By Elsebeth DeBiase, BAminSC, ICMG, FFCP, LSHC-S, Owner, Coastal Creations Pet Salon
For centuries, dogs stood by our side as loyal guardians and hunting partners. The bond between humans and dogs predates written language. As societies have evolved, so has our care of dogs. Grooming, a crucial aspect of canine well-being, is rooted in ancient history.
Ancient Era
It is well-known that ancient Egyptians valued dogs. However, archaeological evidence shows that dogs gained significance in Egyptian culture as early as 4800 BCE. Tomb paintings and ceramics show Egyptians with dogs wearing collars, hunting together, and resting by their masters’ chairs. The breeds depicted are short-haired breeds resembling sight hounds, short-legged dogs, and mastiffs that required minimal grooming. Nevertheless, it is clear that they cared for their dogs, as they lovingly named them Blackie, Reliable, and Brave One and interred them with their masters in death.
The earliest known instructions on canine management come from ancient Greece. Xenophon, born in 430 BCE, was a Greek philosopher and the author of Cynegeticus, or On Hunting. Xenophon’s writing provides insight into the desirable temperaments, physical characteristics, and the training of early hunting dogs.
Arrian, a 2nd-century Greek historian, expounded on Xenophon’s manuscript, writing original guidance on dog care. Arrian explains the benefits of grooming, including the following: “Rubbing the whole body is of great service to the greyhound. For it is conducive to the firmness and strength of his limbs—renders his hair soft, and skin shining, and cleanses it from all foulness.”
Medieval Era
Europe during the Middle Ages was a rural society ruled by nobility. Many people valued large dog breeds for their loyalty and protection. However, hunting became a popular leisure pursuit for the aristocracy. Hunting dogs lived in kennels with numerous hired servants to care for them, as illustrated in the 14th-century book Livre De Chasse by Gaston Phoebus. Livre De Chasse features beautiful artwork depicting handlers examining the dogs after a hunt. Masters of the Game, a later English translation, reveals standard grooming practices for the time. Handlers cleaned the hound’s ears with lukewarm wine, chamomile, and oil, trimmed their nails to prevent breakage, and washed their feet and legs after hunting.
Modern Era
The first references to trimming a dog’s hair appear in 16th-century writing. John Caius, physician to Queen Elizabeth I, authored Of Englishe Dogges, which described various dog breeds and emphasized the importance of grooming water-retrieving dogs. He noted that the water spaniel moves more freely through the water when shorn from shoulders to tail. A later text, Hunger’s Prevention or the Whole Art of Fowling by Water and Land, published in 1621 by Gervase Markham, describes a similar haircut and includes an illustration of a water dog with a clipped hindquarter.
Poodles were fashion statements for the nobility of the 18th century. Originating from water spaniels and curly-coated sheepdogs, poodles boasted a coat suited to elaborate trims. Poodle grooming evolved from a practical need to a stylish reflection of an owner’s social standing.
Contemporary Era
Dog grooming emerged as a popular aspect of pet care among the middle class during the 19th century. Groomers worked in the streets of Paris, as illustrated in an 1820s lithograph titled “Les Tondeuses de Chien.” This artwork displays two women attentively grooming poodles in their laps, accompanied by a sign promoting their services.
The publication of state-of-the-art grooming tips became increasingly prevalent over time. In 1891, G.O. Shields released The American Book of the Dog, which included one of the earliest diagrams showcasing an elaborate clipped poodle pattern. Alongside poodles, companion breeds such as Pomeranians, Maltese, and Yorkshire Terriers also enjoy pampering.
The efficiency of dog grooming significantly improved thanks to several key innovations. The introduction of manual clippers in 1855 marked a turning point, followed by the advent of electric clippers in 1919, which further streamlined the process. In 1920, handheld hairdryers made their debut, allowing groomers to dry dogs more quickly and effectively. By 1930, the development of surfactant-based shampoo in a bottle transformed the bathing process.
Pet ownership increased in the mid-20th century, driven by improved animal welfare, changing family structures, better veterinary services, and commercial pet supplies. The growth in dog ownership transformed dog grooming into a successful career option. Today, grooming is a crucial element of responsible dog care, and professional groomers are in high demand.