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This article is courtesy of DogTime.com.

Would you like it if you could never take a bath, clean your hair or trim your nails? Of course not! Now imagine how your dog feels? Good grooming is healthy and happy part of his life, too.

Some grooming steps like brushing can be handled at home. Performing this regularly will not only keep your dog looking good, but will also give you a chance to inspect your dog for swelling, fleas, and possible infections.

Depending on your abilities, you may also want to take your dog to a professional groomer. Short-coated dogs may only require a bath and brush, and an occasional trim of the nails. Long- and thick-coated dogs, however, may be more prone to tangles and mats. For these breeds, you may want to consider using a professional groomer. The question is, how do you choose the groomer that is right for you and your dog?

Why a Professional Groomer?

In our busy lives, we may not always have the time or know-how to keep our dogs looking good. Some dogs (like Cocker Spaniels) require special cuts to keep that classic look. Any dog may need to be groomed to remove multiple mats or are too fidgety for you to handle. Then there are those times your wandering dog meets up with a skunk or somehow acquires a mystery odor that home remedies just don't help. A grooming pro can help in any and all these situations. They are trained to groom your dog with a gentle hand during difficult situations and know just what to do when you need your French poodle to look like a French poodle again. However, grooming pros can't perform magic; it's up to you to stay on top of your dog's grooming needs.

Finding a Groomer

Begin by checking with friends and family. They may have someone they know well from years of experience. Your vet, dog trainer, or even your doggy daycare spot may also be able to recommend someone. You can also contact the National Dog Groomers Association (who certify groomers) through their website. If all else fails, there's always the Internet or the local phone book.

There are no requirements for a groomer to be licensed by a government agency. Many, however, are certified or registered by a local school or association (see National Dog Groomers above). To see if there are any complaints on file, call up the local Better Business Bureau.

After gathering a list of groomers, call them to check on prices for your breed of dog (they vary), different grooming packages they offer, hours they are open, etc. If they are willing, ask for a current customer to interview about their experiences.

Take a Tour of the Grooming Facility

Prior to deciding on a groomer, pay the business a visit. When you do, these are signs of a good grooming salon to look for:

• Is the lighting adequate?
• Is the facility clean and free of any heavy odors?
• Do the staff groomers handle their clients in a caring and professional manner?
• Are the kennels for dogs and cats separated? Are they of varying sizes to accommodate different breeds?
• Are pets checked consistently for overheating during the drying process?
• Does the salon keep records regarding a pet's health, vaccinations, past visits etc.?