Brushing
Brushing several times a week will keep most dogs neat and clean. Some breeds may need to be brushed more often because they are more likely to get mats and tangles. Begin brushing at the neck, working toward the tail and down the legs, then brush the head last. Brush your dog's hair layer by layer so that it pulls the least on the skin. Brush all the way down to the skin, and check closely for signs of fleas, ticks, or skin irritations. Remember to be gentle so that your dog will enjoy being groomed.

Bathing
In general, you only need to bathe your dog when he is dirty or smelly. Bathing too often can remove natural oils, making your dog's coat and skin too dry. Be sure to brush your dog first, removing all mats and tangles. Use a mild dog shampoo. Put cotton balls in his ears and a drop of mineral oil in each eye. Wet with warm water, work shampoo into a lather from the neck back. Then rinse with warm water. Be careful not to get shampoo in his eyes or ears. After your dog is dry, you will need to brush and comb him again.

Cleaning eyes
Check your dog's eyes for redness, swelling or unusual discharge. Clean slight discharges with a moist cotton ball. Do not put anything irritating in your dog's eyes. If you think your dog may have a problem with his eyes, consult your veterinarian.

Cleaning ears
Ears should be cleaned about every two weeks. Some dogs may need them cleaned more often if they tend to have ear problems. It's a good idea to inspect the ears regularly, checking for signs of infection. Healthy ears are pink inside, with no foul odor and no excessive waxy buildup. For regular cleaning, wrap a damp towel or soft cloth around your finger and only clean the inside of the ear that you can see. Never try to clean out an infected ear. Take your dog to the vet for that.

Nail trimming
A dog's nails should be trimmed so that they just clear the floor (if you hear them clicking, they're probably too long). The nails should be trimmed with clippers that are designed for this purpose. Do not use ordinary scissors or your own nail clippers. You want to trim only the ends, above the "quick," which is a blood vessel inside the nail. Clip only the hook-like part of the nail that turns down.

Cleaning teeth
Brush your dog's teeth at least once a week. Clean his teeth with special toothbrushes and toothpaste designed for dogs. You can also use a soft child's toothbrush, a finger brush, or a gauze pad wrapped around your finger. Check your dog's teeth for soft white, hard yellow, or brown matter. This is plaque or tartar and should be removed by a veterinarian.