How to Keep a Dog Calm during the Grooming Process

The grooming process is essential for maintaining hygiene and overall well-being for your dog. There can be times when this process can prove problematic as many dogs can exhibit anxiety and resistance when faced with a groom. 

To minimise this apprehension there are some steps that can be taken to make the process a more positive experience. 

Here are some of the steps we take as expert dog groomers here at Paws Grooming Empire to ensure dogs are as calm and happy as they can be throughout their appointment:

• Trust and Familiarity
• Creating a Predictable and Comfortable Environment
• Positive Reinforcement Techniques
• Gradual Introduction and Pacing
• Utilising Calming Aids (When Appropriate)
• Consistency and Patience
• Addressing Specific Areas of Sensitivity

Trust and Familiarity:

One of the best ways to ensure a relaxed dog during grooming lies in building a strong foundation of trust and positive associations. 

Introducing regular, brief handling sessions where paws are gently touched, ears examined, and the body manipulated in a non-threatening manner, can desensitise your dog to the physical contact involved in grooming. 

Pairing these interactions with treats and verbal praise reinforces a positive connection.

Creating a Predictable and Comfortable Environment:

The grooming environment itself will play a crucial role in a dog's anxiety levels. Choosing a quiet, well-lit space where your dog feels secure is important. 

Minimise distractions and ensure the footing is stable to prevent slips or falls. Introducing the grooming tools gradually, allowing the dog to sniff and investigate them without pressure can reduce apprehension.

Positive Reinforcement Techniques:

Positive reinforcement is a great tool for shaping a dog's behaviour when used throughout the grooming process. 

With consistent rewarding of calm behaviour with treats, praise, and gentle petting proving beneficial. 

If the dog remains still or tolerates a particular step, offer a reward. This will reinforce the desired response and create a positive association with the grooming activities.

Gradual Introduction and Pacing:

Avoid overwhelming a dog with lengthy grooming sessions, begin with short, manageable intervals, focusing on one or two aspects of grooming at a time. 

Gradually increase the duration and complexity as your dog becomes more comfortable. 

Observe your dog's body language closely for any signs of stress or discomfort and adjust the pace accordingly.

Utilising Calming Aids (When Appropriate):

Additional calming aids can be beneficial, but these should always be implemented responsibly and under guidance. 

Calming pheromone sprays applied to the grooming area or a calming collar may help to reduce anxiety. 

For dogs with significant grooming-related fear, a consultation with a veterinary behaviourist to explore options such as calming supplements or in rare cases, mild sedation for particularly stressful procedures, may be warranted.

Consistency and Patience:

Building a positive grooming experience takes time and consistency. There will be days when a dog is more resistant than others. 

Patience is key, avoid forcing or restraining a dog, as this can create negative associations and damage trust. 

End grooming sessions on a positive note, even if only a small amount of progress has been made.

Addressing Specific Areas of Sensitivity:

Certain areas, such as paws, ears, and the face, are often more sensitive for dogs. Approach these areas with extra care and patience. 

Break down the grooming of these areas into very small steps, rewarding each instance of obedience. Use gentle touch and specialised tools designed for sensitive areas.

When gently introduced and employed together, these steps can prove beneficial in helping keep a dog calmer when grooming. 

This is not only important for their hygiene and appearance but will often lead to a more socialised dog that can lead a healthier life thanks to regular grooming appointments.
 

Our Dog Grooming Services

As renowned dog groomers in London, we ensure all of our customers have a wide array of grooming services available to choose from, covering everything your dog may require. 

Whether your pup needs a gentle introduction to grooming practices to build up the necessary familiarity, or needs an overdue groom specific to their breed, our team has all the tools and experience to adhere to your request or our recommendation.

• Puppy day grooming
• Full groom long-haired breeds
• Full groom short-haired breeds
• Hand stripping
• Wash and tidy
• Additional dog grooming services including de-matting, weekly deep brushing, nail clipping, face tidy, feet tidy as well as wash and go

Pricing: Our fees are determined by factors such as breed, size, coat condition, preferred style and the techniques involved. 

If you're unsure whether your dog requires one of our signature and luxurious dog grooming appointments, read our guide about the 5 clear signs to spot.

We’re more than happy to discuss your pet’s specific needs during a consultation with a member of our friendly team.

We look forward to meeting you and your pup! Contact us today to discuss your grooming needs or to book an appointment.