5 Grooming Mistakes to Avoid in 2026

Grooming isn’t just about keeping your pet looking neat. It’s an essential part of their overall health and well-being. From maintaining a shiny coat to preventing skin issues and matting, regular grooming can make a world of difference. However, even the most dedicated pet parents occasionally slip up.

As we step into a new year, here are five common grooming mistakes to avoid in 2026, and how the Ultimate Pet Care 2026 Calendar can help you stay organised, on track, and one step ahead.

5 Grooming Mistakes to Avoid in 2026

1. Forgetting When the Last Groom Was

It happens to the best of us: life gets busy, weeks pass, and suddenly your dog’s coat is telling you, “It’s been a while.” Missing grooming appointments can lead to tangles, dirt build-up, and even discomfort for your pet.

Our 2026 Calendar gives you a clear space each month to jot down grooming dates, reminders, or upcoming appointments. You’ll always know exactly when the last groom happened – and when the next one should be.

Forgetting When the Last Groom Was

2. Ignoring Seasonal Grooming Needs

Pets don’t have the same grooming requirements year-round. Summer heat, winter dryness, shedding seasons, and allergy flare-ups all affect their coat and skin in different ways.

By using the monthly layout on our calendar, you can plan grooming sessions around seasonal changes. Whether it’s scheduling a de-shedding session before heavy shedding begins or planning a refreshing bath for the hotter months, having a visual guide makes it easier to prepare ahead of time.

Ignoring Seasonal Grooming Needs

3. Overlooking Coat or Skin Changes

Small changes like dry patches, redness, extra shedding, or matting behind the ears can easily go unnoticed until they become a problem. Regular check-ins are essential for catching early signs of discomfort.

Use the notes section on our calendar to keep track of anything you observe: dry skin, knots, hotspots, tear stains, paw dryness, or coat texture changes. This simple habit helps you spot patterns early and get help sooner.

Overlooking Coat or Skin Changes

4. Leaving Grooming to the Last Minute

A rushed grooming appointment isn’t fun for you, your groomer, or your pet. Booking too late (especially during busy seasons) can mean longer wait times or missing the ideal window for your pet.

With the entire year easily accessible on our calendar, you can plan ahead without stress – especially around holidays, seasonal shedding, or family events. Pet care becomes smoother when you’re not scrambling for last-minute slots.

Leaving Grooming to the Last Minute

5. Forgetting That Grooming Is a Bonding Moment

Grooming shouldn’t only happen at the parlour. Brushing, checking paws, wiping eyes, and touching up in between appointments are all small but meaningful ways to bond with your pet. Many owners forget the importance of these moments.

Create a small monthly ritual. Mark spot on our calendar for a “brush-and-bond day” or a reminder to check your dog’s nails, ears, or coat. Turning grooming into a routine builds trust and keeps your pet comfortable with handling.

Forgetting That Grooming Is a Bonding Moment

Final Thoughts: A Calendar That Does More Than Track Dates

The Ultimate Pet Care 2026 Calendar is built with pet owners in mind. Each month features a beautiful hand-sketched dog breed artwork – a little piece of art to enjoy all year long. And when the month is done? You can even cut out and frame the sketch to keep or display.

It’s practical, it’s aesthetic, and it helps you stay organised with your pet’s care throughout the entire year.

If you’re ready to make 2026 the year of stress-free grooming, you can get your calendar here:

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