How do I get my dog to like the groomer? (part II)

Last time we talked about brushing your dog to get them more used to when I do it when they are being groomed. The other thing that really drives many dogs up the wall when they are getting groomed is having their feet touched!

Many dogs (especially short-legged dogs such as dachshunds, corgis and basset hounds) HATE having their feet touched. Just like with brushing, start them off young- or if you get them as an adult, make it into your daily routine/training program. 

What I suggest is get a treat that is high value (as long as your pup doesn’t have a sensitive stomach) such as peanut butter, spray cheese, or my personal favorite, liverwurst. Massage their paws and if they don’t struggle, give them the treat. If it’s peanut butter and the dog has to work to eat it, you can multi-task and they can munch on a tasty treat while you are playing with their feet.
Some dogs are scared of the noise of the nail clippers. It is important with these dogs you get their nails clipped about every 3-4 weeks, so you don’t always have to use a nail clipper. There is a tool that your groomer can use (or they have them on the market in the pet supply stores) that is a nail grinder. It files the nails down for a smoother finish.

Your pet can learn to enjoy (or at least tolerate) grooming, especially if they are a long haired breed (such as poodle, shih tzu or schnauzer) that will need proper grooming about every 4-6 weeks; as long as you are pro-active and work with your dog to get them used to this process! Then they can enjoy the aromatherapy and facial scrub treatments just like you do!

Getting your dog to like the groomer (part 1)

Everybody likes going to the spa! You get your nails painted, your hair done, and a full body massage. This is even true for your dog! These days many grooming salons offer “spa treatments” such as pad treatment, nail painting, and exfoliating sugar scrubs. You want Fluffy to enjoy their grooming appointment at the salon, but sometimes when you pull up to the salon, he puts on the breaks!

Here are a few tips that you can do at home to get your pup more used to the grooming process, and even enjoy having a day of beauty!

The most important thing to do in-between grooming appointments is to keep your dog properly brushed/combed. It’s best to start them out young, so they can grow up knowing this is part of the routine! The tools you’ll need is a slicker brush and a metal comb. With the brush, you can think you are doing a great job and brushing correctly, but you don’t get all the way down to the skin (especially on long-haired dogs and dogs with undercoat that shed). A comb will ensure you get all the matts out.  When a dog gets too matted, the hair actually pulls on the skin and trying to detangle it can be very painful.

Give your pup lots of praise and treats when introducing the brushing process. If they try to move away or bite at the tools, give a firm “no” and keep going. When they don’t struggle, give them a treat and lots of praise! Biting the grooming tools is dangerous (especially because sharp objects such as scissors and clippers are being used) and should be discouraged.

The best way to brush correctly is to start on the dog’s side at the bottom (near the ribs) and part the hair using your hand, and brush all the hair from your hand in layers. This ensures you don’t miss any spots. Places that matt up the most include behind the ears, armpits, and base of the tail. If your dog has matting that you cannot put a comb in-between the matt and the skin, please DO NOT attempt to cut it off yourself! Many times, dog owners clip out the tangled hair and end up getting skin with it. 

Brushing your pup can be very rewarding for the both of you, and with enough practice, you will both become pros at it! As long as it's a positive experience!