If you’ve been spending a lot of time relaxing at home, binge-watching TV, you can probably skip a shower or two. (That’s what dry shampoo is for, right?) Just like you, your dog’s activity level impacts their bathing needs. How often to wash your pet The less they’re out and about getting dirty, the less frequent they’ll need a bath. “If [you use] a quality [pet] shampoo, followed by a conditioner, dogs can be safely bathed once a week or whenever they don’t smell nice,” Conner says. Cats generally require less bathing than dogs do, although it depends on the breed. “Cats—except breeds that produce excessive oil like the Sphynx—don’t require frequent bathing, though it is not dangerous for them,” says Conner, who also serves as vice president of the Professional Cat Groomers Association of America. Tips for washing your pet If your nose knows it’s time to give your pet a bath, Conner says to start by washing from behind the ears and working your way back toward the tail, saving the face for last. When rinsing, it’s the opposite: Start with the face to decrease the chances of shampoo getting in your fur baby’s eyes. Once you have washed and rinsed your pet completely, rinse again—yes, two rinses. “Shampoo or conditioner left in the coat will attract dirt, cause tangles and can irritate animals’ skin,” Conner says. And always use a shampoo and conditioner formulated specifically for pets. Conner recommends TropiClean’s Gentle Coconut Hypoallergenic shampoo and their Kiwi & Cocoa Butter Moisturizing conditioner.,It can be hard to find the time to take your dog or cat to the groomer. If your pet is looking a little rough around the edges, you can do some cat or dog grooming at home to keep them looking and feeling their best. Not to mention, it’s a great way to bond with your pet. “Pets enjoy being touched and paid attention to, so grooming can be pleasant if it’s a regular part of their routine,” says Daryl Conner, a Master Pet Stylist at Fairwinds Grooming Studio in Appleton, Maine. “Many people find it very satisfying to spend this type of time with their pet. Having a neat, tidy, tangle-free coat to admire and pat is pleasant, too.” From brushing to bathing, here’s a cheat sheet for pet grooming at home.