one. Do a section at a time, such as the back one day and the legs the next. Stop while your dog is still relaxed.

Let them lie down

Many older dogs find standing still for long hard work. Groom them lying on a non-slip mat or their bed, and roll them gently only if they’re comfortable with it. If you use a table, make sure it has a non-slip surface and never leave your dog on it alone.

Brush gently

Older skin can be thinner and drier. A soft brush or grooming glove is kinder on bony areas like hips, elbows and the spine. Work out tangles slowly, holding the fur near the skin so you aren’t pulling. If a mat is tight against the skin, ask a groomer or your vet to clip it rather than cutting it yourself.

Bathing

Bath only as often as your dog needs. Use warm (not hot) water and a dog shampoo, rinse well, and dry thoroughly, especially in winter. If your dog has a skin problem, ask your vet which shampoo to use rather than picking a medicated product yourself.

Nails

Check nails every couple of weeks. If you hear clicking on hard floors, they’re probably due. Trim a little at a time. If you’re not sure how, or your dog has dark nails, ask your vet or a groomer to show you.

Teeth and ears

Look at teeth and gums and lift the ear flaps while you groom. Bad breath, bleeding from the mouth or dropping food are reasons to have your dog’s teeth checked (AVMA). Red gums, or a smelly, red or sore ear, are also worth showing your vet. Our senior dog dental care guide covers home tooth care.

If your dog is sore or grumpy during grooming

A dog who growls, snaps or pulls away when you touch a certain spot may be sore there. The AVMA notes that a painful animal may bite, so be careful (AVMA). Stop, skip that area, and mention it to your vet. Pain is easy to miss in older dogs, and grooming is often when it shows.

Choosing a groomer for an older dog

Ask groomers how they handle senior dogs before you book. Useful questions:

  • Can my dog lie down or take breaks?
  • Can you do a shorter appointment, or the first slot of the day so there’s less waiting?
  • Do you use dryers without heat, or towel-dry?
  • Will you tell me if you find any lumps, sores or sore spots?

Your vet may know local groomers who are good with older dogs. Tell the groomer about any health problems, stiffness or hearing and sight loss before the appointment.

When to see your vet

Book a vet visit if grooming turns up:

  • A new lump, or one that has changed
  • Red, broken, flaky or smelly skin, or hair loss
  • Pain when you touch a particular area
  • Bad breath, bleeding gums or loose teeth
  • Red, smelly or painful ears

Frequently asked questions

How often should I groom my senior dog?

It depends on the coat. Brushing several times a week in short sessions suits most older dogs. Ask your vet or groomer what’s right for your dog’s coat.

Is it safe to take an old dog to the groomer?

Many senior dogs do fine at the groomer with a shorter, gentler appointment. If your dog has a health condition, ask your vet first.

Why does my old dog hate being groomed now?

Stiffness, sore spots or poor hearing and eyesight can make grooming less pleasant. Go slowly, keep sessions short and let your vet know if your dog seems sore.

Sources

Products mentioned

Products don’t treat any condition. They can make the home safer or easier. Ask your vet what suits your dog.

More picks in our product guide: Getting around.