Help! My Dog is Too Nervous for the Groomer

Is your dog too nervous for the groomer? There are several benefits to taking your dog to a groomer.

Unfortunately, your dog doesn’t know that. All they know is that a trip to the groomer is a tip to a new place, and for some pets, this can be an anxiety-inducing experience.

If you’re searching for a NJ dog grooming service but worry that your four-legged friend might be too high-strung to put up with the visit, we’re here to help.

Read on to learn a few tips to help your dog get used to his or her trips to the groomer.

1. Get them used to being handled if your dog is too nervous

Many dogs get nervous at the groomer because they’re being touched in places where they normally aren’t touched, such as their ears, tail, or paws.

Dog behavior experts recommend getting your dog used to this sort of contact. Ideally, you should start to desensitize your dog to touch as a puppy, but it can work with adult dogs as well, provided you take your time.

Begin by giving them a cue — “paws” for example — before touching their paws, then give them a treat as a reward right away.

Over time, progress to other parts of the body, spending a little longer each time. If your dog is sensitive about a certain spot, start with a less sensitive area before working your way there.

2. Car trouble

If you watch TV, you’d think riding in a car is something all dogs enjoy. But not every pup enjoys hanging his head out the window on the open road.

Cars can be stressful for some dogs, especially if they’re anticipating an already-stressful destination such as the groomer.

Get your dog used to riding in the car early. Older dogs can still learn to enjoy car rides. Just bring their favorite blanket or toy and keep them comfortable. If they develop stomach issues, talk to your vet about anti-nausea medication.

Drive around without a destination in mind. This way, your dog won’t automatically think “car = vet/groomer.” Use a calm voice to keep them reassured, and bring a lot of treats.

3. Do a practice visit

When you’ve found an NJ dog groomer you’re comfortable with, ask if you can do a practice visit where you walk your dog around and help him or her adjust to these new surroundings.

Let them see the facility, get used to noisy sounds like blow dryers and practice getting on the grooming table. And of course, it’s also their first introduction to their groomer and get to know them and feel safe with them.

4. Go Slow If Your Dog Is Too Nervous

Once you’ve gotten your dog used to the groomer, go slow. Don’t feel like you need him to get a complete grooming package on your first official visit.

Once you’ve done your practice visit, your next trip to the groomer can just involve a bath and a brush. Save things like nail trimming or ear cleaning for future visits until they’re ready to get an entire session in one sitting.

Remember to give your dog plenty of treats and encouragement with each visit. Soon, your dog will lose their anxiety and start to see the grooming visits as a normal — and hopefully relaxing — part of their routine.

NJ dog grooming with Troy’s Trims & Treats

You might love having well-groomed dogs, but dogs don’t always love the grooming process. We understand that at Troy’s Trims & Treats, which is why our NJ dog grooming experts do their best to make your pets feel at home.

It’s our mission to treat every dog we see like they’re our own. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or learn more about our NJ dog grooming services.