How to Safely Groom an Old Dog

As our pups age, they often experience new aches and pains.

Not only does this create concerns about causing pain during activities like grooming, but it may also make your dog a little less patient with the grooming process.

As a result, many senior dog parents worry about how to safely groom an old dog.

If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone!

The concern is understandable, but we can’t let our worries and concerns stop us from grooming our dogs altogether.

Grooming is more than just keeping your dog “looking good.” It’s also essential in keeping our dogs healthy and happy throughout their lives.

You can imagine the comfort and hygiene issues that could arise from not keeping up with a dog’s grooming needs.

While the timing of these needs will vary from breed to breed, the basic requirements are mostly universal.

Every dog needs a bath to remove dirt, debris, and excess oils, regular brushing, a fur trim (if their fur grows), and to have their nails cut regularly so they can walk comfortably.

There are two main options to address these needs – have them professionally groomed or do it yourself.

Each of these options has pros and cons to consider. There is no “one-size-fits-all” best solution.

In this article, we will examine why grooming is so important at this stage of your dog’s life, the common reasons senior dogs may struggle with being groomed, and tips to help you safely groom an old dog (or set your groomer up for success).

Last Updated: Feb 28, 2024

Disclosure: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links (Amazon Associate or other programs we participate in). As an affiliate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

Why is Grooming So Important for Your Senior Dog?

Often, when we talk about grooming, the first thing people think about is the appearance of our dogs – how to keep them looking their best.

There is no arguing that this is one of the reasons why many dog parents invest in grooming appointments and high-quality grooming products.

But it’s not the only reason…

Grooming is one of the basic ways we care for our dogs. It’s no less important than good nutrition, exercise, and mental stimulation.

Proper grooming is the best way to get rid of pests like fleas and ticks, control shedding, reduce knots and tangles, and prevent skin irritation from matting.

It’s also an excellent time to check your pet for any signs of trouble.

You may be surprised how many groomers have noticed “something suspicious” on a dog they’ve been grooming, like a lump or growth the guardian never noticed before.

How many lives have been saved by potential health issues being caught early?

In addition to lumps and bumps, grooming is a great time to take note of any weight changes, as sudden weight loss can indicate more significant medical problems.

If your dog is incontinent, extra hygiene care is also needed.

What Changes Could Impact How to Groom Your Dog in Their Later Years?

In order to learn how to safely groom an old dog, we must first look at the changes that make grooming them different than when they were younger.

What changes do senior dogs experience that could impact the grooming process?

A few common changes or considerations include:

• Arthritis: Back or hip problems make standing uncomfortable for long periods. This can also make it difficult to move or manipulate your dog’s body as needed to access harder-to-reach areas like the bottom of the paws or the groin area.
• Mobility Issues: Limited mobility can make getting in and out of the bath or onto a groomer’s table harder.
• Vision Problems: Loss of vision may make a dog fearful as they don’t know where they are or what is happening to them at any given moment.
• Dementia: They are often confused, and the wandering that they typically do makes it difficult or impossible for them to stay still throughout the grooming process.
• Aches and Pains: General aches and pains from aging can make the grooming process uncomfortable. This may also make your dog more sensitive to being handled, even leading to aggressive behavior in an attempt to protect themselves from more pain.  

What Are the Best Options for Having Your Dog Groomed?

Now that we have established that grooming is a must, the question is, how will you meet your dog’s grooming needs?

Will you groom your dog at home? Will you have a professional do it?

Many dog parents will combine the two, making professional appointments for some of the more challenging tasks and taking care of the tasks they feel they can handle in between.

Here are a few factors you will have to consider depending on your decision:

Professional Grooming for Senior Dogs

Do you prefer to have a professional handle your dog’s grooming?

There are several reasons why a dog parent may choose to work with a professional, including:

• People with hectic schedules
• People who are nervous carrying out some grooming tasks, like cutting their dog’s nails
• Dogs with high grooming needs (like dogs with longer coats)
• Dogs that are less comfortable with being groomed and need to be handled by someone with the experience and knowledge of a professional
• Dogs with unique medical concerns that need to be considered during grooming

For some, bringing their dog to the groomer is a way of pampering their pet, like a person enjoying a spa day.

Even if your dog has been visiting a groomer all their life, there may be new things to consider to make the process comfortable for everyone involved.

