12/09/2025
Christmas is a time of giving, puppies are often given as gifts 🐶This time can be very exciting for all, but caring for a dog is part of the commitment with that commitment comes the need for grooming.. long hair, curly hair, short hair… doesn’t matter! I am sharing this post as a reminder of what is helpful to the groomer 🙂
Help Your Dog Love Grooming: Start Early and Make It Positive
Grooming doesn’t have to be stressful—for you or your dog. By teaching your dog to accept handling and tools from a young age (or starting now if you have an adult dog), you’ll both enjoy a lifetime of easier grooming, vet visits, and everyday care.
Here are four simple habits that make a huge difference:
1️⃣ Desensitize to “weird” objects Gently “brush” your dog using everyday household items—a soft cloth, an empty tissue box, a plastic cup, a magazine, or even your hand in a glove. Move slowly and calmly. This teaches your dog that being touched with unfamiliar objects is no big deal. Later, clippers, scissors, brushes, and other grooming tools won’t feel strange or scary—and your dog will stay relaxed when a groomer or vet needs to use them.
2️⃣ Touch every part of their body—often and kindly Make handling normal. While petting or playing, casually touch their paws, legs, belly, tail, and bum. When they’re relaxed, gently open their mouth, look in their ears, and run your fingers between their toes. Do this regularly so that having every inch of their body touched (for nail trims, ear cleaning, sanitary clips, etc.) feels routine, not surprising or uncomfortable. Bonus: This makes vet exams and home health checks much easier too.
3️⃣ Reward calm acceptance—never reward resistance Use high-value treats to say “thank you” the moment your dog stays calm while being handled or groomed. If they let you brush a section, touch a paw, or clip one nail—treat! If they pull away, wiggle, or get nervous, calmly pause and try again later at an easier level. Only reward the behavior you want. This teaches your dog that cooperating = good things happen.
4️⃣ Practice consistently with patience Short, positive sessions every day (or several times a week) work far better than occasional marathon attempts. Keep it fun, keep it calm, and always end on a good note. Consistency turns “tolerating” grooming into truly enjoying (or at least not minding) it.
The goal isn’t just a pretty dog—it’s a dog who feels safe and relaxed no matter who is brushing, trimming, or examining them. Start these habits early, keep them positive, and you’ll both thank yourself for years to come!
