Groomers and dog owners have a difficult relationship. Dog owners will often claim that their pets hate going to the groomer, but this is not always the case. In order for your pet to enjoy getting groomed, you need to prepare them well beforehand. There are many tips and tricks you can use to help keep your dog calm while at or on the way to the groomers. This blog post will show you how!
Get ready for some helpful tips from our expert dog groomer on what you can do at home before heading off to groomers.
When to Start?
Your starting point is an important consideration when it comes to keeping your dog calm at the groomings. Have you had many years of trying trips to the groomers or are you starting out with a new pup? Ideally, you would start as soon as you pick up your new friend, however, don’t believe the saying, you can’t teach an old dog new trips. If you start with a new puppy it is all about creating proactive experiences over time, if your dog already hates the groomers then your target is to change what they associate the experience with.
It is important to remember that like to train, this isn’t an instant process. It will take time, there will be tantrums and your dog may not be happy with you at times. Persistence is key, take your training one day at a time, and don’t set a date for you to be finished. Go at the pace of you and your dog.
Start Positive
We all know dogs can mirror how we are feeling. The biggest thing you can do to start in a good way is to begin with a positive attitude. Don’t build up tension and get stressed beforehand. Your dog will sense this and will also become stressed before you even start. When you start any training it is important to treat it as a new fun experience you are sharing with your dog. Remember if you have a bag day training each day start fresh the next day.
How to Prepare?
Start small and keep new interactions short. If you are working with a puppy try introducing a comb and let them understand how it feels. It is also a great idea to play with their pawns. Many dogs don’t like this as it is not a sensation they are exposed to nature, This simple step can help stop fighting when doing nail clipping down the line. For an old dog it can help to change the items you use. Trying picking up a new brush or bath than in a different place. This will let you redefine the experience for them. Most dogs live to please you and to gain your affection try to make the grooming routine a fun process and not a chore.
Once you have then relaxed with one item or step of grooming move to the next. Try not to stick to strict routines or patterns, this can seem beneficial at first however when you come to take them to a professional groomer, the groomer will do things differently.
Drying can be a difficult task for many dog owners and groomers. Try using your hairdryer and make it a fun experience. Help them get used to the noise and sensation. If you are still having difficulty try using something to cover your ears like a happy hubby. Acclimating your dog to the dryer can also be very beneficial when it comes to the dreaded vacuum cleaner too.
Last Resort
If you have tried all the basics, introducing things slowly, and are still having trouble try to bring treats into the mix. It is important to be strategic. Be careful to only offer the treat then you get the behavior you want and not continually. If you can’t get your dog in the shower or bath, place the treats where you want them. If you want to use a de-shedding comb only offer them a treat then they sit calming. Some dogs will hate being brushed and will run when you pick it up. Try to have the brush with you even then not using it. This will help your dog relax when being around the brush.
When to Ask for Help?
We all know dogs can be stubborn, and sometimes no matter what you try your dog will not work with you. In this situation, it may be time to ask for help. Make sure you are using a groomer that understands your situation and is willing to take time to help you. If you are having trouble with all aspects of training it can also be beneficial to seek out a dog trainer. Many dog trainers will have experience with issues around grooming as many dogs need help to stay calm at the groomers. It can be a huge help for training to video the issue behavior so they can see firsthand the target behavior.
It’s important to know how your pet is feeling before you try and groom them. If they are being aggressive, it may be best to have a professional come by the house for grooming services. However, if this isn’t possible or convenient then there are still some things that can help calm down an anxious dog during grooming sessions at home. By using calming techniques like massage therapy on their feet pads while brushing their fur will often soothe dogs enough to allow them to stay still for more than five minutes of brushing time! Contact Perfect Pooches today for all of your doggy needs, we offer a range of services including dog grooming and fertility.
If you’re looking to add a new puppy to your home, we can help there too! We offer a range of puppies who have all been brought up in a loving home and kept safe and healthy with regular check visits, and exposed to grooming practises early. Contact us today to find out about our waiting lists and our puppies – which includes Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Dachshunds, and Cavapoos!