Regular grooming can keep your dog looking and smelling his or her best — but it's also important for maintaining health. If you choose to groom at home rather than opting for (often expensive) professional care, it's also an opportunity to examine your pet for potential concerns.

A proper grooming routine starts with the right tools, the Humane Society suggests: dog-friendly nail clippers, a rubber-bristled brush, dog-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste, dog-friendly shampoo and conditioner, cotton balls, blunt-ended shears or small clippers with guides, and a microfiber towel.

Trim nails when they nearly touch the ground — typically every 3 to 4 weeks — and steer clear of the quick, the pink part visible on white nails. Match baths and brushing to your dog's coat: short, smooth, or wiry coats need a weekly brush with a rubber-bristled brush; long, silky, or curly coats need daily brushing; double coats benefit from a weekly pass with an undercoat rake or de-shedding tool. At bath time, use a shampoo formulated for dogs.

Take fur trims slowly and carefully to keep your dog calm and comfortable, and brush those teeth with a soft toothbrush and dog-friendly toothpaste to prevent gum disease and plaque buildup. Grooming at home saves money — and it's your best chance to catch the little things early. (Source: eLivingtoday.com)