Finding a New Groomer

It could be that you have had a great groomer all this time, but now your dog has developed some issues, and they are not as comfortable as before.

Maybe you’ve moved and had to leave your fantastic groomer behind.

You may have handled your dog’s grooming at home throughout their life, and now, as your dog enters their senior years, you recognize that your dog would be happier seeing a professional.

Whatever the reason, the search is on for the “right fit.”

The first place I always start my search is with people I know who have dogs. Even if they don’t have older dogs, I am interested in their recommendations.  

Other people/places that could help you find a new groomer include:

• Ask your vet or other staff at your vet’s office
• Grooming facilities in chain pet shops
• Visiting a store-front groomer that you’ve noticed in the area
• Ask people you know from the dog park
• Search Facebook or Google for groomers in your area
• Post on local Facebook groups asking for recommendations
• Check bulletin boards in pet supply stores that may have groomers advertising for clients
• Consult the National Dog Groomers Association of America website

You may discover that the first groomer you find is a great fit, but you should have several on your list.

Not every groomer will be comfortable grooming an older dog.

Alternatively, you may find a groomer who says they are okay with it, but you don’t feel they have the right experience.  

Once you connect with them, you may not get the good “vibe” you’re hoping for.

Finding the “right fit” may take several groomers, and that’s okay. You have the right to be picky because we’re talking about your best friend.

You Have Found a Potential Groomer, Now What?

Once you have found someone you’re considering, the strict criteria you used to find one in the past are pretty much the same.

But there are a few extra questions and considerations thrown in to reflect the changing situation.

Call each of your prospects or schedule an in-person meeting if both of your schedules allow.

I know you can’t learn everything about a person in a single meeting, but you can absolutely get a sense of whether you like the person based on that initial conversation.

The benefit of an in-person meeting is that you can get to know the groomer while checking out their environment.

Does the area look clean and safe? Are you comfortable bringing your dog to this location?

Be honest about all your dog’s issues and any concerns you may have. This is the best way to ensure that the groomer you choose can meet your dog’s needs.

Here are some questions to ask during your conversation:

• How much experience do you have doing dog grooming for older dogs? (Specifically, dealing with dogs who have vision or hearing problems, skin growths, lumps and bumps, difficulty standing, or other age-related concerns)
• How comfortable are you working with dogs who are anxious or sensitive to being handled?
• Do you use a high-powered nozzle to wash dogs? If so, do you have an alternative if a dog is frightened or too fragile for the pressure?
• How do you dry dogs?
• Do you have a non-slip mat on the grooming table? In the bathtub?
• How do you get dogs with mobility issues into/out of the tub? Onto/off the grooming table?
• If you are working with a dog with vision issues, how do you keep them calm? Do you talk to them to reassure them throughout the grooming process?
• Do you use soft-bristled brushes that are gentle on an older dog’s delicate skin?
• Do you have a good moisturizing shampoo for dogs with dry and flaky skin (a common struggle in many older dogs)?
• Do you check each dog’s teeth, mouth, ears, and eyes for discharge or any sign of trouble?
• How do you handle an anxious or overly stressed dog?
• How do you handle pee breaks?
• If a dog is sore in some areas, particularly those afflicted with arthritis, what steps do you take to keep them comfortable during grooming?

Some groomers provide live streaming cameras in their salons for clients to check on their dogs. If they do, take advantage of it – this is a great way to see how the groomer and your dog interact with one another.

Should You Stay with Your Senior Dog During Their Grooming Appointment?

There is no singular “right” answer to this. Some dogs are more anxious when their guardians hang around, while others need that comfort.

Check with the groomer to find out if you are allowed to stay with your dog.

If the grooming salon is separate from the waiting area, you may not even be able to see your dog or comfort them during the appointment.

If you’re considering leaving but are concerned about how your dog will react around someone new, tell the groomer you will hang around the area for a few minutes in case they call you.

This way, you can get there quickly if problems arise.

Tips and Tricks to Set Your Senior Dog Up for a Successful Grooming Appointment

Finding a groomer that makes both you and your dog comfortable is an essential first step. But why stop there?

There are steps you and your groomer can take to improve the chances of an enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

Be Strategic with the Appointment Time

Booking the day’s first appointment means no chance of previous clients running late, delaying your dog’s appointment, and adding to their stress levels.

