Americans spent more than $4.5 billion on pet grooming and boarding in 2013, according to a study by the American Pet Products Association. That’s a lot of trims, bath and clipped nails. It’s understandable. We all want our dogs to look and smell their best. However, before you take your dog to the groomer, there are a few things you should do to get him ready for his “spa day.”
How to prepare your dog for the groomer
Before you call to make that appointment for dog grooming services, like having your dog’s nails clipped, having his long hair shaved or having him bathed, it’s important to take a little time to get ready for that appointment. Below are just a few things you should consider:
- Handle your dog. Making sure that your dog is comfortable being handled will make his time at the groomer more enjoyable. Well in advance of the appointment, make sure that he has no issue with sensitive areas like his ears, tail or belly being touched by humans.
- Keep the session short at first. If this is your dog’s first trip to the groomer, it’s best to keep the session to just one service, like clipping his nails. You can add other dog grooming services as he becomes more at home in the salon.
- Keep regular appointments. A trip to the groomer will be more enjoyable for your dog if it’s a part of his regular routine, not just a once a year occasion. Plus, a high-maintenance dog, such as a long-haired dog, can be unmanageable if his hair is allowed to completely grow out.
- Get your dog used to a “grooming” space. Most dog groomers use a platform or slightly elevated table to clip nails and cut hair. This signals to the dog that this is the place where “grooming” happens (and not some other thing like eating or play.) If you do any grooming at home, you can re-enforce this “grooming” space concept by placing your dog on a low table or bench before you groom him.
- Make sure the dog is relaxed. Right before his appointment is no time for active play or excitement. Although dog groomers are trained to calm dogs before they start performing dog grooming services, you can help by making sure that your dog is as calm as possible when he walks in the door. Going for a short walk before the appointment can help.
- Keep vaccinations up to date. Your dog will likely encounter other dogs at the groomers. For his safety and that of the other dogs, it’s important that he is up to date on all of his vaccinations.
Taking your dog to the groomer can be a fun experience for both you and your dog. Make it less stressful for you, your dog and the groomer by making sure that the dog is calm, that he doesn’t mind being handled and that he is healthy before you keep your appointment.
