08/08/2026
This is so relatable so I thought I would share
I have altered some of it into my own words, please have a little read ❤️
Dogs often act stressed, shake, or put on a “drama” show when they arrive at the groomers. This is because they are feeding off your energy and seeking reassurance. As soon as their owners leave they immediately settle down. When you are present, your dog sees you as their "safety blanket" and acts out! Once you are gone, they quickly accept the groomer as the new authority and focus on the task.
Here is a breakdown of why this behaviour change happens:
Emotional Mirroring: Dogs are highly in tune with their owners emotions. If you feel nervous, guilty, or stressed about leaving your dog they sense your anxiety and become anxious themselves.
The "Drama" Effect: Many dogs, particularly pampered ones are acting! They may shiver or whine to show you they do not want to be left. But as soon as you are gone, they realise the performance didn’t work.
Need for Authority: Now owners have left, the dog stops looking for comfort and begins to trust groomer. This allows the groomer to build a working relationship with the dog, which is often easier without the owner present to cause a distraction.
Reduced Stress Overload: The presence of the owner can actually increase a dog's anxiety because they feel they must "check in" with you constantly, making it harder for them to relax.
Safe Handling: Groomers prefer owners to leave because it is much safer. Dogs jumping towards their owner, pulling away, acting out is dangerous when sharp scissors or clippers are being used.
Be Confident at Drop-off: Make goodbyes quick and calm. If you treat it as no big deal, your dog is more likely to accept it as a normal routine.
Don’t Mollycoddle: While tempting, comforting a shaking dog actually reinforces that they have something to be afraid of.
Routine Matters: Regular, consistent grooming appointments help dogs become accustomed to the process, reducing stress over time.
Most dogs that act "terrified" at drop-off are completely fine within minutes of their owner leaving.
