Introducing Tools and Techniques to Dogs

Dog-Friendly Grooming: Tools & Techniques for a Relaxing Experience

If you take a moment to look at pet grooming from the dog's viewpoint, it becomes clear that some of the things we do during a typical grooming session are things that no one else ever does to them and that the dog very probably does not enjoy. We get them wet, use loud, sometimes buzzy tools, and touch every part of their body. We lift them, turn them, and mess with their sensitive faces, feet, and everything in between. 

We can do things to make dogs more relaxed during the grooming process. Those things might take a few extra moments, but they can pay off by teaching the dog what to expect so that they remain calmer and more confident while we work. 

Dogs like predictability. If you devise a routine for grooming each dog, repeat customers will learn what to expect and when. For instance, in our studio, dogs start with a bath as soon as they enter. I show them the running water and let them sniff it before I get them wet. I use common phrases that many soon learn, such as "turn around," as I guide them to turn in the tub so I reach all sides. From there, it's to the grooming table to be dried. I know that dogs learn my routine because I see the expression on their faces when I get out a bow, bandana, or even their leash and collar

While grooming, I try to take a second to show the dog the brush in my hand before I use it. This is particularly true when using a tool such as the dryer. I start the airflow on low and begin at the hindquarters. Once the dog relaxes, I increase the airflow and gradually work from the rear of the dog towards the head. 

I use tools that make (most) dogs more comfortable, like Happy Hoodies, to reduce the dryer's sound, knowing that loud sounds are not pleasant for pets. That being said, some dogs are distressed by the pressure of a Happy Hoodie, and if they make that clear to me, I don't use it. 

I also pay attention to how I move the dogs and how I flex their joints while lifting their limbs to trim nails, clip, and scissor their coat. By being mindful to only flex their legs in natural positions and allowing them to keep their balance, they feel more comfortable and physically secure. 

Introducing the tools we use to pets can make them more secure with the grooming process. Teaching and repeating basic phrases as we work can give the dogs confidence that they know what to expect as we groom them. Helping dogs relax and feel good during grooming improves the experience for everyone involved.

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Daryl Conner, MPS Meritus, CMCG has been devoted to making dogs and cats more comfortable and beautiful for 40 years.  You can find her happily working at FairWinds Grooming Studio with her daughter or typing away at her latest grooming-related article. Daryl was awarded both a Cardinal Crystal Award and Barkleigh Honors Award for journalism.  She shares her meadow-hugged antique Maine farmhouse with her practically perfect husband and a lot of animals.