Especially if you own a longhaired breed or a breed that needs a particular look — such as a Schnauzer, a Poodle, a Shih Tzu, a Bichon, or a coated terrier — you should find a professional dog groomer to work with. You will still need to regularly brush and examine your dog, but it can take years to develop the techniques necessary to give some breeds their well-coiffed “looks.” Make it easier on yourself and your dog and let someone with that experience do it for you. What a pleasure it is to pick up your dog from the groomer and have everything be done and your dog looking like the distinguished Airedale Terrier you see at dog shows.

Treat Yourself

Even for owners of short-haired breeds it's a treat to take your dog to the groomer's every once in a while. A groomer can give him the royal treatment — bathing, drying, cleaning eyes and ears, trimming nails — while you take care of something else. There is no shame in leaving your dog with a groomer. You can't possibly know the many trade secrets they've learned from their years of experience and network of mentors and friends.

User Beware

You know from experience that finding someone you trust to cut and style your hair isn't always easy. It can take several tries — even with referrals from friends — to find someone you really like. Then you just hope they stick around! The same can be true with dog groomers. In your search, you will hear plenty of stories of West Highland White Terriers coming home looking like Miniature Schnauzers, Bichons erratically trimmed, or Yorkies with no top knot. Some groomers will trim your dog's nails so short that her feet may hurt and she will become very defensive when you try to handle her paws. Because you're not there while they're grooming your dog, you have to trust that they'll treat your dog kindly and with the greatest of care.

Groomers who are confident in their abilities will willingly give you the names of their clients so you can call to get their opinions. Be suspicious of groomers who seem reluctant to do so or who try to win you over so you bring your dog before really learning what the groomer is like. When you find someone good, tip him well when you pick up your dog and talk to him about any concerns he has about your dog. Like your veterinarian, your groomer can become one of your dog's best friends outside your family. Value his opinion as well as his skill.