Becoming a first-time dog owner is exciting and wonderful—and even a bit scary. There are so many things to know about how to properly care for your dog. And grooming is one of them. Elizabeth Toc, co-owner of The Tailored Tail, has these five tips for those unfamiliar with how a professional dog groomer can help you and your pet.

Even in Houston, September symbolizes the end of summer and the coming of fall. This seasonal transition is important for dogs and means professional grooming is essential this time of year. Fall is the time to make an appointment to be sure the sun-damaged coats, paw pads and any damage to skin is taken care of as soon as possible.

Brushing your dog’s teeth is important to keep your pet as healthy and hygienic as possible. So why do so many owners avoid doing it? The vast majority of pet owners don’t brush their dog’s teeth even though they know it is good for them.

Many dog owners groom their pets at home for a variety of reasons, from saving money to fearing their dogs may be anxious about visiting a groomer. Bathing your dog at home may seem simple but pet owners should consider regular professional grooming for the overall health of their dogs.

Dogs these days spend less time running and walking on hard surfaces that naturally file down their nails. Most dogs are largely kept indoors so keeping their nails short is part of the owner’s responsibility—and one that should be taken seriously. This is not about how your pet’s paws look but about the dog’s safety and comfort.

Summer is around the corner and most of us who live in Houston will wear fewer clothes to stay cool. Despite what many dog owners think, dogs don’t necessarily benefit from the same thing— a shave in the summer. In fact, for most breeds, shaving down a coat has the opposite effect.

Regular visits to a professional groomer are vital to your dog’s overall health. It is important to prepare your dog for its first grooming appointment to reduce stress and guarantee a positive experience for you and the dog. Most dogs have no problems with groomers, but some adult dogs, and puppies, are anxious enough that some preplanning is recommended.

Even with regular visits to a professional groomer it is important for dog owners to brush their pet’s coat to prevent matting and promote overall good health.

Groomers don’t just wash, trim, and style —they can spot medical disturbances too. Groomers commonly find potential medical issues because they see your pet regularly and can notice if something changes visit-to-visit.

It is estimated that there are more than 50,000 therapy dogs in the U.S. right now. These working dogs need to be in top shape to do their work safely and comfortably. That’s where professional groomers come in.

Much like humans who are nervous about going to the dentist, some dogs are very anxious when taken to a professional groomer for their regular cut, style and nail trim.

But unlike humans, it is hard to reason with a dog! But what groomers and owners can do is figure out ways to alleviate the pet’s stress while on the way and while at the groomer.

Dogs with double coats not only look adorably fluffy and luxurious, but the extra coat serves a very practical purpose. According to the AKC, the double coats give dogs an extra layer to help keep them clean and cope with harsh weather—warm and cold.

This double coat, however, comes with extra responsibilities for dog owners. The coats need extra washing and brushing to keep them untangled, which is no easy feat for an owner. However, a professional groomer can properly help you care for dogs with multiple coats, keeping them groomed properly for maximum comfort.