As cherished family members, many pet owners are eager to pamper their dogs with love and affection.

This trend has taken off on TikTok, where users post videos showcasing homemade doggy spas featuring everything from manicures to massages.

Currently, an astonishing 1.2 billion videos are tagged with “dog spa,” and another 816.5 million labeled “spa day with my dog.”

Popular pet influencers like Sunday the Golden Retriever and Drake the Pupstar enjoy these spa treatments at home, eliminating the need for trips to professional groomers.

However, while these posts aim to create a relaxing experience for dogs, experts caution that safety should always be a priority.

Toria Bryant, a dog groomer from Tidy Tails by Toria and SpaSeekers.com, emphasizes the importance of considering each dog’s comfort level.

“Some dogs may be uncomfortable with touching their paws, so applying products like paw oil could be frightening for them,” she explains.

To create a positive experience, Toria recommends engaging in activities the dog is already comfortable with before introducing new treatments.

To ensure a safe and enjoyable spa day for your pet, Toria offers several helpful tips:

1. Use Pet-Specific Products

It’s essential to select grooming products designed specifically for dogs. While it may be tempting to purchase inexpensive options like baby shampoo, Toria warns that what is gentle for humans may not be suitable for dogs.

“A dog’s pH level differs from ours, so opt for dog shampoos that contain ingredients like oats or evening primrose oil for a luxurious pampering session,” she advises.

2. Consider Nose and Paw Balms

Many videos feature dog owners applying balms to their pets’ noses and paws for added moisture. However, Toria points out that this is not a necessity.

“Using balms is similar to moisturizing dry hands; it’s a nice addition but not essential,” she says. If your dog is prone to dryness, coconut oil can be a suitable alternative, though it should be used sparingly to avoid digestive issues.

3. Start with Gentle Massages

When giving your dog a massage, it’s crucial to gauge the appropriate pressure level. Toria suggests starting softly and gradually increasing the intensity. “A gentle head massage can be soothing for dogs that enjoy being scratched,” she notes.

Massaging along the spine and legs can also relieve older dogs or those with arthritis, but it’s important to watch for any signs of discomfort.

4. Play Soothing Music

Creating a calming environment can greatly benefit both the dog and the owner. Toria recommends playing soft classical music during grooming sessions to help soothe anxious dogs.

“Classical music can distract nervous pets and foster a relaxing atmosphere,” she explains. However, each dog may have different musical preferences, so owners should experiment to find the right playlist.

5. Avoid Overwashing

While dogs love pampering, excessive bathing can strip their skin of natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation.

Toria advises against washing dogs more than once a week unless they are particularly dirty from outdoor activities.

6. Leave Clipping to Professionals

Professionals, such as nail and coat clipping, should handle some aspects of dog grooming. According to Toria, inexperienced owners may struggle with these tasks, potentially causing harm to their pets.

She encourages owners to prioritize regular brushing and cleaning their dog’s teeth and ears, especially for breeds with longer coats.

Following these guidelines lets pet owners enjoy a delightful spa day with their furry friends while ensuring their safety and well-being.

Read more Dogs News.