It also means fewer dogs will be in the grooming salon when you arrive.

Arrive early to pick your dog up so they aren’t waiting once the appointment is over.

Choose a Senior-Dog Friendly Haircut

When your dog was younger, you might have been interested in fancy hairstyles, no matter how long it took.

Now, it’s less about winning beauty pageants (although I’m sure your golden oldie is adorable no matter their haircut) and more about safety and comfort.

You want your groomer to do a great job, be careful, and be quick. The longer the grooming appointment, the more likely they will become uncomfortable before it’s over.

Another thing to consider is how well your older dog tolerates the cold.

You may have liked how they looked when clipped short, but senior dogs are generally more sensitive to cold temperatures.

Leaving your dog’s hair a bit longer may provide better insulation to keep them comfortable.

Be Proactive with Mobility Issues

Mobility issues may make walking on slippery surfaces more challenging.

Speak with your groomer about your concerns. They may be able to place rugs strategically in the salon to reduce the risk of slipping.

Have them check if there is a lot of fur growing between your dog’s toes during the appointment.

If the fur growth is long enough, it could worsen an already difficult situation. Ensure your groomer cuts it back to help with traction.

Consider Different Positions

Does your dog struggle with aches and pains? If so, a conversation with your groomer may be in order.

When standing becomes too much, make sure they let your dog sit or even lie down.

You may need to adjust your expectations regarding how much work can be done. If they can still complete a basic groom, who cares if it’s not perfect?

Discuss Alternatives to the Grooming Loop

As a dog ages, they may experience sensitivity in many areas, including around their neck.

If your dog has tracheal issues or discomfort from wearing a tight collar, discuss with your groomer the possibility of using a harness rather than a loop around their neck.

Try Calming Aids for Stress or Anxiety

Is your dog feeling stressed? How about a calming aid to help them tolerate grooming sessions more easily?

There are many options available, such as Rescue Remedy, Nutracalm (UK), Zylkene, Valerian, or Skullcap, to name just a few.

In situations where professional grooming is necessary but causes extreme anxiety, speak with your veterinarian.

They may prescribe medications to allow the appointment to proceed without too much mental and emotional difficulty.

Be Realistic with Your Expectations

You’ve found a groomer who is comfortable and experienced enough, but they aren’t a miracle worker.

They must work fast to ensure your senior dog’s comfort. If their haircut isn’t perfect, it really doesn’t matter.

Every dog deserves to be clean and comfortable, and that’s all you can ask for.

Consider a Mobile Groomer

Many great groomers ride around in their “beauty parlor on wheels.”

They pull up in your driveway, groom the dog in their van, and you’re done. It couldn’t get any easier than that.

This is an excellent option for dogs nervous about car rides, making it difficult to bring them to a grooming salon comfortably.

How to Safely Groom an Old Dog at Home

An alternative to what may be seen as a stressful experience at the groomer is grooming your dog at home.

This may feel overwhelming if you have never taken on the job of grooming your dog.

It is definitely possible to safely groom an old dog at home. However, given the changes they often experience at this age, there are a few essential considerations.

When is Home Grooming a Good Idea?

It’s not uncommon for dogs who are losing their hearing or sight, dealing with arthritis, or experiencing dementia to become anxious, stressed, and easily spooked.

Trips to the groomer that used to be met with excitement (okay, maybe just tolerance) may now be events to be feared.

To prevent unnecessary stress, choosing to groom your dog at home in a safe and familiar environment will be a big help.

This is also a great way to keep up with your dog’s grooming needs on a budget.                                       

What Should Be Included in Your Home Grooming Efforts

Brush your dog’s teeth daily or as often as they let you. Once a week is still better than nothing.

If your dog refuses to let you brush their teeth, other products are available that will help reduce tartar and promote better oral health.

Dental chews and dental chew toys work by scraping against the teeth as they chew. Many dental chews also have enzymes that help break down plaque and bacteria.

You can also sprinkle products like PlaqueOff Powder on their food or add a dental water additive like OxyFresh Dental Care Water Additive to their water bowl.  

Clean any gunk from your dog’s eyes using a gauze pad and warm water.

Check their ears for any smell or discharge. If you notice anything, please call your vet as soon as possible. Untreated ear infections can lead to hearing loss.

Diarrhea and fecal/urinary incontinence are some of the issues that affect many of our older dogs.

