Whenever you have time, play with your dog's ears, with their tail, the base of the tail, their paws, and their muzzle. Why you may ask? Because those are the more sensitive areas that most dogs do not like being handled. Which is precisely why it's important to get them used to being touched in those areas. This way they won't freak out (as much) at the vet and the groomers. This should prevent unwanted surprises when a kid or someone comes by and pulls on your dog's tail or ears.
Random tips on grooming:
Make sure the claws don't get too long.
If you take them on regular long walk, their claws will naturally file away on the cement. If you have to cut them, then use the scissor clippers and not the guillotine version. According to a groomer I know, the guillotine style has a higher tendency of crushing the nail instead of cutting it. If you wish to grind the nails instead, I recommend getting a Black & Decker rotary tool. Don't use the PediPaws (they break and malfunction way to easily).
Bathe them 1 to 2 times a month at most.
Unless you're using special shampoo (I have expensive medicated prescription shampoo for skin allergies), normal shampoos and conditioners, if used too often, will dry out the dog's skin which will make them itch and scratch. If they get dirty or smelly between baths, use the doggie wet wipes (baby wipes work too) or the waterless shampoos.
Clean their ears regularly.
Especially for floppy-eared dogs. The long ears prevent the ear canals from drying properly which could create a moist environment for bacteria and other nasty things to grow. You can buy an ear rinse at any pet supply store. If you see a lot of wax, or they're walking lopsided, or scratching their ears, or shaking their head constantly (I mean ALL of the time not every few hours), then it's time for a vet visit.
to be continued...
