Tips for a Faster, More Comfortable Grooming Experience

Some dogs hate being groomed, others don’t mind it. Some even seem to enjoy it! Whatever your dog’s attitude toward bath time, there are a few simple rules to help maintain a healthy coat and make a trip to the groomer a piece of cake.

* Avoid the temptation to shave your dog for the summer. Shaving changes the nature of the coat and can dull the hair and dry the skin. Depending on the breed, the top coat of a dog keeps her cool and safe from the sun. Panting is the way dogs perspire and a normal means of beating the heat – panting is not a result of having long hair! Have your groomer assess your dog to determine the safest coat length and whether or not the dog has undercoat that could be removed. When deciding on a hairstyle, remember that your dog’s coat does more than just make her look good – it’s her natural protection from the elements.

* Don’t bathe your dog at home, especially if she has a long, curly, or double coat. If not brushed properly with the right kind of comb, mats occur more frequently and more severely. Your groomer knows just what kinds of tools are needed to keep your individual pet looking good.

* It’s recommended that dogs such as Poodles, Labradoodles, and Old English Sheepdogs with long or curly hair get professionally groomed twice per month; first a bath and a full groom, then approximately two weeks later a bath with a trim. Smaller dogs with long hair such as Shih-Tzus should come back for a bath and a trim three to four weeks after being fully groomed. In between visits you should brush your dog at least once or twice per week to maintain a healthy coat.

* IMPORTANT! – Only have your dog groomed when she’s healthy. If your dog is prone to ear or eye infections, consult a vet before asking a groomer to clean them. The cleaning process may irritate a dog’s pre-existing condition.

* If you go to a groomer who is also part of a daycare facility, usually grooming dogs must be vaccinated and registered with the facility in order to participate in the playgroups.

* If your dog gets groomed often, try bringing her in for just daycare every once in a while. This way, she can associate the facility with playtime and fun, not just bath time.

* Tips are usually accepted and are a good way to let your groomer know how much you appreciate the hard work!

* Dogs can be very stubborn on the grooming table, so it might take more time to properly groom her than estimated. Be patient when having your dog groomed and be clear if you have a specific pickup time.