A good question and an important one. A lot of the dogs that I see in my shop haven't had a brush touch their fur since they left to go home. A few minutes a day spent will lessen the trauma in a groomer's shop.

The most important follow-up for an owner is brushing of your dog's coat. The coat should be brushed often; daily for medium to long trimmed coats, weekly for short haircuts.

Get the proper comb and brush for your dog's coat. Ask your groomer for advice on which comb and brush will work the best for your dog and let your groomer show you the proper way to comb and bush your dog to avoid matting.

The extra few minutes you spend will not only prepare your dog for an easier experience on the grooming table, but will also help you bond.