Be sure to wipe the areas well with natural doggie wipes. Unlike wipes designed for humans, they are properly formulated to the pH levels of a dog’s skin.

If you are comfortable doing it, trim the fur to keep these areas clean moving forward.

Navigating Bath Time with a Senior Dog

One of the bigger challenges faced by many dog parents when taking on the task of grooming their pets is navigating bath time.

Where is the best place to bathe your pet?

Depending on your dog’s size and level of mobility, that could be the sink, bathtub, baby bathtub, shower, kiddie pool, plastic tote or recycle bin, or even outside in the garden if it’s a nice day.

If you use your garden hose or shower head, ensure it is on a gentle setting.

There are products available that will make it easier to wash your dog without requiring them to move more than necessary, such as the Waterpik Pet Wand Pro and the Aquapaw Pet Bathing Tool.

Supplies Needed to Safely Groom an Old Dog

If you are going to groom your dog at home, you will need the right supplies.

This doesn’t mean you must purchase everything you would find at a professional grooming salon. However, there are some must-have items before you get started.

Here is a list of basic dog grooming supplies, including key things to consider when shopping:

Shampoo and Conditioner

There are a crazy number of options and brands when it comes to dog shampoo, such as medicated, dry skin formulas, sensitive skin formulas, and all-natural products.

Plus, you can buy dry shampoo for in-between grooming sessions or make your own.

To begin, consider your dog’s unique needs. If they have a condition that can be treated or managed with a specific shampoo, that can narrow the list of options considerably.

Personally, I prefer to go the more natural route. I buy my dog’s shampoo from a local pet supply store that sells mostly raw diets and natural products.

A conditioner may also be needed to keep their coat looking healthy and shiny if you have a dog who often experiences tangles, like those with longer or curly fur.

Rubber Non-Slip Mats

We put mats or non-slip adhesives on the bottom of the shower or bathtub for ourselves. Why would we not do the same for our older pups?

Mobility issues, muscle weakness, and joint pain can make them unsteady on their feet.

To prevent injuries caused by slips or falls, pay attention to the surfaces you expect your dog to stand on.

Combs and Brushes

There is no “one size fits all” for dog brushes, so it will likely be a case of trial and error to find the best option for your dog’s needs.

When choosing, keep in mind not only the type of fur and how much your dog has but also any growths or thinning skin, as these conditions can be irritated with certain brush styles.

A dog with longer hair may need more widely spaced bristles on a brush or a comb. Meanwhile, short, dense, or rubber bristles may benefit dogs with shorter hair.

Pay careful attention to the tips of bristles and the risk of scratching, irritating, or damaging your senior dog’s delicate skin.

Clippers

I couldn’t believe the selection when I searched for clippers on Amazon. I think I stopped counting at 30 different brands.

How do you decide?

To be honest, when I last purchased clippers or my dogs, I based my decision solely on price.

It came with a couple of blades and a comb, which was all we needed. I’m not a professional groomer. I didn’t need anything fancy or one with 12 different attachments.

Price is an important consideration, but not the only one. Other things to think about include:

• How noisy are they? Will they upset or scare your dog?
• Are they comfortable for you to hold? Too heavy? Bulky?
• Are they corded or cordless?

Nail Clippers or Nail Grinder

If you haven’t already, purchase proper dog nail clippers, and don’t use whatever you have at home for your own nails.

Your dog’s nails are far thicker than yours, and their clippers are designed to cut through quickly and with minimal effort.

You can learn more about how to trim your dog’s nails by reading this article: “How to Trim Dog Nails.”

If you aren’t comfortable clipping your dog’s nails, you may also want to try a nail grinder.

Alternatively, if you’re really uneasy about taking care of your dog’s nails, you may be better off making an appointment with a groomer or your vet’s office to have them done professionally.  

Ear Cleaner

Cleaning your dog’s ears regularly helps keep them disease and infection-free.

The best way to do this is to use a mild ear cleaner specifically for dogs. It comes in a liquid form, or you can buy ear wipes for convenience.

Please be gentle and remove any matted or dirty fur around the ears before starting.

For more detailed information on cleaning your dog’s ears, check out this article: “Dog Ear Infections: Do I Need to Wash My Dog’s Ears.”

Hair Dryer

You can use your own hair dryer, but put it on a low, cool setting. Keep the nozzle a few inches away from your dog’s fur.

