🐾 Small Dog Grooming Essentials: What I Actually Use Between Groomer Visits

Every dog’s coat and skin are different, so it’s important to find products that work for your pup’s specific needs. 🛁 For my small dogs, these are the items that keep them clean, soft, and happy between grooming appointments.

1️⃣ Bath Time:
I use a vet-created puppy shampoo because it’s gentle on both skin and eyes—especially when washing their little faces. Afterward, I clean their ears with either ear wipes or drops, depending on what’s needed that day (always check with your vet if you’re unsure).

2️⃣ Dry & Detangle:
Once they’re dry, I move to brushing and trimming. Since my dogs all have longer hair, I rotate between a slicker brush to loosen tangles and a regular pin brush for everyday smoothing. I also like to apply a small amount of Cowboy Magic detangler to keep their coats soft and tangle-free—it makes brushing so much easier.

For trimming, I use a small face trimmer and a grooming scissor set, choosing which one to use depending on the area—scissors for around the eyes and ears, and the trimmer for paws and muzzle touch-ups. It’s much less intimidating than a full clipper for small dogs or puppies.

If your pup gets tear stains or the little “gunk” around their eyes, a tear-stain comb helps gently remove buildup. It won’t change fur color, but it keeps the eye area clean and comfortable.

3️⃣ Maintenance Tools:
For quick cleanups, I keep a lightweight clipper set and a tabletop grooming stand from my early DIY days. And when it comes to nails, if your dog isn’t a fan of grinders, the traditional nail clippers work just as well.

4️⃣ Finishing Touches:
Don’t forget a good dog toothbrush for oral care and a paw/nose balm to keep everything soft and moisturized.

✨ These are the gentle, tried-and-true tools that keep my small dogs looking fresh, comfortable, and cuddle-ready between grooming visits.

🐾 Shop the full collection:
You can find all my recommended small dog grooming favorites in my Mavely Store →click here — curated with gentle, cozy care in mind.