Hey Dog Lovers,
I will start by saying Aussie is no gem at the groomer, in fact she is the complete opposite. She is bad and I have done everything right with her, I have had her since she was 8 weeks old. My whole family played with her feet since she was a puppy but her genetics are stacked against her in this case so we are working with her at her pace to allow us to do her nails. We are able to bathe her with no problem and clean what we need to (ears, teeth) but nails are her down fall. At this point she gets so stressed we are trying to eliminate groomers in general for everyone’s safety. But I do have dogs (Bear and Bella) who are fine at the groomer and have been for years. Aussie is just a special case.
I recommend playing with their paws, ears, mouth and handling since day one, 5-10 minutes a day this gets them used to the feeling. Try having as many different people do it as well. Your groomers will thank you later. Early age helps make them a more relaxed pup, better prepared for each day and more likely to enjoy being groomed.
Rub your pup with a towel as often as the are wetm this sets the groundwork for drying off a wet pup. After this is established begin introducing your pup to the sound and feel of a blow dryer , DO NOT ever begin by blowing it on them, begin by turning it on and getting them used to the sound of the dryer, then start on their back and move towards their face. Always use caution as you can cause burning to the coat or even the skin.
Make time for regular brushings- it can be an odd feeling to be brushed and they need it. Don’t let your dog get mats.
Get your pup used to being in a tub or sink, the more positive and frequent you make it the better experience it will be for the dog
Teach the stand command to help both groomers and vets.
Work on easing separation anxiety at the groomer as this can cause them to have an anxious appointment.
Just remember to make each spa day as safe and comfortable for your pup as possible with these tips:
- Give your pup a surface that they feel comfortable and confident on. Most all dogs want to be on a non slip surface
- When bathing them, make sure the water temperature is neither too cold nor too hot, always start with a nice warm to lukewarm temperature
- To minimize the risk of post-bathing ear infections, take a simple step to help keep water out of their ears in the first place, wash and rinse their head only with a damp washcloth or sponge.
- Use only dog shampoos and conditioners
- Gently massage your dog’s body while they are lathered up
- Avoid getting any shampoo or soapy water in your pups eyes, nose, ears and mouth
- Be sure to rinse your dog well.
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