If they have never been near a dryer before, get them used to it before turning it on and blasting them with it. Here’s how…

First, show your dog the dryer when it’s off. If they are okay with being around it, give them a treat.

Then, turn it on low while pointing it away from them. Watch their reaction. If they are fine, give them a treat. This will help create a positive association with the dryer’s sound.

Slowly move closer with the dryer each time, rewarding your dog with a treat as long as they remain calm and relaxed.

You want to gradually get to the point where they aren’t even bothered when they feel the warm air on them.

This isn’t a quick process. It will take time. But it will help make the grooming experience pleasant.

There are also pet-specific dryers if you would prefer to invest in something. But your personal dryer will work just as well in most cases.

Towels

Some dogs will never adjust to the hair dryer, even on the lowest setting. If your dog falls into that category, you may want to have a bunch of towels set aside for drying them.

I recommend keeping even more towels on hand than you believe you will need.

If you have to leave your wet dog to get another towel, you know they will jump on the couch and use it to dry themselves off. Right?

Keep a stack near you. You can always put the clean towels away after.

Dog Dental Care Products

Poor oral hygiene can not only cause your dog pain but can also lead to severe dental disease and long-term organ issues.

As we previously discussed, the best way to keep your dog’s teeth and gums clean and healthy is by brushing them regularly, just as we tell children to do.

There are several types of toothbrushes to choose from, even ones that fit over your finger. You may need to try a couple of options to find something your dog finds agreeable.

If no toothbrush works, wrapping a piece of gauze or a cotton pad around your finger with some toothpaste may be the answer.

The toothpaste you use needs to be specifically made for dogs. It comes not only in the standard paste formulation but also in gels, sprays, wipes, and powders.

Gauze Pads and Styptic Powder

In addition to the tools needed to groom your dog, there are also some first aid supplies you may want to have on hand.

Gauze pads are helpful not only when cleaning your dog’s ears, eyes, or teeth but also if your dog suffers cuts or scrapes at any point during the grooming process.

Another great item to have on hand is styptic powder, an antiseptic clotting powder that stops bleeding quickly and effectively.

Senior dogs tend to have long quicks (the blood vessels found in your dog’s nails). You will want your styptic powder within reach if you accidentally cut the quick while trimming your dog’s nails.

How to Groom an Anxious Dog

Is your dog nervous or unsure about the grooming process? You’re not alone!

Many dogs are uncomfortable with the grooming tools or being handled by a complete stranger during a grooming appointment.

You can help your dog overcome their fears and uncertainties, but it is a process that won’t be solved overnight.

Start by introducing the grooming tools without trying to use them in any way.

Place grooming tools on the floor for your dog to sniff and explore. Run the clippers or hair dryer so they are introduced to the sounds they create.

As they investigate the tools, offer treats and praise. This will help to create a positive association with the tools.

Slowly work up to bringing the tools closer to your dog, allowing them to touch your dog, and, eventually, using them (slowly at first, then increasing the time).

Remember, you don’t want to rush the process! Taking the time to address this properly now will set you up for success moving forward.

Grooming a Severely Matted Dog

Whether you’ve just rescued an older dog who was neglected or, for whatever reason, your dog hasn’t been to the groomer in a while, you may be dealing with significant knotting and matting.

If your dog is severely matted, combing out the knots may be too stressful and even painful.

Consult a professional groomer. They have experience working with dogs in all conditions, allowing them to carefully address knotting while reducing discomfort.

Shaving your dog may be the kindest and easiest solution in the most severe cases.

Whether you’re taking your pup to the groomer or doing it yourself at home, one session is probably too long to get everything done.

Try breaking it up into 2 or 3 smaller sessions over a few days or longer.

If it’s chilly out, ensure you have a sweater and/or a coat to keep your dog warm after shaving. Senior dogs are more sensitive to cold temperatures.

Final Thoughts: How to Safely Groom an Old Dog

Grooming is a crucial part of caring for your senior dog.

Whether you decide to groom them yourself, have the groomer do it, or split it between the two of you, what’s most important is keeping your dog clean and healthy and making the experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible.

Is your dog still okay about going to the groomer, or have you started grooming them yourself? Any tips you’d recommend for first-timers just beginning to take on grooming at home? Leave your comments and recommendations in the comment section below.