Grooming should be a fun and stress free experience for your dog (and you!)
As much as we want our four-legged friend to be immaculately clean all the time, there’s no denying that they get dirty as long as they live. Thus, grooming is among the most important aspects of taking care of your dog.
However, grooming can become a heavy chore to complete. Sometimes, your dog won’t just cooperate – turning grooming into an overwhelming job.
Thankfully, there are some tips that you can use to have a fun and stress-free grooming session. Want to know what these useful tips are? If so, read on to learn more!
Schedule Your Grooming
Of course, every dog has its own level of grooming needs. Some dogs who have short coats may need minimal grooming, while those hairy and adventurous dogs may need more cleaning.
Thus, it depends on you how frequent you should do grooming. However, the point we want to make here is that you need to have a schedule and be consistent with it.
By having a regular grooming schedule, your pooch can now anticipate when grooming happens and this prepares him for cleaning. Not only that, but regular grooming could help your buddy to get comfortable with the grooming sessions.
Sure enough, grooming does not always mean that you bring your pooch to the saloon. There are a lot of things you can do at home to keep him clean. For example, you can give him a quick bath, watch out for fleas and ticks, comb your dog’s coat, and a lot more.
Let Him Be Familiar With the Place
When bringing your dog to a salon, he will be staying in a different environment for a couple of hours. If this is the first time you’re bringing your dog, then it would be a good idea to let him sniff around and explore the area first.
Show your pup the types of equipment used during the session. If the groomer uses any electrical cleaning tools, turn it on and let your pup be familiar with their sound.
Most importantly, formally introduce your dog to the groomer. This should help your dog know that the groomer is a friend and he should stay calm and comfortable in his presence.
Loosen Up That Energy
Your dog would be more submissive and behaved during grooming when he doesn’t have too much energy. If you already have set a grooming appointment, it would be a good idea to play with him first.
By using up those excess energies, your dog would be calmer and more comfortable when he finally reaches the grooming table. If available, play calming music to further relax your dog.
Take Your Pup Home
This is your most awaited part! Your pup is now fresh, clean, and good looking. Verbally tell your furry buddy that he has been a good dog. Give him lots of cuddling and patting to reinforce his good behavior. Give him delicious treats as well.
All these positive actions would help your dog to associate happy thoughts with grooming. It tells your dog that the salon is not a place to be feared, but it is a place of fun and relaxation.
Speak To The Groomer
You and the dog groomer should be a tandem in taking care of your dog. Tell the groomer about your dog’s temperament and character. This allows the groomer to anticipate your dog’s behavior and adjust grooming as needed. Request your groomer to take a break whenever your dog looks worried or stressed. Comfort your dog first before proceeding. If possible, stay with your pup all throughout the grooming session if this brings comfort to him.
Final Words
Your pup does not have to be stressed out every time you bring him to the grooming center. You can do the tips mentioned here and we’re sure, your furry buddy will be more relaxed, happy, and stress-free.
If you still have other questions or concerns, best is to speak to your groomer as well as your vet for more professional guidance and training.
